Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) and forward Vlatko Cancar (31) react during the second half against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images Petre Thomas-Imagn Images

Denver Nuggets Player Ruled OUT vs Memphis Grizzlies

Originally posted on Denver Nuggets on SI
By Farbod Esnaashari | Last updated Nov 19, 2024 10:11 PM ET

The Denver Nuggets were already shorthanded as they entered Tuesday night's matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. They'll finish the night even more shorthanded than when they started.

With Nikola Jokic missing his third straight game due to personal reasons and Aaron Gordon still sidelined, the Nuggets needed contributions from every single member on the roster tonight.

One of those members looking to step up was forward Vlatko Cancar. Unfortunately for Cancar, he suffered a left knee sprain injury during the game that ultimately ruled him out from returning.

Injury Update: Vlatko Čančar will not return to the game with a left knee sprain.
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) November 20, 2024

Cancar had played 13 minutes before getting injured, putting up 2 points and 1 rebound. Cancar has been frequently injured for the team and just came back from an injury before suffering another one tonight. He's only played three games this season, averaging 1.3 points and 1.3 rebounds on 50% shooting from the field.

Fortunately for the Denver Nuggets, they've received a massive contribution from Michael Porter Jr. tonight against the Grizzlies. Through 31 minutes, Porter has put up 24 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks on 57.9% shooting from the field. Denver is also very lucky that the Grizzlies are also very injured on their own end, missing both Ja Morant and Zach Edey tonight.

Game-high of 18 points for Mike

18 PTS / 6 REB / 2 AST pic.twitter.com/7wbVesKGfT
— Denver Nuggets (@nuggets) November 20, 2024

The Denver Nuggets currently have a 13-point lead in the fourth quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies. If all goes well, they'll be able to finally get their first win without Nikola Jokic this season.

This article first appeared on Denver Nuggets on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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