By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Early in the 2026–27 season, several Basketball Champions League clubs are grappling with injuries. On Tuesday, UnaHotels Reggio Emilia announced that 33-year-old Speedy Smith will be sidelined for at least one week following a right knee injury. Certainly, a concerning setback for the Italian team, who currently sit at 1–1 in Group E of the Regular Season.
Defending champion Rytas faces a much tougher path. The Vilnius organization confirmed that Martynas Paliukenas needs up to six months of recovery after shoulder surgery, an echo of a similar injury that cost him four months last season.
They are already searching the market for a replacement. The Lithuanian side needs depth, especially since Matas Jogela is also nursing a shoulder issue, though he avoided the long-term injury list and is considered questionable for Wednesday’s Group A home game against Trabzonspor.
To bolster their backcourt, Rytas is targeting Max Shulga, according to a recent report by Lithuanian outlet Krepsinis.net. The 24-year-old guard could arrive on loan from Real Madrid for the rest of the season. A 13-game NBA veteran would be looking for fresh start in the BCL after falling out of the rotation under Pedro Martinez.
On Sunday, BK KVIS Pardubice officially picked up 29-year-old Isaac Davidson. Testing himself in the Champions League mattered most for the Auckland native. “The opportunity to play in the Champions League is also a big reason for me,” he mentioned.
His arrival addressed a double vacancy created after Petr Safarcik retired at 32 due to persistent physical issues and the Czech club cut ties with Nick Stampley.
Winless in Group E, the team coached by Jan Sotnar hopes the newcomer can spark a turnaround.
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