Continue for updates.
Bass Suffers Contusion Thursday, Oct. 8 According to NBA.com, Bass fell on his left knee during Tuesday’s game against the Utah Jazz and “was diagnosed with a patella contusion after undergoing an MRI and CT scan,” even though he stayed in the game for the final 24 seconds of the first half after the fall.
Bass is entering his 11th season and provides veteran leadership for a Lakers team that has a mixture of experienced players and youngsters. His durability makes him valuable, considering he has missed only one regular-season contest over the last three campaigns.
In all, Bass averaged 10.6 points and 4.9 rebounds per game for the Boston Celtics in 2014-15. He can stretch opposing defenses with his ability to hit from mid-range at the power forward spot. He made a solid 45.2 percent of his shots from 15 to 19 feet away in 2014-15, according to NBA.com.
The fact that Bass briefly remained in the game after the injury and the MRI results revealing it was only a contusion rather than serious ligament damage are welcome signs for the Lakers. It is only the preseason, and the team does not start its regular season until Oct. 28. There is plenty of time for the veteran to heal.
Bass’ temporary absence will provide an opportunity for second-year forward Julius Randle to pick up critical experience after missing almost his entire rookie campaign with a leg injury.
The Lakers are building toward the future with players like Randle and D’Angelo Russell, and all experience is important for the youngsters at this point in their careers.
Read more Los Angeles Lakers news on BleacherReport.com
...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
