Thaddeus Young injury: 76ers forward out 3 weeks with hamstring

The 76ers got devastating news to their playoff chances on Tuesday, when Thaddeus Young was ruled out for the next 3 weeks with a hamstring injury he suffered in their win over the Magic on Monday.

Over at Liberty Ballers, SB Nation's 76ers blog, news of the injury did not go over well:

This is obviously TERRIBLE news. Thad Young has been a big part of any success the Sixers have maintained this season. It's clear he's one of the most - if not THE most - valuable players this season. His new found identity has contributed to how well he's played this year.

Whether it's grabbing contested offensive rebounds for second chance baskets, his improved defensive rebounding, making difficult shots look awkwardly smooth, or playing good defense, Thad is always bringing positive attributes when he's on the floor. And I haven't even mentioned his general up tempo, high energy, "turning-garbage-into-gold" style of play that he brings to the game every night. Any time that Thad misses is a HUGE loss.

Young is averaging 15 points, 7 rebounds and 2 assists on 52% shooting this season. His injury, in combination with Andrew Bynum's season-long absence, doesn't leave Doug Collins many palatable options upfront.

He may go with the "Twin Towers" look of Kwame Brown and Spencer Hawes to start games, but Lavoy Allen, Damien Wilkins and Dorrell Wright will all likely see more time off the bench as well. Arnett Moultrie, their first-round pick from Mississippi State, may also play more in the next few weeks.

The news came at exactly the wrong time for the 76ers, who are running out of time to get back into the playoff hunt. They are currently 21-26, 3 games behind Boston for the final spot out East.