Nets’ D’Angelo Russell Sidelined with Shin Injury Amid Team Struggles

BROOKLYN, N.Y. — The Brooklyn Nets face mounting challenges as guard D'Angelo Russell has been ruled out for Friday’s game against the Denver Nuggets due to a right shin contusion. This marks Russell’s third consecutive absence, further depleting a Nets backcourt already missing key players Ben Simmons and Cam Thomas.

Russell, who joined the Nets last month in a trade with the Los Angeles Lakers, has averaged 12.7 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 8.0 assists in his first three games with the team. His absence comes at a critical time as the Nets, currently the 12th seed in the Eastern Conference with a 13-24 record, are mired in a three-game losing streak.

Head coach Jordi Fernandez emphasized the team’s next-man-up mentality. ‘As long as we have a 9, 10-man rotation, we’re in a good place,’ Fernandez said during a pregame press conference. ‘It’s exciting to see some guys handling more, taking more shots, and creating those shots. It’s a good opportunity to see growth.’

Russell’s injury occurred during Saturday’s 123-94 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he logged just 14 minutes before exiting. Simmons, dealing with lower back injury management, has also missed three straight games, while Thomas remains sidelined. Fernandez did not provide a timeline for their returns, stressing the importance of player health. ‘We’re not going to rush them if they’re not 100%,’ he said.

With the backcourt depleted, the Nets called up second-year guard Noah Clowney from the G League. Clowney, who averaged 12.4 points and 4.4 rebounds in 13 games with the Long Island Nets, is expected to contribute in expanded minutes. Two-way player Tosan Evbuomwan, who made his NBA debut against the 76ers, could also see increased playing time.

The Nets’ struggles extend beyond injuries. They are 2-8 in their last 10 games and have an 8-12 record on the road. Following Friday’s matchup in Denver, the team will travel to Salt Lake City to face the Utah Jazz on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the Nuggets, the fourth seed in the Western Conference with a 21-15 record, are looking to capitalize on the Nets’ woes. Denver has gone 6-4 in its last 10 games and will host the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday after facing Brooklyn.

Russell’s absence underscores the challenges facing the Nets as they navigate a difficult stretch of the season. ‘Opportunities are important in life and in the NBA,’ Fernandez said. ‘Guys see that window and take advantage of it.’