Still No Timetable for Ben Simmons’ Return

Ben Simmons has cited that he is not mentally ready to return to the Philadelphia 76ers yet and as a result, is not ready to return to playing in games for them. The 76ers have tried time and time again to help Simmons with his mental problems and have offered him support over the last few weeks, but the All-Star 7-footer has refused the team’s help. 

According to ESPN, Ben Simmons has been working with team doctors to treat a “back injury,” but he has been unwilling to meet with team doctors to discuss his mental readiness. Simmons has been working with mental health professionals via the National Basketball Players Association since the summer but has not provided any updates or details with the team on the status of his mental health. 

Being under contract through the 2024-25 season and set to make $146.6M through then, it is going to be very difficult for the 76ers to navigate a trade involving Ben Simmons, but at the same time, this is not something they necessarily want to do. Sixers’ management has “flip-flopped” on their opinions throughout the last few months and now, they really do seem to want their All-Star back on the court next to the likes of Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris. 

According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, Daryl Morey approached Ben Simmons on Wednesday afternoon about his return to game action, but the All-Star “point guard” restated his stance that he is not “mentally ready” to play and is continuing to seek professional help. 

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Frustration Mounting From 76ers With Ben Simmons Situation

At this point, the 76ers have two options presented to them. They can either wait this whole thing out, which is the direction it seems like we are headed in, or they can just trade Ben Simmons for whatever they can get.