The Nets have gotten some welcome news on Caris LeVert.
The team announced Tuesday that the forward won't require surgery and is expected to return to full strength this season after he suffered a gruesome foot injury during Monday's game in Minnesota.
The Nets said LeVert returned to New York following the loss and was evaluated Tuesday by team doctor Martin O'Malley at the Hospital for Special Surgery. LeVert was diagnosed with a subtalar disclocation of the right foot.
"Fortunately, tests performed this morning revealed that there are no fractures and only moderate ligament damage," O'Malley said in a team statement. "While the optics of this injury may have appeared to be more severe, surgery will not be required. Caris will begin a period of rehabilitation with the Nets' performance staff, following which he is expected to return to full strength and resume all basketball activities without any limitations this season."
The 24-year-old LeVert landed awkwardly on his right ankle as he attempted to break up a play in the final seconds of the first half. He remained on the court and soon had towels draped over his head and leg as players gathered around him. He was carted off on a stretcher and taken to a nearby hospital.
Caris LeVert stretchered off court after suffering gruesome leg injury 🙏 pic.twitter.com/SJTVrtZDTY
- Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) November 13, 2018
"Tough blow," head coach Kenny Atkinson said after the game, according to The Athletic's Michael Scotto. "He's the heart and soul of our program. ... I feel for him. He's had a fantastic start of the season. ... I just know Caris, if anybody is coming back from this, knowing the human, the character, the person, the player, he'll come back from this."
LeVert expressed some relief Tuesday night on Twitter that the injury was not as bad as expected and thanked everyone for the well wishes.
"I just want to thank God above all things b/c despite how bad the injury looked, it could've been a lot worse," he said. "Thanks to all for the prayers, messages, love, support for both my family & me. We appreciate you all! Can't wait to get back out there with my brothers!!"
I just want to thank God above all things b/c despite how bad the injury looked, it could've been a lot worse. Thanks to all for the prayers, messages, love, support for both my family & me. We appreciate you all! Can't wait to get back out there with my brothers!!! @BrooklynNets pic.twitter.com/ZaOYO8WKl6
- Caris LeVert (@CarisLeVert) November 14, 2018
LeVert had 10 points with five rebounds and four assists before leaving the game. Fortunately for the Nets, it appears it won't be his last appearance this season.