© John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Dariq Whitehead gives an update about his recovery from his injury
Dariq Whitehead is two months past the surgery on his left shin, but things are looking up for the rookie ahead of his second season in the NBA. The former Duke Blue Devil only played two regular-season games with the Nets, but he could’ve earned some development minutes in the second half of the season.
During the Nets’ game against the New Orleans Pelicans, Whitehead gave an update on how he is doing after surgery on his left shin stress reaction.
“The recovery process has been going great, just making sure now that we don’t rush things. Take our time and come back right this time and do it the right way. It’s been going great. We’re about two months out and making sure I constantly take each day and trust the process,” Dariq said to YES Network’s Meghan Triplett.
The Nets see greatness in Dariq’s future
While Whitehead has dealt with injuries throughout his young career, there is still a star-level player behind them all. At only 19 years old, Whitehead showcased an advanced skill set when playing at Duke and the Long Island Nets in the G-League.
He uses his athleticism well, as he could jump and finish at the rim well, but he also has a reliable three-point shot. Becoming a three-and-D player in the future will bode well for his long-term future in the league. However, his potential goes beyond playing a role, as Dariq can become a two-way star with his potential at shot creation and defending.
Coming out of high school, Whitehead was regularly in the top three of his class. That kind of talent does not go away despite the injuries, and since he will only be 20 years old by the time the 2024/25 season rolls around, he has a lot of time to settle in and realize his potential.
Dariq is on the road to recovery
It is not Whitehead’s first injury, as he had two procedures done on his right foot before he played for the Nets. That history might worry other teams, but the Nets believe in Dariq’s road to recovery.
The youngster has the right attitude and approach to his injury, as he’s going about his routine with the right mindset. Moving forward, Whitehead will have plenty of time to develop, and he’s excited to live up to the pre-college expectations.
