2 min read • December 06, 2024
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Staying on top of NBA injury updates is crucial for fans, fantasy managers and sports bettors alike, especially as the season heats up.
From LaMelo Ball's stellar performance tempered by a recent calf strain to Stephen Curry managing bilateral knee tendinitis, these updates provide insight into how injuries are impacting some of the league’s top players and their teams. Whether it’s Kevin Durant’s significant absence for the Phoenix Suns or Austin Reaves’ pelvis injury sidelining him for the Lakers, these developments could shift team dynamics and playoff positioning.
Here’s an expert breakdown of the latest updates and their implications for the season.
The star guard has been diagnosed with a left calf strain and will miss at least two weeks, putting his expected return around mid-December. Ball is having a career year, averaging 31.1 points and 6.9 assists per game. If he can remain healthy past Christmas, he has a strong chance of earning an All-Star selection in February.
Curry’s bilateral knee tendinitis is something to keep an eye on as the season progresses. He recently missed one game due to the condition but returned on Friday to start against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Curry has been playing fewer minutes this season as the Warriors have been rotating 13 players in their lineup. However, as the season wears on and the rotation tightens post-Christmas, expect Curry’s minutes to increase.
The Suns star is expected to miss at least three games after turning his left ankle on December 3. He will be re-evaluated in a week, with a potential return date of December 13. However, there is a possibility he could miss additional time. The Suns are 1-6 without Durant in the lineup, making his absence a significant challenge for the team if it extends further.
Reaves sustained a hard hit mid-air against the Jazz on Sunday and was sidelined for the following game of a back-to-back due to a pelvis injury. Although he continued playing after the hit before halftime, the issue has lingered, and he has yet to return to action. Reaves has been a durable player throughout his career and is expected to play a key role in helping the Lakers maintain playoff positioning once he recovers.
The Lakers forward is in the process of ramping up for his season debut as he recovers from a pair of offseason surgeries. However, he experienced a setback due to fluid buildup in his left knee. As a result, he is now targeting a return in January.
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