Sixers to sit out Nerlens Noel for preseason game
Nerlens Noel will be sitting for the Sixers’ preseason game on Friday
The 76ers will sit out center Nerlens Noel for Friday’s preseason game at the Timberwolves due to a right thigh contusion. The team’s public relations department said the decision to sit down Noel was for precautionary reasons.
Noel missed the entire 2013-14 season after tearing his ACL during his one season at the University of Kentucky. He was coming off a solid performance on Wednesday, where he recorded 10 points, nine rebounds, three blocks and three assists against the Hornets.
The game was a strong rebound for Noel after a shaky outing on Monday. He left the court following Wednesday’s game feeling upbeat about his play.
“I felt more comfortable tonight,” Noel said. “I’m still not where I want to be. I have to continue working and get a feel for the offense more, actually playing against other NBA players.”
Noel’s sentiments were also shared by coach Brett Brown.
“I think the game slowed down for him tonight – that let him play well,” said Brown. “You could see signs of how I could use him better, and how he could slowly inch along and continue to progress.”
With six days to prepare for their next preseason game, Noel should be able to return to the Philadelphia lineup when they Boston on October 16.
Noel is projected as the team’s starting center, with Henry Sims, who played impressively when given the chance to start late last season, will serve as his backup. The 76ers said they will not have any restrictions on Noel this season.
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