The Jazz are getting closer to full health, according to Andy Larsen of The Salt Lake Tribune (via Twitter).
Larson quotes a Jazz injury report that states that Lauri Markkanen, Walker Kessler, and Kyle Filipowski, all of whom had missed the start of training camp due to lower back, left shoulder, and left wrist injuries, respectively, were full participants in practice today.
The three big men all missed Utah’s opening two preseason matchups, but are gearing up for their returns. Markkanen previously stated that while the injury was minor, he wasn’t sure of his exact timetable for return.
Larsen also notes that Kyle Anderson, who played at least 14 minutes in each of the opening preseason games, was not able to suit up for practice due to right knee tendinitis.
We have more injury notes from around the league:
- Vince Williams Jr. missed the Grizzlies‘ game against the Hawks Friday night, but according to head coach Tuomas Iisalo, there’s nothing to be concerned about. Iisalo said the decision was made because of “small precautions,” according to Memphis News’ Damichael Cole (via Twitter), and added that it was “Nothing serious at this moment.”
- Ben Sheppard has been absent from each of the Pacers‘ two preseason games so far and is doubtful for Monday’s upcoming tilt against the Spurs, reports Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star (Twitter link). According to coach Rick Carlisle, Sheppard is still working his way back to being a full practice participant. The Pacers are very light on healthy guards at the moment; in addition to Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana is already missing TJ McConnell, who will be out at least a month with a hamstring injury, as well as 2025 draft pick Kam Jones, who is missing time due to a back injury.
- The Pacers‘ sophomore Johnny Furphy is joining Sheppard on the injury report after he sprained his left ankle in Saturday’s contest with the Thunder, Dopirak writes. His timeline has not been reported yet, nor has the severity of the sprain.