Trail Blazers guard injured, leaves game against Timberwolves

Anfernee Simons injures ankle, leaves game

Blazers hopeful for quick return

Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons suffered an ankle injury in the second half of Tuesday's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves and did not return.

Simons, who was playing in his second game since returning from a knee injury, was driving to the basket when he appeared to roll his right ankle. He immediately fell to the ground in pain and was helped to the locker room.

The Blazers announced that Simons will undergo an MRI on Wednesday to determine the severity of the injury. The team is hopeful that he will be able to return to action soon, but there is no timetable for his return.

Simons is averaging 14.2 points, 3.7 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game this season. He has been a key contributor for the Blazers, who are currently in eighth place in the Western Conference.

If Simons is unable to play, the Blazers will likely start CJ McCollum at shooting guard and move Damian Lillard to point guard. McCollum is averaging 19.1 points per game this season, while Lillard is averaging 28.8 points per game.

The Blazers will play their next game on Friday against the Denver Nuggets. It is unclear if Simons will be able to play in that game.