Blazers guard CJ McCollum out indefinitely for collapsed lung

The Portland Trail Blazers will be missing the talents of star guard CJ McCollum, after he was diagnosed with a collapsed right lung as revealed by a CT scan. There is no timetable at the moment for his return to action.

The 30-year-old suffered the injury- also known as a pneumothorax- in the last quarter of their 145-117 loss to the Boston Celtics on Saturday.

Prognosis to be determined

According to the Mayo Clinic, a pneumothorax takes place when air leaks into the space between the lung and chest wall. It “can be caused by a blunt of penetrating chest injury, certain medical procedures, or damage from underlying lung disease. Or it may occur for no obvious reason.”

“On some occasions, a collapsed lung can be a life-threatening event.”

Despite the injury, McCollum maintains a positive mindset. "Don't worry about anything, instead, pray about everything... Thank you lord for looking out for me," he wrote in an Instagram post.

McCollum will undergo further evaluation to establish his prognosis. He did not see action in Portland’s 102-90 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday, nor did he travel to San Francisco with the team for their game against the Golden State Warriors.

As a starter in 24 games this season, the veteran shooting guard has been averaging 20.6 points per game (shooting 39.3% from the three-point area), 4.1 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 35.3 minutes of play.

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Growing list of injuries

McCollum’s injury deals another blow to Portland’s backcourt, as they have already been missing All-Star Damian Lillard, who has been sidelined for four games with an abdominal injury. The 31-year-old is set to be re-evaluated within the week.

Backup shooting guard Anfernee Simmons and forward Nassir Little have both suffered ankle sprains.

The Trail Blazers have lost six of their past seven games, and are currently ranked 10th in the Western Conference with a record of 11-14.