Earl Clark injury: Lakers forward out indefinitely with strained right groin

Los Angeles Lakers forward Earl Clark is out indefinitely after suffering an injury to his right groin during the team's training camp, according to the team's official blog.

Clark was acquired in the trade for superstar Dwight Howard from the Orlando Magic and was competing for a spot on the Lakers' bench behind starter Pau Gasol. The severity of the injury to Clark is unknown, but it doesn't figure to hamper the Lakers in terms of depth as the team will likely use a rotation of Howard and Gasol to play center while Jordan Hill and Antawn Jamison will likely see most of the minutes at forward.

Second-round pick Robert Sacre also has an opportunity to provide key reserve minutes should he make the final roster. That leaves little room for Clark to make an impact early on.

Jordan Hill has a herniated disc in his back, and Howard suffered a back injury of his own a season ago and is hopeful to see some preseason minutes.