Report: Simmons won't play vs. 76ers but will be on Nets' bench

Ben Simmons will travel with the Brooklyn Nets for Thursday's game in Philadelphia against the 76ers but won't play against his former team, reports Shams Charania of Stadium.

Thursday's encounter will be Simmons' first trip back to Philadelphia since being traded at the deadline for James Harden, although the Australian will reportedly remain on Brooklyn's bench.

Simmons has yet to play at all this season. After requesting a trade from the 76ers before the start of the campaign, the 25-year-old sat out all of their matchups, reportedly telling the franchise he wasn't mentally ready to play.

Following the Feb. 10 blockbuster that sent him to Brooklyn, the three-time All-Star began to experience back soreness while reconditioning with his new team. The ailment has prevented him from participating in practices. Despite the setback, the team is reportedly optimistic he'll be able to make his Nets debut later in March.