Daryl Morey joined the Philadelphia 76ers pregame show on NBC Sports Philadelphia and gave an update on where things stand with Ben Simmons. Morey mentioned Simmons is dealing with both back soreness and personal things off the court. The Sixers President of Basketball Operations said the team takes both issues seriously.
Simmons recently returned to Philadelphia after a lengthy holdout. His initial days back with the team were tumultuous, as Doc Rivers kicked him out of his first full practice with the team. Simmons was suspended for the home opener, and then refused to do an individual workout when the rest of the team had an off day.
Simmons then spoke with his teammates and coaches and explained his not in the right space to fully return. Simmons was open that he's not mentally ready to play basketball at this time. Multiple teammates then came out in support of Simmons over the following days.
In recent days, the 76ers have stopped fining Simmons for sitting out. Morey said the team is working with Simmons, as opposed to the previous acrimonious days. Morey said, "And, you know, he spoke to his teammates, you know, things seem to be moving very much in a positive direction. We’re gonna provide all the resources, get Ben what he needs and get him out there as soon as we can."
