Australia’s rookie sensation Josh Giddey will miss the remainder of the NBA season, as he continues to struggle with a hip injury.
The 19-year-old has not played in a month, only taking the court once since the All Star break.
“It’s a tricky injury that’s a little unpredictable,” said Oklahoma City Thunder coach Mark Daigneault.
“I would not say it met or didn’t meet an expectation. We didn’t really have an expectation.”
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Giddey has been one of the best youngsters in the league this season, but his absence has seen him drift in betting markets to win the coveted Rookie of the Year award.
He remains fourth in the betting, but a distant chance behind Cade Cunningham of the Pistons, Toronto’s Scottie Barnes, and the short-priced favourite, Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley.
February was the best month of Giddey’s young career, as he averaged close to 16 points, nine rebounds and eight assists per game.
His skills even earned the praise of LeBron James.
“He’s really, really, really good,” the four-time NBA champ said.
“He has a great pace about the game, great vision. I always love pass-first guards who can see plays happen before they happen.
“Josh is one of those kids who can definitely see the game a lot quicker than a lot of guys out on the floor.
“He’s been playing beautiful basketball.”
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