Tyson Chandler Injury: Updates on Knicks Center's Knee

Tyson Chandler is among the NBA's best defensive players and a key to the New York Knicks' starting rotation, making his injury in Wednesday night's exhibition game a little worrisome.

UPDATE: Friday, October 26 at 2:00 p.m. ET by Ethan Grant

After avoiding a prolonged injury, Tyson Chandler reportedly expects to play in the Knicks' season opener against the Brooklyn Nets. According to the New York Post's Marc Berman, Chandler is targeting Monday practice before the November 1 opener.

"

Tyson says "absolutely'' expects to play in opener and hopes to practice Monday. Admitted to being very worried before MRI

— Marc Berman (@NYPost_Berman) October 26, 2012"

Great news for Mike Woodson and the Knicks, who are already without Amar'e Stoudemire for the first part of the season. Right now, it looks like they'll be able to deploy the defensive standout against the Nets on opening night.

---END of UPDATE---

UPDATE: Thursday, October 25 at 1:50 p.m. ET by Brandon Galvin

Knicks fans will be able to take a sigh of relief as Tyson Chandler reportedly avoided a serious knee injury, according to New York Newsday's Al Iannazzone.

"

The Knicks have announced the MRI on Tyson Chandler's left knee revealed a bone bruise and he's listed as day to day.

— Al Iannazzone (@Al_Iannazzone) October 25, 2012"

---END OF UPDATE---

UPDATE: Wednesday, October 24 at 11:20 p.m. ET by Eric Ball

When the crutches come out, there is always a cause for concern and according to

Marc Berman of the New York Post, that’s exactly what Chandler was sporting after the game:

"

Chandler had crutches by his side. Sounded down. Will have MRI tomorrow. Hopes it's just a sprain which could put him out for opener.

— Marc Berman (@NYPost_Berman) October 25, 2012"

But the crutches haven’t crushed Chandler’s spirits. He told Adam Zagoria of NBA.com that he believes the injury is nothing more than a sprain:

"

Tyson Chandler is on crutches w/ left knee injury but when asked his level of concern he said, 'Not much. I just felt like I have a sprain.'

— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) October 25, 2012"

Is it wishful thinking? Check back on Thursday for the official diagnosis of yet another Knicks’ injury. 

---END OF UPDATE---

Here is what New York Times reporter Howard Beck had to say about the injury:

"

Tyson Chandler out rest of game after banging his left knee in opening mins. Knicks are calling it simply "sore" but say he won't return.

— Howard Beck (@HowardBeckNYT) October 24, 2012"

Check out how it happened here:

Sports Illustrated reporter Ben Golliver also mentions that "the injury occurred less than a minute into the game; Chandler immediately departed for the locker room."

If the knee is just sore, then it's not a big deal, but preseason injuries are always troublesome. Entering the regular season healthy sets a good omen for the rest of the season, and the season opener is rapidly approaching.

Chandler doesn't offer dynamic offense in the paint, but he was the 2012 NBA Defensive Player of the Year. Averaging 11.4 points per game isn't a big deal, but it pairs nicely with 9.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks.

With Chandler on the mend, the Knicks will turn to Marcus Camby in the middle. At 38 years old, he's nowhere near what he used to be on the defensive end of the floor, but he can still plug the hole for a short period of time.

Because of his defensive prowess, Chandler is one of the more sought-after centers in fantasy basketball. If you own him, keep an eye on this situation. A sore knee may not keep him out of the lineup, but it could hamper him enough to make him a step slower on both ends of the floor.

The Knicks carry large expectations into the season. In order to contend in the Eastern Conference, Chandler's presence is necessary.

This injury doesn't sound serious, but it's something to keep an eye on. Stay tuned for updates.