Joel Embiid on Ben Simmons' holdout, trade demand from 76ers: 'Borderline disrespectful'
Joel Embiid's feelings regarding the training camp holdout and trade demand of Philadelphia 76ers teammate Ben Simmons has shifted from disappointment to contempt.
After telling reporters during the team's media day Monday he'd "probably say I'm disappointed," if he could talk to Simmons, Embiid called the situation "weird, disappointing" and "borderline disrespectful" on Thursday.
"Some guys rely on the team to be successful to stay in the league, make money," Embiid said.
"We're a better team with (Simmons)," Embiid continued. "But like I said, it is surprising, but I'm focusing on the guys that are here. We're trying to get better. We're trying to get on the same agenda.
"We still hope he changes his mind."
KD CONVO: Why Durant says he’s not consumed with being the NBA’s best player
Simmons – one season into a five-year, $177.2 million deal – has remained adamant he wants a trade. The 76ers appear determined to try to seek a solution that keeps him in Philadelphia.
After The Athletic reported Tuesday that Simmons has decided to no longer play alongside Embiid, the forward responded that the team's roster construction included everything Simmons needed to thrive.
"Whether it's the shooting need or stretch-5 and all that stuff, I feel like (Simmons) always had it here. And we still have it," Embiid said.
"Our teams have always been built around his needs."
As a result of his holdout, Philadelphia withheld $8.25 million due to Simmons on Oct. 1, The Athletic reported.
Follow Chris Bumbaca on Twitter @BOOMbaca.