PHOENIX, AZ - OCTOBER 20: Brook Lopez #11 of the Los Angeles Lakers reacts after hitting a three point shot against the Phoenix Suns during the second half of the NBA game at Talking Stick Resort Arena on October 20, 2017 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Lakers defeated the Suns 132-130. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)Christian Petersen/Getty Images

Lakers' Brook Lopez Suffers Ankle Injury vs. Warriors; X-Rays Negative

Scott PolacekDec 18, 2017

Los Angeles Lakers big man Brook Lopez suffered a right ankle sprain during Monday's game against the Golden State Warriors.

Lakers reporter Mike Trudell reported the news, noting X-rays were negative.

This is a difficult setback for the 2013 All-Star, who was a bright spot for a struggling Brooklyn Nets franchise over the past few seasons and came to Los Angeles as an important part of the Lakers frontcourt.

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Lopez has averaged more than 17 points per game in every season since his 2008-09 rookie campaign. He posted 20.6 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game in 2015-16 and followed with 20.5 points, 5.4 rebounds and 1.7 blocks a night last season.

Lopez was averaging 13.0 points and 4.4 rebounds per game entering play Monday in 2017-18.

Los Angeles will likely turn toward the combination of Kyle Kuzma, Julius Randle and Larry Nance Jr. in the frontcourt while Lopez is out.

While those pieces can help keep the Lakers afloat for the time being, Lopez is a veteran leader on a team looking to surprise in the Western Conference this season. They could use him back and healthy before the stretch run.