On Saturday evening, the Philadelphia 76ers are set to visit the Barclays Center to take on the Brooklyn Nets. Both franchises have faced disruptions this season due to injuries to pivotal players, and insiders have indicated that Brooklyn will be without one more essential player this weekend. It was announced just prior to tip-off that Ben Simmons would not play due to a calf injury.
The reactions to the announcement were swift and harsh across social media.
“What injury does Ben Simmons have this time?” one fan asked sarcastically.
What injury does Ben Simmons have this time?
— Justin Lever ❤️⚾️ (@JustinLever3) January 4, 2025
Another fan remarked, “Ben Simmons is now OUT with left calf soreness. Man continues to avoid facing Philadelphia.”
Ben Simmons is now OUT with left calf soreness.
Man continues to duck Philadelphia.
— RB (@RBPhillyTake) January 4, 2025
“Can’t make this up,” commented another fan.
“Joel Embiid will start Saturday.”
“Ben Simmons now questionable Saturday.”
Can’t make it up 💀🤣
— Noah (@DFSbyNoah) January 4, 2025
“Bro is scared of Philly,” another user humorously noted.
Bro scared of Philly 😂
— lil_don (@LandynOtt) January 4, 2025
Simmons Insists He Holds No Grudges Against Philadelphia
Fans have been openly doubtful regarding Ben Simmons’ injuries, particularly when he is set to play against the 76ers.
The former No. 1 overall draft pick spent the first six years of his career with Philadelphia before being traded to Brooklyn in 2022. His departure from the City of Brotherly Love was marked by tension, notably highlighted by former teammate Joel Embiid’s subliminal references to Simmons in the aftermath of the trade.
Despite the unfavorable conclusion, Ben Simmons maintains that his experience in Philadelphia was significant and that he cherishes the city.
“I’ll always have love for Philly,” Simmons stated. “People always ask me, ‘If you were to get traded again, where would you want to go?’ I always respond, ‘Just Philly. Philly is a second home to me.’ And over time, you learn and grow as individuals.”
