San Antonio Spurs guard Devin Vassell has been ruled day-to-day due to a left adductor strain. Initially, there were concerns that Vassell’s injury could keep him out for an extended period of time. However, the latest update is a positive development for the fourth-year guard. Vassell left the game against the Phoenix Suns on Thursday with left groin tightness and underwent an MRI upon the team’s return to San Antonio. While he is likely to miss the upcoming game against the Toronto Raptors, his status will be reevaluated prior to the team’s two-game road trip against the Indiana Pacers and New York Knicks next week.
Following the game against the Suns, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich expressed his uncertainty about Vassell’s availability. Popovich acknowledged that groin injuries can take a while to heal, hinting at a potential prolonged absence. However, the subsequent evaluation revealed that Vassell’s injury was not as serious as initially feared. Despite this encouraging news, the team is exercising caution and will monitor his progress closely.
With Vassell sidelined, rookie Malaki Branham stepped in as his replacement in the second-half starting lineup against the Suns. Branham embraced the “next man up” mentality and expressed his readiness to contribute. Having started 32 games as a rookie last season, Branham is no stranger to assuming a larger role within the team. In his five appearances off the bench this season, he has averaged 6.2 points per game. The Spurs’ veteran forward, Doug McDermott, praised Branham’s performance in the second half against the Suns and highlighted his confidence in the young player’s abilities.
Devin Vassell has been a key contributor for the Spurs this season, averaging 19.4 points per game and shooting 40.7% from beyond the arc. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, but the team is confident in the capabilities of Malaki Branham to step up and fill the void. Branham possesses considerable talent and has earned the trust of his teammates and coaching staff. He is expected to handle the ball and provide scoring in Vassell’s absence.
While Devin Vassell’s current injury is not as severe as initially feared, the Spurs are taking a cautious approach to ensure his full recovery. The team will closely monitor his progress and reevaluate his status before the upcoming road trip. In the meantime, Malaki Branham and the rest of the Spurs squad are motivated to support each other and continue their success on the court. Vassell’s return will undoubtedly be eagerly awaited by the team and fans alike, as his contributions have been vital to the Spurs’ performance this season.
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