Utah Jazz

Rodney Hood expected the worst, but only missed one game with injury

Published Jan. 12, 2016 1:46 p.m. ET

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Utah's Rodney Hood did not return against the Rockets last Thursday, requiring help to the locker room after rolling his ankle.

X-rays were negative, however, and despite how bad the injury looked when it first happened Hood was listed as day-to-day on first projection. When the injury reports came out against the Heat, Hood was listed as questionable. He didn't play.

"I was thinking worst-case scenario," said Hood, via Salt Lake Tribune.

Despite getting listed as questionable (and then a game-time decision) for the Lakers, Hood was back on the court. In 31:53 minutes, he added 14 points with 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals.

"I thought it was way worse," continued Hood, on his injury. "But it was great the test came back negative and I was able to heal quicker than I thought I would."

Utah Jazz notes: Hood feared 'worst-case scenario' with ankle injury https://t.co/he0Ad6QgjZ
— Greg Limeberry (@greglimeberry) January 12, 2016

Hood has dealt with foot injuries during his basketball career, so he's certainly not "out of the clear" quite yet. But his return against Los Angeles gives Utah's basketball fans reason to be optimistic -- especially considering how well the sophomore has played this season.

The Jazz will play the Trail Blazers in Portland at 10 p.m. EST on Wednesday.

Bryan Kalbrosky produces digital content for FOXSports.com. For more, follow him on Twitter @BryanKalbrosky.