BRANDON INGRAM TO MISS CLIPPERS SEASON START WITH ACHILLES INJURY

Brandon Ingram will miss the start of the 2026-27 season after doctors discovered a partially torn Achilles during surgery on his heel in May, the LA Clippers said. Interim president of basketball operations Trent Redden disclosed the injury at the team's media day, saying the issue was found and addressed during that procedure. The Clippers have not announced a timeline for Ingram's return, though Redden said a partial tear typically requires around six months less recovery time than a complete Achilles tear. Ingram himself said he would not participate fully in training camp but would be present with the team in a limited capacity. He joined the Clippers this year following an All-Star season with the Toronto Raptors, in which he averaged 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game.

Ingram's injury adds to a difficult period for the franchise. The NBA penalised the Clippers on 2 September following a year-long investigation into alleged cap-circumvention, resulting in the loss of five first-round draft picks. Kawhi Leonard was then traded to the Toronto Raptors on 14 September in exchange for Ingram, Gradey Dick and future draft picks. Lawrence Frank, the team's president of basketball operations, is suspended, with Redden serving in an interim capacity. The Clippers also reported knee inflammation for Bradley Beal, a shoulder injury for Jordan Miller following rotator cuff surgery, and unavailability for Yanic Konan Niederhauser ahead of the season opener.

Head coach Ty Lue faces decisions over his starting rotation with four players affected by injury before training camp has begun in full. Clippers guard Darius Garland said the pick-and-roll partnership with Ingram was expected to be a key part of the team's offence. No further updates on player fitness have been announced by the Clippers beyond those confirmed at media day.