LA Clippers

Lance Stephenson's status for preseason opener vs. Nuggets is unknown

Published Oct. 2, 2015 4:26 p.m. ET

foxsports

The status of Los Angeles Clippers wing Lance Stephenson, who is battling a public bone inflammation, is unknown for Friday night's preseason opener against the Denver Nuggets.

Stephenson practiced on Thursday and was fine, but the injury has been sporadically rearing up and giving him trouble.

Per Ben Bolch of the Los Angeles Times:

Stephenson is an integral part of the Clippers' new bench, as he will share ball-handling duties with Austin Rivers and defend the opponent's best wing scorer on the other end. Stephenson was acquired in a trade with the Charlotte Hornets, who received Matt Barnes and Spencer Hawes from the Clippers.

The Clippers' primary focus, of course, should be resting Stephenson and ensuring he makes a full recovery so he isn't forced to miss any time in the regular season.