Alex Abrines after impressive comeback: 'It has been tough to be closed at the gym; I hated it' / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: ZUMAPRESS.com-SCANPIX Credit ZUMAPRESS.com-SCANPIX

"It has been tough to be closed at the gym. I actually hated it", Alex Abrines said with a smile. The Spanish forward made his comeback after a knee surgery back in September. It was his first game since the Spanish SuperCup.

FC Barcelona / Schedule

FC Barcelona BAXI Manresa107-70 UCAM Murcia FC BarcelonaSat20:30

Abrines needed a long-term recovery. He returned to practices with FC Barcelona a few days ago.

"I am happy to be back with the team. I missed them a lot. Now it's time to improve my shape day by day", added Abrines, who scored 11 points, 7 of them in the last minutes against BAXI Manresa.

He added 5 rebounds to finish the game with 16 PIR.

"I did not expect this from Abrines," Jasikevicius admitted after the game. "He stole one ball and made four important free throws for us. He gave us energy. I am pleased with his mentality."

Abrines entered the court before halftime. In his first minute of action, he made one steal, grabbed one offensive rebound, and scored four free throws. An impressive production for someone who has not played a single game since the beginning of the season.

In Jasikevicius' first season as FC Barcelona coach, Abrines was a key player. His first months were outstanding. Alongside Mirotic, he was leading Barcelona's offense. However, he struggled in the second part of the season, reducing his shooting percentages.

It's his defense where Abrines has made a step up since he returned to Europe. His aggressiveness is highly better. He can press the ball in the 1x1 situations against quick guards. He forces the opponent to use his weak hand.

In 2017, Abrines revealed that Sergio Scariolo told him to improve his defense.

The Oklahoma City Thunder had a plan to convert him into a 3&D player. They saw his potential. He understood it and worked on his defense. His improvement is obvious. With Higgins sidelined, Abrines will be a great addition for Barcelona in the second part of the season.

Abrines is seeking his 3rd Spanish Copa del Rey at Granada. If Barcelona win, he will tie Pau Ribas, Victor Claver, and Trey Thompkins in the winners' list.

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