Nemanja Bjelica (knee) out Friday for Timberwolves

Minnesota Timberwolves power forward Nemanja Bjelica (left knee contusion) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Detroit Pistons.

What It Means:

This will be the first missed game of the season for Bjelica, as well as the first we've heard of the knee issue. There's no word on how long he may be out or how severe the injury is. Adreian Payne and Gorgui Dieng will provide Bjelica's minutes, but neither is a recommended daily option.

Bjelica is currently sporting a 1.6 nERD on the season, good for 68th in the league. His minutes and production have shrunk since a promising start to the season. Through 12 games, he's now averaging 7.3 points and 6.0 rebounds per game while also making 1.6 shots from deep.