Nets Coach Steve Nash Hypes up Ben Simmons Ahead of Nets Debut: “He’s in a Pretty Good State Mentally”
Now that Ben Simmons has relocated to Brooklyn, the next step for him is to return to the NBA. He attended the Nets’ shoot around at Barclays Center on Monday morning, took physical assessment tests, and graced the floor during pregame, but he still has a way to go before anybody feels comfortable releasing him.
Nobody has seen Simmons play in a game since June 20, 2021, the night that sealed his fate in Philadelphia. All indications point to Simmons returning to the floor following the All-Star break. When he does put on the Nets uniform for the first game, he’ll wear the number 10, indicating yet another chance for the former Sixers no. 25.
He’s been in constant contact with the organization, Steve Nash, and KD since being traded to the Nets. Before tonight’s game, Steve Nash provided an update on Simmons and speculated on a possible debut date.
Steve Nash provides update on the return of Ben Simmons
“I think he’s (Ben Simmons) in a pretty good state mentally,” Steve Nash said.
Steve Nash on Ben Simmons: “I think he’s in a pretty good state mentally. If we work with him in conjunction to his physical ramp-up to make sure he’s comfortable on and off the floor, I think he’ll be ready to play mentally when he’s physically ready.”
— Chris Milholen (@ChrisMilholen) February 14, 2022
“If we work with him in conjunction to his physical ramp-up to make sure he’s comfortable on and off the floor, I think he’ll be ready to play mentally when he’s physically ready.”
Steve Nash with a glowing review of Ben Simmons
🎥 from @DavidEarly pic.twitter.com/ucRxR0I8s2
— The Brooklyn Game (@TheBKGame) February 14, 2022
The Brooklyn Nets have finally ended their 11-game losing streak. The Nets have been on an 11-game losing slide dating back to January 23rd. However, they ended their losing streak tonight by blowing out the Kings at home. Seth Curry and Andre Drummond made their Nets debuts and were instrumental in the victory.
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With Kyrie Irving ruled out for 17 of the Nets’ final 25 games, the franchise would prefer Ben Simmons back as soon as possible. Simmons’ last appearance in an NBA game came in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference playoffs against the Hawks in June, after which he had minimal support from 76ers star Joel Embiid and coach Doc Rivers. However, because he hasn’t played the full season, they’d want him to focus on his conditioning and prevent any extra injuries.
