For Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert, returning to the starting lineup can't come soon enough after suffering a hyperextended knee and bone bruise in Saturday's matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers.

An MRI later revealed Gobert didn't tear any major ligaments, but that doesn't mean he's out of the woods just yet.

The Jazz will remain short-handed for the time being and will have to try to gut out another win on the road without their shot blocking big man.

Gobert has been ruled out for Game 2 at Staples Center and is being evaluated on a per game basis regarding his return. The good news is that he is walking on his own without crutches or extra support. and

While it may take some time for the injuries to fully heal, the Jazz are turning to their depth to fill in at the center position, starting Derrick Favors with Jeff Withey coming off the bench.

The Jazz lead the first round series vs. the Clippers 1-0, and Game 2 will commence at 7:30 pm PST on TNT.