The Badgers will face off against Minnesota on Friday night at the Kohl Center, but they may be without one of their starters. After suffering an injury on a controversial play against Rutgers this past weekend, shooting guard Max Klesmit is in danger of missing this week's contest against the Golden Gophers.
In the second half of the Rutgers game, Klesmit went up for a shot and landed awkwardly on top of Scarlet Knights' guard Jeremiah Williams. He was in immediate pain while clutching his ankle, and left the game. On Wednesday, Klesmit was seen wearing a boot at practice and did not participate in drills.
Head coach Greg Gard said he wasn't sure if Klesmit would be able to suit up against Minnesota on Friday.
"He's day-to-day right now," Gard said. "We'll see how he continues to respond as we go through the next few days."
Losing Klesmit would be a big loss for the game, but Gard emphasized that they have a deep rotation and other players could step up if called upon. Kamari McGee and Jack Janicki would be two players expected to shoulder most of the load should Klesmit miss the game.
"We have other people who will step up," said Gard. "We don't need to replicate or duplicate Max Klesmit. I just want these guys to be the best versions of themselves and allow that to flow within the team."
The Badgers are currently 12-3 on the season and will look to continue their 2-game conference win streak with a win against the Gophers.