Victor Oladipo injury update: Indiana Pacers fear the worst after horror knock
VICTOR OLADIPO suffered what is feared to be a season-ending injury during the Indiana Pacers’ win over the Toronto Raptors last night.
Let's really, really, really, really hope that Vic is alright. Oladipo goes down with an apparent knee injury and it didn't look good. #Pacers pic.twitter.com/CA6LacMo87
— FOX Sports Indiana (@FSIndiana) January 24, 2019
Oladipo has enjoyed another good year with the Pacers, helping them to third in the Eastern Conference.
But the Pacers will likely have to face the rest of the season without their point guard All-Star.
Midway through the second quarter Oladipo was chasing back on a fast break for the Raptors with Kyle Lowry playing a long pass forward to Pascal Siakam.
Oladipo attempted to intercept the pass, but ended up falling awkwardly to the floor and in immediate pain.
Upon replay, it was apparent that Oladipo’s right knee bent unnaturally.
Oladipo’s reaction spoke volumes as he pulled back his knee guard to take a look at the extent of the injury, screaming at the sight.
Team medics rushed to his aid on the court and the severity of the injury was quickly evident as trainers pulled a towel over his leg.
And ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reports a preliminary exam on Oladipo’s knee came back suggesting he could be out for the season.
The 26-year-old will undergo an MRI later today for a full diagnosis on the injury.
Pacers coach Nate McMillan didn’t want to speculate, but is confident Oladipo will bounce back from the injury.
“It is a serious injury and we'll know more after the MRI,” McMillan said.
“We're not going to speculate. It's a tough situation.
“That kid has a beautiful spirit about him.
“He has always been one to try and to lift us up. We've got to lift him now.”
Oladipo’s injury may mean a more prominent role for Cory Joseph in the starting line-up or Tyreke Evans.
The 2018 All-Star has averaged 19.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, 5.3 assists and 1.7 steals per game this season.
He was in line to earn another All-Star nod for this season having ranked fifth in the latest batch of voting results, but will almost certainly not feature now.