Portland Trail Blazers rookie center Donovan Clingan will be sidelined for at least two weeks after suffering a grade 2 MCL sprain in his left knee during Saturday’s game against the Houston Rockets. The injury occurred during the game, but Clingan returned to action wearing a knee brace and played a pivotal role in sealing a 104-98 victory. Despite his toughness in the win, the lingering issue forced him to sit out Monday’s game against the Memphis Grizzlies, and he will remain out until further evaluation. Clingan’s injury is another blow to Portland, as the Blazers’ injury report remains full.
Blazers Injury Report Grows With Another Center Injured
Donovan Clingan Stats
The No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Clingan has been a solid pick for the Blazers during his rookie season. Known for his defensive abilities, the 7-foot-2 center has averaged 5.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game while shooting 52.6% from the field. His ability to impact the game without scoring was on full display in Saturday’s matchup, where he secured a remarkable 19 rebounds, three blocks, one assist, and one steal without scoring a single point in just 26 minutes.
Grade 2 MCL Sprain for Clingan. They say re-eval in 2 weeks. I'm so sorry to tell them, but he has zero shot of being back even within 4 weeks https://t.co/5MsKj55pSU
— Josh Lloyd (@redrock_bball) November 26, 2024
Clingan has been consistent on the defensive end as well. Clingan has recorded at least one block in every game this season, setting a new franchise record for a rookie by surpassing Bill Walton’s 15-game streak. Among rookies, Clingan ranks second in total rebounds (114) and first in blocked shots (37).
Blazers Injury Report
Clingan joins a growing list of injured Trail Blazers. The Donovan Clingan injury is another blow to a Blazers team looking to improve upon last year’s disappointing season. Right now, both of the Blazers’ other centers, Deandre Ayton (questionable for Wednesday) and Robert Williams III (out Wednesday), are dealing with injuries. Scoot Henderson, Kris Murray, Matisse Thybulle, and Jerami Grant are all also on the Blazers’ injury report.
Looking Ahead After the Donovan Clingan Injury
Clingan’s injury timeline suggests a potential six-week absence, as the average recovery time for grade 2 MCL sprains. The Trail Blazers have emphasized caution, as the team is unlikely to contend this season and will prioritize Clingan’s long-term health. With two games remaining on their current five-game road trip, the Blazers face an uphill battle with a depleted roster.
If you don’t like Donovan Clingan then you don’t like NBA basketball pic.twitter.com/cLoNNnWGxv
— ClinganMuse (@ClinganMuse_) November 25, 2024
Despite these setbacks, Clingan’s early success has been a bright spot in Portland’s season. His defensive instincts, rebounding dominance, and ability to control the paint have provided a glimpse of his potential as a cornerstone for the franchise.
As Clingan recovers, the Trail Blazers will rely on their remaining players to step up. Jabari Walker’s opportunity to play more significant minutes could serve as a developmental moment. However, everyone must step up with the Blazers thin in the middle. Robert Williams III and Deandre Ayton will hopefully return from injury soon, so the Blazers don’t have to go too long without a solid big man. Clingan’s return will likely be a much-anticipated moment for Portland fans eager to see their promising young center back in action.
