The NBA playoffs are just around the corner, and the race for the top spots in both conferences is heating up. However, several teams find themselves missing key players who could potentially make a difference in their postseason hopes. Let's take a look at the latest updates on injured players and how their absence could impact the playoff picture.
Eastern Conference
Atlanta Hawks
John Collins, who has been out since March 13 with a plantar fascia tear in his right foot and a right finger sprain, is expected to be reevaluated after a nonsurgical procedure on his foot. Collins' scoring ability and presence on the court could greatly benefit the Hawks in their fight for positioning in the Eastern Conference play-in race.
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Brooklyn Nets
Ben Simmons has been out since June 20 and has yet to make his debut with the Nets due to a herniated disc in his back. Although there is optimism about his return, no specific timeline has been provided. Simmons' perimeter defense and offensive skills would be a significant boost for the Nets' postseason hopes.
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Charlotte Hornets
Gordon Hayward, who has been out since February 7 with a sprained left ankle, is progressing in his recovery and could potentially return before the play-in tournament. Hayward's steady play, precise shooting, and ability to create alongside LaMelo Ball would make the Hornets a formidable team to eliminate.
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Chicago Bulls
Lonzo Ball, sidelined since January 14 with a left knee injury, is set to be reevaluated at the end of March. The Bulls have adjusted their lineup in Ball's absence, but his return would provide a much-needed defensive boost and playmaking ability for the team.
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Cleveland Cavaliers
Jarrett Allen has been out since March 6 with a fractured left middle finger. The Cavaliers are hopeful that Allen will be able to return before the regular season ends. Allen's presence in the paint and defensive skills have been instrumental in the team's successful bid for a playoff spot.
Western Conference
Denver Nuggets
Jamal Murray, who has been out since April 12 with a torn left ACL, is not close to returning and will likely miss the remainder of the season. However, the Nuggets could potentially see the return of Michael Porter Jr., who has been out since November 6 with a lower back injury. Porter's shooting and rebounding abilities would greatly complement Nikola Jokic's MVP-level performance.
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Golden State Warriors
The Warriors recently lost Stephen Curry to a left foot strain, adding to their challenges. However, the impressive performances of Jordan Poole have provided some relief. The Warriors will need Curry back in peak form and find a rhythm with their star trio of Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green before the playoffs if they want to make a deep run.
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LA Clippers
The Clippers have been without Kawhi Leonard since June 14 due to a torn right ACL. His return this season remains uncertain, but the team hasn't ruled it out entirely. Additionally, Paul George has been out since December 22 with a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. The Clippers are hopeful that George will be able to provide a much-needed offensive boost in their playoff push.
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Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers have missed Anthony Davis since February 16 due to a right mid-foot sprain. However, there's optimism that Davis could return in early April. His presence alongside LeBron James has been a key factor in the Lakers' success in past postseasons, and their chances of a deep playoff run will greatly depend on his return.
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New Orleans Pelicans
Brandon Ingram has been out since March 8 with a strained right hamstring. The Pelicans are hopeful that Ingram can return soon, as his scoring ability would provide a significant boost to the team's playoff aspirations. Additionally, Larry Nance Jr., who has been out since January 5 with a right knee injury, is expected to make his debut for the Pelicans soon.
However, the biggest question mark surrounds Zion Williamson, who has not played all season due to a fractured right foot. While his return remains uncertain, there have been positive signs recently, raising hopes for his potential comeback. The Pelicans' playoff chances could be greatly influenced by Williamson's presence on the court.
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Phoenix Suns
Chris Paul has been out since February 16 with a fractured right thumb. Although his absence has not hindered the Suns' success, his return would provide them with an extra boost as they head into the playoffs as title favorites. Paul's experience and leadership will be crucial for the Suns' championship aspirations.
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As the NBA playoffs draw nearer, the return of these injured players could significantly impact the seeding races and the overall competitiveness of the postseason. Fans eagerly await the moment when these stars can step back onto the court and contribute to their teams' pursuit of championship glory.
