NBA Injury Roundup: Jazz Frontcourt Returns to Practice; Latest on Williams, Sheppard and Furphy
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The Utah Jazz moved a step closer to full strength on Sunday, October 12, as Lauri Markkanen (lower back), Walker Kessler (left shoulder) and rookie Kyle Filipowski (left wrist) all practiced without restrictions, according to Andy Larsen of The Salt Lake Tribune. The three big men sat out the team’s first two preseason games while recovering from their respective injuries.
Markkanen previously described his back issue as minor but did not offer a target date for game action. With Sunday’s full participation, all three players are preparing for a potential return to the preseason lineup.
Utah was not completely injury-free, however. Forward Kyle Anderson, who logged at least 14 minutes in each of the opening preseason contests, missed practice because of right knee tendinitis, Larsen reported.
Additional Injury Updates Around the League
Memphis Grizzlies: Wing Vince Williams Jr. sat out Friday’s exhibition against Atlanta. Head coach Tuomas Iisalo labeled the move precautionary and said there is “nothing serious at this moment,” per Damichael Cole of The Commercial Appeal.
Indiana Pacers: Guard Ben Sheppard has yet to appear in preseason play and is listed as doubtful for Monday’s meeting with San Antonio, Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star noted. Head coach Rick Carlisle said the second-year guard is still working toward full-contact practice. The Pacers’ backcourt is already thin: Tyrese Haliburton is on a managed schedule, veteran T.J. McConnell is out at least a month with a hamstring strain, and 2025 first-rounder Kam Jones remains sidelined by a back injury.
Indiana also added sophomore forward Johnny Furphy to the injury report after he sprained his left ankle in Saturday’s game against Oklahoma City. The team has not announced the severity of the sprain or a timetable for his return.
Source: Hoops Rumors
