Oklahoma City Thunder center Nerlens Noel is expected to return against the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday, head coach Billy Donovan said in a Zoom call with media Saturday.
Noel, who tweaked his ankle during a practice more than a week ago, has been limited for some practices.
He was initially expected to play in the scrimmage Friday against the Boston Celtics but was ruled out.
Donovan said “we fully anticipate” Noel playing in the Sunday scrimmage against Philadelphia.
“Nerlens went through everything in practice, we’re pretty optimistic right now that he’ll play,” Donovan said.
Noel has been an active piece of the Oklahoma City secondary units. In 18.4 minutes per game, he has averaged 7.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and 1.0 steals.
He shoots at a 68.5% clip on 4.6 attempts per game, many of which are lobs from Chris Paul or Dennis Schroder.
Additionally, wing Andre Roberson does not appear to be fatigued from his first appearance in two and a half years.
After playing 11 minutes on Friday, Roberson was a full participant at practice Saturday.
“Andre did everything today in practice, we anticipate he’ll be available as well,” Donovan said.
If both play, the only missing player on the Thunder would be Abdel Nader.
Nader suffered a concussion late in the game against the Celtics. The team confirmed Saturday that he is going through concussion protocol and is expected to miss time.
