The 2021-22 NBA season felt more normal than the previous two seasons, but the sport was without some of its biggest stars.
LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard, New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson, Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray and Brooklyn Nets forward Ben Simmons all missed last season because of a variety of injuries, while new Clippers guard John Wall was healthy but sat out because he didn't fit into the plans of the rebuilding Houston Rockets.
All five players should provide an immediate impact on their teams this upcoming season.