Report: Simmons could debut in Game 4 of 1st round

Ben Simmons could make his Brooklyn Nets debut as soon as Game 4 of the team's first-round series against the Boston Celtics, reports ESPN's Brian Windhorst.

Simmons has yet to participate in five-on-five practice but is targeting a return to the court in Games 4, 5, or 6, according to Windhorst.

Reports emerged Sunday that Simmons could play in the first round of the playoffs, but head coach Steve Nash said Tuesday he had "no idea" when the Australian could return.

Simmons has gradually ramped up his workload in practice after suffering a back injury near the start of his rehab process following his trade from the Philadelphia 76ers in February. He hasn't played in an NBA game since last June.

The all-league defender would bring size and playmaking to a team heavily centered around stars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.

However, Simmons' lack of aggressiveness and poor free-throw shooting in his last playoff appearance created a rift with the 76ers that contributed to his holdout from the organization this season.

Simmons averages 13.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.1 assists over 34 career postseason appearances while shooting 57% from the field and 52% from the free-throw line.