|
 Ibaka had a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan on his left
calf on Friday and is "expected to miss the remainder of the 2014
postseason," the Thunder said in a statement.
The 24-year-old suffered the injury during the third quarter of
Thursday's 104-98 series-clinching win over the Los Angeles
Clippers.
"We are obviously disappointed for Serge, as he is a tremendous
competitor, and we know how badly he wants to be on the court with
his teammates," said Thunder General Manager Sam Presti.
Ibaka, who is known for his shot-blocking skills, has been averaging
12.2 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.23 blocks per game during the
playoffs.
He led the National Basketball Association in total blocks during
the regular season for a fourth consecutive year after recording 219
blocked shots.
"At this point it is important that our team directs its
concentration and energy towards preparation and execution for our
upcoming series," said Presti.
"As with all teams, our group has confronted different challenges.
It is our collective experience that we will call on to ensure that
we play to our capabilities."
[to top of second column] |
The second-seeded Thunder, beaten in five games by the Miami Heat in
the 2012 NBA Finals, will take on the top-seeded Spurs in the
best-of-seven Western Conference finals, starting on Monday in San
Antonio.
(Reporting by Mark Lamport-Stokes in Los Angeles; Editing by Frank
Pingue)
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