Sixers down Batum for ‘great challenge' vs. West-leading T-Wolve

Sixers starting forward Nicolas Batum will miss Wednesday's game against the Western Conference-leading Timberwolves.

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Batum left the Sixers' loss to the Bulls on Monday with a right hamstring injury. Injury didn't heal overnight.

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Medical staff say he'll be out for a few days. Again, nothing major. The Sixers' head coach Nick Nurse said Tuesday that it hurts.

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They may be looking at imaging and other things, but nothing major. However, it is tight and sore.”

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Batum's replacement could be Kelly Oubre Jr., who's started seven straight since returning from a broken rib.

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Batum had started the Sixers' past 13 games after a three-game absence in mid-November for personal reasons. When he plays, the Sixers are 13-4.

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Recent blowout wins over low-level opponents and the Sixers' Tyrese Maxey and De'Anthony Melton lineup boost the numbers.

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