Frank Mason has a tear in his heel that rules him out for the rest of January. Today, we examine the news and who steps up for the Kings.
Frank Mason’s heel injury will not allow him to suit up for the Sacramento Kings anytime soon. Mason bruised his heel in the New Year’s Eve game against the Grizzlies and the team ruled him out for one week three days later. It turns out the injury was much worse than just a heel contusion. Here is an update from James Ham on Jan. 11.
Just to clarify, Frank Mason has a partial tear of the right plantar fascia (heel) - not plantar fasciitis. 4-6 weeks from original injury date.
— James Ham (@James_HamNBA) January 11, 2018
What the news means
The news means Mason is out for the entire month of January. It is a crushing blow to a young player who was just finding his footing and beginning to play well against NBA competition. It also thins out Sacramento’s depth chart at the point guard position leaving just George Hill and De’Aaron Fox as true ones. Hopefully, Mason makes a speedy recovery and build some momentum after the All-Star Break.
Who steps up?
Mason’s injury opens up more minutes in the guard rotation. Seeing a boost in minutes should be the likes of Hill, Fox, Garrett Temple, Buddy Hield, and Bogdan Bogdanovic. They should all divide Mason’s playing time in some form or fashion on a nightly basis (good luck figuring out who Joerger plays each night). I personally would love to see more Fox and Bogdanovic. Bogdanovic’s ball handling and playmaking abilities have impressed me in recent games, and his talents are currently shining. The 25-year-old should be playing over 30 minutes every game and continuing his development.
Final thoughts
Frank Mason is set for an extended period on the sidelines after an MRI revealed a tear in his heel. Mason figures to miss at least the entire month of January. He will likely be eased back into action upon returning as well. I do not expect to see Mason back at full strength until after the All-Star Break. Hopefully, he recovers quickly and without a setback. Stay tuned for further updates as they become available.
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