Lakers might shut down Larry Nance, Jr. for the rest of the season

Larry Nance, Jr has already missed nine games with a knee injury, and the problem flared up again on Monday night against the Milwaukee Bucks. Nance, Jr. left the eventual loss after playing just over a minute in the third quarter when it was clear the knee was bothering him too much. The rookie aggravated the injury during the first half when landing awkwardly following a layup.

After the game, Lakers head coach Byron Scott gave an update on the knee, telling reporters that he and Gary Vitti had discussed shutting the first-year forward down for the rest of the season as a precautionary measure, according to Mike Bresnahan of the L.A. Times. Such a decision would make some sense if the Lakers have any concerns about the knee, as Nance, Jr.'s future should be prioritized over any small short-term gain Los Angeles would get from having him on the floor.

However, Nance, Jr., sounds like he is more optimistic and does not want to miss any further time if possible:

Larry Nance, Jr. says his knee is fine and he plans to play Wednesday. Said it was "precautionary" that he was taken out w/LAL down big.

— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) February 23, 2016

Even if the Lakers concern was "precautionary," it would probably serve the franchise well to look at the bigger picture when considering whether or not to let Nance, Jr. continue to play.

All stats per NBA.com. You can follow this author on Twitter at @hmfaigen.