NBA Insider Explains Why Ben Simmons’ Return to the Philadelphia 76ers Caught Team Officials Off-Guard

The Ben Simmons trade saga has intrigued everyone in the NBA world right now. Given how many twists and turns this saga has had, it seemed like Simmons was finally headed away from the 76ers.

Not showing up in training camp neither in the pre-season games, reports of Simmons’ camp willing to stall for a trade emerged. Given that the Australian even seemed ready for to give up a chunk of his salary, an exit seemed imminent.

But the last 24 hours have seen a big change in the Ben Simmons situation. After denying to play for the team in the pre-season and not even showing up for the training camp, Simmons is reportedly in Philly.

READ MORE- ‘Going to Call Woj’: Doc Rivers Reacts to Ben Simmons’s Return to Philadelphia 76ers

Adrian Wojnarowski explains why Ben Simmons’ arrival shocked the franchise

Simmons’ latest move certainly has sent shock waves among NBA fans all around the world. Given how certain the 3-time All-Star seemed to head towards the exit, him returning to Philly has sent shock waves around the world.

Not only fans, even the franchise was shocked with the point guard’s arrival. Recently, NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski explained how things have transpired within the 76ers franchise. “The morning started with the 76ers talking to Rich Paul Ben Simmons’ agent about him coming in Philadelphia. Thought he would probably come later in the week.”

He added, “All of a sudden near the opening tip tonight of that Brooklyn-Philly preseason game, I’m told that Elton Brand who’s the sixers general manager works with Daryl Morey, Doc Rivers gets a text message essentially saying, ‘hey, ben’s outside the building.'”

Woj added, “That’s how the sixers found out that Ben Simmons, after two weeks away in the preseason, had returned to Philadelphia. He took his covet test tonight and he is back he is back with the organization right now.”

Simmons showing up in Philly can be a sign of some positive things for the franchise. Given that the player is finally willing to talk to the team, the 76ers will be eager to resolve the situation as soon as possible. Do you think Ben Simmons will opt to stay with the 76ers or is a trade imminent?

WATCH THIS STORY: Ben Simmons, Kyle Kuzma & other NBA Players Who Have a Lot to Prove Next Season