Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle expressed hope that rookie Chris Duarte can return to play this week after sitting on Monday because of a right shoulder injury.
Duarte was held out of action versus the New York Knicks due to soreness in his right shoulder. Carlisle revealed that the injury first occurred on Nov. 1 against the San Antonio Spurs. Duarte managed to play through it but the team eventually opted to hold him out on Monday.
“He has a right shoulder issue,” Carlisle said on Monday. “The hope is that we can get it resolved in the next couple of days and, hopefully, have him available for Wednesday.”
Without Duarte, the Pacers suffered a 92-84 loss to the Knicks.
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Duarte has emerged as a key player for the Pacers to start the season. He had started in every game prior to Monday, averaging 14.3 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists on 40.3% shooting from 3-point range. He ranks third in scoring among rookies.
The Pacers have liked what Duarte has brought to the floor. He has given the team a strong scoring option as Carlisle believes he has also played well on the defensive side of the ball.
He has played well. I like his skill, body type, maturity. He can create his own shot. He is getting better and better as a passer and playmaker. Defensively, he is ahead of the curve for a first-year player. His on-the-ball has been real solid. His off-the-ball defense is something every first-year player has to work on. He is working on it, getting better. We love what we’ve seen so far.
Indiana will certainly not rush Duarte back into action too quickly. They will let him rest and get the necessary treatment on his shoulder. The Pacers play every other day over the next few weeks so it is possible Duarte misses another game or two to get his shoulder right.
The Pacers face the Detroit Pistons next on Wednesday night on the road.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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