Caris LeVert (right thumb surgery) took a major step toward his return to game action this week by participating in contact portions of Nets practice. Thursday marks six weeks since the Brooklyn guard received surgery to repair damaged ligaments in his right thumb.
The Nets have had little to offer about LeVert’s status leading up to his return to practice, which is why his participation in contact work at practice was a surprise, even though it’s in-line with the initial timetable in which he was expected to return.
However, despite his improved status, LeVert will not be available for Kenny Atkinson on Thursday against the New York Knicks. He has been ruled out.
Kyrie Irving (right shoulder impingement) and Nic Claxton (left hamstring soreness) have both been ruled out, as well.
Claxton first injured his hamstring while with the Long Island Nets, Brooklyn G League affiliate, on December 9. The Nets rookie has not appeared in a game or been available for Brooklyn since.