The Philadelphia 76ers suspended Ben Simmons for one game due to conduct problems, causing the guard to miss his debut against New Orleans on Wednesday night.
“I thought it was a distraction today,” coach Doc Rivers said after Tuesday’s practice. “I didn’t think he was interested in participating in what the rest were doing. It was early. It wasn’t a big deal. I just said that I should. Then we proceeded with practice. “
The three-time All-Star reported late for preseason after demanding to be traded during the summer break. He showed up last week and trained on Sunday and Monday with the Sixers. He was scheduled to train and appear before the media on Tuesday.
Simmons stayed away from the group, bouncing a ball and being disinterested during training Monday, which he did not participate in with the first team.
Joel Embiid, the Sixers ‘other superstar, said Tuesday that he was not here to be Simmons’ “babysitter.”
“Right now, I don’t care what that guy does,” Embiid said. “He does what he wants.”
The 25-year-old Australian asked to be traded while tied up in Philadelphia with a four-year, $ 147 million deal.
“Every day, every moment, I’m going to give Ben the opportunity to join the team and be a part of the team,” Rivers said. “He is under contract to be part of the team and that will not change.”
Simmons did not appear before the press. Rivers indicated that Simmons will be welcome for another training session. The Sixers will make their home debut next Friday.
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