Myles Turner has already missed two games this season and he’s expected to miss at least a few more due to a concussion and sore neck suffered last Wednesday in their season opener.
Turner, who played in 81 of 82 regular-season games last season, was diagnosed with a concussion late last week and must clear the NBA concussion protocol before reclaiming his place in the lineup.
The hit came on a cross screen against the Brooklyn Nets, but Turner didn’t feel the effects until afterwards. He contributed 21 points, 14 rebounds, and four blocks in a 140-131 victory.
Before initiating the return-to-participation process, he must be symptom-free — and that’s not the case just yet.
- Then, a player must make it through several stages of exertion – from a stationary bike, to jogging, to agility work, to non-contact team drills.
- As a player works his way through the process, he must remain free of symptoms before moving on to the next.
- Then Dr. Jeffrey Kutcher, the director of the NBA’s concussion program, must be consulted before the player is cleared.
One thing the NBA wants to emphasize is that every player is different and that a timeline to return should not be specified.
It's killing me not being able to be out there with the squad…
soon— Myles Turner (@Original_Turner) October 24, 2017
Before each season, players undergo baseline testing which can then be used for an individual who is diagnosed with a concussion. If a player doesn’t pass the computer test, he will not return.
Turner did accompany the trip on its three game, five-day road trip with stops in Miami, Minneapolis, and Oklahoma City. After Wednesday’s game in OKC, the Pacers have three days between games — returning home to host San Antonio on Sunday at 4:30 pm.