The Memphis Grizzlies are still waiting for Dillon Brooks to make his debut this season, but it appears the guard is inching closer to a return to the court.

Brooks, who broke his left hand in two places during the summer, was ruled out in the preseason after a medical evaluation revealed his injury was not healing as quickly as anticipated. 

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Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins noted on Monday that the star defender was to have another evaluation on his hand this week, and on Wednesday, the Grizzlies assigned Brooks to the G League affiliate Memphis Hustle to participate in a simulated game.

“It’s a great sign,” Jenkins said. “Obviously, this is part of his ramp up to playing. He’s going to have a couple more simulated games. But, great relationship we have with the Hustle, being in our market, to make their staff and available — for other guys too, not just for (Brooks).”

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The Grizzlies assigned Sam Merrill and rookie Santi Aldama to the Hustle, and transferred two-way players Killian Tillie and Yves Pons to the G League squad as well. 

“As I have said the last couple times, (Brooks) is trending great,” Jenkins said. “This is just another step to get him back on the court here soon.”

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The Grizzlies still do not have a set timeline for Brooks to make his return. 

“We will do check-in (on the hand),” Jenkins said. “We are taking this one day at a time. He still has to get his wind and rhythm and all that. But, health-wise, we will follow up later this week to make sure he’s still going in the right direction.”