Chris Duarte will not play in the Indiana Pacers’ final two games before the All-Star break, putting his availability for the NBA Rising Stars game on Friday in question.
Duarte suffered the injury in the first quarter on Sunday in a loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. He left the contest and was eventually ruled out of returning to play. He did not return to the Pacers’ bench and stayed back in the locker room.
Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle is hopeful the injury is not serious.
Chris jammed his toe early in the game. We’re hoping it is not a serious situation but he is going to be out for the next couple of games before the break. That is bad news but the hope is, by the time he gets back, maybe he’ll be OK.
Duarte, the 13th pick, was among 12 rookie players selected to participate in the Rising Stars game. He became the ninth player in team history to be selected for the annual showcase game and the first since Domantas Sabonis in 2018.
The 24-year-old called it a special honor to have the opportunity to compete in the game. He was excited to represent the Pacers organization and the Latino community at All-Star Weekend but, unfortunately, may have to skip it now.
The Pacers have yet to formally rule Duarte out of playing but NBA commissioner Adam Silver would be tasked with selecting a replacement player should he miss the game.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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