Boston Celtics forward Gordon Hayward insisted he "will be all right" in a video message shown to fans a day after his horrific injury in the NBA season opener against Cleveland Cavaliers.
The 27-year-old dislocated his left ankle and fractured his left tibia on his NBA debut for Celtics, who he joined in a $128m (£97m) deal.
Prior to Wednesday's game at home to Milwaukee, his video message was shown.
"I want nothing more than to be with my team-mates and walk out on that floor tonight. But I'll be supporting you guys from here and wishing you the best of luck."
The Bucks defeated the Celtics 108-100.
According to ESPN, Hayward is set to have surgery on Wednesday, although Celtics coach Brad Stevens did not estimate when the former Utah Jazz man might return.
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