NEW YORK — Brooklyn NetsSwingman Ben SimmonsContinues to make progress with a back injury, but won’t likely play in Game 3 against the Boston CelticsHe acknowledged that it was’reasonable to think’ he would play in Game 4 if he gets through the next couple of days of exercise without any issues and was’very optimistic’ that he would.
Simmons said that it was literally “every day” after Friday’s exercise. “So I have had many great days, which has been great to me in building up. So, we are just trying to bring together those wonderful days and continue building up so that we can get back on the court and play at that level. If I could play right away, I’d be on court. So it is.
Simmons claimed that he has completed two to three scrimmage sessions and hopes to complete at least one more Saturday. But, Simmons and Nets coach Steve Nash remain unsure about the impact Simmons will make if he is selected to play in this series.
Simmons stated, “We’ll discover,” It’s a challenging task, but I’m looking forward. It’s great to play with these guys. For me, Ky is a great guy to play with. [Irving]Seth [Curry]Kev [Durant]. Watching them play is enough to know their play style and preferences. It’s thrilling to be able to get them into their places and act as a floor general. It’s exciting.
Simmons has not been a Nets player since being acquired by the Nets just before the February trade deadline. Philadelphia 76ers. Because of a herniated disk in the back, he has missed over two months and has not played since June 20, 2020 during Game 7. Atlanta HawksIn the Eastern Conference semifinals. He requested a trade from Philadelphia in the summer because of mental health concerns.
Nash was candid when asked what Simmons should contribute if he plays, considering how much time he had missed.
Nash replied, “I don’t understand.” “I don’t know the answer.” Do you have an answer? We’d love to see Ben play and even try to play but only when he is ready. If he isn’t, he won’t. We’re not counting down the minutes until Ben returns. We want Ben to be able to play when he is ready and to have an impact.
Simmons declined to answer if he would return to the Nets if they lose Game 3 to the Celtics. He didn’t want the conversation to be about “ifs.”
Simmons stated that, while Simmons is still working to build up strength in his back and legs, he’s also been having to work on strengthening his legs.
Simmons stated that an injury like this can affect your entire leg. It will take some time for the muscles to relax and allow them to get back on to the floor. But it is day-to-day. It is treatment every day. Pilates, exercises, and just staying on top of it all.
Simmons stated that it was up to Nash and other coaches to decide how long he could play. However, he remained optimistic that he would be able fit in with a team with whom he has not played a minute.
Simmons said, “I will fit in.” “I don’t worry about that.”