South East Melbourne Phoenix could explore Tai Wesley injury replacement options

South East Melbourne forward Tai Wesley, who was injured on Thursday night's "Throwdown" season opener against Melbourne United, is expected to "miss multiple weeks", according to the NBL's Liam Santamaria.

The Phoenix's official release has marked Wesley's absence as "at least two weeks".

The 33 year old forward injured his left hamstring in the first quarter that night.The team's medical staff is working on a concise diagnosis and recovery window with both domestic and international doctors.

“It’s just one of those things,” Phoenix coach Simon Mitchell said on Wesley’s injury after the game.“He felt pain. There’s no scar tissue, there’s no problems in that area, but there’s pain there.

“From what I understand, they don’t know what it is just yet.”

The South East Melbourne Phoenix has confirmed that they are "working through a variety of solutions", which could include an injury replacement option.

"You can't replace someone like Tai," Phoenix forward Mitch Creek shared on Thursday. "He's without doubt the best four-man in the league."

Wesley's versatility and athleticism makes a tremendous difference on the floor. The power forward's consummate low post scoring, playmaking skills and veteran experience leaves an obvious gap in the Phoenix's roster.

Tao Wesley, who won NBL championships with the New Zealand Breakers and Melbourne United previously, signed with the Phoenix as the team's first import in April - he's on a three-year deal, with a player option in the final year.