Charlotte’s Kemba Walker left Monday’s game after colliding with Orlando’s Elfrid Payton in the third quarter.
Charlotte Hornets guard Kemba Walker suffered a left knee contusion during Monday night’s preseason game against the Orlando Magic. Walker sustained the injury in the third quarter after colliding with Orlando Magic guard Elfrid Payton. Walker spoke about his injury after the contest.
I just bumped knees with Payton. I’m alright, though. A little sore, but I’ll be alright.
Walker bumped knees with Payton as he attempted to drive to the basket for a layup. After the collision, Walker trotted slowly across the baseline, and was taken to the locker room after Charlotte called a timeout. Walker did not return to the contest, and finished with 11 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists in a 99-97 win.
According to Hornet’s head coach Steve Clifford, Walker’s status for Charlotte’s next preseason game is unknown. They will face the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday at home.
I think he’s OK. He’s got one spot where it’s a little bit sore, but I think everything’s going to be fine. It’ll just depend on how he feels (Tuesday). He’s in the training room now and I don’t think they felt like this was anything serious.
Walker said he doesn’t plan to be sidelined long, but he may sit Wednesday’s preseason game to prevent any further damage to his knee.
Probably just a few days. Walker said. It’s nothing major. It’s nothing big to worry about. Just a straight knee-on-knee hit. I’ll be fine.
Kemba Walker appeared in 73 games for the Charlotte Hornets last season, averaging 17.7 points, 6.1 assists and 4.2 rebounds per game.
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