The Nets and Lakers were squaring off in China when Kyrie Irving left his first preseason appearance one minute in after suffering a facial contusion, the team said Thursday morning.
Irving was hit in the face once again, exiting the hardwood in clear discomfort. He was already wearing a mask due to a facial fracture he sustained playing pick-up with the Nets earlier this offseason.
It appears that Rajon Rondo was the one who collided with Irving.
The All-Star didn't return to the game. The Nets obviously want Irving on the court to start the regular season, especially with Kevin Durant out for its entirety.
Brooklyn kicks off its regular season schedule on Oct. 23 against the Timberwolves at 7:30 p.m. at Barclays Center. Irving, then, has some time to rest and heal.