Harrison Wind: When asked about how long Michael Malone…
March 28, 2023 | 2:56 pm EDT Update
Ben Simmons won't require surgery, expected to be ready for training camp
Ben Simmons’ agent, Bernie Lee, told SNY NBA Insider Ian Begley that Simmons does not require surgery and that he and Simmons have “every expectation that Ben will be a Day One participant when camp begins next year without restrictions or issues.”
“Ben’s process of seeking out the information of what’s going on has been a very lock-in-step effort with the Nets to clearly get an understanding of how to give (him) the opportunity to not only get healthy, but also his best path to long-term sustainable health, which allows him to regularly participate and play at the highest levels – something he has done since he entered the NBA,” Lee told Begley. “We feel like we have been given really solid clarity as to what he is experiencing today, how and why and most importantly what needs to happen moving forward to allow him to move forward with consistency and regularity.”
Simmons, who turns 27 this July, is still under contract with Brooklyn through the 2024-25 season. “Ben is a 26 year-old-guy who is just starting his career and clearly there have been some challenges recently,” Lee told Begley. “But like every truly great person I’ve observed, Ben is motivated internally to continue to develop himself and his talent and test his ability and, most importantly, compete. He simply needs to gain the opportunity to be healthy which we believe we’ve found.”
Coleman Hawkins is entering his name into the 2023 NBA Draft, while keeping his college eligibility. The Illinois forward announced his intention to explore playing professionally on Tuesday via social media.
Ian Begley: Julius Randle’s “30 for 3” program generated $880,000 for students at the Earl Monroe New Rennaisance Charter Basketball High School. The money will go to the school’s literacy enhancement program. The NYK all-star will present students with a check today at the school’s gym:
March 28, 2023 | 2:47 pm EDT Update
Kevin Durant expected to return on Wednesday
Shams Charania: After missing 10 games with a sprained ankle, Phoenix Suns All-NBA star Kevin Durant will make his return Wednesday vs. the Minnesota Timberwolves barring setback, league sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.
Chase Hughes: Monte Morris will return tonight for the Wizards, but Daniel Gafford is OUT, joining Beal and Kuzma.
