Star NBA players set for injury returns this fall
ESPN reports on the return timelines for NBA stars who missed the 2025/26 season, including Haliburton, Lillard, Irving, and VanVleet.
ESPN insiders have detailed the return schedules for star NBA players who missed significant time during the 2025/26 season due to injuries. The report breaks down the players by their expected comeback timelines, with several major names set to return this fall.
Tyrese Haliburton of the Pacers, Damian Lillard of the Trail Blazers, Kyrie Irving of the Mavericks, and Fred VanVleet of the Rockets are all slated to return following season-long absences. Lillard rejoins a Blazers team that has undergone major changes, raising questions about its cohesion. Haliburton and VanVleet aim to lead their franchises back into title contention, while Irving will look to build chemistry with Cooper Flagg in Dallas.
October Returns Expected
A larger group of players missed extended time last season but should be ready for action in October, barring any setbacks. This list includes Steven Adams of the Rockets, Dejounte Murray of the Pelicans, Walker Kessler of the Lakers, Joel Embiid of the Sixers, Luka Doncic of the Lakers, Jaren Jackson Jr. Of the Jazz, Trae Young of the Wizards, and Jalen Williams of the Thunder.
Jimmy Butler of the Warriors is noted as the prime example of a player facing a longer recovery timeline than the others mentioned.
D'Antoni Joins BC Roma Board
In overseas basketball news, Hall of Famer Mike D'Antoni is poised to join the board of directors for Italian club BC Roma. The American-Italian, who played and coached in Italy, had his return help by former Sixers executive Bryan Colangelo. Colangelo, serving as an ownership advisor to the club, will represent BC Roma at Italian Basketball League meetings.
Thomas and Mirotic Updates
After former Celtics point guard Isaiah Thomas expressed interest in playing overseas on social media, Lithuanian club BC Zalgiris playfully invited the 37-year-old to experience their in-arena atmosphere. However, Kevin Martorano reports for Sportando that there are no signs of serious discussions between Thomas and the team.
Nikola Mirotic may have played his last professional game. Martorano relays a La Razon report stating the 35-year-old is considering retirement after a season with AS Monaco where he missed significant time. Mirotic, a 6'10" stretch-forward who played five NBA seasons from 2014-19 mostly with the Bulls, still has one year remaining on his contract.
