TITLE: Injury Updates: Bucks Expect Kevin Porter Jr. in Early December; Banchero Still Out; Garland Nears Return
SLUG: nba-injury-roundup-porter-banchero-garland
CONTENT:
Milwaukee Bucks
Guard Kevin Porter Jr. is on pace to rejoin Milwaukee in early December, matching the timeline set when he underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his right knee. Head coach Doc Rivers said Porter “looked good” during Tuesday’s light workout, and The Athletic’s Eric Nehm reported a noticeable boost in the guard’s energy since he resumed on-court activity.
“This is my first surgery ever,” Porter told reporters. “Two weeks ago Monday, I woke up and couldn’t walk. I was on crutches for the first time, so of course my energy was low. Being able to walk again, sleep regular, get back to my daily routine—it’s uplifting.”
The 23-year-old is progressing through stationary shooting, movement drills, and cardio sessions, calling Tuesday “the best day so far.” He has appeared in one game this season, posting 10 points in nine minutes. The Bucks entered Wednesday night with an 8-7 record.
Orlando Magic
Second-year forward Paolo Banchero will sit out a fourth consecutive game on Thursday because of a left groin strain, according to Jason Beede of The Orlando Sentinel. Banchero’s rookie-scale extension contains Rose Rule incentives that require him to play at least 65 games to qualify for an All-NBA bonus, making each missed contest significant. The reigning Rookie of the Year had started the season strongly before the setback.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland point guard Darius Garland missed his fifth straight game on Wednesday after re-aggravating the surgically repaired big toe on his left foot last week. Head coach Kenny Atkinson said the absence should not last much longer, noting, “He is close—really close.” Garland has not played since Nov. 12, and the Cavaliers’ offense has struggled in his absence.
Source: Hoops Wire
