76ers' Doc Rivers 'Not Touching' Ben Simmons Questions

Facing the Brooklyn Nets in the first round of the 2023 NBA Playoffs, the Philadelphia 76ers will see some familiar faces in the postseason.

After the Sixers and the Nets agreed to a blockbuster trade ahead of last year’s deadline, the Nets still employ Seth Curry and Ben Simmons.

While Simmons finally cleared a hurdle by facing his former team twice after holding out from them last season and never returning to the court until his 2022-2023 season debut, Simmons might not suit up for his team in the postseason once again.

Therefore, Sixers head coach Doc Rivers doesn’t see a need to discuss the former Sixers All-Star.

During a routine post-practice media availability, Rivers fielded questions from reporters regarding the upcoming seven-game series between the Sixers and the Nets.

When one reporter presented Rivers with a question about whether or not the Sixers will face more of a defensive challenge with Simmons off the floor as they have to account for and guard all five positions, Rivers quickly declined to comment.

“I’m not touching that,” he said. “No, thank you. I’ll pass.”

Considering the Nets are unlikely to have Simmons suited up and playing in their postseason run this year, Rivers made it clear that he won’t be discussing his former player throughout the series.

“He’s not part of the playoffs,” Rivers added. “So, you shouldn’t talk about him.”

Throughout the year, Simmons has dealt with multiple physical setbacks. His latest, a nerve impingement in his back, forced the Nets to confirm Simmons would miss the remainder of the 2022-2023 NBA season.

Considering the Nets ruled out Simmons for the rest of the regular season without a timetable for his return in place, it is widely assumed that the veteran guard won’t face his former team in the playoffs.

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.

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