Indiana Pacers forward Chris Copeland was injured following a stabbing outside of a New York City nightclub early Wednesday morning. Via the Daily News:
According to the sources, Copeland and Katrine Saltara, 28, began arguing on the street after leaving the Chelsea hot spot. Another patron, 22-year-old Shezoy Bleary, inserted himself into the dispute.
Bleary then pulled a knife, stabbed Copeland, 31, and slashed Saltara in her arm and leg, the sources said. The Pacers released a statement saying Copeland was also cut on his left elbow.
Copeland is in stable condition at a New York hopsital.
Larry Bird, the Pacers President of Basketball Operations, released a statement confirming the incident. The team is in New York to play the Knicks, as they attempt to keep their playoff hopes alive. Indiana is currently 10th in the Eastern Conference, one game behind the eighth place Boston Celtics.
Copeland signed a two-year, $6.1 million contract with the Pacers in July 2013, but has failed to build off the success that made him a fan favorite as a 28-year old rookie with the New York Knicks. Copeland is averaging only 6.2 points in 50 appearances this season.
It is unknown if Copeland was targeted due to his status as an NBA player, although the league is looking into the incident.
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