Southeast Injury Updates and Performances: Bridges’ Ankle, Diabate’s Rise, Wizards’ Absences, Wiggins’ Surge
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CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Hornets’ injury list grew on Monday night when forward Miles Bridges twisted his right ankle after landing on Gary Trent Jr.’s foot during the first quarter of a loss to Milwaukee. Bridges exited at the next stoppage and did not return. Head coach Charles Lee said the 27-year-old will be re-evaluated at Tuesday’s practice.
Bridges joins rookies Kon Knueppel (right ankle sprain) and Ryan Kalkbrenner (left elbow sprain) among Hornets sidelined. Center Mason Plumlee (right groin strain) is also out.
Diabate Steps In
With Kalkbrenner and Plumlee unavailable, Moussa Diabate has started Charlotte’s last three games at center, averaging 12.0 points, 13.0 rebounds and 2.3 assists while shooting 78.9% from the floor. The 23-year-old is signed through 2026-27 on a non-guaranteed minimum deal that has proven valuable for the Hornets.
Wizards’ Injury Report
Washington forward Kyshawn George missed his second straight game Monday against Phoenix due to a left hip flexor strain. Sharpshooter Corey Kispert sat out a third consecutive contest with a left hamstring strain. Kispert, who has drawn trade interest, has appeared just once since Nov. 25 because of thumb and hamstring issues.
Wiggins Finds His Groove in Miami
Miami Heat wing Andrew Wiggins is averaging 16.4 points per game this season but has boosted that number to 21.7 over the past three outings, shooting 62.8% overall, 57.1% from three-point range and 75.0% at the line. The former No. 1 pick said coaches have stressed the importance of staying aggressive offensively. Wiggins is earning $28.2 million this season and holds a $30.2 million player option for 2026-27. Despite earlier trade rumors, there is currently no indication Miami plans to move him.
Source: HoopsRumors
