The 2008 first-round pick has had a lengthy career, and after nearly two decades, it may be coming to a close. Batum’s most productive seasons came in Portland, though he was still excellent with Charlotte and has been a valuable role player with the Clippers and 76ers in the later years of his career. His 17.5 minutes per game this season were a new career-low, and he will likely continue to play a small reserve role next season. Though he hasn’t added a ring to his resume, Batum has had a lot of success in his basketball career, including helping France to the silver medal in both the 2020 and 2024 Olympics.

Batum practiced fully on Wednesday, so it isn’t surprising that he will be available to play in Game 1 against Denver. The Clippers haven’t released an official injury report yet, but Batum should play his usual role off the bench, which was 17.5 minutes per game during the regular season.

After injuring his groin during an April 9 game against Houston, Batum did not play in the Clippers’ final two regular-season games. Wednesday’s practice was the team’s first time on the court since their overtime win over the Warriors on Sunday, and Batum was among the participants. The veteran forward, who will reportedly be re-evaluated on Wednesday, was a full participant in the session, which bodes well for Batum. The Clippers won’t begin their first-round series against the Nuggets until Saturday, so there’s still time for Batum to recover from his injury.

Batum missed the Clippers’ final two regular-season games after injuring his groin on Wednesday, not even traveling up the coast for matchups with the Kings and Warriors. The team did not practice on Tuesday, beginning their preparations for the Nuggets with film study. Batum does not provide consistent value on the offensive end of the floor, but his defensive ability makes him an important player off the bench.