Ben Simmons may debut for the Brooklyn Nets within the first spherical of the NBA post-season and take the court docket in recreation motion for the primary time for the reason that 2021 playoffs ended.
The Athletic reported Simmons is concentrating on a spread of Video games 4-6 within the Nets’ collection in opposition to the Boston Celtics.
However head coach Steve Nash is taking a wait-and-see perspective on Simmons, who was acquired for James Harden in a multi-player commerce with the Philadelphia 76ers in February.
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“There’s a chance Ben comes back, there’s a chance Ben doesn’t come back,” Nash stated. “We don’t have time to lose focus on the group that’s playing.”
Simmons hasn’t suited up for the Nets whereas being handled for a decrease again harm, lacking targets to return every of the previous 4 weeks.
He additionally didn’t play within the common season for the 76ers earlier than the commerce, forcing his approach out of Philadelphia over a fractured relationship with coach Doc Rivers and teammate Joel Embiid.
The Nets received the play-in recreation with the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night time to seal up the No. 7 seed and a collection with the second-seeded Celtics that begins Sunday.
Nash stated Simmons continues to be doing particular person work and targeted on rehabbing his harm, and that the customary crew coverage of three aggressive practices earlier than a participant is cleared from harm applies to Simmons.
ESPN and The Athletic reported Simmons has picked up the tempo and depth of his exercises and seems assured he can play.
Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving have stated there isn’t any expectation or timetable for getting Simmons again.
Irving solely not too long ago returned to full-time obligation after being restricted to away video games due to his COVID-19 vaccination standing.
“No, I’m not expecting him to play,” Durant stated after apply on Thursday about the potential for Simmons returning subsequent week.
“That’s easier for me. I’m not putting any pressure on Ben to come out and hoop.
“I’m not expecting him to do anything except get his body right and get healthy as fast as he can. I’m preparing as if we’re playing with the team we have.”
