Nets' D'Angelo Russell Out Against 76ers Due to Ankle Sprain

The Brooklyn Nets will be without their key player, D’Angelo Russell, for Saturday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers due to a right ankle sprain suffered during Thursday’s loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Russell, who has been instrumental in stabilizing the team since his midseason trade, left the game while the Nets were leading, and their performance deteriorated significantly after his exit, culminating in a 110-97 loss. Since Russell joined the team, they have struggled without him, going 0-6 in games he does not play. Players and coaches alike have highlighted his role as a leader and playmaker, with his absence expected to push backups Keon Johnson and Killian Hayes into more prominent roles. The Nets' offense has notably suffered in Russell's absence, reflecting in their poor performance against the Cavaliers after his injury. As the team navigates this setback, the duration of Russell's sidelining remains uncertain.