Nets' Michael Porter Jr. playing through minor MCL sprain

"Speaking to reporters at shootaround ahead of Wednesday's matchup against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden, Porter revealed he's been dealing with a minor MCL sprain since Brooklyn's 104-103 overtime loss to the Orlando Magic at Barclays Center on Jan. 7. Porter added that the soreness has affected his explosiveness on certain movements, especially the ones that help him shake free and get himself clean looks, but said it's getting better."

"Meanwhile, the Nets have been trying to strike that familiar balance between competing and protecting a player who's too important to risk. Porter, an Eastern Conference All-Star hopeful, has still been productive. Since the injury, he's averaging 24.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.8 steals per game while shooting 44.6% from the field and 36.2% from 3-point range. He's also been rested in two of the last seven games, a quiet reminder that even when you're available, you're not always 100%."

"Nets head coach Jordi Fernández didn't offer much beyond the practical, which tracks with how Brooklyn has handled most injuries this season: no drama, no overexplaining, just a steady emphasis on availability and health. "He had some discomfort, but he kept playing. He's played all the way through," Fernandez said. "We value our players' health, and if it were something that didn't allow him to play, we would do whatever it takes to figure that out. But he's played, so I don't think I have anything else to say from that.""

Michael Porter Jr. has been managing a minor MCL sprain sustained on Jan. 7 and has continued to play despite reduced explosiveness on some movements. The soreness has affected his ability to create separation, but he reports improvement. Since the injury, Porter averages 24.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.8 steals per game while shooting 44.6% overall and 36.2% from three. The Nets have rested him intermittently to protect his health while prioritizing availability. Brooklyn seeks to balance maximizing his scoring impact with ensuring his long-term health as an All-Star candidate.

Read at New York Daily News