Nets Rule Out Ben Simmons for Rest of Regular Season, Play-In Tournament

Nets coach Steve Nash announced Monday that Ben Simmons will not play for the rest of the regular season or the play-in tournament. Simmons has not appeared in a game this season as he continues to deal with a herniated disc in his back. 

Simmons was traded from the 76ers in a blockbuster deal back in February, but he hasn’t suited up once. The Nets, meanwhile, will have to play in the play-in tournament as their defensive woes continue—something Simmons was expected to improve. 

The 25-year-old is a two-time All-Defense selection, and he could provide a major boost to a squad that already has generational scoring in Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving. 

The play-in tournament starts April 12 and the playoffs begin April 16. Brooklyn (40–38) is the No. 10 seed in the Eastern Conference as of Monday.