NBA power rankings: 76ers, Knicks, Heat all hoping for return of injured players

As the end of the 2023-24 regular season slowly draws closer, the championship picture is largely the same as it was at the All-Star break. The playoff and play-in teams have likely been determined, although seeding is still up for grabs. It’s hard to generate interest at this time of year when there isn’t much to focus on before the playoffs begin. However, the return of some injured key players could completely change the scenario.

The most obvious injury is to 76ers big man Joel Embiid, who has yet to be ruled out for the season. The reigning league MVP is dealing with a meniscus injury and if he can return without any issues, the 76ers believe they are title contenders. Philadelphia is a shell of its own without Embiid, but can become a dangerous proposition as a lower seed with him in time for the playoffs.

Another great man missing is Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns, who recently underwent surgery on his torn meniscus. Towns is expected to be re-evaluated in four weeks, suggesting he could potentially return by the time the playoffs begin. The Timberwolves are just one game out of the top seed in the West, but they slipped a bit with Towns’ elimination. They’ll need him back to have the best chance of navigating the minefield of a conference.

THE New York Knicks And Miami heat are also hoping for positive injury news regarding Julius Randle and Tyler Herro, respectively. Randle continues to progress with his shoulder injury and Herro is trying to recover from a foot issue, but there is still no official timetable for their return. The Knicks made big strides at the trade deadline and were generally tough to beat when fully healthy, while the Heat managed to win the game. NBA Finals last year largely without Herro. Miami probably thinks they can win it all if the shooter is back healthy.

These injury statuses will have a huge impact on the playoffs, potentially shaking up the contender rankings right before the playoffs begin. Here is our latest championship index for the 2023-24 NBA season.