5 injury returns that could change the NBA landscape in the 2025-26 NBA season

The 2025-26 NBA season is almost here, and some of the league’s biggest stars are ready to make a strong comeback. Some of these players missed months of action due to their respective injuries. However, they are healthy and ready to play. Some spent months recovering from tough injuries, while others worked hard to rebuild their bodies in the offseason. From Zion Williamson’s new fitness to Victor Wembanyama’s inspiring recovery, the spotlight is back on them.Zion Williamson - New Orleans PelicansZion Williamson is back and looking more fit. The New Orleans Pelicans star missed most of last season with a hamstring injury and later a bone bruise. He played only 30 games. Over the summer, he trained hard with Daniel Bove, the Pelicans’ performance director. Williamson worked on his fitness with boxing and football drills. He has lost weight and looks sharper than ever. If healthy, he can be one of the most dominant forwards in the league again.Anthony Davis - Dallas MavericksAnthony Davis is set for a fresh start with the Dallas Mavericks. The star forward had offseason surgery to repair a detached retina in his right eye. Doctors have cleared him to play, but he will wear protective glasses from now on. Davis also focused on cutting down extra weight in training camp. At 6-foot-10, he looks stronger and motivated. The Mavericks hope his health can boost their playoff chances this season.Kristaps Porzingis - Atlanta HawksKristaps Porzingis will be seen with a new team and a clean bill of health. After struggling with a lingering injury late last season with the Boston Celtics, he used the summer to recover. Playing for Latvia at EuroBasket helped him regain rhythm and confidence. The Atlanta Hawks expect him to stretch the floor on offense and protect the rim on defense. A healthy Porzingis gives Atlanta more balance around Trae Young.Victor Wembanyama - San Antonio SpursVictor Wembanyama missed time last season with a right shoulder blood clot. The young San Antonio Spurs star then pushed himself in a unique offseason. He trained at a Shaolin temple in China, meditated, practiced kung fu, and worked with legend Hakeem Olajuwon. He has built strength and control. In the preseason, he looked dominant again. Doctors say the risk of the clot returning is very low. The Spurs are excited to have him fully healthy.LaMelo Ball - Charlotte HornetsLaMelo Ball’s last three seasons were filled with injuries. Ankle and wrist surgeries kept him out for long stretches. This summer, he hit the gym hard to build strength. Charlotte Hornets coach Charles Lee says Ball has taken a leadership role in training. He looks ready to lead from the front. If Ball stays healthy, Charlotte’s offense will run through him once again.The NBA’s opening week is packed with comeback stories. These stars are ready to shine again! Also Read: 3 NBA stars who have stunned with jaw-dropping body transformations ahead of 2025-26 season