Nets' Paul Pierce leaves game vs. Magic with shoulder injury

Brooklyn Nets forward Paul Pierce was forced to leave Sunday's game against the Orlando Magic with an apparent right shoulder injury. 

The incident occurred midway through the third quarter on a drive to the basket by Pierce. He was struck on the shoulder by Magic power forward Kyle O'Quinn. Pierce immediately grabbed his shoulder, and was subbed off and did not return.

After the game, Piece declined to speak to members of the media.

With the playoffs looming next week, Pierce's health will be critical to the Nets' success. With their win over Orlando on Sunday, their magic number to clinch the 5th seed in the Eastern Conference sits at just one, wherein any loss by the Washington Wizards, or win by the Nets qualifies.

On the season, Pierce is averaging 13.5 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game.