Forward Joe Johnson will be out for at least another two weeks as he recovers from a wrist injury, the Utah Jazz announced Tuesday.
The veteran forward saw a hand specialist on Tuesday. The Jazz say he’s making progress, but not enough for a return. Johnson has already been out for two weeks with tendon instability in his right wrist.
Johnson told The Tribune last week he would travel with the Jazz on their upcoming road trip East that starts on Wednesday at the New York Knicks, and he hoped to play at some point during the trip. The new diagnosis rules this out.
Without Johnson, the Jazz’ second unit has sputtered, as well as the closing lineup. Johnson was expected to be an invaluable member of Quin Snyder’s rotation. With him out, the Jazz are missing a shotmaker and someone who can create offense for himself and others when plays break down.
If Johnson were healthy, there is a chance he would be in the starting lineup, as the Jazz are missing Rudy Gobert for the next month and Derrick Favors has moved to the center spot in his place.