The NBA has initiated a probe to look at the possible tampering of the game between the Philadephia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday Night. They are currently investigating if 76ers player Ben Simmons illegally had a conversation with Lakers president Magic Johnson prior to the game.
In an article published in ESPN, NBA spokesman Mike Bass said that they are currently looking at any indications of Ben Simmons violating the organization's rules when he contacted the Lakers. He also said that the Lakers is not off the hook on this one as they are also subjected for an investigation.
The 76ers general manager Elton Brand said that Ben Simmons, their star guard, had no intention of working out with Johnson. He said his player just wants to talk to the legendary basketball player.
Brand said the talk between Ben Simmons and Johnson is a non-issue. He disputed rumors that his player will leave the team in the near future as he has a great relationship with him and he is expecting him in the 76ers for a longer time.
He also said that they are not sweating the accusations thrown at Ben Simmons. Brand said the team is currently focused on having a great run at the postseason.
The Lakers also released a statement regarding the issue involving Ben Simmons and their team on Monday, February 11. They said in a statement that the76ers player only talked to Johnson about his "Hall of Fame playing career".
The statement said that they received an email request from the 76ers, which is the team of Ben Simmons. Rob Pelinka, the general manager of Lakers, contacted Elton Brand, the general manager of 76ers, to inform him that Magic is waiting for a pre-written approval from the latter's team about Ben Simmons having a talk with their president.
In an article published in Express, Johnson confirmed that Ben Simmons contacted him. He said Ben Simmons is seeking advice about playing as a tall point guard.
Johnson also praised Ben Simmons for his love for basketball and his vision for his basketball career. He said that Ben Simmons has a "very high basketball IQ".
Ben Simmons and Johnson are both standing at 6-foot-9-plus and both are point guards in their respective teams. It was noted that Ben Simons is currently eligible to sign his rookie contract extension with the Sixers once this season is done.
This case of Ben Simmons and the Lakers is not the first time in recent years. Last 2017, the NBA fined the Lakers $500,00 for the grounds of tampering too.
