Ben Simmons Told Doc Rivers And Sixers Teammates He's Not 'Mentally Ready' To Play Yet

(via Sky Sports)

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Ben Simmons isn't ready to return to the court just yet, as he's told the Philadelphia 76ers. The Australian point guard has lived a couple of strange and tense months, trying to force his way out of the team without much success. 

Now he's back in Philadelphia and is taking steps to make an eventual return to the floor, but Simmons isn't rushing. The player wants to take some time to be sure he's fully healthy and ready to go. 

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, the player spoke with head coach Doc Rivers and his teammates about taking responsibility for past issues but clarifying he's not mentally ready to play. 

Ben Simmons spoke to Doc Rivers, Joel Embiid and entire 76ers team today and accepted everyone needs to take responsibility, including himself — but Simmons informed them all that he’s not mentally ready to play yet and needs time.

As the days go by, Ben seems to be in a better place with himself and his teammates. Charania adds that the player addressed teammates and communicated with them, contrary to what happened during his first days back. 

Simmons reported to shootaround today ahead of Nets game and was seen engaged around the team, sources said. The three-time All-Star has expressed he wants to play but isn't prepared mentally.

It would be awesome for the Sixers if he could stay with the team and compete for big things. If not, he can just play to try to improve his trade value. Recent attitudes and how he's handled this situation made things hard for the 76ers. 

People within the franchise even think he's faking an injury and mental illness, which wouldn't sit well with anybody. They still hope to see Simmons back in action, but the 25-year-old needs some time before taking the court again.