AUBURN HILLS, MI - JANUARY 27: Nerlens Noel #4 of the Philadelphia 76ers handles the ball during the game against the Detroit Pistons on January 27, 2016 at The Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by B. Sevald/Einstein/NBAE via Getty Images)B. Sevald/Einstein/Getty Images

Nerlens Noel Injury: Updates on 76ers Star's Ankle and Return

Rob GoldbergJan 16, 2017

Philadelphia 76ers center Nerlens Noel missed Monday's game against the Milwaukee Bucks with a sprained ankle. It's unclear when he will return.

Continued for updates.

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Noel Comments on Ankle Injury

Tuesday, Jan. 17

"I’m feeling pretty good," Noel said, per CSN Philly's Jessica Camerato. "I had a good workout ... Still a little sore, but definitely I’ll be able to go tomorrow."

Injuries Hindering Noel's Development for 76ers

Injuries have been a problem for him throughout his short career. He missed his entire first season in the NBA while recovering from a torn ACL in college. He then missed 22 games over the next two years with various issues.

The problems continued into this year, as knee surgery sidelined the 22-year-old at the start of the season.

It took some time for him to earn a spot in the rotation, but he has since found his role. Noel is averaging 7.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 0.8 blocks in 13 games since returning to the lineup in December.

When he is on the court, Noel has lived up to his billing as an elite defensive big man. He finished with averages of more than eight rebounds, 1.5 steals and 1.5 blocks per game in each of his first two seasons, showcasing his versatility and production on that end of the court.

Although he is still developing his offensive game, the 6'11" player has plenty of value regardless of how many points he can score.

As an impending free agent, Noel is now demonstrating his ability to the entire league, though the latest injury only increases concerns about his durability.

The latest issue will leave more opportunities for Joel Embiid, who has become a star this season in his first NBA action. Jahlil Okafor should also earn significant playing time as he did earlier in the year with Noel on the sidelines.