With the Brooklyn Nets deadlocked in a 2-2 series against the Toronto Raptors, they can ill afford any significant injury issues, but a member of their rotation missed practice on Tuesday when Alan Anderson sat out with a sore groin.
The 31-year-old small forward has a riveting story of his journey from Michigan State through various professional leagues and back to the NBA, and he has become a real member of the Brooklyn rotation, averaging 19.5 minutes per game in the series. However, he has struggled a bit with his jump shot (33.3% FG, 14.3% from 3 in the series) and that is a bit of a concern. Still, he provides sorely needed athleticism and defense, and the Nets aren’t terribly deep at his position behind their studs.
Fortunately, it seems as if Anderson will be ready to play when Game 5 tips off on Wednesday night in Toronto.
Because the game is in Canada, the Nets aren’t quite in a do-or-die scenario, but having their full compliment could be significant for Jason Kidd and company, and it’s a good sign that Anderson will likely be available. Stay tuned.