As we have inched closer to opening night, the reporting on Ben Simmons' status and relationship with the Philadelphia 76ers has intensified.
So, what's the latest you ask?
Despite Simmons' camp reportedly making it clear that the All-Star point guard had no intention of playing again for the franchise, the Aussie returned to Philadelphia on Tuesday as per ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Sixers All-Star Ben Simmons has arrived in Philadelphia and took a Covid-19 test -- as required by NBA protocol, sources tell ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 12, 2021
Wojnarowski further reports that the organisation was unaware of his arrival, although they were in constant talks with his agent Rich Paul. Simmons simply showed up at the Well Fargo Center for his COVID-19 test prior to tip-off between the Nets and 76ers.
Even with a negative test, it would be sometime before the 6-foot-11 point guard would be cleared by the protocols to join the team and take the floor.
Whether he takes the floor remains unknown, however, the 76ers are pretty hopeful.
Right from Media Day, nearly 10 days ago, everyone with the team has made it clear how they would love to have Simmons back. Rivers reiterated that sentiment before the team's home preseason against the Toronto Raptors.
"We’ve said from Day 1 what we wanted. That we would love to get him back. Other than that, honestly there’s nothing to report. ... Our position hasn’t changed at all.”
Wojnarowski further reports that the franchise is 'hopeful to start moving toward the next steps of a return' but is Simmons' camp equally interested?
It was widely expected that the stance on not reporting to the team would soften once Simmons' payments would stop and he would start getting fined for his absences.
Now we wait to see what comes next.
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