Site icon Side Action

Rich Paul Says Sixers Are Trying To Force Ben Simmons To Play Through Mental Health Issues

BSabitt
Clutch Sports CEO Rich Paul called on the 76ers to respect Ben Simmons' mental health after the point guard continues to say he's not ready to play

PHILADELPHIA, PA - MAY 05: Philadelphia 76ers Guard Ben Simmons (25) looks on during warmups before the Eastern Conference Semifinal Game between the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers on May 05, 2018 at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, PA. (Photo by Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire)

NBA agent Rich Paul has been supporting Ben Simmons ever since he was drafted. And he may be facing his toughest task right now with what’s going on between Simmons and the Sixers organization.

All offseason, Simmons was adamant that he wanted out of Philly. But when Daryl Morey stubbornly maintained a high asking price, Ben has now said that mental health issues are preventing him from playing.

The 76ers would go on to offer Ben Simmons help, and he finally accepted after being faced with a potential fine.

On Thursday, The Athletic posted an exclusive interview with Rich Paul – who’s calling on the 76ers to exercise patience and understanding with what Simmons might be going through.

“I truly believe the fines, the targeting, the negative publicity shined on the issue — that’s very unnecessary and has furthered the mental health issues for Ben,” Klutch Sports CEO Rich Paul said. “Either you help Ben, or come out and say he’s lying. Which one is it?”

Ben Simmons has not made any indication on when he might be ready to return to game action. but he’s starting to meet with team doctors, attend practice, and participate in some team meetings.

“This is no longer about a trade. This is about finding a place where we can help Ben get back to his mental strength and get back on the floor. I want him on the floor playing the game that he loves. I want Ben on the floor whether that’s in a 76ers uniform or any other uniform, that’s not up to me, but I want him in a state where he can resume play. We want to cooperate and want to work him back on the floor.”

Rich Paul has now put the onus on the 76ers organization to cooperate with Ben Simmons’ needs mentally at this time. Whether that means trading him or allowing the point guard some space remains to be seen.

Welcome to the game outside the game! Follow us on our Sideaction Twitter handle, Instagram, and Facebook for the latest on sports and pop culture news across the web!

 

🔥 Hot from Side Action 🔥