Ben Simmons thrown out of practice, suspended for opener

Philadelphia 76ers forward Ben Simmons Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

Ben Simmons thrown out of practice, suspended for Sixers' season-opener

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 10/19/21

The Philadelphia 76ers open their 2021-2022 season on Wednesday against the New Orleans Pelicans. Point guard Ben Simmons still hasn't been traded, but he won't suit up with his teammates in New Orleans.

According to multiple reports, Simmons has been suspended for one game.

Simmons has been suspended by the 76ers for their season opener in New Orleans on Wednesday. https://t.co/7EwmorroUi
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 19, 2021

The 76ers say Ben Simmons has been suspended for one game for “detrimental conduct” to the team.

Simmons will not play the 76ers’ season opener at New Orleans Wednesday night.
— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) October 19, 2021

ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski provided additional details on the suspension:

Simmons’ reluctance to physically and mentally engage with the Sixers since his return has been a consistent theme, sources tell ESPN. https://t.co/bG1Cs2EuZ4
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) October 19, 2021

It was only Monday when Sixers head coach Doc Rivers told reporters that he was taking a "wait and see and watch" approach as far as Simmons' status for the game against the Pelicans, but apparently, the three-time All-Star's behavior this week hasn't been good enough for Rivers and company.

The Sixers have their home-opener against the Brooklyn Nets at 7:30 p.m. on Friday. At this point, it appears to be a long shot that either Simmons or Kyrie Irving will play in that game.

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