Brooklyn Nets coach Steve Nash lauds Ben Simmons' versatility as 'incredible playmaker'

NEW YORK — Coach Steve Nash says he doesn't care if Ben Simmons «ever shoots a jump shot» for the Brooklyn Nets because of the versatility and unique skillset that he brings to the team.

«Very unique,» Nash said of Simmons after the second full practice of training camp on Wednesday. «That's what makes Ben great. That's why I don't care if he ever shoots a jump shot for the Brooklyn Nets. He's welcome to, but that is not what makes him special and not what we need. He's a great compliment to our team and he's an incredible basketball player because of his versatility.»

Simmons, who struggled to find consistency in his jump shot throughout his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, is trying to stay focused on a fresh beginning after missing all of last season while waiting for a trade out of Philadelphia and then dealing with rehab from back surgery as well as ongoing mental health issues.

Simmons said he felt «amazing» after the team's second official practice.

«I'm getting used to the up and down play,» Simmons said. «I feel great. It's good to be out here with these guys.»

Nash and Simmons are particularly excited about his expected fit with fellow Nets stars Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.

«I think they'll have a certain element of cohesion out of the gates,» Nash said of the trio. «Because they're all really good basketball players, but hopefully it's something that evolves. And they can continue to find ways to make each other better. I think that's the beauty, that they actually fit really well together, but it may take time.

»But out of the gates, they're still three great basketball players who I think are excited to play together and will make things happen immediately. But let's hope that there's a constant growth