Brooklyn Nets give update on Ben Simmons’ play-offs hopes

Ben Simmons is continuing to recover from a back injury but could return for the play-offs if the Brooklyn Nets were to qualify.

The Brooklyn Nets and Patty Mills have taken a big step towards securing a place in the play-offs but there’s still no guarantee the Boomers star will be joined by fellow Aussie Ben Simmons if the Nets manage to qualify.

Prior to defeating the Indiana Pacers on Monday morning (AEST), the Nets had already claimed a spot in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament, in which four sides compete for two play-off spots.

By defeating the Pacers, the Nets confirmed they would finish seventh in their conference, meaning they’ll have hosting rights and a double chance in the play-in tournament.

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Defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers at home on Wednesday and the Nets will qualify for the play-offs.

Mills (L) and Simmons (R). (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

If they make it through the play-in tournament, though, Brooklyn may have to contend without star recruit Simmons.

The former No. 1 draft pick joined the Nets from the Philadelphia 76ers mid-season but is still recovering from a back injury.

“There’s no timetable for his return now,” coach Steve Nash said after the Nets’ latest win.

“He’s clearly got some markers to hit. He’s not even going full speed on the court.

“He hasn’t done any conditioning, running. He’s been doing some movement but nothing full-speed yet.

“His timetable is not set. We’re just going to coach and play as a group here and Ben will continue to work hard at rehabbing and whenever the time comes, we’ll be grateful.”

Simmons had played his entire career with the 76ers before joining the Nets this year. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Prior to joining the Nets, Simmons had taken time away from basketball to focus on his mental health.

Ahead of the game against the Pacers, Nash said the Aussie was in good spirits around the playing group.

“He looks, I think, really positive and happy and encouraged. He’s just working away at his rehab,” said Nash.

In more positive news for Nets fans, Simmons warmed up with his side prior to the win over the Pacers and could be seen shooting the basketball from the floor.

Ben Simmons getting work in pregame, for the first time. No dynamic movements but it’s a big step. Previously he just threw passes to Patty. pic.twitter.com/CDAoyD2zPk

— Michael Grady (@Grady) April 10, 2022

If the Nets lose to Cleveland in their play-in clash, they will need to defeat either the Atlanta Hawks or the Charlotte Hornets to feature in the play-offs.

For now Nash is just thrilled that his side has given itself the best chance heading into the play-in tournament.

“It’s great. The guys got it done. We got up to seventh. We were in 10th a week ago,” he said.

Originally published as Brooklyn Nets give update on Ben Simmons’ play-offs hopes