Jericho Sims, the Milwaukee Bucks' emerging backup big man, underwent surgery on Monday morning to repair a torn ligament in his right thumb. The surgery was conducted by Dr. Michelle Carlson in New York. Despite the injury, Sims bravely played through Sunday's game against the Oklahoma City Thunder, wearing a brace. He remarked post-game that his thumb felt "alright." The injury traces back to Saturday's clash with the Indiana Pacers, where Sims sprained his thumb during one of his initial plays.
Sims has become a valuable asset for the Bucks, averaging 2.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 15.0 minutes per game. His role expanded following the suspension of Bobby Portis, who is serving a 25-game suspension for violating the league's drug policy. Sims, who was acquired at the trade deadline from the New York Knicks, has appeared in 14 games for the Bucks since his arrival. This trade also saw Khris Middleton moving to the Washington Wizards.
Previously, Sims did not see action in his first four games with Milwaukee. However, he has recently found a niche as an important reserve player. The Bucks are hopeful that Sims will make a return in time for the playoffs, with an expected recovery period of approximately four weeks.
The Bucks released a statement expressing optimism about Sims' return: "Jericho Sims would likely return for the playoffs." This comes as the team prepares for an upcoming 5-game, 10-day road trip, starting with a match against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco on Tuesday night.
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