Cavaliers center Shaquille O'Neal underwent evaluation, including a MRI, at Cleveland Clinic Sports Health late Saturday afternoon upon the team's return from Toronto, the results of which confirmed a significant sprain to his right thumb.
If the ligament is completely torn, O'Neal may need surgery to correct the problem. If that happens, the normal recovery time is 6-8 weeks. Back in 1995, O'Neal suffered a torn ligament in the thumb that caused him to miss 22 games while a member of the Orlando Magic.
He will travel with Cavaliers Head Team Physician Dr. Richard Parker today for additional evaluation by Dr. Thomas Graham at the National Hand Center in Baltimore, Maryland. His status will be updated following that exam as appropriate. His game status remains Out and no time table for his return to play has been established yet.