Sixers News: Simmons Uses Kyrie Irving Mental Illness Excuse On 76ers, Critics Blast Move

Ben Simmons appears to be ready to pull out all the stops although his latest one is something taken seriously.

The 25-year-old allegedly met with the Philadelphia 76ers medical professionals and head coach Doc Rivers, telling them that he is not yet mentally ready to play according to expectations. The move comes just before the Sixers were set to face the Kevin Durant-led Brooklyn Nets according to a report by Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.

Worth noting as well in the same report is that Simmons has allegedly talked to his teammates about it. It was not mentioned how the Sixers took it although some may not entirely buy his latest excuse.

There were already critics who started to throw shade at Simmons’ actions. That included broadcaster Howard Eskin who is accusing the former top pick of “faking an injury and mental illness” and taking a page out of Kyrie Irving’s playbook.

While Simmons is entitled to make the claim that needs to be medically backed up, the timing makes it controversial. Most know how the 6-foot-11 player does not want to suit up for the Sixers anymore, compounded by his actions during recent practices.

Regardless, the Sixers are ready to play hardball with Simmons and the longer he sits could prove detrimental to his trade value.

Sixers general manager Daryl Morey hinted that they are ready to wait until the contract of Simmons runs out. While it is a bold move, the financial part of Simmons’s salary may give Philly additional headaches as far as auditing and monitoring.

Then again, having Simmons sit out than play may be better. If the Australian cager’s heart is not into it, fielding him in could affect the Sixers' chemistry moving forward.

For now, the mental illness excuse will hold as the drama between the Sixers and Simmons carries on.