Sixers wing Jaylen Brown is out for Friday’s home clash with the Knicks.
The two‑time All‑NBA star, initially listed as questionable with left‑knee soreness, was later downgraded to doubtful and now ruled out due to left‑knee patellar tendinopathy, according to Kyle Neubeck of PHLY Sports.
Coach Nick Nurse told reporters that Brown felt knee pain after Wednesday’s win in Indiana and missed Friday’s shootaround. No timeline was provided for any additional missed time.
Nurse could slot either Kentavious Caldwell‑Pope or Dean Wade into the starting lineup, though he hinted he leans toward Wade during the pre‑game media session.
Now 30, Brown has hit the ground running in Philadelphia after a decade in Boston. In five games, averaging 36.4 minutes, the 2024 Finals MVP posts 20.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.2 steals while shooting .442/.409/.783. For my money, his loss lays bare the Sixers’ depth concerns.
Philadelphia beat New York in the season opener on Oct. 20. This Friday marks the NBA Cup debut for both Atlantic Division foes, alongside 18 other clubs beginning group play.
East Group B also houses the Cavaliers, Pacers and Heat, all eyeing deep playoff runs and a title. New York captured its first championship in 53 years after beating San Antonio in last December’s NBA Cup final and then the Spurs in the NBA Finals. Can the Sixers seize the momentum and advance deep in the NBA Cup?