It looks like Caris LeVert’s return to gameplay is going to happen before Kyrie Irving’s.
LeVert (right thumb surgery) took a major step at Brooklyn’s practice on Monday. Kenny Atkinson told reporters LeVert was able to take part in contact work. In fact, the guard participated the majority of practice.
LeVert last played on November 11 before he received surgery to repair damaged ligaments in his right thumb on November 14. From there, he was expected to miss four to six weeks.
Thursday will mark six weeks since LeVert received his surgery.
Although he’s made progress and the original timetable is coming to a close, Atkinson was unable to provide reporters with a new estimation for LeVert, per Malika Andrews of ESPN.
Kenny Atkinson said that Caris LeVert participated in nearly every part of practice today. LeVert did contact work with the Nets’ coaches. Atkinson wouldn’t commit to a return date, but said LeVert is getting close.
— Malika Andrews (@malika_andrews) December 23, 2019
Caris LeVert is on court with#Nets getting up shots. Will check on progress to return. pic.twitter.com/9yuffRYdlG
— Greg Logan (@GregLogan1) December 23, 2019
LeVert’s return could impact a possible return for Iman Shumpert. The Nets can only file for a hardship exception after their December 28 game, as long as LeVert and Irving are out.
BKN will be able to file for a hardship exception after the 12/28 game at Houston. The exception allows the Nets to add a 16th player if the NBA deems that K. Irving and C. LeVert are out for another two weeks. Once either player returns, the player signed will need to be waived.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) December 20, 2019
RELATED: David Nwaba’s injury could lead to Iman Shumpert’s return