Despite the ongoing situation with Ben Simmons, it looks like the 76ers are still hopeful that he will play for them this season. Sixers head coach Doc Rivers appeared on ESPN’s Keyshawn, JWill, and Max alongside First Take and discussed the standoff between the two sides.

“I hope we can change that thought.” – Doc Rivers

Rivers went on to discuss how this situation often occurs behind the scenes following a disappointing season and says it’s part of their job to deal with these problems. Yesterday, Adrian Wojnarowski reported that Ben Simmons never intends to play another game for the 76ers again.

Ben Simmons still has four years left on his contract and Doc emphasized that point and that he has an obligation to play for the team.

“I just love how he plays, I love a lot of the things he does for our team.”

The trade demand is well-publicized at this point with Simmons making it well known he will not report to training camp and is prepared for any fine the 76ers send his way. Nobody is on Simmons’ side with the media bashing his soft mindset and rightfully so. 

According to some reports the source of Simmons’ displeasure with the franchise is due to one comment from Doc Rivers where he “threw him under the bus” after months of defending him against the media. When asked about the comment, Rivers said he felt his comment was misrepresented and explained his meaning to Simmons and his agent, Rich Paul.

76ers training camp is just a week away and it doesn’t seem like a trade is going to come to fruition anytime soon. Only a few teams remain in active pursuit like the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Mandatory Credit: Philadelphia Inquirer