Crvena Zvezda Backcourt Shake-up: Devonte’ Graham Near Exit as Yago Dodges Injury Scare
BELGRADE – The revolving door of the Crvena Zvezda backcourt continues to spin as the club nears a definitive split with marquee summer signing Devonte’ Graham, while simultaneously breathing a sigh of relief regarding the health of Brazilian fan-favorite Yago Dos Santos.
The Graham Experiment Reaches its End
Reports from Belgrade indicate that Crvena Zvezda and American guard Devonte’ Graham are in the final stages of negotiating a contract termination. The former NBA standout, who arrived with high expectations as a primary scoring threat, has struggled to find his rhythm in the European game.
The situation reached a tipping point this week as Graham was left out of the squad for the fifth consecutive game during Zvezda’s 108–98 victory over BC Vienna. Head coach Saša Obradović has consistently characterized these absences as “coach’s decisions,” citing performance concerns and a failure to adapt to the tactical demands of the EuroLeague.
“There are procedures,” stated club PR Igor Vujičin when pressed on Graham’s status. “We will speak when we have something concrete. There is no mystery; he was not in the 12 by the coach’s decision.”
Statistically, Graham’s stint has been underwhelming. After an early preseason injury delayed his debut, he averaged just 3.0 points and 1.1 assists across seven EuroLeague appearances, shooting a disappointing 25% from beyond the arc.
Injury Boost: Yago Dos Santos Cleared
While one guard prepares to depart, another is set to stay in the rotation. Concerns mounted during the recent ABA League clash when Yago Dos Santos left the court with a visible grimace, sparking fears of a lengthy layoff.
However, the latest medical reports are optimistic. The injury, initially thought to be a significant leg strain, appears to be minor. Sources close to the club suggest that the Brazilian playmaker may miss only a minimal amount of time, if any, and could be available for the upcoming EuroLeague showdown against BC Dubai this Friday.
Dos Santos has been a vital spark plug for Obradović’s side, recently returning to the club after a brief release in the summer to help stabilize a roster ravaged by injuries to stars like Joel Bolomboy and Isaiah Canaan.
What’s Next?
With Graham likely heading back to the free-agent market, Zvezda fans are already speculating on whether the management will look for a late-season replacement to bolster the roster for the playoff push. For now, the focus remains on the “Marakana” and the “Pionir,” as the club enters a decisive stretch in both European and regional competitions.
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