The Portland Trail Blazers have been without small forward Maurice Harkless since March 25th, when an issue with his knee forced him to have surgery and be out ever since. Now, the Blazers are saying Harkless is questionable to play in Game 2 of their first round series against the New Orleans Pelicans, per Trail Blazers insider Jason Quick of NBCS Northwest.
Blazers say Maurice Harkless (left knee) is questionable for Tuesday's Game 2 against New Orleans.
— Jason Quick (@jwquick) April 16, 2018
Harkless underwent arthoscopic surgery on his left knee on March 28th, and was going to be re-evaluated two weeks after that. Just prior to the end of the season on April 12th, the Blazers said Harkless could return to action in a week. Five days later, Harkless is now appears to have a chance at an appearance in the second game of the Blazers' playoff series.
In 59 appearances this season, Harkless averaged 6.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.7 blocks in just 21.4 minutes per game. He did shoot 49.5 percent from the field as well as career-high 41.5 percent from beyond the arc.
This season, a clause in his contract allowed to Harkless earn himself $500,000 for finishing with a three-point percentage over 35%. It's the second straight season he's finished over 35% and the second he's earned the $500,00 bonus.
The Blazers really could use the defense and floor spacing that Harkless brings to the table, especially against a Pelicans' team that was able to steal Game 1 on the road in Portland and claim home-court advantage.
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