The 2025-26 NBA season is almost upon us, and with it, a thrilling mix of returning stars and new faces ready to make their mark. But amidst the excitement, there's a crucial aspect that could shape the entire league: the return of key players from injury. Some are ready to hit the court running, while others are still on the mend. Let's dive into the biggest injury returns and the impact they could have on the upcoming season.
The Comeback Kings
Victor Wembanyama, the towering center for the San Antonio Spurs, is back and healthier than ever. After a blood clot in his right shoulder sidelined him last season, Wembanyama is raring to go. And he's not alone. Zion Williamson, the dynamic forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, is also returning after playing just 30 games last season due to various injuries. With Williamson in top shape, the Pelicans are buzzing with excitement.
But not all stars are ready to take the court just yet. LeBron James, the legendary forward for the Los Angeles Lakers, is expected to sit out for three to four weeks due to sciatica. And Kyrie Irving, the enigmatic guard for the Dallas Mavericks, is still recovering from a season-ending ACL tear. These absences could have a significant impact on their respective teams' early season performances.
Ready for Their Return
Zion Williamson, F, New Orleans Pelicans: Williamson's transformation is a sight to behold. With the help of the Pelicans' performance director, Daniel Bove, Zion has shed pounds and gained confidence. After a hamstring injury plagued him last season, he's determined to show his true potential.
Anthony Davis, F, Dallas Mavericks: Fully cleared after recovering from a detached retina in his right eye, Davis is ready to make an impact. He's shed some pounds and is feeling great, moving with ease and ready to contribute to the Mavericks' success.
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LaMelo Ball, G, Charlotte Hornets: Determined to stay on the court after a series of injuries, Ball has spent time in the weight room getting stronger. Coach Charles Lee has noticed his commitment and leadership, and Ball is eager to step up and lead the Hornets this season.
Victor Wembanyama, C, San Antonio Spurs: Wembanyama's offseason transformation is impressive. He's added muscle and improved his body control, and the early returns are promising. He's bullying defenders and swatting shots with ease.
Tyrese Maxey, G, Philadelphia 76ers: Healthy and ready to go after sitting out the final weeks of last season due to a finger injury, Maxey is a welcome addition to the 76ers' lineup. His presence will be music to coach Nick Nurse's ears.
Ja Morant, G, Memphis Grizzlies: Morant's goal to play all 82 games is already in jeopardy after spraining his left ankle during practice. His durability is a concern, but he's determined to protect himself and stay on the court.
Opening Night Questions
Jaren Jackson Jr., F, Memphis Grizzlies: Jackson's availability for the season opener is uncertain as he recovers from turf toe surgery. The Grizzlies are hopeful for a late October or early November return.
LeBron James, F, Los Angeles Lakers: James will make history as the only NBA player to have played 23 seasons, but his streak of playing in Game No. 1 has come to an end due to sciatica. He's determined to stay connected to the team during his rehabilitation.
Zach Edey, C, Memphis Grizzlies: Edey will sit out at least the first two weeks of the season while recovering from ankle surgery. The Grizzlies will have to rely on journeyman Jock Landale to fill the void in the frontcourt.
Jalen Williams, F, Oklahoma City Thunder: Williams is still recovering from a severe wrist injury, and his status for the regular-season opener is uncertain. He's been spotted working individually, predominantly using his left hand.
Jared McCain, G, Philadelphia 76ers: McCain is fully healed from a meniscus injury, but a torn tendon in his right thumb will keep him out at the start of the regular season. The 76ers want to get him on the court with Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe, but they'll have to wait a bit longer.
De'Aaron Fox, G, San Antonio Spurs: Fox's availability for the season opener is in question after suffering a strained right hamstring during a summer workout. The team is encouraged by his progress, but they traditionally take a cautious approach with injured players.
Dejounte Murray, G, New Orleans Pelicans: Murray is eager to return after a ruptured right Achilles tendon limited him to just 31 games last season. He's been working hard in the training room and is hopeful for a January return.
Until Further Notice
Joel Embiid, C, Philadelphia 76ers: Embiid's troublesome left knee continues to be a concern for the 76ers and their fans. It's unclear when, or if, Embiid will be back to his dominant form that earned him the league's MVP award in 2023.
Darius Garland, G, Cleveland Cavaliers: Garland opted for surgery after a turf toe injury affected his postseason. He's making progress, but the Cavaliers aren't rushing him back, hoping to have him at 100% for a deep playoff run.
Paul George, F, Philadelphia 76ers: George's status for the start of the season is unclear after undergoing arthroscopic surgery. He's hopeful to be at a good place sooner rather than later, but the 76ers will have to wait and see.
Kyrie Irving, G, Dallas Mavericks: Coach Jason Kidd is pushing back against the perception that Irving is ahead of schedule in his recovery from a torn ACL. Irving's progress is evident, and he's working hard during post-practice sessions. The Mavs are hoping to have him back in the mix around the All-Star break.
Lauri Markkanen, F, Utah Jazz: Markkanen bounced back over the summer after a variety of injuries limited him last season. He led Finland to the bronze medal game at EuroBasket, but a left wrist bruise has kept him out of preseason games. He's rehabbing daily and making progress, but his return date is still uncertain.
As the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, these injury returns will undoubtedly shape the league's landscape. Who will rise to the occasion and who will struggle? Only time will tell. And this is the part most people miss: the impact of these returns could be felt throughout the entire season, making for an even more thrilling and unpredictable NBA campaign. What do you think? Who are you most excited to see back on the court? Let's discuss in the comments!
