For many players, the All-Star break comes at an opportune time. These players are dealing with aches and pains from the season, and a little rest can help them return feeling rejuvenated. Other players have missed time though due to an ailment, and the break can help them further heal. Here are some notable NBA injury returns to watch for in the Eastern Conference once regular season action returns. These are players that are in the middle of a playoff race.
Notable NBA Injury Returns To Watch For In Eastern Conference
Celtics – Jrue Holiday
Jrue Holiday missed the last four Celtics games prior to the break with a right shoulder impingement. The 34-year-old guard was listed as questionable at times during his absence, so expect him to be ready for Boston’s first game back on February 20. While he’s putting up some of his least productive numbers since his rookie year, Holiday is still a vital member of their starting lineup.
Knicks – OG Anunoby, Mitchell Robinson
Now 27 years old, OG Anunoby has had somewhat of a lengthy injury history. An elite defender, it was a bit surprising that he appeared and started each of the Knicks first 49 outings. Unfortunately on February 1, Anunoby sustained what the team called a sprained foot. Recently, ESPN’s Shams Charania stated it is more of a toe issue, and that the team is expecting him back shortly after the All-Star break.
Much like Anunoby, Mitchell Robinson has also often been on the injured list (perhaps even more frequently). The 26-year-old center has yet to play in a game this season recovering from ankle surgery. In the same report, Charania said the Knicks hope to have Robinson back around or before March 1 to finally make his season debut.
Reporting for ABC NBA Countdown on two key injured New York Knicks, Mitchell Robinson and OG Anunoby: pic.twitter.com/GhRaaLtR7z
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) February 9, 2025
Pacers – Myles Turner
A true stretch five, Myles Turner missed each of Indiana’s last three games before the All-Star break. The 28-year-old has missed those contests due to a cervical strain. Matthew Glenesk and Dustin Dopirak of the Indianapolis Star reported that he hopes to return for their first game after the break on February 20.
Bucks – Giannis Antetokounmpo
One of the true superstars of the game, Giannis Antetokounmpo has sat out each of the Bucks last six outings. The 30-year-old is forced to miss this weekend’s All-Star Game because of a left calf strain. Posting averages of 31.8 points, 12.2 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.3 blocks, it is not yet clear whether he will be back once post-All-Star break play commences.
Pistons – Jaden Ivey
Turning 23 years old on February 13, Jaden Ivey has missed the last 22 Pistons outings. On January 1, the 6-foot-4 guard suffered a broken fibula and was given a 4-6 month return timetable. While that timetable hasn’t been updated, the regular season ends on April 13. That is approximately 4.5 months after Ivey’s injury, could a return by then (or opening round of the playoffs/Play-In Tournament) be in the cards?
Magic – Jalen Suggs
The Magic found ways to stay afloat without Franz Wagner and Paolo Banchero out of action. They have both been back, but the team has been without Jalen Suggs. The 23-year-old has missed nine straight games and 19 of Orlando’s last 20. The latest ailment is a left quad contusion, and the long layoff could get him back in the lineup. The Magic are just 5-14 in the 19 recent outings that Suggs has missed.
Photo credit: © Brett Davis-Imagn Images
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