Indiana Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle on Sunday said rookie Isaiah Jackson could return this week after recently entering the NBA’s concussion protocol.
Jackson suffered the injury on Tuesday in a loss to the Memphis Grizzlies after he was inadvertently hit in the face with the ball. He did not travel with the team to Houston on Friday and was ruled out of playing on Sunday versus the Portland Trail Blazers.
“He is not playing today,” Carlisle said. “He is doing better but not playing today. It is possible he could be back for Wednesday if he gets through all of the protocol things.”
Jackson, in 30 games, is averaging 7.7 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.4 blocked shots this season. He has missed time due to various injuries, including a hyperextended left knee, and also spent time in the NBA G League with the Fort Wayne Mad Ants.
The 22nd pick has impressed in stretches this season given his ability as a lob threat on offense and skill to protect the paint and switch onto…