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NBA·INJURY·October 21, 2026 10:58 PM ET

AJ Dybantsa ruled out for opener, Deni Avdija listed as questionable

Preseason ankle sprain delays Dybantsa's NBA debut.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 50m1 min read
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What happened: Deni Avdija carries a questionable designation into Week 1 of the 2026-27 NBA regular season, per NBC Sports. AJ Dybantsa is officially out for Wednesday's season opener after sustaining an ankle sprain during Friday's preseason finale, though he remains day-to-day.

Why it matters: Opening-week injury designations force immediate rotation adjustments and fantasy basketball lineup decisions as the 2026-27 campaign tips off. With Dybantsa sidelined for his debut and Avdija's availability undecided, early-season roster depth faces an immediate test.

What to watch: Pregame warmups will determine whether Avdija is cleared for opening night, while Dybantsa will be evaluated day-to-day ahead of the team's second regular-season contest.

Sources

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