Deron Williams’s MRI Saturday revealed a low-grade calf strain and he is listed as doubtful for tonight’s game against the Detroit Pistons. He will be “evaluated on a daily basis,” per the team, which is a fancy way of saying he’s “day-to-day.”
If Williams can’t play, it’s presumed that guard Jarrett Jack will start in his place, and third-string point Darius Morris will play backup minutes. UPDATE: Williams has been ruled out. Jack will start.
In 25 starts this season, Williams has averaged 15.6 points, 6.8 assists, and 3.1 rebounds in 34.5 minutes per game, shooting 40.3 percent from the field and 38.2 percent from deep. His injury coincides with rumors that the Nets and Sacramento Kings have discussed the potential of sending Williams to the Kings for a multi-player package. No deal is imminent.
He joins Brook Lopez on the injury wire, who has missed the past seven games with a lower back strain and played in only 16 of a possible 25 games. Lopez began light basketball activities Saturday, and though he’ll be held out Sunday, he’ll also be evaluated daily until he’s ready to return, according to the team.
