NBA Injury Roundup: Key Stars Sidelined as Teams Navigate December Grind
As the NBA calendar pushes deeper into December, the injury report is starting to read more like a full roster sheet. From Utah to Memphis, several teams are managing key absences as they try to stay afloat in the thick of the season. Here's a breakdown of some of the most notable updates heading into the weekend slate.
Jazz Star Likely Out Again vs. Magic
The Utah Jazz could be without their top scorer for a second straight game on Saturday, as the forward is officially listed as doubtful due to right groin injury management. It’s a precautionary move, but one that could have ripple effects on both ends of the floor.
Through 24 games this season, the 28-year-old has been nothing short of electric. He’s averaging a career-best 27.8 points per game, while also contributing 7.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and a steal per night. His efficiency has been impressive too - shooting 46.9% from the field, 35.2% from deep, and nearly 90% from the free-throw line.
With him sidelined during Thursday’s loss to the Lakers, second-year big man Kyle Filipowski stepped into the starting lineup. Filipowski brings size and hustle, but the offensive void left by Utah’s leading scorer is not easily filled. If he’s out again against Orlando, expect the Jazz to lean heavily on their supporting cast to keep the offense flowing.
Anthony Davis Guts It Out for the Mavericks
Anthony Davis isn’t known for shying away from pain, and Thursday night was another example of his grit. The Mavericks big man played through both an illness and a lingering left calf contusion in an overtime win over the Pistons - and still managed to post a monster line: 15 points, 18 rebounds, and three blocks in 37 minutes.
“I actually threw up twice during the game,” Davis revealed postgame. “Still feel under the weather… just trying to compete. Just trying to do whatever I can to help the team win.”
Davis had missed the previous game with the calf issue but returned to anchor Dallas on both ends. His presence in the paint, especially on the glass, was critical in a game that demanded every ounce of effort. If he continues to battle through these ailments, it speaks volumes about his commitment - and Dallas’ reliance on his two-way impact.
Lakers Still Shorthanded Heading Into Rivalry Matchup
The Lakers will once again be without two key starters on Saturday when they face the Clippers. Austin Reaves (left calf strain) and Deandre Ayton (left elbow soreness) have both been ruled out, leaving L.A. thin at two crucial positions.
Reaves’ absence removes a versatile playmaker and secondary ball-handler from the backcourt, while Ayton’s injury leaves a hole in the middle that’s tough to patch. Forward Rui Hachimura is listed as questionable due to right groin soreness, adding another layer of uncertainty to the Lakers’ rotation.
With depth already being tested, the Lakers will need strong performances from their bench and role players to stay competitive in this high-stakes crosstown matchup.
Grizzlies’ Injury List Hits Double Digits
It’s hard to find a team more banged up than the Memphis Grizzlies right now. Nine players will be unavailable for Saturday’s game in Washington - yes, nine. While two of those absences (GG Jackson II and Jahmai Mashack) are due to G League assignments, the other seven are injury-related.
That group includes Ja Morant, who’s dealing with a left ankle sprain, and Vince Williams Jr., sidelined by left knee soreness. With so many bodies down, Memphis is essentially operating with a skeleton crew, and it’s going to take a collective effort just to stay competitive until reinforcements arrive.
Hornets Could Get Tre Mann Back in Detroit
There’s a bit of good news in Charlotte, where guard Tre Mann is listed as probable to return Saturday against the Pistons. Mann has missed the past seven games with a right knee bone bruise but appears close to rejoining the lineup.
His return would provide a much-needed spark for a Hornets backcourt that’s been juggling injuries. Pat Connaughton is questionable with a right calf strain, while Collin Sexton remains doubtful as he continues to recover from a left quad strain.
If Mann is cleared, expect Charlotte to ease him back in - but even limited minutes could help stabilize a rotation that’s been in flux for weeks.
Final Thoughts
Injuries are a part of every NBA season, but this stretch of December is particularly taxing. Teams are battling fatigue, managing minutes, and doing everything they can to keep their stars healthy heading into the new year. For contenders and rebuilders alike, how they navigate these absences could shape the trajectory of their seasons.
Whether it’s a superstar playing through illness, a young player stepping into a bigger role, or a team simply trying to survive a brutal injury bug, the storylines around the league continue to evolve - and so does the grind of the 82-game marathon.