Report: Ben Simmons dealing with back soreness, not ready to return

Ben Simmons isn't ready to return to the court just yet.

Simmons is dealing with back soreness as a result of the reconditioning process and "requires further strengthening of the area" before he can return to game action, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic. Charania also reports that the Nets have no timetable for a return, but they are treating it like a day-to-day issue.

The next game Simmons plays will not only be his debut with the Nets, but his first appearance this season overall. He sat out for the entire first half of the year with the 76ers as he sought a trade away from the team.

Simmons has been participating in practices with the Nets, but it was understood that he still remained some time away from taking the floor in a game even before the back soreness news broke. He is reportedly still working on his mental health and must recondition the rest of his body to get in game shape.

As Charania points out, it's possible Simmons may not be ready to return until after March 10, when the Nets travel to Philadelphia to face the 76ers.

Whenever Simmons does get into games for the Nets, they'll be adding an elite defender and versatile playmaking and passing threat on offense. A three-time All-Star, Simmons has career averages of 15.9 points, 8.1 rebounds and 7.7 assists per game.