Nets won’t face Ben Simmons as 76ers will play home opener without All-Star: report

When the Nets travel to Philadelphia to take on the 76ers on Friday, they reportedly won’t have to face All-Star guard Ben Simmons.

According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, Simmons is “currently not mentally ready to play for the team” and was receiving treatment for his back on Thursday. He’ll miss Friday’s home opener against Brooklyn and is not expected to play for an undetermined period of time.

Simmons missed the 76ers season-opening win against the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday after being suspended for “conduct detrimental to the team.” Simmons refused to run defensive drills during practice and was told to leave by coach Doc Rivers.

The Nets are coming off a 127-104 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday and look to avoid an 0-2 start to the season.