Castañeda's Hamstring Injury Sparks Andorra's Bid for Macon Amid Backcourt Crisis

Xavier Castañeda's hamstring injury in MoraBanc Andorra's Liga ACB game against Real Madrid has heightened concerns at the club, with medical tests pending and expectations of a multi-week absence now compounded by other backcourt injuries.

The American guard, on loan from Unicaja Málaga, exited in the fourth quarter after discomfort in his leg, despite a strong showing in his third outing for the team: 21 points in 20 minutes and 36 seconds, including five of seven from three-point range, plus two rebounds and one assist for a 16 efficiency rating. His performance helped coach Joan Plaza limit minutes for Shannon Evans.

Plaza voiced concern post-match: "The injury could be dangerous because it's in the hamstring, and the medical team will tell us more, but there's nothing we can do about that."

Castañeda is due for an MRI soon, with results in two or three days. Club insiders foresee several weeks sidelined, disrupting preparations for Saturday's key home game against Río Breogán Lugo at 19:00. This joins absences of Spanish-Brazilian guard Rafa Luz, who may return against Breogán, and French forward Yves Pons, out with an ankle sprain.

The injury crisis has accelerated winter transfer activity, particularly at guard. Reports from ACB specialist La Central ACB indicate MoraBanc Andorra has revived and boosted its bid for American shooting guard Daryl Macon Jr., currently with Greece's Maroussi. Talks had stalled over his club's demands, but the backcourt shortage—needing clearance to "pass through the till" for his release—has prompted fresh momentum.

Macon, with NBA and EuroLeague experience including Panathinaikos, is reportedly close to joining. His signing would likely trigger Canadian Aaron Best's exit, as they share an agent and Best has a destination ready. The club prioritizes sealing the incoming deal first, with sources noting positive progress.