Washington’s depth at center took another blow on Monday night. Thomas Bryant left during the third quarter of the Wizards’ game against the Knicks after he collided with John Wall under the basket.
Bryant spent several moments on the ground in pain after the collision and had to be helped to the locker room.
Otto Porter personally helped Thomas Bryant to the locker room ✊ #DCFamily#WizKnicks pic.twitter.com/ceoV3dyhO3
— NBC Sports Wizards (@NBCSWizards) October 9, 2018
After the game, Scott Brooks said Bryant was diagnosed with a hyperextended left knee and a sprained left ankle, and that he’ll be re-evaluated on Tuesday.
The Wizards’ depth is already shallow due to Dwight Howard’s ongoing back issues. If Bryant has to miss time, Washington may only have Ian Mahinmi and Jason Smith available as traditional centers for their regular season opener.
Only 14 of the Wizards’ 15 roster spots are filled with players on guaranteed contracts, so they could try to add another big man if they’re worried about depth, but considering they’ve used smaller players like Markieff Morris, Jeff Green, and even Otto Porter at center often enough in preseason, it wouldn’t be surprising if try to get by with what they already have on the roster.
What’s especially unfortunate about this injury is that Bryant was in the middle of his best performance as a Wizard. He had 7 points and 6 rebounds in under 8 minutes of playing time on Monday. Hopefully this injury won’t keep him out of action for too long.
UPDATE: Thomas Bryant provided an update on his injury after Tuesday’s practice.
Thomas Bryant with an update on his health (he's feeling a lot better) and some love for the fans for their support ✊#WizPistons #DCFamily pic.twitter.com/SMwhHdMWCb
— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) October 9, 2018