Doc Rivers shouts out Ben Simmons as he discusses the Sixers’ ‘distractions’ during season


Doc Rivers shouts out Ben Simmons as he discusses the Sixers’ ‘distractions’ during season

Doc Rivers and Ben Simmons

Doc Rivers had a huge role in influencing the falling out that took place earlier in the season within the Philadelphia 76ers franchise. They were one of the top contenders from the Eastern Conference who were certainly close to becoming finalists. However, in the last five years, the Sixers have made second-round appearances numerous times but have not gotten through even once. Last year, they were upset by the Atlanta Hawks in the semifinals.

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James Harden and Joel Embiid at Philadelphia 76ers
James Harden and Joel Embiid at Philadelphia 76ers

In 2019, the team was the closest to competing for the title before being stripped of their chances by the Toronto Raptors. But history repeated itself once again, Joel Embiid made a massive push through the regular season and into the playoffs while being a top MVP candidate. Despite the endless efforts, the team was dropped once again in the second round.

Ben Simmons forces a trade midseason without showing up for a single game

Doc Rivers
Doc Rivers

Doc Rivers and Ben Simmons did not have the best last few days together as player and coach. After being dominated by the Hawks last season, the team was open to finding their second option a new home for a better all-around piece. Since that did not work out, they decided to give the point guard a chance and he also expressed his interest in sharing the court with his 76ers teammates once again.

Due to some undisclosed events, Simmons did not want to play after the season had commenced despite showing up for practice drills and shootarounds. The Sixers eventually felt like the drama surrounding the player was a big distraction and trading him would eradicate the problem. After sending Ben to the Brooklyn Nets along with three other players,  James Harden joined in hopes of making it through as champions.

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Doc Rivers praises Ben Simmons for his time on the court with the Sixers

After the blockbuster trade took place, Harden did not bring the intensity and force they had hoped for. The Miami Heat were too strong of a team for Philly to get past especially after their Embiid got injured and the beard put up poor numbers. The series worked up to a tie before the Sixers completely gave up on offense.

Doc Rivers recently spoke on the unfortunate ending to their season saying, “We had a lot of distractions this year. You know, we really did. And I think when I look back on the season, you know, not having our second-best player for most of the year, no one thought we would be where we would record-wise… And then we get James, and we wanted to see if we hand enough time to put it together. And clearly, we did not.” The coach showed a slight appreciation towards the game of their former point guard which terminates the notion of him being a bust.

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