It is no secret that the L.A. Clippers have been one of the most injury-riddled teams in the 2017-18 NBA season. Yet they have still managed to remain in the playoff hunt down the final stretch.

However, there is one player in particular whose injury has kept head coach Doc Rivers up at night. According to Elliott Teaford of the O.C. Register, Rivers admitted that the injury to small forward Danilo Gallinari has left the biggest void on the team:

“Overall, of the guys we’ve missed (most), it’s ‘Gallo,’” Rivers said. “It’s not even close.”

Gallinari has largely flown under the radar as one of the more solid forwards in the league for some time now. However, Rivers' comments are certainly telling of the impact he has had on this team. His numbers this season solidify that notion.

The eight-year veteran was acquired via trade from the Denver Nuggets in the last offseason. Although he has had a rough time staying on the court, Gallinari has made his presence felt with 15.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. His versatile skill set fits in seamlessly with the Clippers' offensive attack. Unfortunately, he has only been able to play in just 19 games this year after fracturing his right hand in late February.

There are plenty of questions surrounding the Clippers this offseason regardless of whether they make the playoffs or not. Despite his limited time with the team, it is clear that he has made quite the impression on Rivers. This could indicate that he may be part of the rebuild moving forward.