Nicolas Batum back on the shelf with wrist sprain Tuesday

Nicolas Batum's right wrist sprain continues to linger.

After sitting out Friday with the injury, Batum was able to return for two subsequent games on Saturday and Monday, though he was limited in the latter game. Now comes word the Portland Trail Blazers have ruled him out for their Tuesday contest against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Allen Crabbe drew the start with Batum sidelined Friday, but he played just 13 minutes before seceding minutes to a handful of reserve wings. Replacing Batum will have to be a gang effort, as the Frenchman is the team's primary perimeter defender. That will matter somewhat less with Kevin Durant sidelined opposite him, but he still stood to occasionally help corral Russell Westbrook.

While his numbers are modest - he averages 8.6 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.1 assists - Batum's playmaking is also an important part of the Blazers' movement-heavy offense. He normally helps add spacing, too, but his 3-point shot has been ice cold to start the season, sitting at just 22.6 percent - well below his 36.1 percent career mark.

The Blazers have been two points per-100 possessions better without Batum in the early going, but that runs contrary to his established track record of being a major positive for the team.