The Los Angeles Clippers were given some hope on Sunday that Blake Griffin, out since mid December with a knee injury, might be able to return in time for Monday's game. He was upgraded from out to doubtful at the same time that head coach Doc Rivers said the power forward was feeling "great." 

Griffin has now been ruled out for Monday's game against the Atlanta Hawks, a clear indication that he's not yet ready to return to action.

With Chris Paul sidelined for an extended period of time, the Clippers are going to want Griffin back in the mix here soon. He could make his return against Philadelphia on Tuesday. 

Before injuring his knee in December, Griffin was having a tremendous season, averaging 21.2 points, 8.8 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game. With two consecutive losses following the Paul injury, the Clippers need to get back on track. And from a fantasy perspective, Griffin would definitely see an uptick in production with his fellow All-Star sidelined for the next 5-to-7 weeks.