Nets’ Jacque Vaughn says Ben Simmons is ‘progressing’ in his recovery

NEW YORK — Brooklyn Nets head coach Jacque Vaughn said during his media availability before Thursday’s game against the Sacramento Kings that guard Ben Simmons is “progressing” in his recovery from knee and back soreness. Simmons has missed the past 11 games for the Nets because of the soreness in both areas.

“Yeah, no setback,” Vaughn said when asked if he had an update on Simmons’ condition. “He’s progressing. So, great to see him. He’s doing some work on court right now. So, as more updates come out, I’ll definitely give them to you guys but, good to see him, good to see him back on court, get some work in.” Simmons has been ruled out for Thursday’s game, but it sounds like he could return soon now that he’s doing work on the floor.

Vaughn did reiterate that Brooklyn is “operating” on the belief that Simmons will play again this season. “Definitely operate on the belief (that Simmons will play again this season). There’s zero discussions about him not playing, we expect him to be back.” From what Vaughn said, it seems like Simmons is finally on the right track with this recovery and that’s good because the Nets will need him for the playoff run.