Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons is expected to miss four-to-six weeks after tearing the ulnar collateral ligament in his right thumb during Wednesday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers, the team announced.
The injury requires surgery, the team added.
Simons recorded 18 points, four assists, two rebounds, and two steals as the Blazers lost 123-111.
The 24-year-old guard was slated for a bigger offensive role this season with the departure of Damian Lillard. Reserve guards Shaedon Sharpe and Malcolm Brogdon are in line for more minutes with Simons sidelined, as well as backcourt mate Scoot Henderson.
Simons averaged 21.1 points, 4.1 assists, and 2.6 rebounds in 62 games last campaign.
Portland takes on the Orlando Magic on Friday.
