SUMMARY
- Myles Turner experienced a freak accident during the Pacers vs Nets game.
- He dislocated his right index finger but got it popped into the socket to attempt his free throws.
Myles Turner has been one of the centerpieces of the Indiana Pacers franchise over the last few years. It has been nearly a decade since the defensive juggernaut came into the league and he’s been a positive presence for the team. Indiana has experienced immense success this season. As expected they hit a couple of roadblocks with injuries earlier on. But they are a threat to other playoff teams in the Eastern Conference.
Myles Turner dislocated his finger, got it popped back in, then hit a free-throw left handed.
Respect! 👏 pic.twitter.com/pBy8EL4Wod
— NBA Buzz (@OfficialNBABuzz) April 2, 2024
The Pacers recently hosted the Brooklyn Nets at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. They managed to secure a spectacular win against the Nets, which helped them extend their lead ahead of the Play-In Tournament teams. During the game, Myles had a minor accident while going about his usual explosive game. Unfortunately, he was fouled on the way up to the rim and he slammed his finger against it. Turner dislocated his finger and was ruled out for the second half.
Myles Turner got his finger popped back in place just like Kobe Bryant
Even though enduring a dislocation can often include minor fractures, Myles Turner quickly returned to the bench after the whistle was blown. He seemed quite unfazed by the injury. But he went got his finger popped back in and went on to shoot free throws using his left hand. After this, he was removed from rotation and taken into the locker room for further examination.
This was a page taken out of Kobe Bryant’s book involving an incident that took place during his final season. In 2016, during a game between the LA Lakers and San Antonio Spurs, Bryant dislocated a finger after diving toward the ball. Bryant showed almost no emotion as he quietly walked to the bench, and had his finger put back into place. He eventually resumed play. This shows the mentality of certain players, who fight through the pain just to bring success their way.
Myles Turner shares a hilarious post on social media following his injury
Myles Turner is having a terrific season despite the Pacers adding another superstar alongside Tyrese Haliburton. He has been averaging 16.8 points and 6.9 rebounds along with 1.9 blocks per game this season. He shoots an additional 51.8% from the field and 77.3% from the free throw line. Turner also shoots 34.9% from deep on 4.2 attempts per game.
Will Trade My Rarest @LEGO_Group Set For A Right Index Finger 🙂
— Myles Turner (@Original_Turner) April 2, 2024
After the game, Turner posted a hilarious reaction to his injury on X. He said, “Will trade my rarest @LEGO_Group set for a right index finger.” The center took the setback like a true champion. Head coach Rick Carlisle stated that the X-rays did not show any other fracture, which means Turner is safe from serious injuries. Carlisle further claimed that it was too early to say if he’ll miss any games.