The Golden State Warriors’ matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans took a sudden turn tonight when Will Richard exited the game, heading to the locker room early in the second quarter. It took place right after a hard foul from Pelicans forward Kevon Looney, and raised immediate concern for the 22-year-old guard, who has been an important part of the Warriors’ early-season rotation.

A replay made things clear. As Richard skied for a rebound, Looney elbowed him, immediately stopping the young guard in his tracks as he grabbed his back. Even the Warriors broadcast noticed it, with Kelenna Azubuike commenting, “Will Richard, that was ugly… Richard had to go straight to the locker room… [Looney] didn’t mean to do all that.”

Soon, Richard returned to the team’s bench, but was seen with a wra

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