True Lakers Fans

Jordan Clarkson's shoulder injury not serious, Lakers say

by Mike Bresnahan, LA Times

The Lakers caught a break Friday when an MRI exam revealed that guard Jordan Clarkson's sore right shoulder was, according to a team spokesman, "normal."

Clarkson said he left Thursday's exhibition finale against the Golden State Warriors because he felt a "sharp pain" after shooting a runner in the lane in the second quarter. He also said he felt discomfort in the shoulder earlier in the week.

His shoulder would be treated conservatively, the team said, and there were no guarantees he would be ready for Wednesday's season opener against Minnesota at Staples Center.

Clarkson, 23, averaged 15.8 points and five assists in 38 games as the Lakers' starting point guard last season. He continued his solid play this month, putting together an efficient exhibition season.

Coach Byron Scott said he was "absolutely" concerned about Clarkson's shoulder after the Lakers lost to Golden State, 136-97.

"It's pretty frustrating because that kid has done so well for us in the preseason,” Scott said.

“He's played so hard, and obviously even with this, he has a very bright future. But obviously it puts a damper on the way we want to start the season. It might be without him next Wednesday.”