As the Utah Jazz prepare to open their two-game New York road swing, the team heads into Brooklyn with a lengthy injury list that could drastically reshape their rotation. With several frontcourt players sidelined, the spotlight is firmly on the status of starting center Jusuf Nurkic, whose availability remains uncertain ahead of Thursday night’s matchup at Barclays Center.
Nurkic’s status looms large in Utah’s frontcourt plans
Utah enters the contest unsure whether Nurkic will anchor the paint, as he has been officially listed as questionable due to a right rib contusion. The veteran big man, who took over starting duties after Walker Kessler’s season-ending shoulder injury, has been a reliable presence across all 20 games so far this campaign. His contributions—8.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game—have helped stabilize Utah’s interior amid constant lineup shuffling.
If he is unable to suit up, the Jazz could find themselves without every traditional center on their roster for the evening, a scenario that would significantly test their depth.
Utah missing multiple frontcourt contributors
The injury concerns extend well beyond Nurkic. Walker Kessler remains out as he continues recovering from left shoulder surgery, while veteran forward Kevin Love has been ruled out for the night as part of a planned rest day. Georges Niang, still recovering from a left foot stress reaction in his fourth metatarsal, has yet to appear this season and will remain sidelined.
The Jazz also have two-way players Elijah Harkless and John Tonje listed as out, further limiting the available depth.
This collection of absences leaves Utah light on size and experience, particularly against a Nets team known for its physical frontcourt matchups.
Opportunity opens for Oscar Tshiebwe
With Utah’s center group depleted, one unexpected beneficiary could be Oscar Tshiebwe. The energetic third-year forward is not listed on the injury report and may be called upon for meaningful minutes, especially if Nurkic is unable to go.
Tshiebwe made 14 appearances for Utah last season, averaging 7.6 points and 8.7 rebounds in 18 minutes per game, showcasing his ability to impact the glass immediately. His high-motor style could prove invaluable as the Jazz attempt to keep pace defensively and on the boards.
Niang still awaiting season debut
Georges Niang, acquired via trade this past summer, continues his recovery from an offseason foot injury that has sidelined him since training camp. Utah has yet to specify a timeline for his return, but his absence remains notable as they navigate a stretch of games without several key rotation pieces.