NBA News Roundup, Sunday, Oct 27: Update on Kyle Kuzma's return from injury, Kyrie Irving backed as MVP candidate and more

The 2019-20 NBA season is now well underway and there have already been plenty of talking points during a thrilling first few days of action. The Los Angeles Clippers flew out the gates with back-to-back wins over the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors - although the preseason favourites were stunned yesterday night by the Phoenix Suns.

Meanwhile, the likes of the Atlanta Hawks and Dallas Mavericks have made quick starts to the season and appear set to challenge for a playoff spot following years away from the postseason. There are also stories aplenty off the court as big names such as Carmelo Anthony and JR Smith attempt to find a routine back to the NBA. So after another busy day across the league, here is all the latest news and stories you need to know for October 27th:

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#3 Kyle Kuzma nears return following injury

Kyle Kuzma is closing in on a return for the Los Angeles Lakers after missing the offseason through injury

Kyle Kuzma has been out of action since injuring his foot with Team USA ahead of the 2019 FIBA World Cup. The Lakers have yet to set an official date for Kuzma's return, although Tania Ganguli of the Los Angeles Times is reporting that the 24-year-old's recovery is progressing well.

Kyle Kuzma did more four on four today. He said he did about 10 minutes the other day and 25 today. Unclear how close he is to five on five, but he’s been reacting well.

— Tania Ganguli (@taniaganguli) October 27, 2019

Kuzma was the only member of the Lakers' much discussed young core that wasn't sent to the New Orleans Pelicans as part of the blockbuster trade for Anthony Davis during the offseason. After staying put with the Lakers, the third-year forward is expected to step up as a third star alongside LeBron James and Davis.

Since being selected 27th overall in the 2017 NBA draft, Kuzma has made 147 regular-season appearances, averaging 18.7 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.

#2 Spencer Dinwiddie believes Kyrie Irving could be an MVP contender

Kyrie Irving has made an excellent start to his Nets career

Kyrie Irving joined the Brooklyn Nets in free agency following two seasons with the Boston Celtics, and the point guard has made an immediate impact with his new team. Over two appearances, Irving has averaged 38.0 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds per game while shooting 48% from the field.

With Kevin Durant set to miss the entire season through injury, Irving is expected to post big numbers on a nightly basis and his Nets teammate Spencer Dinwiddie believes he will be in the conversation to be named Most Valuable Player:

With KD out, he's going to shoulder a lot of the load. If we get in those high 40's, low 50's range then he’s going to be in that MVP conversation.

During his eight seasons in the league, Irving has yet to force his way into the MVP conversation, although the 27-year-old has been named an All-Star on six occasions.

#1 Gerald Green set for surgery, but could still return this season

Gerald Green will undergo surgery tomorrow

Gerald Green suffered a broken left foot during the Houston Rockets' preseason game against the Toronto Raptors. The injury was expected to keep the veteran out for the entire 2019-20 season, although Chron is reporting that Green will undergo surgery on Monday and still has an outside chance at returning after four months:

Gerald Green is scheduled for surgery on Monday to repair his broken left foot, a person with knowledge of his plans said. It will not be determined until Monday's procedure if Green could come back in roughly four months or if it could take twice as long.

Green has spent the past two seasons with the Rockets, firmly establishing himself as a key player in Mike D'Antoni's rotation. During the 18-19 season, Green averaged 9.2 points and 2.5 rebounds in 20.2 minutes per contest.