Rytas Targets Max Shulga

In the Basketball Champions League, many teams are dealing with injury problems at the start of the season. UnaHotels Reggio Emilia announced that experienced guard Speedy Smith will miss at least one week due to a right knee injury. The Italian side sits at 1-1 in Group E.

The situation is more serious for defending champion Rytas. The Vilnius club announced that Martynas Paliukenas needs up to six months of recovery following shoulder surgery. Matas Jogela is also dealing with a shoulder problem, and it is uncertain whether he will play in Wednesday's game against Trabzonspor.

According to a report by the Lithuanian outlet Krepsinis.net, Rytas is targeting 24-year-old Max Shulga to strengthen its roster. The player, who could be loaned out by Real Madrid until the end of the season, has 13 games of NBA experience. Under coach Pedro Martinez, Shulga has been outside the rotation and is reportedly seeking a fresh start in the Champions League.

Pardubice, meanwhile, added 29-year-old Isaac Davidson to its roster on Sunday. The Auckland-born player said the chance to compete in the Champions League was an important reason for him. The signing fills the gap left after 32-year-old Petr Safarcik retired due to ongoing physical problems and after the departure of Nick Stampley.

The team, led by Jan Sotnar and still without a win in the group, hopes the new signing will lift its performance.