Memphis Grizzlies wing Tony Allen will remain sidelined with a hamstring injury for at least another week, according to head coach Dave Joerger. Allen has been out since suffering the injury against the Warriors on March 27th.
Joerger: Tony Allen is out at least another week. No chance for return, then it will be revisited. @FOX13Memphis
— Peter Fleischer (@Peter_Fleischer) April 6, 2015
The Grizzlies are 2-2 in Allen’s absence, and risk losing home-court advantage in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs. Currently third in the standings, Memphis holds a half-game lead over the Los Angeles Clippers and a one-game lead over the San Antonio Spurs. The Portland Trail Blazers, themselves a half-game behind San Antonio, hold the 4th seed by virtue of winning the Northwest division.
Memphis may be best served sitting Allen for the remainder of the regular season to ensure his health for the playoffs. Hamstring injuries can easily be re-aggravated, and the Grizzlies would be wise to let him fully heal. Despite Allen’s modest production—he averages only 8.6 points and 4.4 rebounds per game—he remains the team’s emotional leader, and they will need his energy and perimeter defense to advance in the playoffs.
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