Star players across multiple franchises face severe physical setbacks right at the start of the regular season.
The opening week of the NBA 2026/27 regular season was unexpectedly disrupted by a high volume of severe injuries affecting prominent players across several top league franchises in North America.
Several major basketball stars sustained significant physical setbacks during the first matches, raising immediate concerns among team coaches, medical staffs, and fans regarding player health management throughout the demanding professional calendar.
Multiple key athletes from Eastern and Western Conference teams are now facing extended recovery periods, according to information published by 365score.
Severe Lower Limb Injuries Impact Stars
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Jalen Williams suffered one of the most alarming incidents of the opening week, sustaining a fracture in his left fibula alongside a left ankle dislocation during gameplay.
In the Orlando Magic roster, forward Paolo Banchero sustained a high-grade sprain in his right ankle, immediately sidelining him from upcoming fixtures, while teammate Jalen Suggs also reported a right knee injury.
Knee Surgeries and Long Term Absences
Minnesota Timberwolves star guard Anthony Edwards will be forced to undergo a right knee arthroscopy to address ongoing physical discomfort from the initial stretch of games.
Additional roster concerns involve Utah Jazz forward Jaren Jackson Jr., who sustained a right knee injury, and Toronto Raptors veteran Kawhi Leonard, who developed left knee swelling after appearing in just three regular-season games.
Oklahoma City Thunder Roster Setbacks
The Oklahoma City Thunder faced a double blow during the opening week beyond the major injury sustained by Jalen Williams on the court.
Teammate Cason Wallace suffered a labrum tear in his left shoulder joint and will require a surgical procedure, adding to the growing list of early-season medical challenges for the franchise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who suffered the most serious injury in the NBA opening week?
Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder suffered a severe left fibula fracture and left ankle dislocation during the opening week of the 2026/27 season.
Why is Anthony Edwards missing games for the Timberwolves?
Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards will miss time to undergo a necessary arthroscopic procedure on his right knee.
Which NBA players are currently sidelined with knee injuries?
Players dealing with knee issues include Anthony Edwards, Jalen Suggs, Jaren Jackson Jr., Kawhi Leonard, and Cason Wallace, who also faces shoulder surgery.
