NBA Rumors: Sixers Brace For New Holdout Excuse From Disgruntled Star

Ben Simmons' physical problems are reportedly improving, and the only thing left is the Aussie’s state of mind.

Even with the drama between the Philadelphia 76ers and the former top pick still at a high, the franchise appears to be holding out hopes that reconciliation will happen.

Simmons remains out of the lineup for the Sixers although head coach Doc Rivers gave an update on his status.

Speaking to Noah Levick of NBCS Philly, the one-time NBA champion coach bared the inured back of Simmons is getting better and that everything now boils down to the mental aspect.

“His back is getting better. It’s more about the mental. That’s where it’s at,” Rivers stated.

From the way that Rivers was talking, it appears that Simmons’ state of mind is the only one preventing him from playing with the Sixers.

Some pundits, however, know that based on the Simmons-76ers drama timeline, seeing the 25-year-old suit up for the team is somewhat wishful thinking.

Regardless, the Sixers are still trying to be professional about it and are leaving the doors of reconciliation open.

But looking at the actions of the 6-foot-11 guard from the first day he returned to Philadelphia, it seems pretty clear that he was just to avoid losing millions.

The last excuse he gave was not being mentally ready to play for the Sixers, something that could have a deeper meaning.

Most know he wanted a trade, but this did not materialize. A big reason for this is the big money that he carries–something critics believe it is not well-justified.

Rivers is likely aware that Simmons may never play another game with the Sixers.

The only plausible way to resolve the conflict is through a trade. However, the pitch from any team will need to be alluring.

Sixers team president Daryl Morey made that clear and demanded a top-tier cager who can do something similar or better than the unhappy former NBA Rookie of the Year.