Shaedon Sharpe has not played since Feb. 7 because of a left calf strain. Team doctors conducted follow-up imaging that uncovered the bone issue in his left tibula.
PORTLAND, Ore. — Shaedon Sharpe will remain sidelined for at least another month after medical imaging revealed a stress reaction in his left fibula, the Portland Trail Blazers announced Tuesday.
Sharpe has not played since Feb. 7 while being treated for a left calf strain. Team doctors conducted follow-up imaging that uncovered the bone issue in his lower leg.
A stress reaction is an injury that develops when a bone is subjected to repeated strain over time. It’s an early warning sign that the bone is being overworked. While there isn’t a break, adequate rest and careful monitoring is necessary to assure the injury doesn’t lead to a more serious fracture.
The team said Sharpe will be re-evaluated in four to six weeks before beginning a gradual return to full basketball activity.
Sharpe, 22, has started 42 games at shooting guard for the Blazers and is the club’s second-leading scorer this season, averaging 21.4 points per game. He also contributes 4.4 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.4 steals per game while shooting 45.6% from the field and 34% from 3-point range.
Portland (28-30, ninth in the Western Conference) has been among the hardest-hit-teams in the league when it comes to injuries this season. The Blazers rank second in the NBA in total player games lost due to injury, with 317 absences. Several starters or key rotation players have missed extended time, including Scoot Henderson (52 games), Jrue Holiday (29), Sharpe (9) and Deni Avdija (9).
The Trail Blazers have also been without Damian Lillard this season as he continues his recovery from a torn Achilles. Lillard is not expected to return until next season.