Robert Sarver: Suns F Cam Johnson getting cast off Monday
May 17, 2021, 4:10 PM | Updated: 4:41 pm
Phoenix Suns forward Cameron Johnson (23) drives past Washington Wizards forward Chandler Hutchison (1) during the first half of an NBA basketball game, Saturday, April 10, 2021, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Matt York)
(AP Photo/Matt York)
Phoenix Suns forward Cam Johnson took another step towards returning from a right wrist injury to start the week.
Suns owner Robert Sarver provided an encouraging update on the forward ahead of the NBA playoffs while on with Arizona Sports’ Burns & Gambo on Monday.
“I hope so. I don’t know for sure. I know Cam was getting his cast off today and getting checked by the doctor,” Sarver said of the potential return of Johnson and center Deandre Ayton.
“Hadn’t heard anything. … I’m encouraged that I think both [Johnson and center Deandre Ayton] will play as well, but don’t know for sure.”
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Originally listed as available with the wrist ailment on May 2, Johnson pushed through the next three contests, averaging 7.0 points and 3.0 rebounds over 23.5 minutes per game. His 3-point efficiency took a hit during those three games, however, dropping from 36% to 16.7%.
Following the May 2 game, Johnson was off the injury report for the next two before missing the final six contests of the regular season with the wrist issue.
Johnson last played May 6 in a loss to the Atlanta Hawks.
Before Thursday’s win over the Portland Trail Blazers, Johnson was seen wearing a cast and dribbling only with his left hand.
A better look pic.twitter.com/bdEIsHRx6t
— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) May 14, 2021
Taking over Johnson’s minutes has largely been Torrey Craig. With Johnson sidelined the final six games of the regular season, Craig has averaged 8.2 points and five rebounds per contest. He shot 35% from deep and 47.5% overall during that span.
With Phoenix’s first-round matchup likely slated for either Saturday or Sunday, Johnson has some more time to heal up.
