BOSTON Brooklyn NetsSwingman Ben SimmonsHe has been cleared to contact the team as he works to regain his mobility from a back injury that prevented him playing since he was adopted from the Philadelphia 76ersJust before the February trade deadline
Steve Nash, the Nets’ head coach, ruled Simmons out of Game 2. However, he left the possibility open for Simmons to return in Brooklyn’s first round series against the Nets. Boston Celtics.
After Tuesday’s session, Nash said that “He’s progressing.” “We’ll wait to see how he responds, and see if it’s possible for him to make contact more often.” [Wednesday].”
Nash claimed that Simmons’ first contact day actually occurred during a Monday exercise when he was able four-on-four games with some of his teammates.
Simmons did the exercise “so far, so well,” Nash commented. He did a great job yesterday.
Simmons spent most of Tuesday’s post-practice time with Kyle Korver, the Nets’ shooting instructor, working on his form. Nash did not respond to a question about Simmons being able to participate in Saturday’s Game 3.
Nash stated, “I wouldn’t be able say anything about that since I don’t even know how he’s going to get to these weeks.” “We must also remember it’s a nine month absence or whatever it is. It’s not just like it was six weeks. This is an unusual situation. It isn’t as straight-forward as some other types of in-season injuries.
Simmons hasn’t played since May, after Simmons asked for a trade from Sixers to address mental health concerns. Nash indicated that he didn’t think Simmons would be able to play in the full 5-on-5 scrimmage because of how deep the Nets are into this season and the need to give veterans a break during the day.
Nash stated that he doesn’t think he will do 5-on-5 as there aren’t 10 players. It will likely be four-on-four again — so it’s really trying put him in an atmosphere where he can build up, see if there are any contact and see if his ability to run the floor, make cuts or rebound, defend, and all that stuff. He has to be allowed to use the floor for his own practice and to test his ability to adapt to new situations.
Tuesday’s practice was more like a walk-through. Nash said that Simmons did some 5-0 drills and then went through some plays. Star nets Kevin DurantHe said that he didn’t see Simmons “explode or play against anyone”, but noted that he has “been hearing positive reports” about Simmons progress.
Durant claimed that she didn’t hear any setbacks. Durant said, “That’s pretty much all I’m looking at.” [when]One member of our team has experienced anything during their time in the pre-practice or stay-ready groups. He’s likely making good progress so we’ll wait to see.