As the new NBA season approaches, the health of its biggest stars was a major topic during media days across the league. Fans received important updates on several key players, from Victor Wembanyama’s successful return after a health scare to the recovery progress of stars like Jayson Tatum and Kyrie Irving. These updates suggest that player health will be a significant storyline to follow this year.
🙏 Wembanyama’s Grateful Return
Spurs center Victor Wembanyama is healthy and ready for the season after a serious scare this summer involving deep vein thrombosis (a type of blood clot) in his shoulder. He described the experience as life-changing and traumatic, but also one that taught him valuable lessons. He is expected to be fully available for San Antonio’s opening night, which is great news for the team and its fans.
⏳ The Long Road Back for Irving and Tatum
Other stars are facing a longer wait. Kyrie Irving is recovering from a torn ACL, while Jayson Tatum is working his way back from a torn Achilles. While neither has a definite return date, both seem to be making good progress. Irving mentioned that injured players often support each other, saying they are all trying to “heal like Wolverine,” a comic book character known for his rapid healing. Many Boston fans are hopeful that Tatum might even return this season, which would be a remarkably fast recovery for such a serious injury.
👀 A Different View from the Sidelines
Some players with similar long-term injuries are taking a more cautious approach. Tyrese Haliburton of the Pacers and Damian Lillard, who was injured during last season’s playoffs, both said they do not expect to play this season as they recover from Achilles tears. Lillard emphasized that he wants to be “100% confident” in his health before stepping back on the court. Meanwhile, Haliburton is embracing a new role as an “unofficial assistant coach,” using his time off to study the game from a new perspective.
🩹 League-Wide Injury Watch
Several other players around the league are also managing injuries as the season begins. Tyler Herro of the Heat is expected to miss at least the first month after ankle and foot surgery. Jalen Williams of the champion Thunder is recovering from offseason wrist surgery. Additionally, teams will be monitoring players like Bogdan Bogdanovic (hamstring) and Bradley Beal (knee surgery), though both are expected to participate in training camp.
