The Portland Trail Blazers swingman Allen Crabbe suffered a “severe” left ankle sprain, an MRI confirmed on Thursday. Crabbe will be out 4-6 weeks, which includes the remainder of Portland’s summer league season in Las Vegas.
Crabbe averaged over 15 points per game on 53 percent shooting in four games in Las Vegas. He was their best perimeter scorer in those four games.
Crabbe came down hard on his left leg and let out a scream when the injury occurred after blocking a shot by Minnesota’s Karl-Anthony Towns. Crabbe laid on the floor for several minutes as the game was suspended and medics were called to his aid.
Blazers trainers checked on him but needed to call the medics to bring a stretcher. They did not put Crabbe in any kind of brace on the leg but he could not walk off under his own power.
This is a big offseason or Crabbe as he tries to fight for a spot in Portland’s rotation. His contract for next season is also non-guaranteed. If the Blazers do not waive Crabbe by August 1 his contract will be fully guaranteed.
Blazers fall to Celtics — Portland lost to Boston 91-85 in a Round 2 summer league game Thursday.
Noah Vonleh had 20 points and nine rebounds, while Ra’Shad James added 20 points.
The Blazers conclude summer league against Toronto at 7:30 p.m. today.
Clippers sign free-agent forward Josh Smith — The Los Angeles Clippers signed free-agent forward Josh Smith, who helped eliminate them in the playoffs when he was with the Houston Rockets. Smith reportedly signed a one-year deal for the veteran minimum worth $1.5 million.
Kings void Luc Mbah a Moute’s contract — The Sacramento Kings voided the contract of forward Luc Mbah a Moute after he failed a team physical. The announcement by the Kings came two days after Mbah a Moute signed a one-year deal as a free agent.
Mavs add Barea — The Dallas Mavericks re-signed point guard J.J. Barea, who will get significantly more money to provide depth behind newcomer Deron Williams after center DeAndre Jordan backed out on a deal to join Dallas.
