Although things are still up in the air regarding the situation with Ben Simmons, it seems as though Joel Embiid has given his blessing. According to Kyle Neubeck, the franchise believes they have Embiid’s blessing to hold out for the right deal. There have been some who believe the Sixers should just trade Simmons to get it over with, while Daryl Morey is adamant in waiting for a star in return.

“Critically, the Sixers believe they have the buy-in of Joel Embiid to carry out this strategy… If Simmons proves stubborn or uninterested in doing so, the team believes Embiid is onboard with not settling for a trade just to be done with the problem altogether. To win a title, Embiid is aware they need star-level talent, whether that means winning Simmons back over or waiting for a star to get antsy in another market.”

One of the primary worries amongst 76ers fans was Embiid becoming disgruntled with the situation, but that doesn’t seem to be the case. A Simmons trade looks to still occur this season, but hopefully, his return to play will help bolster his trade value. Some of the offers Philly has received include Malcolm Brogdon and CJ McCollum, but the team wants much more in return.

Neubeck mentioned the increased maturity of Joel Embiid and how he is a changed man from his early seasons. Through all of the questions regarding Simmons, Embiid has been stoic and level-headed in his responses.

“People around the organization have noted changes in him as a leader and voice in the locker room, with Embiid ready and willing to work with whatever (and whoever) they have if a quick resolution doesn’t happen.”

In the meantime, the 76ers will wrap up their preseason on the road tonight against the Detroit Pistons. There’s a chance Simmons plays, but he is currently listed as doubtful. The Sixers open their season in less than a week, but Ben Simmons’ return to the court seems to be just around the corner.