James Jones, Phoenix Suns’ president of basketball operations and GM, addressed Kevin Durant’s injury and what it means for the franchise.
Durant twisted his left ankle during his pregame workout before his home debut last Wednesday and suffered an ankle sprain that will sideline him until the end of March, at least. As the team officially announced, he will be re-evaluated in three weeks.
INJURY UPDATE: Further evaluation has confirmed that Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant has sustained a left ankle sprain. He will be re-evaluated in three weeks.
— Phoenix Suns (@Suns) March 10, 2023
Meanwhile, Jones talked about Durant’s injury and what approach the Suns will have, given how crucial he is for the success of the franchise.
“I’ve been around this long enough to know that injuries happen. Sprained ankles are common. So, for us, it was wait to see and make sure he’s good. For the rest of the guys, it just creates an opportunity for the rest of the guys to step up.
It actually created some space for guys like Terrence (Ross) to really get a rhythm and get a flow and get acclimated because Kevin is a big part of what we do. Like I said, he fills a big space in the offense so when he’s not with us, other guys get a chance to just hoop a little bit.
Players that play and play a lot it get banged up, but it’s a sprained ankle. It’s the type of thing that if we’re in the playoffs, if the playoffs were to start today, he’d be out there. He’d be struggling a little bit.
I’m always concerned for our players’ health when guys are hurt. I’ve been in that seat where you’re hurt. You’re always concerned about health, but anything long-term, severe, no, not (concerned) at all,” Jones told Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic.
Here’s video of Kevin Durant slipping on the floor pregame.
He stayed down for a few seconds but then got up and finished his on-court work. pic.twitter.com/DwTrNc6LIr
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) March 9, 2023
The Phoenix Suns are 3-0 with Kevin Durant on the floor. The two-time NBA champion is averaging 26.7 points in those games, while the Suns are fourth in the West standings with a 37-30 record.
If his recovery goes as planned, Kevin Durant will be available for the final games of the regular season, which comes to an end on April 9.
"Just get there."
Kevin Durant on getting to his spot for the game winner over Tim Hardaway Jr. in #Suns win over #Mavs.
"Once I had him on my hip, I felt like I was in good position to just stop on a dime. Glad I made it." https://t.co/Em19MzTouP pic.twitter.com/3oHJv7I77O
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) March 5, 2023
