Trail Blazers' Deandre Ayton Out vs. Timberwolves: Injury Update

Ayton's Absence a Blow to Trail Blazers' Playoff Hopes

The Portland Trail Blazers have been dealt a major blow to their playoff hopes with the news that star center Deandre Ayton will miss their upcoming game against the Minnesota Timberwolves due to an ankle injury.

Ayton Suffered Injury in Previous Game

Ayton suffered the injury in the Trail Blazers' last game, a 118-113 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers. He rolled his ankle while attempting to block a shot in the third quarter and was forced to leave the game.

Severity of Injury Unknown

The severity of Ayton's injury is not yet known, but he is expected to undergo an MRI on Monday to determine the extent of the damage. The Trail Blazers are hopeful that he will only miss a few games, but there is a chance that he could be out for longer.

Ayton Key to Trail Blazers' Success

Ayton has been a key player for the Trail Blazers this season, averaging 19.5 points and 11.5 rebounds per game. He is one of the most athletic big men in the league and his presence on the court makes a big difference for the Trail Blazers.

Trail Blazers Struggling Without Ayton

The Trail Blazers have struggled without Ayton in the lineup, going 1-4 in their last five games. They are currently ninth in the Western Conference standings, one game behind the eighth-place Timberwolves.

Playoff Hopes Hanging in the Balance

With just 16 games remaining in the regular season, the Trail Blazers' playoff hopes are hanging in the balance. They need to win as many games as possible down the stretch, and Ayton's absence will make that task much more difficult.