NEW YORK — Brooklyn NetsCoach Steve Nash stated Monday that Ben SimmonsAs he continues to recover from back pain, he is not yet ready for practice.
Simmons won’t practice for the remainder of the week and it isn’t clear when he will be able make his debut with the Nets. He was acquired by the Nets just before the Feb. 10 trade deadline.
Nash stated that he is only doing light shooting and physical therapy. “Just making sure he gets that back 100%. Just that little flare-up. While he does his reconditioning stuff and shooting, he can do as much as he wants to while that settles down.”
Before Monday’s game against The, Nash spoke. Toronto RaptorsHowever, he was not at the sidelines after completing the league’s safety and health protocols. Jacque Vanaughn was appointed assistant coach to replace Nash. He was out of the game shortly before tipoff.
Simmons initially hoped that he would be able to play against his old team in Philadelphia on March 10. However, this latest back issue has put that in doubt. His teammates and coaches are continuing to reassure him that he is in good spirits, as he begins a new chapter with the Nets. Simmons mentioned mental health concerns as the reason why he wanted to trade from the Sixers.
“He seems like him,” Nets center Andre DrummondSimmons’ former Philly teammate, he said after Monday’s shootaround. “Not that I was able to see the entire situation in Philadelphia; it wasn’t my turn so I can’t speak on it. But what I see from what I get with him every day is that he’s a happy child and he’s excited to play.”
Monday was also Nash’s ruling day Kevin DurantDurant was unable to attend Tuesday’s Toronto game, but expressed his hope that the star forward would be back in time for this week’s game. Durant has been out of action since injuring his left knee MCL on Jan. 15.
Nash stated, “We are hopeful that he will be able to play this week.” He will not play tonight or [Tuesday]. I hope so, it would be either Thursday or Sunday. It’s exciting to see Kevin getting closer. Ben is still working on a variety of issues and reconditioning. Although he isn’t going to play this week, we’ll continue to work on his timeline. We hope he continues to make good progress.
Nash indicated that Durant and Simmons are unlikely to accompany the team in Toronto, despite a decision not being made. Simmons continues his rehab in Brooklyn.
Nets protect Bruce BrownDurant looked like he was in practice after Monday’s shootaround, Durant said.
Brown smiled and said, “He doesn’t look hurt to him,” “I’m going be honest. He looks good.”
Drummond also echoed the sentiment.
Drummond stated that Drummond believes Drummond will return to the field and make a difference in every way. He’s both a threat offensively and defensively. With our chemistry on the floor, it will make it difficult for teams with Kyrie and their guards to choose their poison. Seth (Curry) and when Ben comes back. We are a lot of dangers, and we get on the roster.”