Friday, October 23, 2026
Injury Report
Paolo Banchero is expected to miss four to six weeks after suffering a right high-ankle sprain in Friday's loss to the Timberwolves. Franz Wagner and Desmond Bane will carry a heavier offensive load, and Tristan da Silva is the top candidate to enter the starting lineup in Banchero's absence.
Cooper Flagg left Friday's win over Indiana with a left shoulder injury and did not return. Dallas coach Dusty May said Flagg will be evaluated over the next couple of days. With Flagg's status uncertain, Kyrie Irving — who fouled out for the first time in his career but scored a game-high 24 points in that win — could see a heavier shot volume against San Antonio on Saturday.
LeBron James has been ruled out for Saturday's game against Milwaukee with low back/sciatica management. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is the most likely candidate to enter Philadelphia's starting lineup. Also for the 76ers, Ariel Hukporti remains out for the season with a ruptured right Achilles.
Stephen Curry told reporters he will "probably not" play Saturday against Phoenix after logging 30 minutes in Friday's loss to Memphis. Brandin Podziemski confirmed he will also sit out, leaving Golden State's backcourt in the hands of De'Anthony Melton, Will Richard, Brandon Williams, and Gary Payton. Separately, the Warriors are exploring trade options for Kristaps Porzingis, who is dealing with a recurring autoimmune condition and is reportedly considering stepping away from basketball.
Ben Sheppard has been diagnosed with a torn meniscus in his left knee and is out indefinitely, a significant blow to Indiana's wing depth. Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson both exited Detroit's Friday win over Miami with injuries and are day-to-day heading into Sunday's game at Philadelphia.
Standout Performances
Domantas Sabonis recorded a triple-double — 27 points, 19 rebounds, and 10 assists — but it wasn't enough as Sacramento fell to Portland, 128-120.
Walker Kessler delivered an eye-catching performance for the Lakers in a 125-117 win over the Clippers, finishing with 22 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals, and 6 blocks. Dyson Daniels continued his disruptive ways for Atlanta, posting 11 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, and 7 steals in a blowout of Charlotte. Myles Turner chipped in 5 blocks for Milwaukee despite a loss to Chicago.
Notable Results
Atlanta dismantled Charlotte 128-81 in one of the day's most lopsided outcomes. Utah edged New Orleans 120-119 in a tight finish, while Memphis held off Golden State 111-108, handing the Warriors their second straight loss to open the season.