Joel Embiid explains why Ben Simmons' actions are "weird and disappointing" to the rest. (0:45).
Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers' superstar, called the situation with Ben Simmons, his disgruntled costar, "disappointing" for the rest of the team.
The Athletic reported that Simmons felt his partnership with Embiid had "run its course". Simmons has not yet reported to training camp, but he intends to wait until Embiid trades him.
"The situation is disappointing and borderline disrespectful to all men that are fighting for their lives," Embiid stated to reporters at training camp on Thursday.
Embiid also disputed Simmons' belief that the Sixers built around their All-NBA star player in a way that doesn't fit Simmons' playing style. He argued that they have always tried to accommodate Simmons.
"I feel like our team has been built, whether it be the shooting need or stretch-5, I feel like Simmons always had it here. Embiid stated that they still have it, after listing all the 3-point shooters on their roster. "... We have always built our teams around his needs."
Embiid referred to the Sixers' offseason 2019 when they inked Al Horford to a major deal and let Jimmy Butler go to Miami Heat as another example of Philadelphia making moves with Simmons in their mind.
"It was kinda surprising to see," Embiid stated about the report. We'll repeat that, even if we go back to why we signed Al. Jimmy was let go, and I still believe it was a mistake. They made that decision. It is, as I mentioned, surprising."
Embiid affirmed his belief that Simmons is a better Sixer, but he stated it was time to concentrate on the team.
We are a stronger team when we have him as our partner, there is no doubt about that. We hope that he will change his mind. But, I owe these guys the responsibility to be concerned about what we have.
Simmons still has four years and $147million left on his max contract, including $33million for 2021-22. Simmons could lose $227,000 for every exhibition or regular-season game that Simmons is absent if the Sixers suspend him. This figure includes 2021-22 and the 20th season. This figure increases to $300,000.
This report was contributed by Bobby Marks, ESPN.
