Denver Nuggets wing Julian Strawther is expected to miss at least six weeks after suffering a sprained left knee during Wednesday’s preseason game.
The 24-year-old will be re-evaluated in six weeks, putting his next medical assessment near the end of November. His actual return date will depend on how his recovery progresses.
Strawther sustained the injury while attempting to escape a double-team. His left leg twisted awkwardly during the play, leaving him unable to continue without assistance as he was helped off the court.
The incident initially raised concerns that the fourth-year wing could miss the entire season. However, further examination revealed a knee sprain, providing a more encouraging outlook for both Strawther and the Nuggets.
The injury comes at an unfortunate time for Denver, which had been preparing to give Strawther an important role in its rotation during the upcoming campaign.
The former first-round pick has earned regular playing opportunities throughout his first three NBA seasons and was expected to take on additional responsibilities following several offseason roster changes.
Denver lost Peyton Watson, Tim Hardaway Jr. and Bruce Brown from last season’s squad, creating openings in the team’s perimeter rotation.
The Nuggets had planned for Strawther to help fill those vacancies alongside veteran newcomer DeMar DeRozan.
