With the Philadelphia 76ers and Ben Simmons still in a standstill over his trade request, the team is reportedly testing the validity of his pursuit of mental health assistance, according to The Athletic's Shams Charania.
As Charania reports, Philadelphia has been irritated with the lack of clarity on his situation and has threatened to continue fine him for not participating in games, practices, shootarounds and workouts. Simmons has reportedly provided the team with names of his mental health professionals who are not able to provide specific information due to patient confidentiality.
Simmons is permitted to seek assistance from an outside source for mental health assistance as he is not comfortable with the physician on the 76ers' staff. The team feels that they should have more information on Simmons' treatment plan and a timeframe for his return.
When it comes to progress on a trade, the 76ers continue to set a high price but according to Charania, the team has engaged in talks with the Boston Celtics. Any deal involving the 76ers and Simmons would have to include Jaylen Brown who's having a career year so far averaging 25.6 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.
The 25-year-old missed all of training camp and the early part of the pre-season in the wake of his off-season trade demand, but eventually rejoined the team – only to be kicked out of practice on Oct. 19 and suspended one game for conduct detrimental to the team.
Simmons has yet to play for the 76ers this season.
