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Lakers: Timofey Mozgov Injures Groin Playing for Russia

By Cody Williams

Jun 11, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Timofey Mozgov (20) reacts during the third quarter of game four of the NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 11, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Timofey Mozgov (20) reacts during the third quarter of game four of the NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Newly signed Lakers center Timofey Mozgov injured his groin playing internationally for Russia

Russia is not one of the 12 teams playing basketball in Rio. Meaning that newly minted Los Angeles Lakers center Timofey Mozgov isn’t in the Olympic Games. However, that doesn’t mean the big veteran isn’t still playing internationally.

On Friday, Mozgov and Russia took on neighboring Ukraine in a friendly matchup. In hindsight, the Lakers probably wish that he didn’t, though.

As reported by Mike Bresnahan of TWC Sportsnet, Mozgov suffered some sort of groin injury during the game. He obviously left the floor in pain after the injury. Moreover, the Lakers center then scheduled an MRI to see if there was any serious damage sustained.

Details on the injury are limited at this time considering the nature of the game that he was hurt in. However, Lakers fans have to be holding their breath quite a bit at the need for an MRI. Even if it’s only being done as a precautionary manner, that it’s serious enough to require precaution is concerning.

Many heated debates this offseason center on Mozgov signing with the Lakers. LA landed the former Cleveland Cavaliers big man to a massive four-year, $65 million contract. Fans and experts alike have bemoaned the contract time and again.

Even if you hate the contract, Mozgov still figures to be an integral part of the Lakers in the 2016-17 season. Not only is the center position pivotal under Luke Walton, but Mozgov also helps with development. His presence gives young players better opportunities. Moreover, Ivica Zubac can develop properly playing behind Mozgov.

If this injury is anything serious, though, those notions could go out the window before even the preseason. With those kinds of stakes, we’ll be sure to keep fans updated as to his condition and how long he’ll be out.

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