Chauncey Billups of the Los Angeles Clippers figured to be one of the key reserves that would help the moribund franchise finally return to respectability. Backing up the great Chris Paul and flanked by Caron Butler and Mo Williams, these guards would help power the craziness of Lob City.
It looks like that multi-pronged guard attack might have to wait awhile after Billups sustained what looked to be a tough injury against the Orlando Magic. Steve Kyler of HoopsWorld reports an Achilles injury, which generally means a red alert for any basketball player.
"He’s going to be re-evaluated," Del Negro said. "He’s got an Achilles injury. I don’t know the severity of it, but it’s kind of bittersweet. We will see what happens but we will re-evaluate it tomorrow."
Many of Billups’ teammates commented in the locker room that their point guard was "done," hinting that the Achilles was more than a strain and was, in fact, a full tear.
Billups left the locker room with his foot in a boot, walked with the aid of crutches and did not speak to media.
Billups has struggled to start the season with his decision-making, particularly down the stretch of games. However, his veteran presence figured to have a big impact later on come playoff time. His loss could be really felt down the stretch, as Paul and Williams will be forced to log the big minutes at the one spot.
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