Al Jefferson Tweaks Injured Ankle, Kevin Seraphin Will Continue on as Backup Center for the Indiana Pacers

Apr 8, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Indiana Pacers center Kevin Seraphin (1) celebrates with forward Paul George (13) after a play in the second half against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. The Pacers won 127-112. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 8, 2017; Orlando, FL, USA; Indiana Pacers center Kevin Seraphin (1) celebrates with forward Paul George (13) after a play in the second half against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. The Pacers won 127-112. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports

Kevin Seraphin will remain Myles Turner’s primary backup, as Al Jefferson tweaked his ankle in practice, per Head Coach Nate McMillan.

It wasn’t a pretty sight when Al Jefferson sprained his ankle in a game against the Philadelphia 76ers on March 26th. He was in some serious pain and needed a wheelchair to get to the locker room.

The good news was that it looked worse than it really was. It was just a sprain.

Jefferson has been in uniform over the last two games for the Indiana Pacers, but tweaked his ankle during practice on Sunday, according to Nate McMillan. McMillan added that Jefferson will likely be in uniform for tonight’s game, but technically not available.

Kevin Seraphin has done a good job filling the void for the injured Al Jefferson. Over the last two games, Seraphin has averaged 11 points and 5.5 rebounds per game off the bench. Nate McMillan said he will continue to roll with Seraphin as the backup center, as he likes what he’s been bringing to the team.

Seraphin has been in and out of the rotation all year-long, but he’s handled his situation like a true professional. He’s always having fun with his teammates and supporting them. I think he’s done a good job when called upon. I would even say that he’s exceeded the expectations he had heading into the season.

Want some evidence of Seraphin having fun with his teammates? Check out this video of him and his newest teammate, Lance Stephenson.

https://twitter.com/kslife7/status/851468317227454464

The Indiana Pacers will look to make it four straight wins tonight, as they take on the Philadelphia 76ers. They can clinch a playoff birth if they win tonight, and the Miami Heat or Chicago Bulls lose.

Next: Did Lance Stephenson Solve the Indiana Pacers Bench Issues?

The Heat are taking on the Cleveland Cavaliers, who are resting their big three. The Bulls are in action against the Orlando Magic. The Pacers just need to continue to win and secure their spot.