Is Rickea Jackson Playing Tonight vs Phoenix Mercury? Los Angeles Sparks Injury Report, Starting-5, and More

Kelsey Plum’s scoring explosion in the first game might have covered their long list of injuries, but their concerns only continue to grow. While Cameron Brink‘s return cannot come soon enough, her rookie partner, Rickea Jackson, is the one facing issues with her injury. And with an injury to the head in question, the Sparks must be cautious with Jackson.

Is Rickea Jackson playing tonight?

Rickea sustained a significant head injury during Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Lynx. The incident occurred in the third quarter when she was involved in a collision under the basket, taking a direct hit to her jaw and mouth area from a Lynx player’s shoulder. The impact was clearly visible, and Jackson was noticeably shaken. She remained on the court for a few moments before slowly making her way to the bench. After being evaluated by the medical staff, she did not return to the game, a strong indicator of the severity of the blow.

John W. Davis reports Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson is in concussion protocol now and will not be available for their game against the Mercury. This absence is a considerable blow for the Los Angeles Sparks. Jackson has quickly established herself as a vital component of their offense, bringing a combination of scoring, athleticism, and versatility to the forward position. Her importance to the team is evident in her statistical contributions alone. In the first two games of this season, Jackson averaged 10.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, building on a strong rookie campaign where she earned a spot on the All-Rookie team . Her ability to create her own shot and contribute on both ends of the floor will undoubtedly be missed in tonight’s matchup against the Mercury. The team will need other players to step up significantly to compensate for her absence.

Los Angeles Sparks: Injury report & potential starting 5

While a significant loss, Rickea is not the only player the Sparks are missing. With growing injury concerns on both teams, It’s not just about who plays better, but about who can even play at all. Making for a game where resilience and depth will be tested in equal measure.

Los Angeles Sparks

G Kelsey Plum

F Azura Stevens

F Dearica Hamby

C Mercedes Russell

For the Sparks, the hits just keep coming. Rae Burrell, a promising piece on the wing, is sidelined for a substantial 6-8 weeks with a right knee injury. Last season, Burrell averaged 5.9 points and 1.8 rebounds in 15.6 minutes per game. It’s a blow that takes away valuable minutes and a versatile defender. While the Sparks breathe a sigh of relief, it wasn’t a season-ender; a significant chunk of the season without Burrell means others will need to step up.

Then there’s the long-awaited return of Cameron Brink, their highly touted rookie forward, who is still expected to miss time until June with a knee issue. In her limited 2024 appearances, Brink averaged 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and a notable 2.3 blocks per game, demonstrating her immediate impact. Her absence has been felt keenly in the paint, where her defensive prowess and burgeoning offensive game are sorely missed.

This places pressure on veterans like Dearica Hamby and Azurá Stevens to carry a heavier load in the paint, raising concerns over their fitness levels and sustainability in the long term. With Burrell out long-term and Brink still sidelined, their rotational depth will be severely tested. The Sparks will be scrambling for consistent scoring and will need offense off the bench. Due to their growing list of injuries, Sparks have also added Former Notre Dame forward Liatu King on a hardship contract.

The Phoenix Mercury, while dealing with their own injuries to Kahleah Copper (back) and Natasha Mack (back), are still in a much stronger position. They possess enough star power and depth, particularly with players like Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas, to exploit the Sparks’ significant weaknesses. Phoenix will likely dominate the rebounding battle, generate second-chance points, and find success attacking the rim.

Considering the severe and critical nature of the Sparks’ injury report, the Mercury will be favored to win the game. But considering Kelsey Plum’s early season form, you’d be safe placing no bets.

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