National Basketball Association

Philadelphia 76ers: Ben Simmons Agent Might Not Let Rookie Play

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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A report claimed Ben Simmons agent could play a major factor into the rookies Philadelphia 76ers debut.

Earlier today on 97.5 The Fanatic, Bob Cooney of Philly.com reported the following:

"I just got off the phone with someone I trust who said there's no way his agent will let him play this season" – @BobCooney76 on Simmons

— 975TheFanatic (@975TheFanatic) October 3, 2016

Cooney also first broke the news over the weekend that Simmons suffered a fractured foot.

After his initial report of the fractured foot, he would later clarify his report to this notion:

Simmons’ Camp

Whatever the case may be, the decision to sit Simmons for the year has to eventually become a topic of discussion for everyone in the rookies camp, if it hasn’t already.

More from The Sixer Sense

Simmons agent is Rich Paul. And he is no small persona in the basketball world. Paul also represents Cleveland Cavaliers star Lebron James, amongst others, at Klutch Sports Group.

It’s an agents job to guide their client in the best direction for the immediate or long-term success in whatever endeavors. And make no mistake about it, agents make a ton of money off athletes for their efforts, and most times deservingly so.

Nike

Additionally, the top overall pick signed a multi-year sneaker deal with Nike. Obviously the company sees Simmons’ as a huge marketing chip, and that could ultimately play a role in this potential season-ending decision as well.

Sixers

On the court, there’s tremendous pressure on Simmons to be one of the key prospects that helps bring the Sixers back to prominence.

With his importance to the teams immediate success, no basketball for Simmons through the entire season would be yet another crushing blow to the Sixers. Especially after the injuries of seasons past, even more so if Simmons is fully healed as ESPN initially reported, in three to four months.

Though, with his importance to the team’s future success being much more important, no basketball for Simmons could be a win-win for both camps.

What do we make of it all?

It’s a very odd situation at the moment. The long-term health of the rookie is what’s most important here. But if Simmons’ rehab goes well, and he feels good to go after the reported three to four months, it would be hard for the Sixers to justify not playing him.

At the end of the day, however, this is why rumors are mostly just rumors. And that’s why it’s better to take a wait-and-see approach with any news regarding Simmons and his status.

We should get more news and clarification leading up to and after the rookies surgery on his right foot sometime this week.

Stay tuned for further updates.

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