Hornets' Richards out indefinitely with rib cartilage fracture

Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards is out indefinitely after an MRI revealed a right first rib cartilage fracture, the team announced Tuesday.

The big man will be evaluated "every other week."

Richards was injured in the first half of Friday's contest against the Boston Celtics and did not return.

The Kentucky product was off to a strong start to the campaign, averaging 11 points, 10 boards, and 2.4 blocks across five appearances.

Richards' absence leaves the Hornets thin at the center position, especially since Mark Williams remains sidelined with a foot injury.

Charlotte started Grant Williams and veteran Taj Gibson at the five in the two games Richards already missed.

The Hornets have dropped three straight and sit 12th in the East with a 2-5 record.