Report: Nuggets' Will Barton to Leave NBA Bubble to Rehab Lingering Knee Injury

David Zalubowski/Associated Press

Denver Nuggets guard Will Barton will leave the NBA bubble and continue to rehab his injured knee away from the team.

Mike Singer of the Denver Post reported Barton will seek a second opinion because of the ongoing discomfort in his knee, which has kept him out since a July 27 scrimmage. The rehabilitation has led to soreness in other parts of Barton's body. 

Barton averaged 15.1 points, 6.3 rebounds and 3.7 assists during 58 regular-season starts. His production has largely been replaced by that of Michael Porter Jr., who has been among the bubble's breakout stars.

Departing the Orlando, Florida, area bubble at this juncture makes it unlikely Barton will return this season, barring a deep playoff run for the Nuggets. Along with the ongoing rehabilitation, Barton would have to undergo a quarantine period upon returning.

With games being played every other day to expedite the playoffs, it's hard to envision a scenario in which Barton returns to the floor. 

This is the second straight season Barton has missed extended time because of injury, as he underwent hip surgery in 2018.

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