The Denver Nuggets will be without backup center Mason Plumlee for a few games, according to a report by ESPN report Adrian Wojnarowski.
Plumlee had to check out of the game against the Timberwolves after landing on the foot of one of the Timberwolves players, but returned in the second half. The following report came out, with Plumlee having met with medical staff.
While Plumlee’s stats aren’t going to pop off the stat sheet, it’s undeniable that he is one of the more important players on the roster. He anchors Denver’s bench, giving them a veteran leader that can spearhead the defense while Nikola Jokic rests. He is a reliable rebounder, a sneaky lob threat for the Denver guards to find in the pick and roll, and a world-class celebrator after he makes a 3-point shot.
With Plumlee out until what looks like the All-Star break, the Nuggets will have to make a decision quickly on how to replace his minutes. The NBA trade deadline is February 6, meaning the team may feel the urge to look to the trade market to fill Plumlee’s role until their veteran is able to return to the court. Expect there to be rumors surrounding Malik Beasley being moved in exchange for a backup center that will allow Plumlee to take the full time he needs to get back to 100 percent health.
There is no question that Denver is worse off without Plumlee available and at full strength. Here’s hoping the big guy will be able to get right so that he can return later in the season to help them return to the playoffs again. I’ll end this update with the following commentary:
