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Health concerns loom over NBA title contenders as season begins

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 5, 2026, 11:20 PM

Last updated Oct 5, 2026

Health concerns loom over NBA title contenders as season begins

Summary

As the NBA season opens, health is a crucial factor determining championship potential. Key teams in the Eastern Conference, including the Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat, and Toronto Raptors, are highlighted for their injury histories among star players like Joel Embiid and Kawhi Leonard. The New York Knicks, defending champions, will look to replicate last season's success while hoping to maintain player availability. In the West, teams such as the San Antonio Spurs and Denver Nuggets face similar health challenges with their star players. The coming regular season will further clarify how these health issues will shape playoff prospects for each team.

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By the Numbers

•Philadelphia 76ers' Joel Embiid has faced significant injury issues.
•Miami Heat's title chances depend on Giannis Antetokounmpo's health.
•Toronto Raptors re-signed Kawhi Leonard, but his injury history raises concerns.
•New York Knicks enter as defending champions with a mostly intact roster.
•Multiple contenders in the West, including the San Antonio Spurs, face health risks.

Latest Updates

11:20 PMYahoo Sports — Why Health Will Decide the NBA Champion in a Crowded Field of Contenders

What they're saying

"
Health will decide the NBA champion this season, and that’s not a hedge — it’s the actual state of the league right now. Why Health Will Decide NBA Champion Count the real contenders. The East alone has six: New York Knicks, Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat, Boston Celtics, Indiana Pacers and now Toronto Raptors, who dramatically …
— Yahoo Sports

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