Trail Blazers' Anfernee Simons: Out for remainder of game from

Anfernee Simons Ruled Out for Remainder of Game Against Denver Nuggets

Trail Blazers Guard Suffers Right Ankle Sprain

Simons Exits Early in First Quarter

The Portland Trail Blazers have been dealt a significant blow with the news that starting guard Anfernee Simons will miss the remainder of their game against the Denver Nuggets due to a right ankle sprain. Simons suffered the injury early in the first quarter and was unable to return. The injury occurred with just over eight minutes remaining in the opening period. Simons was dribbling up the court when he stepped on the foot of Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon. Simons immediately crumpled to the ground in pain and was helped off the court by team trainers. After being evaluated by team medical staff, Simons was diagnosed with a right ankle sprain. The severity of the injury is still being determined, but he has been ruled out for the rest of the game. The loss of Simons is a major setback for the Trail Blazers, who are already without Damian Lillard due to a calf injury. Simons has been one of the team's most consistent performers this season, averaging 21.4 points, 4.6 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game. In Simons' absence, the Trail Blazers will likely turn to Josh Hart or Keon Johnson to fill his spot in the starting lineup. Hart has started 16 games this season, while Johnson has started two. The Trail Blazers are currently trailing the Nuggets by 10 points with just over four minutes remaining in the first half. The game is being played at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon.