Injuries Mount Before Pacific 10 Opener

Coach Steve Lavin said UCLA’s victory over Purdue gave the Bruins momentum and confidence heading into conference play. But that confidence won’t heal the Bruins’ injuries. UCLA will have to play Washington, a one-point winner in last season’s conference opener, with an injury-ridden lineup. Rico Hines is recovering from knee surgery, Dan Gadzuric has been bothered by a bruised hand, and Ray Young sprained his left foot and did not practice Tuesday. Earl Watson practiced but was bothered by pain in his right wrist.

Watson and Young will have X-rays today to determine the severity of their injuries.

Freshman forward Josiah Johnson has been recovering from a stress fracture in his left foot but worked out with the team Monday and Tuesday. Lavin said he has not ruled out redshirting Johnson and will decide that based on how quickly the other players heal.

*

The Bruins have had five starting lineups in nine games. Jason Flowers started at Purdue in place of Young. He scored only three points, but Lavin said there’s a good chance he’ll start against the Huskies.

“He helps the team with his intensity, and he adds a spark in a similar way that players in the past like Bob Meyers and Sean Farnham have,” Lavin said. “He’s a great example to his teammates through his leadership, and he’s a sound basketball player so he’s not going to hurt you.”