Late in the second quarter of last Monday’s victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Los Angeles Clippers suffered a devastating blow to their playoff chances.

As Chris Paul fought over a screen by the Thunder’s Joffrey Lauvergne, the point guard injured his left thumb. Although x-rays were negative in the immediate aftermath, an MRI the following day revealed the true extent of the damage.

Paul suffered a torn ligament in his left thumb and would require surgery, leaving the Clippers without their vocal leader for the next six to eight weeks. This cruel twist for the “Lob City” faithful sent waves throughout the world of fantasy basketball.

Life Without Chris Paul: Now What?

How can you replace Paul’s impressive production? The “point god” averages 9.7 assists per game (fourth in the league) and 2.2 steals per game (first in the league). Paul’s all-around contributions in points, three-pointers, rebounds, and free-throw percentage are icing on the cake. Simply put, CP3 is one of a kind.

So, how can you survive without one of the premier players on your team? Well, your strategy will depend on your current rank in the standings and what categories you’ve prioritized in building your roster.

If You’re a Lock for the Playoffs

You can stash CP3 in the hopes that he returns in time for the post-season. If you have an IR spot, this is a no-brainer. Nonetheless, you will want to replenish your depth at point guard since Paul’s injury history makes him a bit risky going forward.

Philadelphia 76ers point guard T.J. McConnell may help take the edge off. Over the last 30 days, McConnell has averaged seven points, 7.2 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. McConnell won’t deliver you the same shooting percentages or pure points production as Chris Paul, but the Sixers point guard will help you maintain dominance in dimes.

Another intriguing option is Milwaukee’s Malcolm Brogdon. In the last month, Brogdon has really come into his own as the Bucks’ starter, even replacing Matthew Dellavedova. With 30-day averages of 12.3 points, 5.8 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.2 steals, Brogdon offers all-around production which will help you remain competitive across all categories.

If You’re on the Bubble

Before you panic, take stock of your matchups over the next few weeks. Check how your opponents stack up against your team in each category. Paul’s biggest impact is in steals and assists. Can you afford to lose those categories?

If things are looking pretty dim, then perhaps your best option is to propose a few trades. Here’s a sample message to get you started:

Dear (insert GM’s name here):

I'm looking to deal Chris Paul and thought that you may want to acquire him at a discounted price since you’re a lock for the playoffs. Paul is projected to return just in time for fantasy playoffs, so he’d be a great addition to your squad. I’m also currently in talks with (insert name of other top teams).

Try to get the best possible return for Paul through a trade. Dropping him for nothing is your last resort here. Somebody is guaranteed to pick him up as a stash. Also make sure that you’re at least getting a player who’s better than the best guy available in free agency – you don’t want to get taken to the cleaners here.

Hopefully, you’re in decent position even without Paul’s production. If this is the case, then you can use streaming to shore up stats that will take a hit. Overhauling your roster build at this stage will be next to impossible, so try to remain true to your current strategy as much as possible. You can take advantage of the following streaming options:

• J.J. Barea – assists, points, three-pointers
• Seth Curry – points, steals, three-pointers
• Tony Allen – rebounds, steals, three-pointers
• Thabo Sefolosha – rebounds, steals
• Channing Frye – three-pointers

I’m not going to lie – surviving without Chris Paul will be tough. It will require craftiness and dedication. Still, you have a fighting chance! Don’t let one player’s injury ruin your fantasy season. If you can scrape by until the post-season starts, CP3 might carry you to the finish line. All for one and one for Chris Paul!