Utah Jazz C Rudy Gobert (knee) ruled out for Game 3 against Los Angeles Clippers

Utah Jazz center Rudy Gobert has been declared out of Friday's Game 3 due to the knee injury he suffered in the opener of the seven-game series against the Los Angeles Clippers.

Gobert was ruled out Thursday as he continues his recovery from the injury he suffered 17 seconds into the series on Saturday. Gobert banged knees with Clippers forward Luc Mbah a Moute and suffered a hyperextended left knee and a bone contusion.

The Jazz won the opener despite the loss of the defensive standout and lost Tuesday's Game 2 when Gobert was on the sidelines.

Gobert, who became the first player in Utah franchise history to have 1,000 points, 1,000 rebounds and 200 blocked shots in a single season, is viewed as a leading Defensive Player of the Year candidate. San Antonio forward Kawhi Leonard and Golden State forward Draymond Green are his competitors for the honor.

Power forward Derrick Favors will once again move to center with Gobert sidelined.