This season, two incredible NBA geniuses haven't played a single game for their respective teams. No, it's not because of injuries. Even after the preseason, Kyrie Irving and Ben Simmons didn't fit in with their team.
Ben Simmons didn't fare well in the 2021 playoffs, and Philadelphia 76ers fans were frustrated. Ben Simmons felt he didn't get enough support and trust from the team and decided to leave.
Throughout the offseason, the 76ers tried to get Simmons on a move, but their asking price was too high, especially for a player who didn't help much on the offensive end. No team is willing to give up a key part of the team for ben Simmons.
The 76ers were willing to return Ben Simmons, but the All-Star guard wasn't ready to play for the team. According to Ben Simmons, despite the help of the team's medical experts, he was not mentally prepared to make a comeback.
Basketball star Irving has refused to be vaccinated before the season. While there are also NBA players who don't get vaccinated to play, New York City rules require him to finish the vaccination before he can play at home. Irving had the opportunity to play for the Nets in away games, but the Nets excluded him on the grounds that they would not accept a part-time job.
With both players unable to play because of individual decisions, every game they have missed so far will be fined by the team.
According to Spotrac, Simmons lost a total of $7,433,713 due to missing 16 regular season games (during which time there were fines) and four preseason games. Kyrie missed 13 home games and 2 preseason games, with a total fine of $5,717,715. Together, the two have been fined more than $13 million.
Irving's penalty record
At present, rumors continue about the Ben Simmons deal, and it is said that both the Lakers and the New York Knicks want him. Irving's situation is more inclined to return to the Nets.