Trail Blazers G Blake out 7-10 days

Jan 16, 2009 - 12:48 AM EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey (Ticker) - Portland Trail Blazers point guard Steve Blake will miss seven to 10 days with a separated right shoulder, the team announced prior to Thursday's game against the New Jersey Nets.

Blake suffered the injury with 1:18 left in the second quarter of Wednesday's loss to Philadelphia. The 28-year-old Blake tried to fight through a pick set by Reggie Evans and turned away immediately, grimacing in pain and holding his shoulder.

Blake, who is averaging 11.6 points and 4.7 assists in 38 games, returned to Portland for further evaluation.

Third-year pro Sergio Rodriguez will make his second career start in place of Blake.

"This is his shot, this is his chance," Blazers head coach Nate McMillan told The Oregonian.

"This is what those guys train for and condition themselves for - to be able to step in and play."

Rodriguez is averaging 3.9 points and 3.3 assists in 38 games.