The LA Clippers’ Blake Griffin is out with a sprained MCL after Austin Rivers fell awkwardly onto his knee last night.
According to David Aldridge of TNT, the LA Clippers’ Blake Griffin suffered a sprained MCL last night during the game against the Los Angeles Lakers. The injury occurred late in the fourth corner during a loose ball, when Austin Rivers fell awkwardly onto Blake’s knee. You can see the injury below.
No official word yet on the severity of Blake Griffin’s knee injury, but - um - the video does not look good. pic.twitter.com/sUTHGml3do
— Rachel Nichols (@Rachel__Nichols) November 28, 2017
There is still no official word from the LA Clippers at the time of writing, as they may be doing further tests to more accurately determine the length of time the All-Star forward will miss. According to Google, an MCL sprain can range anywhere from a week and a half to 8 weeks, depending on the severity. At this point, we’d have to assume Blake will fall into that 4-6 week range.
UPDATE: According to Woj, the team estimates a 2 month timetable.
No structural damage in left knee with sprained MCL for Clippers All-Star Blake Griffin, league source tells ESPN. Recovery could take two months, source says.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) November 28, 2017
With Griffin’s injury, the Clippers will be without 4 of their 5 opening night starters. Patrick Beverley has already been ruled out for the rest of the season. There still has not been a timetable announced for the return of Danilo Gallinari and Milos Teodosic is out until at least after Christmas.
Things are not looking up in Clipperland, despite the team’s great start. Injuries have completely derailed this team’s season and could even change how they approach the next couple of seasons.
During Griffin’s absence, expect players like Montrezl Harrell, Willie Reed and Sam Dekker to earn more minutes. The trio have had spotty minutes, but should all see an uptick during this stretch. Dekker will have double duty, as he is already the backup small forward due to Gallinari’s injury.
We will keep you posted as any more news comes forward regarding Blake’s status.