# NBA player injury wave

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nba-player-injury-wave
> Updated: 2026-10-27T16:00:01.000Z. Sources: 34. Developments: 2.

The start of the NBA season has been marked by a series of significant injuries to high-profile players.

Initial reports highlighted Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards, who is expected to be sidelined for approximately two months following arthroscopic surgery on his right knee. The procedure aims to address persistent knee issues, potentially keeping him out until late December and causing him to miss around 25 games. This absence may impact his eligibility for end-of-season NBA awards, which require a minimum of 65 games played. During his recovery, the Timberwolves are expected to rely on players such as LaMelo Ball, Jaden McDaniels, and Ayo Dosunmu.

Despite a standout start to the season—averaging 33.3 points per game and setting a franchise record with 133 points through his first four games—Edwards decided to undergo the procedure after playing through discomfort, including a 47-point performance in a recent loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Additionally, Utah Jazz center Jaren Jackson Jr. is facing a six-to-eight-week absence due to a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee. Unlike Edwards, Jackson is reportedly expected to undergo conservative treatment rather than surgery.

As the situation developed, the scope of player absences expanded to include Kawhi Leonard, who is expected to miss several weeks due to left knee swelling; an MRI showed no structural damage. Other notable players sidelined include Jalen Williams, following an ankle dislocation and fibula fracture, and Paolo Banchero. In Detroit, Jalen Duren is projected to miss at least two weeks due to a hamstring injury, while Ausar Thompson and Isaiah Joe remain questionable.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-27: NBA stars face significant injuries during season start

Multiple NBA stars, including Kawhi Leonard and Anthony Edwards, are facing significant injury setbacks during the early stages of the season.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nba-stars-face-significant-injuries-during-season-start

### 2026-10-26: Anthony Edwards to undergo knee surgery, missing up to two months

Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards will undergo right knee surgery, potentially missing up to two months of action.

31 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/memphis-grizzlies-defeat-golden-state-warriors-111-108

---
Cite as: NBA player injury wave. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nba-player-injury-wave