As time passed, the stalemate between Ben Simmons and the Philadelphia 76ers continued to worsen. In a recent spate of events, the former champion appeared on Camden's 76ers training ground on Thursday but didn't actually play.
Simmons believes back pain is a problem, and although he has been treated by paramedics, he has never personally trained the 76ers as planned. The three-time All-Star is reportedly mentally unprepared to join the team and is not expected to play for an "indeterminate time."
When Simmons abruptly reached the 76ers in preseason and ended his insistence, speculation began that he might be back on the team after an offseason full of drama. Judging by his behavior after his spontaneous return, it is clear that he has not changed his mind.
In the end, Simmons wanted to move elsewhere. He continued to persevere in training and alienated the 76ers in hopes of getting what he wanted. Unfortunately, Simmons' childish antics didn't force Morey to strike.
For a player who was so eager to be traded, Ben Simmons didn't do anything to help himself. As if his playoff performance against the Atlanta Hawks didn't hurt his worth enough, his performance has since reduced his value to an all-time low.
The stalemate may just be between him and the 76ers, but the entire basketball community has seen this legend unfold. What's more, the league's management has seen how Simmons and his team have performed in recent months.
Rich Paul and Cage Sports may have tried to create an edge for themselves, but the 76ers have been in complete control. Ben Simmons' contract was fixed for the next four seasons, and he had little control over his future. This is one of the reasons why Morey remains patient.
The team were interested in acquiring Ben Simmons, but refused to meet Morey's price point. Part of that is because of the way he wants to join a new team.
Simmons' actions have undoubtedly made it harder for Morey to strike a deal and to create a new chapter for the 76ers. Plus, it's fair for teams to be blocked from entering deal negotiations because of all-Star discontent.
Due to his long contract, he will stay with the team for a long time, no matter which team ends up getting Simmons. That said, seeing the 76ers perform is a concern for a team that puts its main assets on the trading table.
Other teams will think, if he's doing it now, then in a few years, if his situation deteriorates, what's going to stop him from doing it again? Such an idea is bound to come to mind other general managers who might consider doing business with Morey.
Between Morey's patience and Simmons' stubbornness, no one knows how ugly the stalemate between the 76 and their "nowhere else" will be. One thing is certain: Simmons' actions left him with no progress in his search for a new owner.