National Basketball Association

Cavs' mascot back after accidental punch

Published Apr. 15, 2012 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

At least one member of the Cleveland Cavaliers is off the injury list.

Moondog, the team's floppy-eared mascot, was back on the court for Sunday night's game against Orlando after taking an accidental punch in the mask from Indiana's David West on Wednesday.

Moondog was taken to the hospital with an eye injury, but was released after being checked out. The mascot, who often interacts and teases opposing players, got into a mock fight with West during pregame introductions.

The Pacers forward accidentally struck the character in the mask, knocking the mascot to the floor. West was visibly upset following the game and apologized, even sending Moondog a jersey and a pair of basketball shoes.

The Cavaliers, who have been without rookie point guard Kyrie Irving and center Anderson Varejao for an extended period, also played at Indiana on Friday.