TITLE: Injury Roundup: Brunson’s Ankle, Garland’s Foot, and Other Notable Setbacks
SLUG: injury-roundup-brunson-garland-flagg-gafford-avdija
CONTENT:
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson lasted just five minutes against the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday before leaving with a sprained right ankle. According to the New York Post, the two-time All-Star departed the arena without crutches or a walking boot, though the club is expected to proceed cautiously after similar ankle issues cost him roughly a month last season and several games in November. Without Brunson, New York fell 112-101, as Mikal Bridges, Karl-Anthony Towns, and OG Anunoby combined to shoot 34.0 percent. The Knicks continue their West Coast trip Thursday at Golden State.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Head coach Kenny Atkinson described Darius Garland as doubtful for Friday’s rematch with Philadelphia after the point guard injured his right foot during Wednesday’s win in Philadelphia. Teammate Donovan Mitchell told reporters Garland was upbeat in the locker room afterward. The Cavaliers may also be without Sam Merrill, who appeared to re-injure the right hand that sidelined him for 14 games earlier this season.
Dallas Mavericks
Already dealing with multiple injuries, Dallas watched two more players exit Wednesday’s loss to Denver. Rookie forward Cooper Flagg sprained his left ankle, while center Daniel Gafford aggravated a right ankle sprain first sustained in training camp. Their availability for Thursday’s home game against Utah remains uncertain.
Portland Trail Blazers
Deni Avdija is listed as doubtful—not out—for Thursday’s contest after missing Tuesday’s matchup with Golden State because of lower-back soreness. The designation suggests the forward is not expected to be sidelined for an extended period.
Source: Hoops Rumors
