URGENT UPDATE: Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr. was helped off the court with a potential knee injury during a critical moment in the game against the Boston Celtics on Sunday, November 12, 2023. This incident occurred in the second quarter of the Clippers’ 121-118 loss, raising immediate concerns about his health and the team’s overall depth.
The injury happened as Jones collided with Jaylen Brown while attempting to retrieve a loose ball. Brown’s arm struck Jones’ leg, sending him to the floor in visible pain. He clutched his right knee before being assisted to the locker room, struggling to put weight on the injured leg. The foul was called on Brown following the play.
“We won’t know until he gets reevaluated; we’re not quite sure right now,” said Clippers coach Tyronn Lue regarding the severity of Jones’ injury.
Adding to the Clippers’ woes, star player James Harden, who scored 32 points in the second half, expressed his frustration. “It’s tough. It’s like one after the next. You just try to continue to keep your head on straight, focus on what you can control and just go out there and come away with wins,” he said.
The Clippers are already dealing with significant injuries, including Kawhi Leonard, who missed his seventh consecutive game due to an ankle and foot sprain. Additionally, Bradley Beal faces a season-ending hip fracture sustained on November 8. With the roster stretched thin, the team’s resilience is being tested.
Jones, aged 28, has been a crucial player, starting all 13 games this season and averaging 10.9 points. His potential absence could significantly impact the Clippers as they strive to remain competitive in a tough Western Conference.
The Clippers will await further evaluations on Jones’ injury, which could determine their strategy in upcoming games. Fans and analysts alike are keen to see how this latest setback will affect the team’s performance moving forward.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops. The Clippers are looking to regroup quickly, hoping for a speedy recovery for Jones and a potential return for their sidelined stars.
