Sasha Vezenkov hasn’t played with the Sacramento Kings since before the All-Star break due to a sprained right ankle, but the 28-year-old believes he is progressing in his recovery.
Vezenkov missed seven games earlier this season after sustaining the injury on Jan. 22 in a win over the Atlanta Hawks. He returned to play in a pair of games before reinjuring the ankle in practice on Feb. 10 in Oklahoma City.
The former EuroLeague MVP said Thursday that he doesn’t have a timetable to return and is just working to get back to full strength before returning to the court.
I’m feeling better, getting to the right direction. I’m trying every day hard. Unfortunately, it is a second injury to the same leg (and has) been like 15 days. I’m trying. It is the first time in my career I’m out so long, so it is stressful. I want to help the team, but I’m trying to be 100% to be ready to help the team.
Vezenkov is averaging 5.6 points and 2.5 rebounds on 38% shooting from 3-point range in 35 appearances this season with the Kings. He ranks third among rookies in 3-point percentage and has scored in double figures seven times.
He signed a three-year, $20 million contract with the Kings last summer after spending five years with Olympiacos in Greece. He was named the MVP last season after averaging 17.2 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists on 38.3% shooting from 3-point range.
Vezenkov has been a tremendous floor spacer for the Kings this season, given his quick release and pinpoint accuracy. He figures to bolster the Kings’ offense once he returns.
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