Boston Celtics point guard Kyrie Irving exited Friday night’s game against the Charlotte Hornets after taking an inadvertent elbow to the head from teammate Aron Baynes.
Kyrie leaves the game with a bloody nose after Baynes accidentally catches him with an elbow… Celtics Rewind presented by @NissanUSA. pic.twitter.com/G1TG8KJREs
— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) November 11, 2017
Irving had a bloody nose, but there’s much bigger concern as the team announced that he’s being evaluated for possible concussion symptoms.
#NEBHInjuryReport: Kyrie Irving is out for the remainder of tonight’s game against Charlotte due to a blow to the head and he is being monitored for possible concussion symptoms.
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) November 11, 2017
The superstar point guard has led the Celtics to an NBA-best 10-2 record this season after being acquired by the Cleveland Cavaliers over the offseason. Hopefully it’s determined that he didn’t suffer a concussion, and we’ll update this post when there is more information available on his diagnosis.
UPDATE: After the game, Celtics head coach Brad Stevens said that Irving hasn’t been diagnosed with a concussion, but will still be monitored.
Kyrie Irving went home at halftime but texted team congratulating them after game. Brad Stevens says Irving has not been diagnosed with a concussion but will be monitored moving forward. pic.twitter.com/nDTGRjqv4B
— Chris Forsberg (@ChrisForsberg_) November 11, 2017
UPDATE II: The Celtics tweeted on Saturday that Irving has a minor facial fracture and is doubtful for Sunday’s game.
#NEBHInjuryReport Kyrie Irving suffered a minor facial fracture last night. He is currently listed as doubtful for tomorrow’s game.
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) November 11, 2017
And The Vertical’s Shams Charania says the same, but adds that Irving will play through the injury with a fitted mask for two weeks after the Sunday game.
Sources: Boston’s Kyrie Irving will likely miss Sunday’s game with facial fracture, then play through the injury with a fitted mask for two weeks.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 11, 2017
[NBC Sports Boston; NBATV]