Clippers unsure of extent of Chris Paul's rib injury

It was a rough night for top-level point guards and their midsections at Staples Center on Monday.

Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul left the game against the Portland Trail Blazers in the third quarter and was ruled out with a rib muscle strain.

Blazers point guard Damian Lillard also departed the contest in the third with abdominal pain.

It's not clear how Paul injured himself, but he was seen grabbing at his side before heading to the locker room.

Clippers head coach Doc Rivers said after the game that the team is unsure of the extent of Paul's injury, and that he'll be evaluated prior to Wednesday's game against the red-hot Indiana Pacers.

The eight-time All-Star has missed three games this season due to a groin injury. Paul scored 10 points and dished out six assists in 24 minutes Monday.

Austin Rivers, who's averaging just 1.6 assists per 36 minutes, will likely draw the start should Paul miss any time.

The Clippers beat Portland 102-87.