The Golden State Warriors hosted their California rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers, tonight, hoping to build momentum with consecutive wins as their opponents look to avoid falling in the Western Conference standings. However, things took a turn for the worse when promising rookie Will Richard exited the game early. Here’s what happened to him.

Why Did Will Richard Leave the Game? What Injury Did He Suffer?

Richard exited the game in the first half after a good start, seemingly getting hurt after a bump from Lakers forward LeBron James.

The second-round rookie, who shifted to a bench role tonight following a start just last game, left for the locker room, and during the second quarter, the Warriors’ PR announced that he would not be able to return for the rest of the night, citing a right ankle sprain.

How Did Will Richard Perform Before Leaving?

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Richard was extremely productive during his limited time on the floor. In less than five minutes, he logged four points by connecting on two of his three shots, along with an offensive rebound and a block. This isn’t too far removed from his nightly output.

This season, over 53 games played, Richard has averaged seven points per game as well as 2.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.2 steals on decent efficiency for a rookie. He has played inconsistent minutes over the season, but as a starter, Richard has averaged slightly better stats, with 9.4 points on significantly better shooting efficiency, including a 30-point bomb in his first game as a starter.

How Did the Golden State Warriors Adjust Without Richard?

After Richard’s exit, the team has relied heavily on Gary Payton II and Pat Spencer, and the two have filled in well. Payton has carried much of the defensive impact and scoring, logging 12 points on six made shots, as well as two steals. Spencer has had a quieter night, logging two points, rebounds and assists as the Warriors look to mount a comeback against the fiery hot Lakers.

At the end of the third quarter, the Lakers lead 99-72, and the game has not been close since tipoff. LA came out firing, scoring above 32 points in each of their three quarters, powered mainly by their stellar three-point shooting on the night. The Lakers have connected on 15 of their 29 long-range shots compared to the nine threes the Dubs have made of 36 attempts.

For now, all the Warriors can do is hope to keep the game competitive, especially on a night without their key offensive pieces in Stephen Curry and Kristaps Porzingis. Curry is set to be reevaluated tomorrow for his Runner’s Knee condition, and Porzingis’ date of return is not yet known. This is what makes the loss of Richard so debilitating for the team.

Richard’s next chance to play for the Warriors will be on Monday against the Los Angeles Clippers, and expect an update from the team on the rookie’s status very soon.