Several NBA teams are monitoring injuries to key players. Dallas rookie Cooper Flagg left Friday’s game with left shoulder soreness after a hard foul; Orlando’s Paolo Banchero and Detroit’s Jalen Duren also exited with injuries, while Phoenix center Oso Ighodaro will miss Saturday’s game with a right oblique strain.

By the Numbers
  • Flagg posted 14 points, 6 assists, 5 rebounds, 3 steals and 1 block in 17 minutes.
  • Ighodaro played all 82 regular-season games last season.
Yes, But

The severity of Flagg’s, Banchero’s and Duren’s injuries remains unclear. Phoenix coach Jordan Ott said Ighodaro’s strain appears more likely to be day-to-day than a long-term absence, but the Suns are already without center Mark Williams for several months.

State of Play
  • Flagg will be evaluated over the next few days, putting his availability for Dallas’ home opener Saturday in doubt.
  • Banchero was ruled doubtful to return Friday and will continue to be evaluated.
  • Duren was questionable to return Friday; Paul Reed opened the second half in his place.
  • Ighodaro is out Saturday. Khaman Maluach and Duop Reath could see more minutes for Phoenix.
What's Next

Further evaluations should clarify the expected absences, particularly for Flagg, Banchero and Duren. Phoenix will need short-term depth at center while Ighodaro is out.

Bottom Line

With the extent of several injuries still uncertain, teams may need to adjust quickly; Phoenix faces the clearest immediate roster challenge because its center rotation is already depleted.