The initial returns on Ben Simmons‘ comeback from the back ailment that wrecked his 2022/23 season were encouraging, according to Brian Lewis of the New York Post. The Nets guard had 10 points, three assists and a steal in 14 first-half minutes against the Lakers on Monday.
“[It felt] amazing. That’s really it, just amazing,” Simmons said. “Happy to be out there, and compete, and feel good out there and able to contribute like I know how I can. So I felt great. It’s the best in two years for sure.”
We have more on the New York teams:
- In the same game, Cam Thomas led the Nets with 26 points. His other contributions were more noteworthy to coach Jacque Vaughn as Thomas tries to secure a rotation spot, Lewis writes in a separate story. “He can flat out score the basketball,” Vaughn said. “I look at the other things, and he knows that. What were the box outs? Was he running hard? Is he communicating with his teammates? Did he know where he was supposed to be on the floor? So those things he’s really taken strides in and give him a lot of credit. And with credit comes playing time.” Thomas’ $2,240,160 salary for this season was picked up by the club last year. The Nets hold a $4,041,249 option on his contract for next season and must make a decision on it this month.
- Despite the war in Israel, the Nets’ preseason game against Maccabi Ra’anana is still expected to take place Thursday at Barclays Center. The exhibition hasn’t been cancelled or delayed, Lewis tweets.
- There’s still a Toppin on the Knicks, though he’s a long shot to make the roster. While the front office traded away his brother Obi to Indiana, Jacob Toppin is trying to prove he’s an NBA player, Kristian Winfield of the New York Daily News writes. “He’s my brother, but he has his own path and I have my own path, and this whole process, I’ve been trying to focus on myself and be better every single day and that’s what I’ve been doing,” Jacob said. “This whole summer is just working to be a better version of myself everyday. So, that’s what I’ve been focused on.” The younger Toppin signed an Exhibit 10 deal after going undrafted out of Kentucky. He’s likely to wind up with the G League’s Westchester Knicks.
I bet Thibs will like this Toppin better
The Knicks will regret giving up on Ob1. I would have traded Randle instead. Ob1 is a much more athletic player.
They shouldn’t of drafted him or traded him sooner
If only Cam Thomas could play the point. That would solve a lot …….
Don’t get why Roby had a DNP. Isn’t this the guy we need the most right now. Knicks have not addressed the backup 4 still. Opening night is coming.
Cam can play the point. They just won’t let him.
why would they when Ben and Spence are still gonna be better
No he can’t . He is a scorer. Does not look for teammates does not run an offense. He’s best as the third guard.
Thank you for responding with knowledge and your honest opinion. You know way more than the guy at the bottom. I appreciate you being respectful. It will be exciting seeing Obi start in Indiana.