Lakers confirm Pau Gasol is out 6-8 weeks with foot injury

The Lakers announced Thursday that Pau Gasol will be out for a minimum of 6-8 weeks with a torn plantar fascia in his right foot.

Gasol was injured on Tuesday in the fourth quarter of the Lakers’ 92-83 victory over the Brooklyn Nets.

After an initial diagnosis in Boston, Gasol flew to Los Angeles where he was examined by foot specialist Dr. Kenneth Jung.

Gasol has struggled with plantar fasciitis throughout the season, a painful swelling of the tissue on the bottom of the foot. He also missed games with knee tendinitis, sitting a total of 13 this year.

In 36 appearances, Gasol is averaging 13.4 points, 8.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists a game. If the Lakers (23-26) can push their way into the playoffs, Gasol might be available on the eight-week timeline.

Coach Mike D’Antoni had moved Gasol to the bench in favor of Earl Clark, citing a better fit alongside Dwight Howard. The Lakers are also without Jordan Hill, who is out for the season with a hip injury.

Antawn Jamison and Metta World Peace can cover the minutes at power forward behind Clark. Rookie Robert Sacre is now the only center on the roster behind Dwight Howard, who is battling through a shoulder injury.

Unless the Lakers bring in additional help, D’Antoni will platoon Clark, World Peace, Sacre and Jamison behind Howard.

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Email Eric Pincus at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.