Thunder's Nerlens Noel Diagnosed with Concussion After Scary Fall
Hard Elbow to Head Leaves Center Sidelined
Oklahoma City, OK - March 9, 2023
Oklahoma City Thunder center Nerlens Noel has been diagnosed with a concussion after a hard elbow to the head in last night's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The injury occurred when Noah collided with Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels.
Noel spent time with the Delaware 87ers of the NBA Development League on injury rehab assignments in late November and early December. He had missed the entire regular season up to this point due to knee and hamstring injuries.
Despite not being listed on the injury report for the Thunder's first two games after the All-Star break, Noel did not play in either game. The concussion diagnosis provides an explanation for his continued absence.
The Thunder will assess Noel's condition on a day-to-day basis. Concussions can take time to recover from, and it is unclear when Noel will be cleared to return to play.
In Noel's absence, the Thunder will likely continue to rely on Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and Isaiah Roby to fill in at center.
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