NBA Injury Roundup: How much time will Cam Thomas, CJ McCollum, and Jamal Murray miss?

DCM

David Chao, MD

2 min read • November 10, 2023

Posted in

NBA

As the NBA season kicks off, the excitement is palpable, with teams showcasing their potential and emerging stars making their mark. The early games have offered a glimpse into the contenders' prowess, but the journey is not without its challenges.

Injuries have cast a shadow over some teams, slowing their momentum and adding an unpredictable element to the race for supremacy.

Jamal Murray - SIC score 40

Denver Nuggets point guard Jamal Murray sustained a right hamstring injury on Nov. 4, and it is anticipated to sideline him for a minimum of one month. This injury is unrelated to his 2021 ACL issue, as it affects the opposite leg. Reggie Jackson is set to step in as Murray's replacement during his recovery period.

Tyler Herro - SIC score 28

Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro is set to sit out the remainder of the month due to a Grade 2 right ankle sprain sustained on Nov. 8. Given Herro's history of tight ankle sprains, the new injury did not incur additional damage, but the Heat may adopt a cautious approach to his recovery in light of the early season. Herro is expected to wear a walking boot until Nov. 19 as part of the recovery process.

CJ McCollum - SIC score 22

New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum was hospitalized on Nov. 4 due to a collapsed right lung. This incident follows a comparable injury in 2021, causing him to miss 18 games. As of now, there is no announced timeline for his recovery from the recent injury.

Cam Thomas - SIC score 53

Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas was enjoying a breakout season, boasting an impressive average of 26.9 points per game, before sustaining a left ankle sprain on Nov. 8 against the Los Angeles Clippers. This injury is expected to sideline him until the end of the month. In Thomas's absence, Dennis Smith Jr. is anticipated to see an uptick in minutes on the court.

Mason Plumlee - SIC score 14

Los Angeles Clippers backup center Mason Plumlee, a pivotal contributor for the team's wing-heavy lineup, has encountered a setback with a left MCL sprain coupled with a probable bone bruise. This injury is expected to sideline him until early January. Expect the Clippers to use more small ball lineups, while he’s out.

Robert Williams - SIC score 10

Portland Trail Blazers center Robert Williams has faced another knee injury, prompting the need for surgery on his right knee, distinct from his previous issues. While it's a positive note that he hasn't aggravated the same knee, the unfortunate development is that both knees have now encountered problems. Currently, there is no specified timeline for Williams' return, but considering his history, there is optimism that he will be back before the conclusion of the season.