Attrition is a fickle foe and it affects some teams more than others, which is why depth is essential. Even so, sometimes the players are just way too good to replace. We break down five notable injuries from the past week. Here is Pickswise’s week 3 NBA injury report:
1. Anthony Davis, NO
Davis has missed his last two contests after spraining his right elbow against Brookyln. During Davis’ absence, the Pelicans are only averaging 111 PPG compared to the 128 PPG when he plays. He is due to be back Wednesday Night against Golden State, but they aren’t going to rush it so he should be a game-time decision.
2. James Harden, HOU
Harden has missed his last two contests and head coach Mike D’Antoni has stated that he is not sure if Harden will be ready for Friday’s contest against the Nets. As if these Rockets didn’t have enough problems, Harden is going to be playing through a nagging hamstring injury, and hamstring injuries are usually persistent. Houston has averaged just 99 PPG in his absence.
3. Dwight Howard, WAS
What the heck is going on with Dwight Howard? His Gluteus Maximus (or back as some claim) has sidelined him since the season started, but Michael Pina of Vice Sports has reported that Howard is on track to return this Friday against Oklahoma City. Washington could certainly use his presence on defense where they rank 30th in PPG and 30th in RPG.
4. Kevin Love, CLE
The 30 year old Forward has been dealing with a foot soreness, more specifically his toe, and those can be nagging and detrimental injuries if not properly treated. Because the soreness has not subsided and probably because of their 1-6 start, they are not going to rush Love back right away. According to Brian Windhorst and Adrian Wojnarowski, Cleveland is preparing to have him sit out for a month.
5. Andrew Wiggins, MIN
Wiggins (quad) has missed the last four contests, including a late-scratch against the Lakers on Monday night. The Timberwolves could certainly use his 15.8 PPG as they are currently flirting with mediocrity with their 3-4 record. He’ll be a game-time decision for Wednesday game with the Jazz, but expect the forward to play sometime in the very near future.
