2 min read • March 04, 2023
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Update: Clarke’s Achilles tendon tear was confirmed by his agent Saturday morning. He will miss the remainder of the season and likely half of next season.
Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke exited Friday's game with a lower left leg injury he suffered on a missed free throw in the first quarter.
By video, Clarke appeared to suffer a torn Achilles tendon when he stepped to accelerate and chase down his miss, according to the Pro Basketball Docs.
The former Gonzaga star attempted to run back on defense after the injury but fell to the ground and remained down until the last 10 seconds of the quarter expired.
He was helped off the court by teammates and quickly ruled out. Video also showed he was driven to the locker room on a golf cart and had ice on the back of his left heel.
Clarke will undergo an MRI Saturday to confirm the injury, then will have surgery and miss the remainder of the season.
The big man’s absence could prove costly for the No. 2 seed Grizzlies. He was averaging 10 points and 5.5 rebounds in 19.5 minutes per game off the bench for Memphis.
Starting center Steven Adams remains out with a PCL sprain, but should return in late March or early April for the team.
Clarke’s absence likely means more minutes for Santi Aldama in the meantime.
The Grizzlies (38-24) are +1700 to win the NBA Finals this season, according to FanDuel Sportsbook. Friday’s loss in Denver dropped their away record to 12-19.
The team is 26-5 at home on the season.
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Brandon Clarke exits on a golf cart. Stay tuned for more updates.
