Report: Jeff Teague’s out indefinitely with sprained left knee
Jeff Teague is reportedly out for an indefinite time period with a sprained left knee according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
During the Minnesota Timberwolves’ Wednesday night game against the Denver Nuggets, Jeff Teague went down on a freak play. After Jimmy Butler was tied up around half court, the two teams went to the middle of the floor for a critical late-game jump-ball that could decide the outcome.
After Butler tipped the ball toward his teammates, there was a mad scrum to gain control and unfortunately, Teague had his foot rolled up on by Gary Harris, causing his knee to bend awkwardly.
After writhing around on the floor in pain for a couple of minutes, Teague was helped to his feet by the training staff, but refused to allow his teammates to carry him off the floor. He would do that on his own power.
Gary Harris landed on Jeff Teague's ankle, he was able to limp to the lockerroom pic.twitter.com/yd8OcWpZjW
— CJ Fogler account may or may not be notable (@cjzero) December 28, 2017
After the game, Tom Thibodeau confirmed Teague would receive an MRI on Thursday morning to determine the extent of the injury. Teague was also seen walking gingerly after the game and was on crutches briefly.:
As all of Timberwolves’ nation held their collective breath this morning, waiting for the news to arise, we were finally hit with an update at 12:35 p.m. C.T:
MRI revealed that Minnesota guard Jeff Teague has a sprained left knee, but there's no structural damage, league sources tell ESPN. He will be out of lineup for indefinite period of time.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) December 28, 2017
With Teague out of the lineup indefinitely, Tyus Jones must step up to the plate. He filled in admirably last time Teague missed time and he’ll have to do so for an even longer period of time. Aaron Brooks is also likely to see extended playing time, and, hopefully, he plays better than last time. Melo Trimble is another potential call up from the G-League.
Next: Do the Timberwolves play too slow?
Barring any trades or free agent acquisitions, ahem Mike James, Minnesota has built their bed and now must lay in it. Let’s hope they can keep their heads above water as they barrel face first into the most difficult part of their schedule this season.