CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards is expected to be sidelined for at least two weeks due to a right first rib cartilage fracture beneath his clavicle. The injury occurred during an on-court collision in the first half of the Hornets’ game against the Boston Celtics on November 1.
The team has not provided a specific timeline for his return, but they will reevaluate Richards every two weeks. The Hornets’ next update on his condition will come after their road trip on November 17. In the meantime, Richards will miss at least seven games.
The Hornets are already facing challenges at the center position, with regular starter Mark Williams still sidelined due to his own injury. Richards’ absence will further deplete the team’s frontcourt depth.
Richards, who stands 7 feet tall, has appeared in 205 career games over five seasons, with averages of 6.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks per game. This season, the 25-year-old has been in strong form, posting career highs of 11 points, 10 rebounds, and 2.4 blocks per game through his first five appearances.
The Hornets will need to adjust their lineup as they navigate this stretch without one of their key big men.
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