A growing number of early-season injuries is already reshaping several NBA teams, with Anthony Edwards, Kawhi Leonard and Jaren Jackson Jr. all facing extended absences.
Leonard, who returned to the Toronto Raptors before the season, is expected to miss several weeks because of swelling in his left knee. ESPN reported that an MRI found no structural damage.
The two-time NBA champion was averaging 19.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.5 steals through two games after signing a two-year, $115 million deal with Toronto.
Minnesota, meanwhile, will be without Edwards for at least two months as the Timberwolves star prepares to undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right knee.
Edwards had started the season in strong form, averaging 33.3 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists over four games.
The long absence could also affect his eligibility for major individual honors because NBA rules generally require players to appear in at least 65 games to qualify for MVP and All-NBA consideration.
Those awards could have financial implications as well. Edwards could have become eligible for a four-year, $303 million supermax extension next summer by meeting certain award-related criteria.
His manager, Justin Holland, said Edwards' focus remained on winning a championship rather than individual recognition.
Utah also received a major setback with Jackson expected to miss six to eight weeks because of a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee.
(This article was produced with the assistance of AI. — Ed.)
