Jayson Tatum
May 2026
Jayson Tatum was ruled out of Game 7 with knee stiffness as the Boston Celtics were eliminated by the Philadelphia 76ers, who advanced to the next round of the playoffs. Tatum’s absence followed ongoing injury concerns, leaving Boston without their star in a decisive game. The 76ers capitalised, securing victory and progression while the Celtics struggled to compensate for the loss.
Brandon Ingram
May 2026
Brandon Ingram has been ruled out of Game 6 due to a heel injury, leaving the Toronto Raptors short-handed as they attempt to avoid elimination against the Cleveland Cavaliers in their playoff series. Ingram exited Game 5 early and has struggled throughout the series, with medical staff opting for caution. His absence adds pressure on the Raptors, who must overcome a 3-2 deficit to stay alive in the postseason.
Mitchell Robinson, Dyson Daniels
May 2026
Mitchell Robinson and Dyson Daniels have been fined following an on-court altercation during Game 6, after both players were ejected for escalating a confrontation in the second quarter. The incident began during a free throw situation before turning physical, with Robinson continuing aggressive actions after separation. The NBA imposed fines reflecting their involvement and postgame conduct following the clash.
Kevin Durant
April 2026
Kevin Durant is unlikely to return for Game 5 against the Lakers as he continues recovering from an ankle injury, leaving Houston facing a crucial playoff clash without their star forward. Durant has missed multiple games with a sprain and bone bruise, focusing on conditioning work rather than full practice. The Rockets remain cautious, assessing his fitness daily before deciding on potential involvement in the elimination game.
Nikola Jokic
April 2026
Denver Nuggets avoided elimination with a 125-113 victory over Minnesota, cutting the series deficit to 3-2 as Nikola Jokic delivered a dominant triple-double performance in a must-win playoff clash. Jokic led the charge with scoring, playmaking and rebounding, while Jamal Murray and key role players stepped up. A decisive third quarter surge and forced turnovers helped Denver capitalise against a depleted Timberwolves lineup.
Victor Wembanyama
April 2026
San Antonio Spurs are on the verge of advancing to the Western Conference semifinals, holding a 3-1 lead over Portland as their young roster continues to impress despite limited playoff experience. Strong contributions across the roster and standout performances from Wembanyama have driven success. The Spurs overcame deficits in previous games and now face a crucial closeout opportunity at home against a struggling Trail Blazers side.
Rudy Gobert
April 2026
Rudy Gobert’s defensive dominance has played a crucial role in Minnesota taking a 3-1 series lead over Denver, disrupting the Nuggets’ high-powered offense despite continued debate over the center’s reputation among fans and players. Gobert anchored a defense that limited Denver’s scoring efficiency and perimeter shooting, forcing Nikola Jokic into uncharacteristic struggles. Minnesota’s system has reduced points in the paint and overall output, putting the defending champions on the brink of elimination.
Nikola Jokic, Julius Randle
April 2026
Nikola Jokic and Julius Randle were fined following an altercation late in Game 4, after tensions escalated between Denver and Minnesota during the closing moments of their playoff matchup. The incident began after a late Timberwolves score, with Jokic confronting Jaden McDaniels before Randle escalated the situation. Both players were ejected and later fined but remain eligible for Game 5 as the series continues.
Anthony Edwards, Donte DiVincenzo
April 2026
Minnesota’s playoff push suffered a major setback as Anthony Edwards is expected to miss several weeks with a knee injury, while Donte DiVincenzo’s torn Achilles has ended his season following Game 4 against Denver. Edwards sustained a bone bruise and hyperextension after landing awkwardly, while DiVincenzo required surgery after tearing his Achilles. Minnesota still secured a Game 4 win to lead the series 3-1, but both absences severely impact rotation depth.
