The Brooklyn Nets have reported multiple starters as injured before their Wednesday game against the Indiana Pacers, which will carry weight in the NBA‘s draft lottery battle. Michael Porter Jr. is officially out again with right knee tendinitis, marking his second consecutive missed game. Nic Claxton is doubtful due to soreness in his right hip, and Noah Clowney is expected to play despite a left ankle sprain.
Porter Jr. sat out Monday’s 123-115 victory over the Chicago Bulls because of the same knee issue. Although he experienced a minor MCL sprain in that knee last month, head coach Jordi Fernandez clarified that his current tendonitis is unrelated to the earlier injury.
“It’s the same knee, but it’s unrelated. Tendonitis is something that athletes deal with in different parts of the body,”
said Fernandez.
“It’s gonna be good for him to take this game, see how he feels and get him back feeling great… Nothing to be concerned about. A lot of guys deal with tendonitis, but I think it’s good that Mike can focus on his body now.”
Draft Lottery Stakes Rise as Nets Face Second Night of Tough Schedule
Currently holding the fifth position in the draft lottery standings after consecutive wins, the Nets’ upcoming contest against the Pacers is pivotal. Brooklyn trails Indiana by two games for second place in this race, and a loss could bring the Nets closer to securing a high draft pick.
The Pacers arrive on the second night of a back-to-back set, fresh off an upset victory over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday. Because they are close to Brooklyn in the lottery standings and have a top-four protected first-round pick owed to the Los Angeles Clippers, Indiana is expected to rest several key players during Wednesday’s game.
Claxton’s Status Changes as Clowney Recovers
Initially, Nic Claxton was not listed on Brooklyn’s injury report but was later downgraded to questionable due to right hip soreness. Noah Clowney, who suffered a left ankle sprain, appeared unaffected in the previous game and is likely to participate against the Pacers.
Implications for Nets’ Playoff and Draft Positioning
With key contributors sidelined or doubtful, Brooklyn faces a challenging situation as they attempt to remain competitive while managing injuries. Michael Porter Jr., a significant offensive presence, being out could impact the team’s performance and draft positioning. The management and coaching staff seem to favor caution with his tendonitis, aiming for his long-term health rather than risking aggravation.
The outcome of this game could sway the Nets’ position in the draft lottery, which has heightened importance given their recent winning streak. Indiana’s choice to rest players may influence the matchup’s competitiveness, but Brooklyn must navigate these obstacles carefully to maintain their strategic goals for the season.
Jordi Fernandez said Michael Porter Jr.'s tendonitis is in the same knee that he suffered his MCL sprain but is unrelated:
“Tendonitis is something that athletes deal with in different parts of the body. It’s gonna be good for him to take this game, see how he feels and get him… pic.twitter.com/Fkb4rZJrAN
— Erik Slater (@erikslater_) February 10, 2026
