With their 96-92 defeat to Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night, the Los Angeles Lakers lost more than just a costly game in their desperate attempt to salvage a postseason berth.

They also lost the one player capable of not just leading them to the playoffs, but also causing havoc when they get there. Lakers star Kobe Bryant’s night came to a disappointing end. He missed a potential game-tying jumper on the baseline, then landed awkwardly on the right foot of Atlanta Hawks guard Dahntay Jones. Bryant crumbled to the floor, remained there for several seconds, then hobbled over to the L.A. bench with the help of a trainer.

The initial diagnosis brought with it the possible end of the Lakers’ semi-magical run.