NEW YORK – The Brooklyn NetsThey are getting ready for Tuesday’s play-in against the Cleveland CavaliersWith Ben SimmonsStatus of’still hanging over any possible deep postseason run.
Although it is not clear when Simmons will be able make his season debut due to his back injury, Nets coach Steve Nash stated that the team would welcome the challenge of trying to incorporate Simmons during the playoffs.
After Monday’s practice, Nash stated, “Another challenge but one we’d welcome,” “So we’ll wait and see. If he’s available to play, it would great to have him on our team. We can learn as we go, and see how we can help our team with no history.
According to sources, Simmons could make his debut sometime in the first round, if the Nets advance this far. Brooklyn would be playing the Finals if it wins Tuesday’s game. Boston CelticsIn the Eastern Conference quarterfinals. Game 1 will be played on Sunday.
Simmons was bought just before the trade deadline in an agreement that sent James Harden Paul MillsapSimmons was taken to Philadelphia. Seth Curry, Andre DrummondThe Nets will also be receiving two future first-rounders. Simmons initially hoped to play in March after he requested a trade with Philadelphia last summer. Simmons’ return was slowed by back pain in February. This was later confirmed to be a herniated disc.
Simmons spent Monday’s practice doing some resistance-band and stretching work, but he hasn’t been cleared to contact.
Nash stated that Simmons could be an argument on either side about how difficult it is to add Simmons so late in the season. This was especially true considering how in-flux this Nets roster has been this season. Brooklyn, however, will take Simmons and any minutes he may be able — whenever he’s available.
Nash stated, “The bottom line was we’d add a substantial talent our team so he really welcomes us.” He fits in and helps in many ways. We need help, so we are open to the challenge of trying and incorporating him into a playoff situation that has no previous history with our team. We need to spend as much time together as possible on the floor, and we will see if we can reach an understanding as soon as possible.
Nash spoke after Sunday’s win against the Indiana PacersSimmons hasn’t been cleared for running or conditioning yet, but Simmons’ new teammates and coaches repeatedly state that Simmons is in good spirits. Curry stated that, while Simmons is still a possibility for the Nets to return, the team is focusing on what it can control.
Curry stated, “We’re concerned about the game-in situation right now.” We’ll integrate Ben as much as we can, but we feel we’re locked in to this play-in scenario right now. If Ben becomes available, we’ll deal that then. But we need to be focused on Cleveland and worry about who else is out there. As a team, I don’t believe anyone will be concerned about Ben’s return. The coaches and the front office may be concerned, but we as players are focused on the task at hand.
Curry missed Sunday’s game due to left ankle soreness and said that he would be back against the Cavs on Tuesday. Nash indicated that the veteran guard will be playing. Goran DragicHe still hasn’t completed safety and health protocols and didn’t sound optimistic about his availability Tuesday.