Reports: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has suffered a left MCL sprain, expected to miss start of training camp
As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepare for training camp, it looks like they will be without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The star point guard is expected to miss the start of training camp after suffering a Grade 2 left MCL sprain.
The injury was originally reported by The Athletic's Shams Charania. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to return at some point during training camp. With the regular season starting soon, it's fortunate for the Thunder that Gilgeous-Alexander will not be facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
During his time in the NBA, the guard has blossomed into one of the top young talents in his position. In the previous season, Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 24.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game. He also shot 45.3% from the field, including 30.0% from 3-point range.
The 24-year-old guard signed a long-term extension with the Thunder last year and has been considered one of the franchise's building blocks.
Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has a Grade 2 left MCL sprain and will miss the start of training camp, team says.
Thunder prepare for the start of training camp
The Oklahoma City Thunder have said that Gilgeous-Alexander will be re-evaluated in two weeks. That time frame makes things interesting, since the Thunder's first preseason game is 12 days away.
While the Thunder have been trying to rebuild in recent years, their starting point guard is currently one of the most valued assets in their organization.
The Oklahoma City Thunder were also dealt a tough blow earlier this offseason when second overall pick Chet Holmgren suffered a foot injury. Unfortunately for the Thunder, the injury will keep the rookie out of the 2022-23 regular season. As part of their rebuilding process, the team will be eager to land another lottery pick in the hyped 2023 NBA Draft.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has suffered a Grade 2 left MCL sprain and will miss the start of training camp, the OKC Thunder have announced. https://t.co/pmrY0jLPzF
With training camp around the corner, the Thunder may decide to take it easy with their superstar point guard. Oklahoma City look poised for a breakout season in the near future. With Gilgeous-Alexander and the talented Josh Giddey, the team has some good young players they can count on.
OKC will open their preseason on Oct. 3 against the Denver Nuggets.