Trail Blazers' Anfernee Simons: Leaves Early, Expected To Be Fine
Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons left Friday's game against the Sacramento Kings early with a right knee injury, but the team announced afterward that he is expected to be fine.
Simons exited the game with 5:43 remaining in the first quarter after colliding with Kings forward Keegan Murray. He limped off the court and went straight to the locker room. The Trail Blazers announced at halftime that Simons would not return to the game.
MRI Exam Clear
Simons underwent an MRI exam on Saturday, which came back clear. The team said he is day-to-day and will be re-evaluated on Sunday.
"He just took a knee to the knee," Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups said after the game. "He's going to be fine. We'll see how it is tomorrow. He's just a little sore right now."
Key Contributor
Simons has been a key contributor for the Trail Blazers this season, averaging 21.4 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. He is also shooting 45.1% from the field and 38.4% from three-point range.
The Trail Blazers are currently the 11th seed in the Western Conference with a record of 29-31. They are 2.5 games behind the 10th-seeded Utah Jazz.
Upcoming Schedule
The Trail Blazers have a tough stretch of games coming up, with their next four opponents all currently in the top 10 of their respective conferences. They will host the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday, the Los Angeles Clippers on Tuesday, the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday, and the Denver Nuggets on Saturday.
If Simons is unable to play in any of those games, it would be a big blow to the Trail Blazers' chances of making a run at the playoffs.
Conclusion
The Trail Blazers are hoping that Simons' injury is not serious and that he will be able to return to the lineup soon. He is a vital part of their team and they need him if they want to make a push for the playoffs.