Nets Face Pacers Without Porter Jr., Claxton Doubtful

Brooklyn's key players sidelined as teams jockey for draft lottery position

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Brooklyn Nets will be without forward Michael Porter Jr. and may be missing center Nic Claxton when they face the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday. Porter Jr. is ruled out due to right knee tendonitis, while Claxton is listed as doubtful with right hip soreness. The Nets and Pacers are both in the mix for a high draft pick, making this a pivotal matchup in the lottery race.

Why it matters

The Nets and Pacers are in a tight battle for positioning in the NBA draft lottery, so this game carries significant weight. The absences of Porter Jr. and potentially Claxton could impact Brooklyn's competitiveness and their chances of securing a higher draft pick.

The details

Michael Porter Jr. will miss his second straight game due to right knee tendonitis, an issue unrelated to the MCL sprain he suffered last month. Nic Claxton was initially not listed on the injury report but was later downgraded to doubtful with right hip soreness. Noah Clowney, who had a left ankle sprain, is expected to play.

  • Michael Porter Jr. sat out Monday's game against the Chicago Bulls with the same knee tendonitis issue.
  • The Nets and Pacers will face off on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.

The players

Michael Porter Jr.

A forward for the Brooklyn Nets who is ruled out with right knee tendonitis.

Nic Claxton

A center for the Brooklyn Nets who is listed as doubtful with right hip soreness.

Noah Clowney

A forward for the Brooklyn Nets who is expected to play despite a left ankle sprain.

Jordi Fernandez

The head coach of the Brooklyn Nets.

Indiana Pacers

The Nets' opponent, who are also in the mix for a high draft pick.

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What they’re saying

“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 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.”

— Jordi Fernandez, Head Coach, Brooklyn Nets (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This game between the Nets and Pacers carries significant importance in the NBA draft lottery race, with both teams missing key players due to injury. The Nets must navigate these obstacles carefully to maintain their strategic goals for the season.