De'Anthony Melton to miss Game 1 vs. Knicks, might miss the series / News - Basketnews.com

Melton did not practice on Friday and will not play in Game 1 vs. the Knicks. While he hasn't been ruled out for the entire series, his participation remains doubtful.

Credit: Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images North America/Getty Images via AFP - Scanpix Credit Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images North America/Getty Images via AFP - Scanpix

Philadelphia 76ers will begin the NBA Playoffs series against the New York Knicks without a key role player.

De'Anthony Melton

Team:Philadelphia 76ersPosition:SGAge:25Height:193 cmWeight:91 kgBirth place:Los Angeles, United States of AmericaProfileNewsStatistics

De'Anthony Melton did not practice on Friday and will miss the first game of the First Round series on Saturday, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse said, via Derek Bodner.

Despite not being available for the first matchup, Melton (back) hasn't been ruled out for the entire series versus the Knicks, Nurse added.

The 25-year-old has been suffering from a back injury this season, competing in just 38 games this past regular season. He averaged 11.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1.6 steals per game on 38.6% shooting.

With Melton on the roster, the 76ers have won 65% of their games (28 wins, 15 losses).

The first game of the series begins at 6 PM EST on Saturday, April 20th.

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