guard was carried off the floor after sustaining an apparent right ankle/foot injury following Monday’s practice.
The injury occurred while playing 1-on-1 with teammates and staffers, a common occurrence following practice. Nuggets coach Michael Malone was speaking to reporters at the time, before excusing himself to check on Barton. When Malone returned, he said he hoped Barton’s injury wasn’t serious.
Barton, who averaged 13.7 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists last season, is expected to be one of the Nuggets’ top players off the bench and just completed a strong preseason. His versatility allows him to play anywhere on the floor from point guard to small forward. He exploded for 26 points in the Nuggets’ preseason finale against the , and totaled 22 assists against six turnovers while swiping eight steals throughout the preseason. Malone also praised Barton’s improvement defensively.
The Nuggets open the season Wednesday at the . If Barton is out for any length of time, is likely in line for more minutes. , who is projected to be Nuggets’ starting point guard, is also experienced at playing shooting guard.
