PHILADELPHIA, PA - JANUARY 19: VJ Edgecombe #77 of the Philadelphia 76ers handles the ball during the game against the Indiana Pacers on January 19, 2026 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
As their two days of rest ends, the Sixers released a pretty clean injury report for their nationally televised bout against the Indiana Pacers. VJ Edgecombe, who was a late scratch from Philadelphia’s previous game vs. Detroit with an abdominal contusion, is not listed at all. Neither is Joel Embiid for that matter, who missed the second part of that back-to-back with plantar fasciitis management, so the whole starting five will be good to go in Indy.
Indiana’s injury report is far more lengthy after falling to the Milwaukee Bucks two days prior. Ivica Zubac has already been ruled with an ankle sprain, and Tyrese Haliburton is questionable with left hamstring tightness. Haliburton has played in all four of the Pacers’ games so far since returning from his torn achilles.
Obi Toppin and Aaron Nesmith are at least probable. Andrew Nembhard is questionable after missing that Bucks loss with neck soreness. They have three more reserves already ruled out including former Sixer T.J. McConnell.
Injury Report for tomorrow's game against the 76ers:
Aaron Nesmith – Probable (left hamstring strain) Obi Toppin – Probable (left hand sprain) Tyrese Haliburton – Questionable (left hamstring tightness) Andrew Nembhard – Questionable (neck soreness) Ben Sheppard – Out (left… pic.twitter.com/Kdok5dcrkG
If the Pacers are down this many players, it lines up for plenty of opportunity for Kelly Oubre Jr. in his first game against the Sixers after spending the last three seasons in Philadelphia.
Per ESPN, the 25-year-old is having an “arthroscopic procedure” on his right knee.
Edwards had yet to miss any games for the 3-1 Timberwolves, averaging 33.3 points in 33.8 minutes per game. He was the early league leader in field goals made and attempted. On Monday, Oct. 26, he scored 47 points in 41 minutes against the Cleveland Cavaliers. It was his second game with at least 45 points this season.
He was on the NBA's latest injury report, listed as questionable for Wednesday's game against the Golden State Warriors. Now, though, he seemingly could be out until the calendar flips to 2027.
The Timberwolves took big swings this offseason, trading away Julius Randle and Naz Reid while bringing in LaMelo Ball and Jonathan Kuminga. The early returns were promising, but now Minnesota must navigate a tough Western Conference without its best player.
Edwards is a perennial All-Star and the best pure shooting guard in the NBA. Through four games, he's avweraging 33.3 points per game, and he is a three-tier scorer, who is just as lethal from 3-point range as he is slashing to the basket and getting to the cup. He is one of the premier offensive forces in the world, and his competitive spirit sets the standard for the Timberwolves. He'll be sorely missed.
Yet, Minnesota's offseason acquisition of LaMelo Ball and its investment in backup guard Ayo Dosunmu does provide some relief for the Timberwolves to try to weather this stretch without Edwards. Ball has been solid for Minnesota so far this season. He's a player who can initiate offense and create his own shot. To be clear: spacing and defensive attention will be trickier with Edwards out, but Ball is equipped to take on more scoring responsibility.
Dosunmu should be elevated into a starting role. He's also a talented scorer and wields dynamic speed and athleticism. He also showed last postseason — when both Edwards and guard Donte DiVincenzo were knocked out with injuries — that he could carry the Timberwolves, at least in a spot basis; in Game 4 of Minnesota's first round series against the Nuggets, Dosunmu dropped 43 points in a victory in which the Timberwolves were massively shorthanded.
Minnesota's Anthony Edwards will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his ailing right knee and could miss up to two months, reports ESPN’s Shams Charania. However, Edwards could return sooner than eight weeks, depending on what the doctors find during the surgery.
This is a proactive move by the Timberwolves, who look at how they have played and the landscape of the West early in the season and think they can be in the mix to come out of the conference. By having the surgery now, Edwards will be back around Christmas at the latest, and the team will have plenty of time to ensure a high seed and get its chemistry right before the playoffs.
While it's just four games, Edwards has played at an MVP level to start the season and has led the Timberwolves to a strong 3-1 record. He's averaging 33.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game while shooting 40% from 3-point range.
More scoring and shot-creation load will now fall on LaMelo Ball and Jaden McDaniels.
On Tuesday, Williams was asked about the league’s ruling and said that if he had to do it again, he’d do it.
“Do I agree with it? Not necessarily, but it’s the league’s rule,” Williams told Khobi Price of the California Post. “I paid my fine. If I gotta flop again to get a win, then that’s what I’ll do.”
Ziaire Williams on the NBA fining him $2K for flopping late in Sunday's win over the Jazz.
Said he doesn't necessarily agree with the league's ruling ("I thought it was a good defensive play) and is hoping to appeal the fine. Added: "if I gotta flop again to get a win, then… https://t.co/oFY6KESqeGpic.twitter.com/etqpUqo0PH
Lakers forward Ziaire Williams opens up about being fined $2,000 for flopping. NBAE via Getty Images
Williams added that he asked his agent, Aaron Mintz of CAA Sports, to look into appealing it.
“I thought it was a good defensive play,” Williams said. “… I sent it to my agent; hopefully we can appeal it, but if not, it is what it is.”
Williams was asked if the money has already been pulled from his bank account. “Oh, I’m pretty sure they did. I don’t know where that money is going, but they [took] it out of that account real quick.”
Williams’ flop happened at the 4:44 mark of the fourth quarter after he exaggerated contact when Jazz guard Keyonte George drove to the basket.
George’s attempted play was a midrange shot that would’ve put Utah up by three points. Instead, he was called for an offensive foul — resulting in Los Angeles gaining possession of the ball.
The Lakers’ Ziaire Williams opens up about being fined $2,000 for flopping on Sunday. NBAE via Getty Images
While the Lakers went on to win the game, Williams said his play isn’t the worst flopping play the NBA has seen and is curious to see what happens the rest of the season.
“I’m not mad about [it] or anything, and it’s not going to affect the way I play defense. I’m always going to do what it takes to win,” Williams said.
The Lakers’ Ziaire Williams attempts to block Jaren Jackson during the Lakers’ comeback victory Sunday. Getty Images
(Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Anthony Edwards was among the NBA’s leading scorers through the first week of the season, and he was helping make the Minnesota Timberwolves the most exciting team in the league. Now the 25-year-old superstar is set to miss the next two months as he’s set to undergo an arthroscopic procedure on his right knee, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
Edwards’ knee had been bothering him during preseason, but he fought through it to drop 45 points in the season opener, and then 47 points in an overtime loss to the Cavs on Monday night. One day later, the team decided its best for Edwards to take care of his knee now so he can be healthy for the most important games of the season. This injury seemingly ends Edwards’ MVP case — candidates must play at least 65 games — and will probably put a big dent in Minnesota’s regular season record.
There have been so many injuries already early in the season. The Oklahoma City Thunder likely lost Jalen Williams for the year to a nasty dislocated ankle, then lost Cason Wallace for several months to a torn labrum. The Pistons are already down Jalen Duren to a hamstring strain, and the Utah Jazz are now without Jaren Jackson Jr. for two months after a torn MCL. The Orlando Magic have already seen Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs go down. That’s just the start of it.
Injuries impact every season, and they’re coming for this one early. Here’s hoping Edwards can get right again for the games that really matter.
CHICAGO, IL - OCTOBER 7: Head Coach Jordan Ott of the Phoenix Suns looks on during the game against the Chicago Bulls on October 7, 2026 at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
Fall is settling into the Valley of the Sun, and the nights are finally becoming crisp. I think nothing of it when my wife gets up in the middle of the night to turn off the ceiling fan. Unfortunately for me, the ceiling fan switch sits next to two other switches, one of which controls the outlet on my side of the bed. How I became the lucky bastard who inherited the switched outlet is one of life’s great mysteries, but here we are.
So when I woke up this morning and discovered that my phone hadn’t charged all night, I quickly pieced together what had happened. While stumbling around in the darkness, the Mrs. had initially missed the ceiling fan switch and inadvertently turned off the outlet powering my charger. And as I stood there staring at my lifeless phone, the first thought that entered my basketball-obsessed brain was, “Well, crap. I’ve been disconnected. Much like the Phoenix Suns defense.”
I landed that plane, didn’t I?
After surrendering 143 points in the season opener against the Portland Trail Blazers, your instinct was to chalk it up as a variance game. “Shit happens,” as Forrest Gump says, and with all the emotion Portland was riding into its season opener surrounding the return of Damian Lillard, you could rationalize the Suns being unprepared to match that energy.
But since then, they’ve surrendered 122 points to the Santa Cruz version of the Golden State Warriors and another 125 to an extremely banged-up Oklahoma City Thunder team. It’s beginning to look less like that season opener was a fluke and more like the defensive identity of the Phoenix Suns, much like a lonely iPhone in the night, is disconnected.
Watching their collective performance has been a shock to the system for a team that built its reputation on that side of the ball a season ago. And the only thing more disappointing than watching it unfold is opening up the stats section on NBA.com to assess the damage. Because yes, it is damaging.
The Suns are allowing 123.7 points per game, which shockingly is only the fifth-most in the NBA. But their 124.5 defensive rating? Yeah, that’s the worst in the league. Their rebounding percentage sits dead last at 42.9%, and they’re tied for allowing the most second-chance points at 23.0 per night.
This team reminds me of the one we watched during the back half of last season. You know the one. The team that went 14–16 over its final 30 games. But there was justification for that team being as discombobulated as it was, right? Injuries were the culprit, not the system. You could point to the fact that over those final 30 games, Devin Booker missed 10, Dillon Brooks missed 20, and Mark Williams missed 10. The stability Phoenix had experienced for most of the season had disappeared, and the results reflected it.
What we witnessed at the end of last season looks an awful lot like what we’re seeing at the beginning of this one. Opposing teams are manipulating the Suns’ defense in ways that are both predictable and unacceptable. Guards are slicing into the lane unimpeded, getting to the rim for layups that are weakly contested because the rotating big man arrives late. And why is he late? Because he’s busy guarding his own guy. You can’t have catastrophic defensive collapses where nobody stops the ball and then expect your center to magically erase the mistake at the rim.
When perimeter defenders are continually beaten, and penetration occurs, the defense collapses to compensate. And when that happens, wide-open three-pointers become available. The Suns currently rank 29th in perimeter defense, with opponents shooting 40.7% from beyond the arc through the first three games.
Oh, and the rebounding? Per Basketball University, the Suns are permitting their opponents to grab 43.3% of their own misses. If Phoenix does somehow stop the opposition on a possession, odds are they’ll get another crack at it.
Phoenix is currently allowing opponents to grab 43.3% (!) of their own misses. Impossible to produce good defense when you have to defend 1.5x more possessions than you should have to.
Part of me is beginning to wonder whether we were too quick to blame injuries for the way Phoenix struggled down the stretch last season. Because what we’re witnessing at the front end of this year looks remarkably similar to what we saw at the back end of last year. Is it the same issue? Is unfamiliarity the primary culprit? Because if it is, that problem was never fixed last season.
And when I look at teams like the Warriors and Thunder, who have been limping through games against Phoenix over the past two contests, they still appear connected defensively. They have guys out there I’ve never heard of (I’ve got a vanilla iced protein latte for Josh Dix here), yet somehow, strategically and schematically, they’re finding ways to defend as a cohesive unit. Hell, the Thunder were throwing a 2-3 zone at the Suns, and Phoenix couldn’t figure out how to crack it.
Yes, my friends, the Suns look disconnected. And it’s becoming increasingly difficult to determine whether the problem is the personnel or the scheme.
Three games is a small sample, but the similarities to last season’s collapse are becoming difficult to ignore. At some point, Jordan Ott and his staff have to determine whether the system is putting players in positions to succeed or exposing their deficiencies. And the players have to execute their responsibilities within it. There’s accountability on both sides. Because right now, the Suns are playing defense like five individuals sharing a court rather than five teammates sharing a purpose. Somebody needs to find the damn light switch.
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - OCTOBER 26: Payton Pritchard #11 of the Boston Celtics celebrates after scoring against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at TD Garden on October 26, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Rough start might be an understatement for the Brooklyn Nets. The worst part? Opponents aren’t getting any easier.
Brooklyn dropped its third straight game Sunday, falling 136-109 to the Indiana Pacers on the backend of a back-to-back. Now, the Nets head to Boston to face a Celtics team that dealt with its fair share of drama this offseason, but continues to push as a championship threat on the back of Jayson Tatum.
Boston is coming off a 134-99 win over the Chicago Bulls. That sounds like bad news for the Nets who can’t find answers on the defensive end. As Erik Slater noted, the Nets are giving up 23.3 wide-open threes per game (6+ feet of space) and opponents are shooting 50% on those looks. Combine that with poor rim protection and you’re looking at an unconvincing 0-3 start.
Head coach Jordi Fernández didn’t mince words after Sunday’s loss.
“The performance that we put on after the first quarter was just unacceptable. 112 points in three quarters — you’re not winning basketball games.”
The Nets will get some help with Mikel Brown Jr. expected back after sitting out Sunday’s game for injury management. Brooklyn needs to find a response before this early-season skid grows into something they can’t salvage.
Game Info & How to Watch
Matchup: Brooklyn Nets (0-3) at Boston Celtics (2-1)
Time: 7:30 PM EDT
Venue: TD Garden, Boston, Massachusetts
TV/Streaming: YES Network and DAZN
Nets-Celtics Injury Report
Brooklyn Nets
Joshua Jefferson: OUT (G League assignment)
Drake Powell: OUT (G League assignment)
Ben Saraf: OUT (G League assignment)
Tyler Bilodeau: OUT (G League assignment, two-way)
Grant Nelson: OUT (G League assignment, two-way)
Boston Celtics
Injury report: TBD
Game Preview
“[Mikel Brown Jr.] will be one of several guards chasing Payton Pritchard around tonight. Pritchard hit for 28 points and seven three-pointers last night as he had the Bulls in a blender. PP has been one of the best reserve guards in recent years and is someone Mazzulla and the team can count on to deliver no matter what the role is on a given night. His ascension allows for more flexibility and makes things easier across the board for his teammates. For Brown Jr, Pritchard offers a great test against on the defensive side of the ball, while playing against elite competition overall. It should be fun to see how he shapes out against one of the most prepared teams in the NBA.” – Brian Fleurantin
💬 Discussion
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The Sixers are trying to figure out their personnel and plans behind Joel Embiid. It’s far from the first time.
In many previous seasons, the Sixers have fared dramatically worse with Embiid off the floor. That trend hasn’t changed in the very early days of the 2026-27 campaign.
No numbers are worth any deep scrutiny yet. Still, the backup center spot and defensive rebounding were valid, overlapping concerns going into the season. The Sixers haven’t had great starts in either area.
“If you’re missing some of your size … it obviously becomes a problem and all five guys have to rebound,” Sixers head coach Nick Nurse said Sunday. “I look at the numbers there and the defensive rebounding, no matter the position, just isn’t good enough. So everybody has to chip in with a few more. That’s got to be the answer for sure.”
From guard to center, the Sixers will need more to avoid another season as one of the NBA’s bottom defensive rebounding teams.
“Boxing out, going to get the ball aggressively,” Anfernee Simons said Tuesday. “Obviously, having tall guys (available) does help. I think it’s going to be a collective thing. … We can try to mitigate the struggles of maybe not having some big guys out there. We’ve just got to be extra tough to be able to withstand that.”
Adem Bona’s work on the glass against Detroit was a significant positive.
The third-year big man played his best game of the young season, recording six points, 13 rebounds and three blocks. Continued good minutes by Bona would simplify Nurse’s decisions.
“I think the biggest thing I’m happy about is Bona played more like we’re used to seeing,” Nurse said following Tuesday’s practice. “We probably would’ve went that way if that body of work had been in front of him. It’s easy to say when you’re looking back on it, that you would’ve made some other moves and all that kind of stuff. And listen, we’ve had some amazing moments with LeBron (James) at the five, so I’m going to draw from those.”
Instead of Bona, Nurse started James at center and the Sixers sunk into a 15-1 hole.
James is capable of sliding up to the five, but he doesn’t expect to do it much.
“S—, we have the (former) MVP over here,” James said postgame, pointing toward Embiid’s locker. “I’m not here to have a sustainable role at the five. You’ve got Joel Embiid on the team. … It’s a role that we know we can tap into. I know I can play one through five offensively and defensively. But a sustainable role playing the five? I don’t think that’s it.”
Aspects of the Sixers’ Embiid-less play should improve with reps and sharper role definition. Whether it’s Bona, James, Dean Wade or another alternative at center, the team should fine-tune its principles over time.
“I think the biggest thing is with Process, we play a lot of five-out because it’s good for us,” Tyrese Maxey said Sunday. “When we go small ball, it would be good for us to play in a little bit of a different way. Maybe four out, one in. Create some driving lanes with Dean or Bron or somebody else off the top of the key just in case (Jaylen Brown) or somebody wants to crash the paint or something like that.
“We’re going to figure it out. I think it was game four. I’m not too worried about that.”
Tacko Fall, who received the Sixers’ third and final two-way slot, has been out with a left quadriceps strain and won’t be available Wednesday night when the Sixers visit the Pacers. Fellow center options Jabari Walker (left knee soreness) and Dominick Barlow (lower back stress reaction) will remain sidelined as well. The 7-foot-6 Fall did return to practice Tuesday as a full participant, a team official said. VJ Edgecombe practiced and was off the Sixers’ injury report after missing Sunday’s game with an abdominal contusion.
Kawhi Leonard's return to the Toronto Raptors has encountered a concerning setback, and he's likely to miss his lone scheduled game back in Los Angeles against his former team because of it.
The Raptors announced on Tuesday, Oct. 27, that Leonard will undergo a treatment and rehabilitation program to address swelling in his left knee. Medical imaging did not reveal an acute injury, according to the team, and he will be reevaluated in one week.
The relatively light punishment cleared the way for Leonard to join a Raptors team with hopes of contending in the Eastern Conference this season. Now, however, he's not expected to be available when Toronto plays its only game of the 2026-27 regular season against the Clippers at Intuit Dome on Nov. 2. The Raptors' outlook, meanwhile, suddenly depends on whether Leonard's swelling subsides or becomes a lingering concern.
Here's more on his injury situation and what it means for the Raptors moving forward:
Leonard posted a message on social media that appeared designed to reassure Raptors' fans. It noted he would be "returning soon." The Clippers did not release a specific timeline for Leonard's return, other than to note he would reevaluated in one week.
"It's always frustrating missing time," Leonard said. "I came back to compete with this team and I'm focused on getting back to 100."
Leonard is coming off one of his healthiest years in recent memory, having appeared in 65 games for the Clippers during the 2025-26 season. But there were nonetheless concerns about his durability given his injury history and age.
The uncertain nature of this knee ailment only underscores the potential issues the Raptors could be forced to manage the remainder of the season. Knee swelling can sometimes become a recurring issue over the course of an 82-game season, particularly for a 35-year-old player with Leonard's extensive injury history.
There good news is an MRI revealed no structural damage, which decreases the chances that Leonard is facing an extended absence. It's also not an injury to the right knee Leonard has had surgically repaired multiple times before and during his NBA career.
What Kawhi Leonard's injury means for the Raptors
If Leonard is out for "weeks," as an ESPN report suggested, the Raptors should still be able to remain in contention while he's out.
Toronto finished as a top-six seed in the Eastern Conference a year ago, and a core featuring Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley and R.J. Barrett can provide enough firepower to stay afloat. Second-year forward Collin Murray-Boyles, who has drawn comparisons to Draymond Green, could benefit the most with an increased role while Leonard is sidelined.
The roster isn't quite as deep after the moves required to acquire Leonard, but Toronto's championship aspirations ultimately hinge on having him healthy in April and May, not October and November.
Kawhi Leonard stats
Leonard is averaging 19.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.5 steals through two games this season with the Raptors. He averaged 27.9 points and 6.5 rebounds per game during the 2025-26 season with the Clippers.
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 23: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors handles the ball during the second half against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on October 23, 2026 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Todd Olszewski/Getty Images) | Getty Images
After sitting out Sunday’s game between the Toronto Raptors and Minnesota Timberwolves because of knee swelling, Kawhi Leonard “is expected to miss a period of weeks due to swelling in his left knee,” according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
“MRI on Leonard’s knee showed no structural damage,” Charania said, “but sides will use the shorter term to ramp him back up after the stoppages during the offseason.”
Toronto's Kawhi Leonard is expected to miss a period of weeks due to swelling in his left knee, sources tell ESPN. MRI on Leonard's knee showed no structural damage, but sides will use the shorter term to ramp him back up after the stoppages during the offseason. pic.twitter.com/DBAgI3v38D
Leonard’s reportedly multi-week absence means he’ll miss the upcoming game Sunday between the Raptors and Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. It also means he’ll miss his return to Intuit Dome against the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday, so their fans cannot greet him with boos (if they elected to) for his role in the organization’s salary cap circumvention, which will ultimately cost the Clippers five first-round picks. This is a very Clippers scenario. Rarely do things pan out for them throughout the course of NBA history.
Prior to his injury, Leonard had opened the season slowly. Through two games, he was averaging 19.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.5 steals and 1.5 assists while shooting 32.4% from the floor and 28.6% beyond the arc. While Toronto will surely miss his impact and general presence, it’ll hope an extended rest helps him find his All-NBA groove once he’s back.
Despite Leonard’s struggles, the Raptors won their first two games by double digits before the Timberwolves routed them, 117-94, while Leonard sat. They’ll host the Paolo Banchero-less Orlando Magic on Wednesday and Friday ahead of a four-game road trip that kicks off Sunday against the Lakers.
WASHINGTON, DC - OCTOBER 12: AJ Dybantsa #4 of the Washington Wizards shoots a free throw during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on October 12, 2026 at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Kenny Giarla/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images
AJ Dybantsa was upgraded to questionable for Wednesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers, per the Wizards’ injury report.
Dybantsa, the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, has missed Washington’s first four games after spraining his left ankle in the team’s preseason finale.
The 6-foot-9 wing led all NCAA Division I scorers with 25.0 points per game as a freshman at BYU last season. His elite athleticism, 42.5-inch maximum vertical and efficient scoring at the rim made him the top prospect in a talented draft class.
Dybantsa is expected to start alongside Trae Young, Kyshawn George, Anthony Davis and Alex Sarr upon his return. Bilal Coulibaly, who started and played well in Dybantsa’s place, will move to the bench.
Champagnie injury update
Justin Champagnie suffered a “right foot injury” in the Wizards’ 110-103 loss to the Charlotte Hornets on Monday, per the team’s injury report.
Champagnie appeared to injure his foot late in the first quarter. He attempted to play through it, but the injury overruled that determination. The 6-foot-7 wing intentionally fouled to stop the game and hobbled to the Wizards bench, where Khris Middleton and a team staffer helped him to the locker room.
The Wizards quickly ruled him out with a right foot injury. Champagnie was one of Washington’s best players through the first three games. The Wizards were a +36 with him on the floor and a -30 with him off. He tallied 11 points and 14 rebounds and was a +18 in the team’s win over the Bulls.
“[Justin] is going to recover, and whatever he’s going through, we’re going to be right there with him, and he’s going to be right there with us throughout his recovery,” Trae Young said. “We’re going to make sure he’s right. We’ll hold down the fort while he’s gone.”
Davis not on injury report
Anthony Davis was not listed on the Wizards’ injury report after he was seen shaking out his right hand toward the end of the fourth quarter.
Brian Keefe said postgame he thought Davis got hit in the hand and had no update. Davis took a more sarcastic approach postgame when asked about the potential injury.
“Oh no, I was hitting too many shots, and I was just shaking it out — it was kind of hot,” Davis said.
The Western Conference just underwent a power shift.
Thunder star Jalen Williams will undergo surgery for a dislocated left ankle and fractured fibula. Cason Wallace suffered a torn labrum in his left shoulder that also requires surgery.
Jalen Williams (8) of the Oklahoma City Thunder gives a thumbs up to the crowd while being carted off after an injury during the second half of a game against the LA Clippers at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026. Getty Images
But it also means there could be more of an opening in the crowded Western Conference, which means the Lakers must go all in this season.
Doncic leads the NBA in scoring (34.3 points per game). Reaves is tied for eighth (26.7 points per game). The Lakers have the top-rated offense in the league (125.9).
They’re the only team with two top-10 scorers. Doncic and Reaves are the highest-scoring duo in the league (61 points per game). And Kessler is living up to the team’s high expectations as the defensive anchor and franchise center.
Luka Doncic (77) of the Los Angeles Lakers works the ball against Darryn Peterson (22) of the Utah Jazz during the second half of an NBA basketball game at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026. Getty Images
But they still have some notable weaknesses. They’re thin behind Kessler. Their defensive rebounding is in the league cellar, and their perimeter defense needs improvement. The Lakers are ranked 19th on the defensive end (112.4).
If the Lakers could shore up their holes, who’s to say they couldn’t compete with the NBA’s top teams?
The Western Conference is loaded with talent. Victor Wembanyama wants to lead the Spurs back to the championship round. The Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards, LaMelo Ball and Rudy Gobert could be dangerous. Kevin Durant and Fred VanVleet are on a mission to make the Rockets a real threat.
As for the Thunder, they’re still loaded with talent and depth. They went 39-10 without Williams last season. They have two-time reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on their roster. But their injuries — coupled with their offseason moves, including trading Lu Dort, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe — make them thinner on the wing and weaker on defense.
That means the Lakers have an easier path against a team that has notoriously given them fits.
Austin Reaves (15) of the Los Angeles Lakers drives to the basket against Darryn Peterson (22) of the Utah Jazz during the second half of an NBA basketball game at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026. Getty Images
Last season, the Lakers went 0-4 against the Thunder, losing their regular-season games by an average of 29.3 points. The Thunder then swept the Lakers out of the second round of the playoffs.
The Lakers are a different team this season.
LeBron James left in free agency. Doncic is the head of the snake. They added nine new players over the summer. But still, it’s no secret that the Thunder were their kryptonite — and likely still are this season.
But things have shifted a bit.
The unfortunate injuries to the Thunder make one of the Lakers’ greatest foes a little less daunting. It makes LA’s path to the top of the Western Conference a bit less difficult.
The door is cracked.
And the Lakers should use everything they have left in their arsenal to blow it open.
It was a devastating 24 hours in Oklahoma City. Everyone who saw Jalen Williams go down against the Clippers knew how bad it was, as Thunder GM Sam Presti put it, "This is an injury that generally we see more in football players." On top of that came the news that Cason Wallace has a torn labrum and will need to undergo surgery. Presti and OKC won't put a timeline on things, but history suggests neither player will touch the court again this season.
Now what?
What should we expect from the Thunder going forward? First: Expect a lot of wins. This team was without Williams for large chunks of last regular season and still won 64 games, most in the NBA. In their one game so far without their two starters (not to mention no Chet Holmgren or Alex Caruso), the Thunder still easily handled the Suns. The other change is that while the defense will still be good, it will not be elite. Instead, this is about to become an offensive team. That wins a lot of regular-season games.
But what about the playoffs? And what should we look for?
More Ajay Mitchell, Jared McCain
The Thunder have a natural replacement for Wallace: Ajay Mitchell. In his first game in that role this season, Mitchell stepped up, showed off his physicality and midrange game, and dropped 30 on the Suns.
Mitchell is not the All-Defense-level player on that end that Wallace is, but he works hard and is a plus defender who fits within the system.
Williams is a more difficult role to fill, largely because there aren't other players like him. There will be more Alex Caruso, but coach Mark Daigneault and the Thunder know they can't overtax him. Jared McCain will get more minutes, but he is a guard, not a forward. Kenrich Williams may see the biggest jump in minutes, and he is rock solid, but he's not an All-NBA level talent like Williams.
Lean into center rotation
Oklahoma City has the best big man rotation in the NBA. Chet Holmgren — second in Defensive Player of the Year voting last season while averaging 17.1 points per game — and Isaiah Hartenstein start at the four and five. However, what makes this work is the depth. Jaylin Williams is the kind of big off the bench every team could use, and rookie Aday Mara has proven he deserves a spot in the rotation.
Aday Mara MAKING PLAYS in his first NBA game
Big-time swat at the rim. Two-hand alley-oop slam.
Oklahoma City needs to lean hard into its strengths, and it has the best center rotation in the league.
Don’t expect big trade
When asked about what the injuries mean in terms of a roster move, Thunder General Manager Sam Presti said he hadn't thought about that yet. He was still processing the injuries.
However, the tea leaves suggest OKC is not likely to make a big move. First, this team is already good, has great locker-room chemistry and wins games. Why mess with that?
Second, this team made moves this offseason that Presti admitted weren't basketball moves but were about saving money, trading away Lu Dort, Aaron Wiggins and Isaiah Joe. As constructed, the Thunder are expensive and about to get even more so in the coming years. Oklahoma City is already over the first apron of the luxury tax and is about $6.9 million below the second apron, a line they are very unlikely to cross during the season. While the Thunder have an open roster spot and can get a disabled player exception for Williams worth close to $15 million, no game-changing free agents are available for them to snap up. The Thunder could consider a trade depending on how the season plays out, but they don't want to mess up their chemistry or take on much more money.
The Thunder are going to stick with the players they have, and at the trade deadline they can make small adjustments as needed, but it's far more likely to be small moves, not a blockbuster.
What does all this mean for the Thunder in the playoffs? It's far too early to have a clear picture of the West, but Oklahoma City has gone from the early favorite in the West to a team that will enter the playoffs with matchups in mind. Who do they have now who can defend Luka Doncic or Kevin Durant?
The road for the Thunder back to the NBA Finals just got bumpier and steeper, but it's not closed off. Things will look different, but OKC could still win it all.
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BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - FEBRUARY 27: Hugo Gonzalez #28 of the Boston Celtics defends Terance Mann #14 of the Brooklyn Nets during the first half at the TD Garden on February 27, 2026 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images) | Getty Images
Brooklyn Nets (0-3) at Boston Celtics (2-1) Tuesday, October 27, 2026 7:30 PM ET Regular Season Game #4, Home Game #3 TV: NBCSB, YES, League Pass Radio: 98.5 Sports Hub, 101.9 FM, Sirius XM TD Garden
The Celtics host the Brooklyn Nets for their 3rd straight home game. This is the first of 4 games between these two teams this season. They will play again in Boston on January 16. They will meet twice in Brooklyn on December 13 and March 23. The Celtics were 3-1 against the Nets last season, with Brooklyn’s lone win in Boston. The Celtics are 148-75 overall, all time against the Nets. They are 78-35 all time in games played in Boston.
The Celtics are playing on the second night of back to back games. This is the first of 16 back to back sets for the Celtics this season, which is the most for any team this season. The average is 14.2 back to backs. The Celtics early schedule is brutal with four stretches of three games in four nights before December. They had an easy win on Monday with no player going more than 27 minutes. Hopefully their depth will help them maneuver this stretch successfully.
The Nets have made several changes in the offseason. Their biggest addition is Julius Randle, who they got in a trade with the Timberwolves. They also added Moritz Wagner, Keon Ellis, and former Celtic, Josh Minott. They drafted Mikel Brown, Jr with the 6th pick and Joshua Jefferson with the 28th pick. They lost Malachi Smith, Ochai Agbaji, Tyson Etienne, EJ Liddell, Zaire Williams and Jalen Wilson.
The Celtics went 4-0 in the preseason, winning with their starters in 2 of the games and winning two other games with their reserves and Exhibit 10 players. They beat Cleveland, Charlotte and Philadelphia twice. The Nets also had a good preseason, beating Charlotte, Philadelphia and Washington before losing to the Miami Heat.
After this game, the Celtics will play home against Chicago for the first NBA Cup game. They will then play at Orlando and Houston and then home against Milwaukee before a road trip takes them through Charlotte, Milwaukee, Philadelphia and Toronto. They play Dallas and Orlando at home before a West coast trip that takes them through Denver, Sacramento, Golden State, and Washington.
The Nets will host Detroit before traveling to Indiana and New York. Then they have one game at home before playing at Atlanta, Dallas, New Orleans and Memphis. Next they host Philadelphia, Chicago and Orland before games at Minnesota, Milwaukee, Toronto, and Charlotte. Then they have a home and home set against Oklahoma City before hosting Boston. Then they play at Detroit before a 6 game home stand against Dallas, Orlando, Washington, Portland, San Antonio and New Orleans.
The Celtics started Derrick White, Jordan Walsh, Paul George, Jayson Tatum and Mitchell Robinson in the first 3 games and I have once again listed the same starters for this game. It’s also possible that Joe may change this up for this game, especially if the Celtics plan to rest Tatum, George, or Robinson on the second night of back to back games. I’ve listed the Nets starters from their last game, which are Egor Demin, Keon Ellis, Michael Porter, Jr, Julius Randle, and Day’Ron Sharpe.
The Celtics still have Devin Carter on the injury report due to illness. After missing the final 3 games of the preseason, Carter was diagnosed with mononucleosis and is without a timetable for a return. Derrick White has been added as probable with hip synovitis. As of this time, no players are being held out for rest due to the back to back games. For the Nets, Tyler Bilodeau, Joshua Jefferson, Grant Nelson, Drake Powell, and Ben Seraf are all listed as out due to G-League assignments.
Probable Starting Matchups PG: Derrick White vs Egor Demin
Derrick White | NBAE via Getty ImagesEgor Demin | Getty Images
SG: Jordan Walsh vs Keon Ellis
Jordan Walsh | Getty ImagesKeon Ellis | Getty Images
SF: Paul George vs Michael Porter, Jr
Paul George | NBAE via Getty ImagesMichael Porter, Jr | Getty Images
PF: Jayson Tatum vs Julius Randle
Jayson Tatum | NBAE via Getty ImagesJulius Randle | NBAE via Getty Images
C: Mitchell Robinson vs Day’Ron Sharpe
Mitchell Robinson | NBAE via Getty ImagesDay’Ron Sharpe | NBAE via Getty Images
Celtics Reserves Chris Cenac, Jr Mike Conley, Jr Luka Garza Hugo Gonzalez Ron Harper, Jr Sam Hauser Payton Pritchard Neemias Queta Baylor Scheierman Two Way Players Devin Carter Dillon Mitchell Amari Williams
Injuries/Out Devin Carter (illness) out Derrick White (hip) probable Head Coach Joe Mazzulla
Nets Reserves Mikel Brown, Jr Noah Clowney Joshua Jefferson Terrance Mann Josh Minott Drake Powell Ben Seraf Nolan Traore Moritz Wagner Danny Wolf
Two-Way Players Tyler Bilodeau Chaney Johnson Grant Nelson Injuries/Out Tyler Bilodeau (shoulder) questionable
Head Coach Jordi Fernandez
Key Matchups Paul George vs Michael Porter, Jr Porter is averaging 27 points, 8.0 rebounds, 1 assist and 3.5 steals per game. He is shooting 51.3% from the field and 45.0% from beyond the arc. He is a threat from both in the paint and on the perimeter and the Celtics need to defend him wherever he is on the court. The Celtics also need to be careful handling the ball around him because he is averaging 3.5 steals per game. Although Paul George has said he plans to play in back to back games this season, it’s possible that Joe may sit him for rest in this one.
Jayson Tatum vs Julius Randle Randle is averaging 28 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists per game. He is shooting 58.1% from the field and 55.6% from beyond the arc. As with Porter, he is a threat both inside and on the perimeter. He is strong and will be tough to stop in the paint. The Celtics need to defend him closely and play him for both the shot and the pass.
Honorable Mention Derrick White vs Ego Demin Demin is averaging 13 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists per game. He is shooting 35% from the field and 33.3% from beyond the arc. He is capable of having a big game so the Celtics need to guard him closely. The Celtics also need Derrick White to get back to being a consistent offensive threat. He is listed as probable with hip synovitis so hopefully he will be able to play at 100%.
Keys to the Game Defense – As always, defense is the key to winning this, and every, game. In the preseason, the Celtics were tops in the league with a defensive rating of 98.6. The biggest problem in the Celtics collapse against the Pistons was their failure on the defensive end. Likewise, one of the biggest factors in their win over the Knicks was their defense. They held New York to just 103 points and also forced 18 turnovers, leading to 19 points off turnovers. The Celtics need to continue to make defense their priority.
Rebound – As with defense, rebounding will always be a key to winning. The Celtics have to crash the boards as a team and go after every rebound. In the preseason, the Celtics were 1st with 55 rebounds per game and 3rd with 16.8 offensive rebounds per game. So far in the regular season, they are 17th in rebounding with 43.3 rebounds per game. The Nets are 20th with 42 rebounds per game. Robinson and Queta are 2 of the best rebounders in the league and they need to be aggressive on the boards. The Celtics need to do what they do best and win the rebounding battle against the Nets.
3 Point Shooting – The Celtics are 5th, shooting 41.7 threes a game while the Nets are 8th, shooting 37.8 threes per game. The Celtics are 1st, shooting 42.4% from beyond the arc while the Nets are 8th, shooting 37.8% from beyond the arc. Both teams shoot a lot of 3’s and make a good percentage of them. The Celtics can’t afford to have a drought from beyond the arc as they did in the 2nd half against the Pistons. They need to focus on taking and making good shots. If the 3’s stop falling, they need to take the ball into the paint. Be Aggressive and Play Hard – One of the hallmarks of the Nets in recent years is that they play hard. The Celtics have to be the team that plays harder. They need to be aggressive on the boards, in going to the hoop, in diving for loose balls, and just overall throughout the game. Talented teams can be beaten if they allow their opponents to play harder than them. I know that they are playing on the second night of back to back games, but they have to come out strong and play hard right up until the final buzzer.
Take Care of the Ball – Going into Monday’s game, the Celtics were best in the league at taking care of the ball with just 12.5 turnovers per game. Against the Bulls on Monday, they turned the ball over 24 times, which dropped them to 16th, averaging 16.7 turnovers per game. They have to clean that up and take better care of the ball. They need to be more careful with their passes and also focus on handling the ball without losing it.
X-Factors Home Game – The Celtics need to take advantage of home court and the boost their fans can give them. The Nets will face a hostile crowd and an unfamiliar arena along with travel which will hopefully give the Celtics the edge. The Celtics need to play hard and protect home court and use the advantages it gives to get a win. Back to Back – The Celtics could be facing fatigue from playing the night before. They do have the advantage that they didn’t have to travel after Monday’s game. They also were able to limit everyone’s minutes on Monday and that should help them in this game. The Celtics should use their depth to avoid a let down from tired legs. The Celtics have young players who should be able to give them a boost if the starters start to feel some fatigue from playing the night before.
Officiating – Officiating is always an x-factor in every game. Every crew officiates differently. Some call it tight, others let them play. The Celtics need to adjust to how the refs are calling the game and not allow bad calls or no calls to take away their focus from playing the game. The Celtics also have to be aware of the new points of emphasis for this season and try to avoid flopping, off‑arm push‑offs, reckless closeouts, delays before free throws, and illegal screens. Paul George was already fined for a flop in the first game.
