Mavs rule Rajon Rondo out indefinitely with back injury

Sure, call it a back injury. We see you, Rick Carlisle.

The Dallas Mavericks have ruled point guard Rajon Rondo out indefinitely due to a back injury sustained in Tuesday's Game 2 loss to the Houston Rockets.

Rondo exited the game just two possessions into the third quarter after picking up his fourth foul. There was no indication at the time that Rondo had been hurt, but he was spotted using a foam roller and stretching on the sidelines throughout the rest of the game. 

It's now believed he hurt his back trying to take a James Harden charge early in the game. He didn't return, finishing the game with four points, two rebounds, an assist and an embarrassing eight-second violation.

Considering Rondo's relationship with Carlisle, the team's head coach, has reportedly deteriorated beyond the point of no return and that the Mavericks have struggled since acquiring him, an indefinite mystery injury could lead to speculation that Rondo is essentially being benched.

Crazy as that may seem considering "Playoff Rondo" has a reputation as a serious difference-maker, the Mavericks have been awful with him through two games.

In 46 games after being acquired, Rondo averaged 9.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 6.5 assists for Dallas but the team was 6.5 points per-100 possessions better without him on the court.

If healthy, Devin Harris could draw the start in his place, while J.J. Barea and Raymond Felton stand to see extended run, and Monta Ellis can expect to have the ball in his hands even more than usual.