Russell won't return to Thursday's game against the Cavaliers due to a right ankle sprain, Sharif Phillips-Keaton of USA Today reports. He finished with three points (1-7 FG, 1-6 3Pt) and five assists over 18 minutes prior to departing.
Russell struggled to find his rhythm prior to exiting with the ankle injury, which could threaten his availability for the Nets' next game Saturday in Philadelphia. The Nets are likely to lean on recent 10-day signee Killian Hayes as their primary ballhandler for the rest of Thursday's contest in Russell's absence.