USA Today via Reuters
Jun 18, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) works against Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) during the first quarter in game six in the second round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Jun 18, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) works against Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) during the first quarter in game six in the second round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
It’s been months since the NBA 2021 playoffs have wrapped up. However, the Philadelphia 76ers’ Game 7 loss against the Atlanta Hawks is not forgotten just yet. Ben Simmons’ passing on a dunk seemed to be what stuck with everyone, be it fans or Joel Embiid.
The situation has escalated since then, putting Simmons’ position with the team in jeopardy. While the guard is currently back in Philadelphia, problems will continue to exist post all the offseason drama that took place.
USA Today via Reuters
May 31, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons (25) reacts after the basket during the first quarter against the Washington Wizards during game four in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs. at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
That being said, as per recent reports, Simmons might have tried to avoid Game 7 altogether.
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Recent Ben Simmons allegations anger 76ers fans
Anyone watching the 76ers-Hawks series could tell the Sixers and Simmons were not at their best. As a result, recent reports state that Simmons might have tried to get out of playing the game. The 25-year-old was apparently kept out of the team’s shootaround after he has possibly interacted with a masseuse – who had an inconclusive COVID-19 test.
Out of all players, only Simmons seemed to have interacted with her. However, sources hinted that team members wondered if he had actually seen her, or was only trying to avoid playing Game 7.
NAH YOU LYING
— Smizzy™ (@ModernBlackMan) October 15, 2021
The Sixers aren't real. Entire team is a simulation.
— JOE BIRDS (in Erie) (@JLinErie) October 15, 2021
THE MAN HAS RETURNED! LETS LEAVE LAST SEASON AND ALL OF THE PRE SEASON SHENANIGANS ALONE!!!! HE DIDN'T WANT TO POTENTIALLY INJURE HIMSELF BEFORE THE SEASON STARTED.
— EV4N (@evnholt) October 15, 2021
Holy Shit what a plot twist
— Angelo (@AGLR_23) October 15, 2021
— Richaun 🐐 SZN ⚜️ (@richaunASG) October 15, 2021
Agreed. Nothing on the NBC Sports domain is worth taking seriously. It's a glorified content mill.
I wouldn't be surprised if this happens to be true. But that's beside the point.
— cookoo man (@ManCookoo) October 15, 2021
This is gettin crazy…holy shit
— Robert Fletcher (@Bunker_fletch) October 15, 2021
Fans seemed to be unhappy with the implications. Many wondered why no actual source was mentioned, and they choose to support Simmons. Others believed the whole thing did not make sense, not believing that Simmons would need to get out of a game. Some 76ers fans straight up rejected the information, adding that this was in ‘no way’ true.
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Many wanted the situation to be forgotten. As Simmons is back in Philadelphia, and hope remains as the regular season nears.
Simmons doubtful for the upcoming preseason finale
Simmons is currently listed as doubtful for the upcoming game against the Detroit Pistons. His return to Philadelphia was a surprise, even though his motives have been questioned. However, he is yet to participate in any team activities. Embiid, Tobias Harris and a few others might also miss the matchup.
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The 76ers will open their 2021-22 campaign against the New Orleans Pelicans on October 20 EST.
