'Growing optimism' that Ben Simmons could make Nets debut in Game 3?

Brooklyn Nets guard Ben Simmons could make his season debut during the latter stages of the Nets’ series against the Celtics, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports.

After running and shooting pain-free for more than a week, Simmons will now scrimmage against teammates in practices. His workouts have been limited to 1-on-0 situations.

The possibility of Simmons taking the court adds even more intrigue into what will likely be the most watched first-round series. ESPN and The Athletic reported on Friday that Simmons was aiming for a return somewhere in the Game 4 to Game 6 range of the series. Game 4 is scheduled for April 25, with the remaining games (if necessary) to be played every other night afterward.

According to Jake Fischer of Bleacher Report, there’s "growing optimism" that Simmons could suit up as early as Game 3, which will take place next Saturday, April 23 when the Nets return to Brooklyn.

However, Kevin Durant said on Thursday he’s “not expecting” Simmons to play in the series. Simmons has been rehabbing from a back injury, which has delayed his Nets debut.