Panathinaikos faces a deepening injury crisis as the club prepares to host ASVEL in the second round of the EuroLeague on Wednesday, September 30. Forward Juancho Hernangomez is the latest player listed as uncertain, following a series of physical setbacks that have already sidelined several key contributors.
Hernangomez Status Uncertain Following Adductor Injury
The Spanish international, who recently celebrated his 31st birthday, sustained a muscle spasm in his right adductor during the Greek Supercup semifinal against PAOK.
Medical staff have initiated treatment for the forward, though the club has not provided a definitive timeline for his return. His availability for the Wednesday night matchup against the Villeurbanne-based squad remains subject to daily evaluation and the progression of his recovery over the coming hours.
Growing List of Absences Impacts Rotation
The potential absence of Hernangomez compounds an already difficult situation for the Greek side. Panathinaikos is currently managing a significant injury list that includes several primary rotation players:
- Kendrick Nunn: The 2024-2025 EuroLeague MVP is unavailable following meniscus surgery performed in August.
- Kostas Sloukas: The veteran guard continues his rehabilitation for a knee issue. Although he projected a return within 15 to 20 days during a mid-September update, he did not feature in the season opener.
- Nigel Hayes-Davis: The forward remains sidelined due to a hand injury.
- Moustapha Fall: The pivot has been out since the pre-season due to a hamstring injury and continues to follow a recovery protocol.
Schedule Pressures and Upcoming Fixtures
The timing of these injuries places immediate strain on the Panathinaikos roster, as the team faces a condensed European schedule. Following the Wednesday game against ASVEL, the club is scheduled to host Maccabi Tel-Aviv on Friday, October 2.
Despite the current health challenges, the team demonstrated depth in their season debut, fueled by contributions from players including Guerschon Yabusele, Mathias Lessort, and Sylvain Francisco. The coaching staff will now look to manage these remaining rotations as they prepare for the imminent visit from ASVEL.
