Kofi Inkoom
The Sacramento Kings have provided an injury update on center Alex Len, revealing that he suffered a right ankle injury in the second quarter of their recent victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
According to the latest update, Len is expected to be out for 6-8 weeks due to a high ankle sprain sustained during a collision, preventing him from putting weight on his right foot as he left the court.
X-ray and MRI examinations confirmed a moderate high ankle sprain as aforementioned. Despite playing only 8 minutes in the Cavaliers game, Len contributed 2 points and three assists before exiting the court.
Selected as the fifth overall pick in the 2013 draft, Len, though not fulfilling the expectations that accompanied his high draft position, has navigated through an extensive 11-season NBA journey.
Despite not reaching the pinnacle of his draft status, the 7’0″ Ukrainian center secured his place as a seasoned role player, recently renewing his contract with the Kings on a one-year deal at the veteran’s minimum.
At 30 years old, Len’s latest performance in the 2023/24 season showcased modest averages of 2.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 0.8 blocks per game across six appearances, contributing to his overall career statistics of 7.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game throughout 610 regular-season matchups.
Should we adopt an optimistic outlook and anticipate Alex Len’s return within six weeks, we could see him back on the court by Christmas Day. However, if circumstances are less favorable, his comeback is more likely to happen in the early days of January 2024.
JaVale McGee will likely see an increased role during Len’s absence. The Kings, with a 6-4 record, are preparing to face the San Antonio Spurs tonight.