TUALATIN - Jusuf Nurkic's return to the lineup for Game 3 of the Portland Trail Blazers' first round playoff series against the Golden State Warriors will likely be his only playoff appearance.

Nurkic, who played through fractured right leg on Saturday night, has been officially ruled out for Monday's Game 4 in Portland.

"He didn't do any further damage," Blazers coach Terry Stotts said on Sunday. "There was soreness, tenderness and it just wouldn't be wise to have him play through that."

Nurkic was limited to 3-to-5 minute shifts in Game 3 and rarely looked for his own offense, finishing with just two points on 1 of 3 shooting in 16 minutes and 40 seconds. His mobility was clearly limited, but his impact on the game was obvious. His presence opened up the Blazers' offense and he finished with teams-highs in rebounds (11), assists (4) and plus/minus (plus-8).

It was his first full contact action since March 30 as he had not returned to practice prior to start of a heated playoff game against the Warriors. When he was out of the game he kept a heating pad on his leg and while his performance was gutsy, he was clearly a shell of the player that rescued the Blazers' season in February.

"It was a really good effort I thought," Stotts said. "He's a big part of our team and not only was it a good effort for these playoffs and this team, but I think going forward it spoke a lot to who he is and what kind of teammate he is."

Noah Vonleh will likely start at center in Game 4 with Moe Harkless moving back into the starting lineup at power forward. Meyers Leonard, who did not play in Game 3, will also likely see time as the backup center.

--Mike Richman

mrichman@oregonian.com

@mikegrich