Brooklyn Nets' Ben Simmons cleared for contact but return still unclear

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Brooklyn Nets swingman Ben Simmons has been cleared for contact as he continues to make his way back from a back injury that has prevented him from playing since he was acquired from the Philadelphia 76ers just before the trade deadline.

Nets head coach Steve Nash ruled Simmons out of Wednesday's Game 2, but he left the door open for Simmons to return at some point in Brooklyn's first-round series against the Boston Celtics.

Nash said after Tuesday's practice that he was making progress.

Nash said that Simmons played 4-on-4 with some of his teammates on the first day of contact.

Nash said that Simmons came through the workout well.

The media was able to see Simmons working with Nets shooting instructor Kyle Korver on his form after practice on Tuesday. Nash was noncommittal when asked if Simmons might be able to play in Saturday's Game 3.

Nash said he wouldn't be able to say anything about it because he wasn't sure how he would fare. It is not as linear as other types of in-season injuries.

Simmons requested a trade from the 76ers in the off-season, citing mental health concerns. Nash said that being able to play in a full 5-on-5 scrimmage probably wasn't going to be possible given how deep the Nets are into the season and the need to give veteran players a break on the days between games.

Nash said that 5-on-5 is probably not going to be done because we don't have 10 guys. He has to have time on the floor to see if he can adapt, and that process is just beginning.

Nash said that Simmons went through some plays during the walk-through on Tuesday. Nets star Kevin Durant said he didn't see Simmons explode or play against anyone, but he has heard good reports about his progress.

I didn't hear any setbacks, that's what I want when someone on our team goes through something. I haven't heard anything yet, but he's probably progressing well.