Portland’s Kanter uncertain for 2nd round with hurt shoulder

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Trail Blazers center Enes Kanter’s status for the second round of the playoffs remains uncertain because of a shoulder injury as Portland waits to learn its opponent.

Kanter says he separated his left shoulder early on during Portland’s deciding Game 5 against Oklahoma City on Tuesday in the opening round. The Blazers returned to practice Friday.

Kanter was shooting during the workout, although at times he rubbed the shoulder. He said afterward that he was in pain and taking his recovery day by day.

Despite the injury, Kanter had 13 points and 13 rebounds in Portland’s 118-115 victory over the Thunder, which sent the Blazers through to the Western Conference semifinals.

The Blazers will play the winner of the first-round series between the Nuggets and the Spurs, which is tied at 3-3. Game 7 is Saturday night in Denver.