Timberwolves vs Clippers

Anthony Edwards

MIN · SG

Knee: This is a tough blow after a torrid start to the season for Edwards, and it looks like we might not see him again until 2027. Ayo Dosunmu will likely be elevated to a starting role while Edwards is sidelined, while LaMelo Ball, Jaden McDaniels and Jonathan Kuminga will see a bump in usage. There will also be more minutes available for Terrence Shannon, Bones Hyland and Cody Williams.

Bradley Beal

LAC · SG

Knee: Beal is dealing with knee inflammation that will keep him sidelined for Opening Night. While it's unclear how long the Clippers will be without the veteran guard, Darius Garland, Keaton Wagler and Kris Dunn should dominate the backcourt minutes in his absence. Beal's 2025-26 campaign was cut short by a hip injury after he averaged 8.2 points and 1.7 assists in 20.6 minutes across just six regular-season appearances.

Brandon Ingram

LAC · SF

Achilles: The Clippers learned about the injury this summer, though it's unclear exactly how far along Ingram is in his recovery. The star forward's timeline for a return is unclear, clouding his fantasy outlook in the meantime. Darius Garland should take on all the usage he can handle in Ingram's stead, while Kris Dunn and Max Strus could have additional streaming appeal early in the year.

Donte DiVincenzo

MIN · SG

Achilles: DiVincenzo is approaching six months since tearing his right Achilles during the first round of the playoffs and has been rehabbing with the expectation that he'll play at some point this season. The veteran guard has sought advice from Jayson Tatum, Tyrese Haliburton and Damian Lillard during his recovery, though Minnesota has yet to establish a timetable for his return.

Jordan Miller

LAC · SG

Shoulder: It's a tough break for Miller, who had an opportunity to battle for a reserve role during training camp in the fall. The timeline for a return is likely to keep him on the shelf until after the All-Star break. Miller's extended stay on the sidelines gives Kobe Sanders a chance to crack the Clippers' rotation.

Max Strus

LAC · SG

Foot: Plantar fascia injuries can be tricky to recover from, with the only remedy typically being prolonged rest, so don't be surprised if Strus' absence extends well beyond this initial four-week window. With Strus now set to miss at least the first few weeks of the season, and Bradley Beal (knee) uncertain for opening night, Keaton Wagler could be thrust into the first unit sooner than expected.

Rui Hachimura

LAC · PF

Quadriceps: Hachimura didn't practice Tuesday and will be held out of Wednesday's contest due to left quad soreness. His next opportunity to play will come Friday at Minnesota. In the meantime, Kobe Sanders and Gradey Dick are candidates for increased playing time.

Yanic Konan Niederhauser

LAC · C

Foot: Niederhauser is progressing from March surgery but won't be able to suit up to begin the year. The Clippers are likely to take a cautious approach with the 2025 first-rounder. Isaiah Jackson should occupy the backup center spot behind Brook Lopez early in the campaign.