76ers Will Miss Nic Batum vs. Timberwolves Wednesday
The Philadelphia 76ers’ streak of remaining fully healthy concludes on Wednesday, as the team will miss a key starter against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
According to the Sixers’ injury report, the veteran forward Nic Batum has been listed as out due to a right hamstring strain.
Batum’s setback recently happened during the Sixers’ Monday night loss against the Chicago Bulls. As the Sixers battled with the Bulls, attempting to formulate a comeback, Batum was mysteriously absent in the fourth quarter. It was later revealed that a hamstring strain forced him to remain sidelined.
Ever since he joined the Sixers via trade with the Los Angeles Clippers, Batum has arguably been the most notable addition to the team. In the 17 games he played, Batum started in 14 of them. At this point, it’s become clear he’s the best fit as the fifth starter since the Sixers traded away PJ Tucker.
Across 17 games, Batum has averaged 25 minutes on the floor. Putting up six points per game, he’s been highly efficient, draining 56 percent of his field goals. From three, the veteran forward knocked down nearly 50 percent of his shots on 2.9 attempts per game.
While efficient shooting from Batum has been a huge boost for the 76ers, the veteran’s underrated passing has really shined lately. He’s also been productive on the glass, averaging four boards per game.
While Batum’s recent setback doesn’t seem severe, based on the messaging coming from 76ers head coach Nick Nurse, Batum is guaranteed to miss his seventh outing with the Sixers since coming over from LA. The hope is that by the time Friday’s game against the Raptors rolls around, he’ll be ready to make his return to the starting five.
