Stephen A. Smith explains why people think of James Harden differently than they think of the other teams in the playoffs. There is a time and a place for this.
Nets coach Steve Nash said that Ben Simmons will join his new team in Philadelphia on Wednesday as he continues to deal with a back injury.
Simmons requested a trade from the 76ers after last season and is expected to be booed by the crowd. Nash was quick to say that it would be good for Simmons to be in that environment.
Nash said that he needs to be with his teammates and get the whole Philly thing out of the way. It is always nice to deal with it and move on the first time.
Nash said he would be happy to talk to Simmons about the reception he is expected to get, but he said he is confident the 25-year-old former All-Star knows what is coming.
Nash said he doesn't think he's naive to think he won't get booed. It is a part of the game I miss.
When Simmons might be able to play again is a question that has not been answered. Simmons was optimistic about playing in Philadelphia during his introductory news conference, but he has been dealing with back pain over the last week and a half as he tries to get closer to playing again. It is not clear when Simmons will be able to practice.
The Nets will have their next formal practice on Saturday.
Nash said that it was to be determined, but that he thought he was progressing this week. He will see us in Philadelphia on Wednesday. I don't think he's ready for 5-on-5 basketball, but he's improving and will join us in Philadelphia for a few days of rehabilitation.
Veteran Nets guard Goran Dragic knows the atmosphere in Philadelphia will be intense, but he doesn't think Simmons will have an issue with it.
It is likely not going to be pleasant, according to Dragic. We are all professional athletes. At the end of the day, it is only boos, so you just go out there and perform and try to do your best. I don't care if it's nothing serious, no throwing things and just being verbal.
Being back in Philadelphia was echoed by Drummond.
It will be a playoff-like atmosphere, based on the trade and the situation with Ben. It is going to be a good game.
Nash said that center LaMarcus Aldridge will be out for at least the next two games after having an exam on his hip, so that means that Drummond will play a little more than usual over the next few games. The Nets and Hornets are tied for eighth place in the Eastern Conference with a 32-33 record. They've lost 17 of their last 20 games.
Nash knows the focus will be on Simmons when he returns to Philadelphia.
Nash said that the first time back in a city after a trade is awkward. He is excited to join our team and is a big boy. He wants to be on the bench with his teammates.
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