Philadelphia (CBS) – It looks like Ben Simmons is ready to play nice with the Sixers. The All-Star goalkeeper is said to be in Philadelphia, ready to join the team.
Sixers All-Star Ben Simmons arrived in Philadelphia and took a Covid-19 test – as required by NBA protocol, sources reported to ESPN.
– Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 12, 2021
But Simmons’ arrival was apparently a big surprise to the team.
Sources told Eyewitness News that the Sixers didn’t even know he was back in Philly until Monday night when he showed up for a COVID test. Fans in Monday’s pre-season game had no problem speaking their minds about Simmons’ situation.
“Get him out of here,” said a man. “Get him out of here.”
Another fan said, “I think the guy deserves his day.”
“He didn’t perform as well as he should have done last season,” said one of the women. “If he comes back, maybe on a trial period.”
“If he comes back, he needs to get his crap together and learn to play for the team,” said one young Sixers fan.
Another fan said, “Ben, please listen to your heart and please come back to Philadelphia.”
Read more: Philadelphia weather: A summer-like stretch ahead with temperatures hovering around 80
According to some accounts, Simmons, who is on a four-year contract, has already been fined more than $1 million for a lack of practice and pre-season games. It is unclear if money was a motivating factor for his return.
ATLANTA, GA – JUNE 18: Ben Simmons leads #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers between #20 John Collins and #15 Clint Capella of the Atlanta Hawks during the first half of Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals at State Farm Arena on June 18, 2021 in Atlanta, Georgia. Note to User: User expressly acknowledges and agrees, by downloading or using this image, that User agrees to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
But Simmons could be back on the field as early as next week.
Sources say Simmons is expected to meet with the organization’s leadership on Tuesday at the team’s training facility in Camden.
Head coach Doc Rivers said he is looking forward to Simmons returning to the squad.
It’s unlikely that we’ll see Simmons on the field Friday in the Sixers’ pre-season final game.
The Sixers opens the regular season next Wednesday on the road against the New Orleans Pelicans.
More news: Philadelphia Marathon now requires runners to be fully vaccinated
Meanwhile, it looks like Simmons may have to win back Philly fans.