Ben Simmons Could Rejoin 76ers “As Soon As This Week”

Ben Simmons with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018
Ben Simmons with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2018. Photo by Martin Cole/ProSports/REX/Shutterstock (9315093ad)

The most intriguing storyline of this year’s NBA offseason is receiving a new chapter. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Philadelphia 76ers’ disgruntled All-Star Ben Simmons has changed his stance and became more open to rejoining the team.

Simmons asked the 76ers to trade him in the summer and has remained away from the franchise through training camp and so far in the preseason. Previous reports indicated that the 25-year-old guard is determined not to play for the franchise anymore, but it appears that isn’t the case anymore.

Wojnarowski reports that Simmons’ representatives and the 76ers had positive talks over the weekend and that the player is willing to have a sit-down with Philly’s brass. If everything goes well, he could rejoin the team “as soon as this week.”

The 76ers were ready to respect Simmons’ request but were unable to find an acceptable trade offer. Most teams were willing to offer a picks-heavy package, while Philadelphia is interested in a deal that would include a star player and help them remain championship contenders.

When Simmons didn’t report to the team, the 76ers decided to withhold part of his salary and put the money in escrow. They proceeded to fine him for every preseason game he missed, and the total is $1 million as of Monday. In case Simmons comes back, he will get the remainder of the money left in escrow.

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