Washington Wizards' Nene out for six weeks

Washington, Feb 25 (IANS): Washington Wizards centre Nene will be sidelined for six weeks in the NBA with a sprained knee ligament.

The Wizards announced the results of an MRI exam Monday, a day after Nene was injured in a 96-83 victory over the Cavaliers in Cleveland. The injury casts a shadow on the Wizards’ pursuit of reaching the playoffs as the franchise are currently fifth in the Eastern Conference, reports Xinhua.

Nene was hurt midway through the third quarter, limping as he attempted to get back down the court on defence after colliding with Cavaliers guard Jarrett Jack.

The 31-year-old, in his 12th NBA season, has appeared in 49 games this season, 37 of them as a starter. He is averaging 14.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.2 steals per game.