Purdue G Braden Smith Injury Update

University of Purdue sophomore guard Braden Smith appeared to suffer a right knee injury during the quarterfinals of the Big Ten tournament.

By video, there is still worry for a right knee bone bruise and subsequent swelling, according to our panel of doctors. Smith was able to return to the game and finished the second half, but the key to how effective he can be in the Big Ten tournament and NCAA tournament will be how much the training staff can limit the swelling in his right knee.

While it’s a good sign he returned to the game, it will likely affect him throughout the March Madness tournament and he will more than likely get an MRI to rule out ligament damage, according to our panel of doctors.

Smith had a sleeve on his left calf the entire game, meaning he is likely also dealing with a left calf issue he has played through recently.

Before exiting with the injury, Smith had 5 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists with 2 turnovers and 2 fouls on 2-7 shooting from the field and he was 1-1 from 3-point range.

After returning, he did not take a shot but had 2 assists, 3 turnovers and 1 foul.

In 31 games during the regular season, Smith averaged 13 points, 7.2 assists and 5.9 rebounds while shooting 46.3% from the field and 44.6% from 3-point range.

His 5-point performance in Friday’s quarterfinals is his lowest scoring output since Jan. 16 against Indiana. 

Purdue (ranked No. 3 in the country) face the winner of Wisconsin vs. Northwestern on Saturday at 12 p.m. CT.