Source: Nets optimistic Ben Simmons could play in first round vs. Celtics barring setback

Ben Simmons hasn’t started sprinting yet. He hasn’t been scrimmaging with his teammates. So it would seem like he isn’t close to returning to the court.

But one source familiar with the matter says there is a pathway for Simmons to return during the Nets’ first-round series against Boston.

“As long as he’s on the court every day, there’s (optimism),” the source said, adding that if Simmons suffers no setbacks in workouts, he could return during the Nets-Celtics series.

The Athletic reported Thursday that Simmons is targeting a return as early as Game 4 next Monday.

Nets head coach Steve Nash said on Thursday he isn’t working on any specific game-plan that involves Simmons. Kevin Durant said he doesn’t expect Simmons to return.

But Nash reiterated Thursday that he wouldn’t hesitate to use Simmons in a limited role once he’s ready to return. The coach called Simmons a franchise cornerstone.

Simmons has been sidelined by a back ailment since the trade that sent him to Brooklyn in February. Prior to that, Simmons wasn’t playing for the Sixers, citing his mental health.

He last played during Philadelphia’s loss to Atlanta in the second round of the 2021 playoffs.

Following that series, Simmons requested a trade.