John Collins Leaves Game With Bloodied Head After Mid-Air Collision With Jaxson Hayes

However, he immediately appeared shaken and was bleeding as team staff rushed to his aid.

Teammates and staff helped Collins off the court and escorted him to the locker room for evaluation. He did not take the ensuing free throws, but the team indicated he would be eligible to return if cleared by medical personnel.

Before the injury, Collins had been productive, tallying 12 points on 5-of-8 shooting, along with one rebound and one steal in just 16 minutes. His efficiency and activity had been a bright spot during his stint on the floor.

Head injuries are always handled cautiously, and Collins was reportedly undergoing evaluation for a potential head injury following the fall. If he is unable to return or misses additional time, veteran forward Nicolas Batum would likely see an expanded role, with additional frontcourt minutes potentially available for depth options.

John Collins Gets Injury Update After Head Collision

The Los Angeles Clippers received a cautiously positive update on John Collins after a frightening first-half collision against the Lakers.

Blood was immediately visible as Collins lay on the floor after the 6-foot-9 forward crashed hard onto the hardwood, striking the left side of his head.

However, the Clippers later announced Collins was questionable to return. However, ESPN’s Jorge Sedano reported during the broadcast that Collins would not re-enter the game.

The fact that he was not immediately ruled out earlier suggested he may have avoided a confirmed concussion diagnosis, though additional testing will determine his status moving forward.

Additionally, it continues what has been a strong first season in Los Angeles for Collins, where he is averaging 13.8 points on an efficient 56.4% from the field and 42.6% from three across 52 appearances.

His absence forced lineup adjustments, with increased minutes available for Batum, Derrick Jones Jr., and other rotational pieces.

For now, the Clippers’ focus remains on Collins’ health. Given the visible impact and bleeding, the team would proceed cautiously before clearing him for future action.