Nets list Ben Simmons as probable vs. Jazz after lengthy absence

NEW YORK -- Ben Simmons could return to the Brooklyn Nets on Monday after missing nearly three months because of a pinched nerve in his back.

Simmons has played in just six games this season, none since Nov. 6, and has missed the past 38. He practiced Saturday with the Nets' NBA G League affiliate, and coach Jacque Vaughn said afterward there was a "high likelihood" that the No. 1 pick in the 2016 draft would play Monday againstUtah.

The Nets listed Simmons as probable to play in their injury report Sunday.

Simmons has battled back injuries since the Nets acquired him from Philadelphianearly two years ago. The Nets originally thought his injury in November was in his left hip, before determining it was caused by an impingement in his lower back.