76ers: Doc Rivers wants to convince Ben Simmons to return
The 2021-22 season continues to inch closer. As it does, all eyes are on star point guard Ben Simmons’ future with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Simmons remains on shaky ground with the franchise, while it’s expected that he won’t attend training camp when it begins next week. However, head coach Doc Rivers voiced on ESPN‘s Keyshawn, JWill, and Max radio show on Wednesday morning that he’s hoping to change that.
“Well, I hope we can change that thought,” Rivers said. “That’s part of our job.”
Read: Sean Marks To Sit Down With Harden & Irving In Next Two Weeks
Simmons reportedly informed the 76ers that he wouldn’t attend training camp as he’s hoping to secure a trade to play elsewhere. The fallout from the team’s disappointing playoff exit has pinned him with the blame.
It’s also soured his relationship with the franchise to the point where he doesn’t want to play another game with Philadelphia. Meanwhile, his name continues to be mentioned in trade rumors throughout the offseason.
The 25-year-old is in the second year of his five-year, $177.2 million deal that runs through the 2024-25 season. It includes no player or team options.
The 76ers’ desire to have Simmons still in the mix to begin this upcoming season may be due to wanting to increase his trade value. His league stock took a hit after his porous playoff showing.
Want $250 to bet on NBA futures?
Simmons has held firm to his stance, which will be tested next week once training camp begins. The team could take the route of fining him up to $1.3 million if he doesn’t show up for any team activities.
Ultimately, time will tell what will unfold in Philadelphia.
