CHARLOTTE, NC – Charlotte Hornets center Nick Richards is expected to miss at least two weeks after being diagnosed with a cartilage fracture in his right first rib below the collarbone.

The team has not given a clear timetable for his return, except that he will be reevaluated every two weeks. The next update on his status will follow the team’s Nov. 17 road trip. He will miss at least seven games.

Richards was injured during a collision on the court in the first half against the Boston Celtics on November 1.

The Hornets are already thin at center as regular starter Mark Williams has not played this season due to injury.

The 7-foot Richards has played in 205 games and holds career averages of 6.8 points, 5.4 rebounds and 0.9 blocks in 205 games over five seasons. This year, Richards is averaging career-highs 11 points, 10 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in his first five appearances.