Ben Simmons and Dorian Finney-Smith both missed Wednesday's 139-114 loss to Boston, with Simmons requiring an MRI on a tight left calf.
This game was the first he missed due to injury this season, with the other three games all being days off during back-to-back games.
“Dorian is just a sprained ankle, it’s not.” [bad]. I just want him to be 200 percent and ready,” said Jordi Fernandes. “That's why he doesn't play. Whenever he's ready to give me his all, I want him. … And whenever he comes back, he gives his all. I'm going to give it to you. There's no need to rush.
“And Ben is still a little calf. [We] I took an MRI [exam]. There are no results. But for now, it's just everyday life. … We don't have the results, but we have him in our day job. ”
Simmons had 12 assists Monday against New Orleans, but had just two after halftime. He told reporters after the game that he suffered some cramping in the second half but was fine to play against the Celtics.
When asked if the cramps caused the calf strain and the MRI scan, Fernandes was noncommittal.
“Good question, because he didn't tell me,” Fernandez said with a shrug. “We know there was some pressure, so we did a precautionary MRI. And like I said, the results aren't back. Maybe that's what he mentioned. I understand. [I’m told] he said so. I don't know. That's what I know because he didn't tell me. ”
Giare Williams made his second start with Finney-Smith out.
Bojan Bogdanovic (recovering from a left foot injury), Dayron Sharpe (left hamstring strain) and Trendon Watford (left hamstring strain) were all absent.
Jalen Martin and Darik Whitehead were added from the G League.
The Nets have not provided an update on Bogdanovic's progress. One official said it is not scheduled until next month.
“I saw him shooting a gun on the court.” [Wednesday]. But playing 5-on-5 and in the actual game, he's progressing well. I won't give the exact date, but he is progressing well,” Fernandes said. “He's been fine and had a good week. He's been with us along the way. He's a veteran, so his presence is important. He gets together and talks and gives tips on what to do. His involvement is very important.”
Fernández was honored as the favorite son of his Spanish homeland and was awarded the Gold Star of Badalona.
Badalona Mayor Xavier García Albiol was also at the Barclays Center.
“I'm honored because the mayor and his team are here. They're in my hometown, my family and friends are there, and they gave me this award, one of only five people in my hometown…out of five. It's a great honor to be one,” Fernandez said. “It's so cool. And everything I can do to represent and be honored like this right now means a lot to me for my city.”
