Report: Sixers’ Ben Simmons ‘not mentally ready to play to his expectations’ yet

Hours ahead of the Philadelphia 76ers’ home opener against the Brooklyn Nets, it looks unlikely they’ll have the services of their All-Star guard, Ben Simmons, as they take on a title contender.

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, “Simmons met with Sixers’ medical professionals and coach Doc Rivers today and informed them that he’s not mentally ready to play to his expectations now.” Wojnarowski also reported that Simmons met with teammates Friday. The next step for Simmons, per Wojnarowski, is for the course of action to be determined by medical professionals.

Meanwhile, Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that “Simmons spoke to Rivers, Joel Embiid and entire 76ers team today and accepted everyone needs to take responsibility, including himself.” Charania said Simmons attended shootaround this morning, was seemingly engaged with teammates and “expressed he wants to play but isn’t prepared mentally.”

This afternoon, Charania reported Embiid asked Simmons during that meeting why Simmons is requesting a trade. Simmons said he’s not feeling himself mentally and needs time away.