Clippers’ Chris Paul fractures hand in Game 4 against Trail Blazers

MANILA, Philippines (UPDATED) – Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul suffered a third metacarpal fracture in his right hand during Game 4 of the first round series against the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday, April 26 (Monday, April 25 in the US).

The injury has been confirmed on NBA.com though the length of his absence has yet to be determined.

Paul, who left the game midway in the third quarter with 16 points, appeared to have injured his hand as he defended a layup. X-rays showed a fractured third metacarpal.

The Clippers eventually lost the game, 98-84, and the series is now tied at 2-2.

As if the Paul injury wasn’t enough bad news, Blake Griffin also left Monday’s game with a sore knee.

Coach Doc Rivers said both players would be examined by team doctors on Tuesday.

“He (Paul) will get revaluated tomorrow but it doesn’t look good. Chris is taking this very hard. The reality is you don’t have Chris Paul,” Rivers said.

Paul left the arena with his arm in a sling and a heavy white bandage around his right wrist and hand.

Asked about Griffin, Rivers said, “it doesn’t look great for him either. We will see about that tomorrow.” – with reports from Agence France-Presse/Rappler.com