Festus Ezeli (Knee) Behind Schedule For Return

It would appear that Portland Trail Blazers center Festus Ezeli is still a long way away from returning to game action, according to Jason Quick of CSNNW. Ezeli’s initial timetable for return from a knee procedure on August 23 was set at six weeks, which puts him a full four weeks behind and counting. He was not a full participant in Trail Blazers training camp, he did not play in preseason, and he has yet to dress for a regular season game.

“It’s going to be slow,’’ (Ezeli) said of his recovery. “It is slow. But hopefully rewarding at the end.’’

The Blazers have not put a timetable on his return, but the front office has been clear since the summer that Ezeli was signed more for the spring than the winter.

It makes sense that the Trail Blazers would be cautious with the 6’11” big man, who was signed to a 2-year, $15 million contract in July. He has a concerning history of knee ailments and did not finish last season with the Warriors as strong as he started it. As long as the Trail Blazers can be a playoff caliber team without him, his addition in time for the post-season will be worthwhile.