Fractured relationship? Joel Embiid (left) and Ben Simmons.Credit:Getty Images
Isn’t Simmons an All Star? Why would Philadelphia want to trade him?
In the modern NBA,shooting is everything. While Simmons is an elite defensive player and one of the best exponents of playing “downhill” - after a team gathers a defensive rebound and can start a “fast break” - he did not follow the lead of fellow superstar Kawhi Leonard,who developed an efficient jump shot.
In the play-offs,when the pace is slower and teams can scout their opposition in more detail,players who can create their own shot in the half court against set defences are invaluable.
This is even more pertinent when the team’s brightest star - Embiid - is a big man who does most of his scoring close to the basket. When defenders sag off Simmons,they shift focus to Embiid.
To summarise:Simmons’ skill set does not match Embiid’s skill set,creating an awkward fit which can conjure regular-season success,but not post-season wins.
What happened in the off-season?
Irate about the critical comments of Rivers and Embiid,Simmons did not take part in any team activities and officially requested a trade. He also withdrew from Australia’s Olympic campaign so he could work on his skills.
Philadelphia 76ers president Daryl Morey,however,could not find a suitable trade for Simmons,leaving the unhappy player with no choice but to return to practice on October 11.
In pre-season,the 76ers played nice,as both Rivers and the players refused to entertain questions about Simmons’ awkward return.
But the niceties ended on Wednesday,whenRivers tossed Simmons from the team’s practice facility after he refused to take part in a defensive drill. The day before,images had emerged from practice of Simmons looking disinterested and electing to not join a team huddle.
The 76ers suspended Simmons for Thursday’s season-opening game against the New Orleans Pelicans due to conduct detrimental to the team.
What happens next?
There are two possible outcomes.
The 76ers are struggling to find a fair offer for Simmons. Teams are attempting to snare the Australian in return for draft picks and lesser-role players but,with their team in the title race,Philadelphia want a star guard to pair with Embiid.
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This could drag on until the trade deadline in February,which would be the worst-case scenario for both Philadelphia and Simmons.
Simmons will otherwise have to rejoin his teammates at their practice facility on Thursday and eventually take part in the season,orthe Sixers will need to send him home,with pay,to wait for a move.
In a meeting with Moray and general manager Elton Brand last week,Simmons said he was not mentally ready to rejoin the team.
His concerns are understandable,as Philadelphia fans will treat him like a villain if he ever pulls on a 76ers jersey at Wells Fargo Arena again.
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