Ben Simmons could have an impact on the Nets. 1:09
Brooklyn Nets swingman Ben Simmons continues his rehabilitation from a back injury, but it will be up to the former All-Star whether he plays in the first-round playoff series against the Boston.
Nash wasn't sure of a time frame for a potential return for Simmons. Game 2 of the Eastern Conference first-round series is on Wednesday night.
Nash said after the shootaround that he was ready after an absence. It will have to be on him to say that he feels comfortable whenever he is ready. I'm ready to go. I want to play and contribute.
We cannot push him places when you have been out this long. It has to be something where he is comfortable and ready to play.
Simmons has not played in an NBA game since requesting a trade from the 76ers in May of last year, and he has not played for the Nets since being acquired from the 76ers just before the February trade deadline. He was cleared for contact on Monday and has been working with his teammates.
Nash said he would work out before the game.
Nets center Nic Claxton said that Simmons has a good swagger. I think the world is ready to see him back out there, and he will definitely help us out in a lot of ways.
Nash said that Simmons needs to feel comfortable enough to play and that the training staff needs to see enough to feel comfortable for him to compete again.
Nash said it was more of a collective decision. This has been going on for a long time. They are trying to find a resolution and a time frame to come back where he is safe to play and contribute.
The Nets are hopeful that he will pick up as much as he can on and off the floor through workouts and film sessions.
Nash said that if he is able to play at some point, he will become familiar with what we are doing.
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