At the 2015 NBA Draft, the Los Angeles Lakers selected Anthony Brown with their 34th overall pick. While Brown has only been able to find minutes when Kobe Bryant rests, he was expected to play consistent minutes as the season comes to a close.
After playing 35 minutes against the Atlanta Hawks, an MRI revealed a stress reaction in Brown’s right foot. As a result, Brown will be out at least four weeks according to Lakers Twitter:
Anthony Brown will be out for a minimum of four weeks after an MRI revealed a stress reaction in his right foot.
— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) March 5, 2016
It is unfortunate news for Brown as he was recently a part of the team’s rotation for head coach Byron Scott. Although Brown is only averaging 5.0 points and 3.8 rebounds in his last five games, many view him to be the 3-and-D player Lakers will need moving forward.
With the Lakers headed to the draft lottery for the third consecutive season, the injuries are beginning to pile up. Although Jordan Clarkson (patellar tendon strain) is expected to be back relatively soon, Bryant has been dealing with a sore shoulder and Lou Willams is out at least a week with a strained hamstring.
With 19 games remaining in the season, all eyes will be on Bryant’s farewell tour and the development of the team’s prospects.