Abdel Nader out indefinitely for Suns after arthroscopy knee procedure
Apr 26, 2021, 6:41 PM
Phoenix Suns forward Abdel Nader (11) battles Oklahoma City Thunder guard Hamidou Diallo for the ball during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Matt York)
(AP Photo/Matt York)
Phoenix Suns wing Abdel Nader is out indefinitely for the team after having an arthroscopy procedure on his right knee Monday.
Nader has missed the last 20 games due to right knee soreness. Prior to the team announcing the surgery, head coach Monty Williams had not provided updates on the status of Nader and any signs of progression.
The 27-year-old Nader has played in 24 games this season, averaging 6.7 points and 2.6 rebounds per game in 14.8 minutes a night. He came from the Oklahoma City Thunder as a part of the Chris Paul trade.
Nader continued to earn playing time as the fourth wing behind Mikal Bridges, Jae Crowder and Cam Johnson, with Williams praising Nader’s energy, defense and slashing ability.
While Nader was hurt, the Suns acquired Torrey Craig from the Milwaukee Bucks for cash on March 18. Craig has done a terrific job in Nader’s place, and given his playoff experience, should be expected to hold that rotation spot if Nader were to return.
