Good to go against Boston Coulibaly will return to action Friday after missing Washington's previous outing with a head injury. The second-year forward is averaging 14.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.4 steals in 34.9 minutes across his last 10 appearances.
Good to go Thursday Barnes has been upgraded from questionable to available Thursday after missing Toronto's last 11 outings due to a right orbital fracture. While Barnes will likely reclaim his starting spot from Ochai Agbaji, fantasy managers can also expect him to play less than his season average of 33.5 minutes.
Still out against Indiana Rollins will miss his fifth straight contest Friday due to a dislocated left shoulder. His next chance to suit up is Saturday's matchup with Charlotte.
Another absence coming Despite being medically cleared to play, Middleton has yet to make his 2024-25 debut while recovering from surgery on both ankles. Fantasy managers can consider the veteran forward doubtful to play in Saturday's matchup with Charlotte.
Expected to play Friday Antetokounmpo continues to deal with left knee tendinopathy but is expected to play through it Friday. The superstar forward is unlikely to operate on a minutes restriction, as he has played at least 30 minutes in all 14 of his appearances this season.
Out next two games George appears to have avoided a serious injury but he will miss Philadelphia's next two contests with a left knee bone bruise. In his absence, Kelly Oubre and KJ Martin will likely receive increased playing time. George's next chance to return to action will be Wednesday's matchup with Houston.
Remains out Friday George hyperextended his left knee against Memphis on Wednesday and is now listed as out with a left knee bone bruise. In the star forward's absence, Kelly Oubre and KJ Martin are candidates to receive increased playing time. While there is no official timetable for George's return, his next chance to suit up is Sunday's matchup with the Clippers.
Returns to practice Despite returning to practice, Richards is set to miss his 10th straight contest Thursday due to a right first rib cartilage fracture. However, it appears that Richards is gearing up for a return to action.
Returns to practice Williams has yet to suit up this season while dealing with a left foot strain and will remain sidelined for Thursday's game versus the Pistons. However, it appears that Williams is gearing up for a return to action.
Calls it a career Hood spent eight seasons in the NBA with the Jazz, Cavaliers, Bucks, Clippers, Raptors and Trail Blazers. Arguably, his best season came in 2017-18 when he made 60 appearances for Cleveland and Utah and averaged 14.7 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 26.9 minutes.
Iffy for Thursday Carter is in danger of missing his 10th straight contest Thursday due to a left foot plantar fasciitis. If the 25-year-old center is upgraded to available, it wouldn't be surprising for him to operate on a minutes restriction.
Won’t play Thursday Caldwell-Pope will miss his first game of the season Thursday due to personal reasons. Cole Anthony, Gary Harris and Anthony Black are candidates to receive increased playing time in his absence. Caldwell-Pope's next chance to suit up is Saturday's matchup with Detroit.
Present at practice Monk has missed Sacramento's last five contests due to a right ankle sprain. While it's unclear to what extent the 26-year-old participated in practice, his presence is a good sign regardless. Still, Monk is expected to remain sidelined until at least next week.
Ruled questionable for Friday Finney-Smith has been dealing with a lingering left ankle sprain that held him out for two games earlier in the season, but he has played in the last three, which is an encouraging sign. However, if Finney-Smith does end up missing time, expect Noah Clowney and Trendon Watford to see extended minutes in his absence.
Expected to play Friday Thomas is expected to return to action Friday after missing Brooklyn's previous outing with a back injury. If the 23-year-old guard is upgraded to available, he will likely reclaim his starting spot from Jalen Wilson.
Facilitates offense in loss Collins did a fine job facilitating the Santa Cruz offense once again in Wednesday's defeat to Stockton, piling up at least seven dimes for the third time in his four G League appearances in 2024-25. The 23-year-old undrafted rookie has been a serviceable offense initiator overall for the G League Warriors, logging 7.2 assists alongside 12.1 points and 1.0 steals in 28.1 minutes per game.
Supplies 25 points Wednesday Wednesday marked the third time in four G League games that Knox put up at least 24 points for Santa Cruz, and the 25-year-old journeyman forward's scoring output led the team in the defeat to Stockton. Even including one two-point dud Nov. 9 against the G League Suns, Knox has displayed his scoring prowess with averages of 18.8 points and 2.0 three-pointers to go with 7.5 rebounds per game while shooting 52.1% from the field over four outings.
Returns to practice Sabonis has missed Sacramento's previous two contests due to lower back tightness. However, the star big man's return to practice is a good sign of his availability for Friday's game versus the Clippers.
Grabs eight boards in loss Williams played in just his fifth game of the season Wednesday night, and did not contribute much offensively, but still managed to snag eight rebounds, his third in which he's gotten that many. As Williams continue to transition to game speed after missing the first nine games of the season, expect him to be more involved moving forward.
Minimal impact in loss Harris is averaging 2.4 points and 1.3 rebounds in 16.1 minutes across his last 10 appearances. His limited scoring production is largely due to his inefficient shooting. Over those last 10 outings, Harris is shooting just 30.0 percent from the field and 20.0 percent from three.
Inefficient performance in loss Giddey has been inefficient offensively to start the season, shooting just 40.6 percent from the field and 35.6 percent from three, but he is averaging 11.8 points, 6.4 assists, 6.2 rebounds, 0.7 blocks and 0.2 blocks across 27.2 minutes. If his shot isn't falling, Giddey will look to get his other teammates involved, and his next opportunity to bounce back will be Friday against Atlanta.
Nails five triples off bench Yabusele's efficient shooting from behind the arc helped him lead Philadelphia's bench in scoring Wednesday. Despite not being much of an outside shooter early in his career, the 28-year-old forward is converting 41.8 percent of his 3.9 three-point attempts per contest this season.
Provides spark off bench Green's efficient shooting from beyond the arc helped him lead Milwaukee's bench in scoring during Wednesday's victory. Across his last 10 outings, Green is converting 49.2 percent of his 5.9 three-point attempts per contest.
Drops season low in win While Dort failed to convert a field goal, the Thunder did not need him to as they received offensive explosions from Jalen Williams (30) and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (28) as well as three double digit performances off the bench, which was enough to win. Dort will continue to be a key piece of the Thunder's starting lineup moving forward.
Out indefinitely Cancar suffered a left knee sprain during Tuesday's game versus the Grizzlies and had already missed all of 2023-24 and a significant chunk of this season with a knee injury. While there is no official timetable for his return, it appears that Denver expects the 27-year-old forward to be sidelined for an extended period.
Drops second double-double in loss Jones turned in his second double-double and his third game with double digit assists this season. He is averaging 11.8 points, 7.8 assists, 2.7 rebounds and 0.8 steals across 32.3 minutes in his last six games.
Drops season high 30 in win Wednesday night marked Williams' first 30 point performance this season, and he also stuffed the stat sheet in addition to reaching his season high. Williams has been doing it all for the Thunder in stellar fashion recently, averaging 26.2 points, 7.3 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 2.7 steals and 1.2 blocks over 33.5 minutes through his last six games on 55/40/100 shooting splits.
Practices in G League Walter was briefly assigned to the G League on Thursday, but this was just in order to practice. The rookie guard is deemed questionable for Thursday's game versus the Timberwolves due to a right shoulder injury.
Hits four threes in win Wednesday night marked VanVleet's third time this season hitting four triples, and he also racked up his season high in steals (four). In Houston's blistering 11-5 start, VanVleet has averaged 15.8 points, 6.1 assists, 4.4 rebounds, 1.9 steals and 0.4 blocks across 34.7 minutes, and he will continue to lead the charge as the team's primary facilitator moving forward.
Dishes season high six assists While Portis was not particularly efficient from the field, he found other ways to contribute and ended the game with his season high in assists (six). Portis continues to be a key contributor for Milwaukee off the bench, averaging 13.0 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.5 blocks and 0.4 steals across 24.0 minutes.
Absent from practice Jokic has missed Denver's last three contests due to personal reasons. The superstar center's absence from practice is a bad sign of his availability for Friday's matchup with Dallas.
Scores double digits in loss Wednesday night marked Terry's second game this season scoring double digits, and he did so in a very efficient manner. If Terry continues to perform like he did against the Bucks, he may be able to carve out a consistent role among the Bulls' rotation moving forward.
Intends to play Friday DeRozan has missed Sacramento's last three contests due to a back injury but appears close to returning to action. However, fantasy managers should look out for an official injury report to clarify DeRozan's status ahead of Friday's game.
Records season-high 31 points Sengun's efficient shooting helped him post a season-high 31 points Wednesday. The 22-year-old center has now also tallied 12 double-doubles in 16 appearances in 2024-25. Across his last 10 outings, Sengun is averaging 20.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 1.7 blocks in 30.1 minutes.
Efficient scoring in win Smith was Houston's second-leading scorer behind Alperen Sengun in Wednesday's win. However, Smith has had a slow start to the season, converting just 31.5 percent of his 4.6 three-point attempts per contest.
Muted production in blowout victory Mitchell didn't suffer any injury during Wednesday's contest but played a season-low 20 minutes due to the game being out of hand. Still, the 28-year-old guard is off to a great start to the season, shooting 46.5 percent and 40.1 percent on 8.9 three-point attempts per contest.
Returns to practice Coulibaly missed Washington's previous contest due to a head injury. However, the 20-year-old forward's full participation in practice is a good sign of his availability for Friday's matchup with Boston.
Absent from practice Richardson's absence from practice is a bad sign of his availability for Sunday's game versus the Mavericks. However, the Heat are unlikely to drop an official injury report clarifying Richardson's status before Saturday at the earliest.
Doesn’t practice Thursday Jaquez missed Miami's previous outing due to a sprained right ankle but imaging revealed that he has avoided a serious injury. While the second-year forward's absence from practice is a bad sign of his availability against Dallas on Sunday, he still has a few more days to recover in time.
Expected to play Sunday Rozier missed Miami's last contest due to right foot discomfort but appears to have avoided a serious injury. If the 30-year-old guard is able to suit up against Dallas, he will likely reclaim his starting spot from Duncan Robinson.
Set to play Thursday Collins has been upgraded from questionable to available Thursday despite dealing with left knee tendinitis. With Victor Wembanyama (knee) out, Collins should draw a third straight start against Utah.
Good to go against Utah Paul has been upgraded from probable to available Thursday despite dealing with a left thumb sprain. Across his last five appearances, Paul is averaging 11.4 points, 9.4 assists, 4.2 rebounds and 1.8 steals in 28.8 minutes.
Progressing in recovery Sharpe has yet to play this season due to a left hamstring strain. However, Sharpe appears to be progressing well in his recovery and could return to action at the start of December if he doesn't suffer any setbacks.
Now unlikely to play Thursday Clarkson has been downgraded from questionable to doubtful Thursday due to left foot plantar fasciitis. In the veteran guard's expected absence, Johnny Juzang and Isaiah Collier are candidates to receive increased playing time.
Questionable for Friday Claxton has missed Brooklyn's last three contests due to a lower back strain but could return to action Friday. If the 25-year-old center is able to suit up against Philadelphia, he will likely reclaim his starting spot from Ben Simmons.
Posts season-high 12 points Thor made just his second appearance of the season for the Cavaliers during Wednesday's blowout win over the Pelicans. The 22-year-old forward capitalized on his extended playing time by converting all four of his field-goal attempts and posting a season-high 12 points. As a two-way player, Thor will continue to split time between the NBA and G League.
Assigned to G League Smith is averaging 2.5 points in 3.6 minutes across eight appearances for the Bucks this season. The rookie forward should continue to receive increased playing time in the G League.
Headed back to G League Johnson is averaging just 2.0 minutes across four appearances for the Bucks this season. The rookie guard should continue to receive increased playing time in the G League.
Sniffs double-double Curry filled the stat sheet admirably in this game and delivered one of his most efficient outings of the season, missing just three shots from the field and ending just two assists away from a double-double. Curry is averaging 24.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 6.5 assists and 1.8 steals per game since the beginning of November.
Two assists in NBA debut A rookie second-round pick out of UConn, Spencer was cleared to make his NBA debut Wednesday after missing the Grizzlies' first 15 games of the season while recovering from a right ankle sprain. Due to the Grizzlies being without six players due to injury, Spencer was able to crack the rotation, albeit in a small role. Memphis could get Marcus Smart (illness), John Konchar (illness) and Vince Williams (ankle) back for its next game Saturday in Chicago, in which case Spencer would be a prime candidate to exit the rotation. As a two-way player, Spencer is likely to spend considerable time in the G League once the Grizzlies reclaim some health at the NBA level.
Collects career-high six steals Eason was extremely active on defense, as is usually the case, but it led to a career-high six swipes Wednesday. He was also efficient offensively despite forcing some tough looks. After seeing fewer than 20 minutes in four of his first five appearances this season, Eason's role has increased. In November, he's averaging 13.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.4 steals and 1.4 blocks in 25.5 minutes.
Posts double-double Jackson-Davis recorded his first double-double of the season Wednesday, and it was also the first time he scored in double digits since the 125-112 win over the Wizards on Nov. 4. Jackson-Davis' role as the Warriors' starting center is not under any threat. He's averaging 7.8 points and 5.2 rebounds per game since the beginning of November while starting in each of his nine outings.
Headed to G League Livingston continues to bounce back and forth between the NBA and G League. The 21-year-old forward should receive increased opportunities for playing time with the Herd.
Downgraded to questionable Bridges has been downgraded from probable to questionable Thursday due to right knee soreness. If the 26-year-old forward is unable to suit up, Moussa Diabate and Tidjane Salaun are candidates to receive increased playing time.
Goes for 27 points Wednesday Wiggins delivered one of his best scoring performances in 2024-25, finishing just two points shy of tying his season-high mark. The lack of consistency in Wiggins' numbers has been frustrating for fantasy managers, but he's scored over 20 points in his last two games, so the signs are trending in the right direction it seems. Wiggins is averaging 15.0 points per game while shooting 44.3 percent from the field since the beginning of November, however, so there's room for him to continue improving.
Another double-double Capela is making the most of his minutes in recent weeks, scoring in double digits in all but one of his last six appearances while posting three double-doubles in that stretch. That said, Capela is splitting time at center with Onyeka Okongwu, and that's undoubtedly limiting his upside. The veteran big man is averaging 11.9 points and 9.1 boards per game since the beginning of November, and he'll remain valuable in most formats as long as he remains in the starting lineup. For now, that's not expected to change.
Posts double-double in return Johnson returned from a one-game absence and notched his seventh double-double of the season, albeit while shooting poorly from the floor. Any player can have an off night from the floor, however, so fantasy managers shouldn't be worried about Johnson's efficiency, particularly in this matchup against an on-the-rise Warriors team. Johnson's role as one of the Hawks' go-to players on offense shouldn't be under any threat going forward, and he'll remain valuable in fantasy even amid an occasional off night due to his impressive two-way contributions.
Hands out 11 assists Young continues to deliver outstanding numbers as one of the best playmakers in the league, and he's averaging a robust 11.6 assists per contest. However, his scoring numbers are trending in the wrong direction, and he's failed to reach the 20-point mark in three of his last four outings. Fantasy managers shouldn't be overly concerned about a mini-slump for the star floor general, and he should remain one of the best players for the Hawks in every single game as long as he stays healthy.
Strong showing off bench Aldama moved back to the bench with the return of Desmond Bane to the starting lineup, but that hasn't prevented the Spaniard from putting up solid numbers every time he's on the hardwood. Even though the move back to the second unit will limit his upside considerably, Aldama continues to contribute enough to remain valuable in most formats. He's averaging 12.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.1 steals per game while starting in seven of his 10 appearances since the beginning of November.
Fills stat sheet Wednesday Jaren Jackson led the Grizzlies in scoring with his 25-point effort, but Bane led the team in rebounds and assists while also surpassing the 20-point mark. Bane has looked very good after missing seven straight games due to a strained right oblique, and he's averaging 13.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists and a combined 1.5 steals-plus-blocks in his four appearances since returning to the hardwood.
Continues scoring run Jackson has emerged as a reliable scoring weapon for the Grizzlies in the absence of Ja Morant (hip), but the big man has performed better than initially expected. He's embraced being a go-to player on offense and has notched at least 20 points in seven of his last eight games. The former Michigan State standout is averaging 25.5 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game while shooting 50.4 percent from the floor in that span.
Another absence coming Hood-Schifino hasn't played since Nov. 8 due to a left hamstring strain. His next chance to suit up is Saturday's matchup with Denver.
Scores 35 points in loss Embiid was one of Philadelphia's few standout performers in this defeat, leading the team in scoring and rebounding despite the final outcome. Embiid has been limited to just four appearances after missing the team's initial nine contests due to a knee injury and a suspension. The 76ers will monitor Embiid's fitness and rest levels throughout the season, but the big man is expected to be available for Friday's game against the Nets, particularly if Paul George (knee) is unable to feature.
Extends scoring streak Wednesday McCain's success as a rookie has been the lone bright spot for a reeling 76ers team, and the former Duke star has scored at least 20 points in six games in a row. He's firmly entrenched as a reliable scoring weapon just one month into the regular season, and McCain could be in line for an uptick in his usage rate in case Paul George (knee) is forced to miss time. McCain is averaging 25.8 points per game since being promoted to the starting lineup four games ago.
Struggles in return from injury Maxey had a woeful performance in his new 76ers loss, as his eight points were a season-low mark for him after he missed 10 of his 13 shots from the field. Maxey will look to shake off the rust from the six-game absence when the Sixers take on the Nets on Friday, and the fifth-year guard could be in line for an uptick in his usage rate in case Paul George (knee) is unable to play.
Scores 19 points versus South Bay Dennis set new season-high totals in both points scored and steals during Wednesday's victory. However, he was also careless with the ball at times as the rookie undrafted free agent racked up a team-high five turnovers.
Headed to G League Carlson has yet to play any NBA minutes with the Thunder since signing with the team last week. However, he should receive increased playing time in the G League.
Inefficient performance Wednesday Evbuomwan finished the game with a solid stat line despite shooting an inefficient 37.5 percent from the floor. He was also just one rebound shy of recording his second consecutive double-double.
Drops out of rotation Connaughton appears to have lost his spot in head coach Doc Rivers' rotation, as the veteran wing has now failed to get off the bench in both of the Bucks' last two games. Taurean Prince, Gary Trent, AJ Green and Andre Jackson are currently serving as the Bucks' primary options on the wing, and Connaughton's path to playing time will only become more blocked once Khris Middleton (ankles) is ready to make his NBA debut. Connaughton shot just 35.5 percent from the field and 30 percent from three-point range while averaging 4.9 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 17.6 minutes over the Bucks' first 13 games of the season before dropping out of the rotation.
Dominant off bench Harkless scored a season-high 28 points despite playing just 28 minutes while coming off the bench. The 24-year-old has had an effective start to the season, averaging 18.6 points, 6.0 rebounds and 3.6 assists across his first five appearances and will look to maintain this level of production as the season goes on.
Suffers wrist injury Doncic began feeling pain in his wrist during the first quarter of Tuesday's game versus the Pelicans, per Grant Afseth of DallasHoopsJournal.com. While the superstar forward was able to finish the contest and log 30 minutes of action, it appears the injury is more serious than initially expected. With Doncic sidelined for at least a week, Jaden Hardy, Quentin Grimes and Spencer Dinwiddie are all candidates to receive increased playing time in his absence.
Dealing with dislocated shoulder Milwaukee had previously been classifying Rollins' injury as left shoulder instability before revealing that the third-year guard was dealing with a dislocation. Rollins has missed four consecutive games with the injury, and though Rivers suggested that the 22-year-old is expected to avoid surgery on the shoulder, it's unclear when he might be ready to play again. Rollins' absence has reopened a spot in the Milwaukee rotation for Delon Wright, who should continue to serve as Damian Lillard's top backup for any additional games that Rollins misses.
Strong two-way play in win Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard thrived in this win for Milwaukee, but the impact Lopez made on both ends of the court can't go unnoticed since he was a dominant presence throughout the contest. Lopez has been trending in the right direction as a scorer after reaching the 20-point mark in three of his last four contests.
Logs double-double Wednesday Murphy racked up more assists Wednesday than he had in his first three appearances of the season combined. This performance also served as the 25-year-old's first double-double of the year and finished just one rebound away from recording a triple-double.
Explodes for 41 points vs. Chicago Antetokounmpo was absolutely dominant in this contest and feasted against the Bulls defense. Chicago didn't find a way to slow him down -- as evidenced by the fact that the star forward only missed seven of his 24 shots from the field. Antetokounmpo continues to thrive for a reeling Bucks team and has been excellent of late, averaging a robust 33.0 points, 12.4 rebounds and 6.2 assists per game since the beginning of November.
Regresses in loss Wagner is the driving force behind Orlando's offense, but the loss of Paolo Banchero (oblique) has forced the Michigan product to shoulder a heavy load with a first unit that isn't meeting expectations. Wagner is on pace to have his best year yet, averaging 22.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, 5.1 assists and 1.3 steals over 16 games.
Leading scorer in G League Lewis had a solid game all around in his return to the G League following a brief stint in the NBA as he led the team in points scored and rebounds while shooting an efficient 53.3 percent from the field. However, he was careless with the ball at times as the 2023 second-round pick racked five turnovers, which tied Armel Traore for the most on the team.
Double-doubles in win Lillard had a rough shooting display from beyond the arc, but the efficiency woes can be overlooked as he still posted a double-double. The star floor general has two double-doubles this season, and both have come in his last two outings since returning from a three-game absence due to a concussion.
Another tepid line in loss Caldwell-Pope continued to have trouble finding the bottom of the basket in the loss, and it's a very troubling trend for the veteran. He's shooting a measly 33.9 percent from the floor and an even worse 22.9 percent from deep over 16 games, falling well short of previous seasonal averages. The trade for the veteran has yielded few advantages to begin the season, and he'll need a turnaround to keep a role with the first unit.
Poor shooting effort in loss The Bulls looked outmatched on both ends of the court Wednesday, and Vucevic didn't escape the team's woes after finishing with more field-goal attempts than points scored. He posted solid numbers in other categories to salvage his fantasy line, but the Bulls need Vucevic to be a reliable scoring weapon on a game-to-game basis. Vucevic is averaging 20.4 points and 9.0 rebounds per game since the beginning of November.
Logs team-high 17 points from bench Black is getting increased court time and production due to a few factors. Cole Anthony is his only real competition for backup minutes, and the sluggish play from Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has forced the team to provide more spark from the second unit. Black's upward trend could result in a major lineup change for the Magic if Caldwell-Pope is unable recover from his production tailspin.
Leads Chicago in scoring The Bulls suffered a 16-point loss in this one and LaVine was the only Chicago player who reached the 20-point plateau. Scoring numbers aside, what's even more surprising from LaVine this season is his efficiency. The star guard is making 51.2 percent of his shots from the field and 42.9 percent of his threes in eight appearances since the beginning of November.
Productive in spot start Craig got the nod in the starting lineup due to the absence of Patrick Williams (foot) and was productive on both ends of the court. Given that Williams won't play in the upcoming back-to-back set against the Hawks and Grizzlies on Friday and Saturday, respectively, Craig could remain in the Bulls' starting lineup for, at least, the next two games.
Dealing with hamstring injury Goodwin has yet to appear in a game this season as he works his way back from a hamstring injury. His next chance to make his debut will be Sunday's matchup versus Stockton, where he can help provide depth at guard.
Records 10th double-double in win Zubac continues to perform well despite experiencing an extreme usage increase during his ninth season. His perfect attendance record is impressive when you consider the load he has to carry, but the lack of reasonable competition on the roster makes his increased presence necessary to the team's success.
Scores 18 points with first unit The Clippers will be without Norman Powell (hamstring) for a few more games, and Coffey will likely be the prime beneficiary. Although Coffey is only averaging 10.1 points per game, he possesses a strong defensive skill set that doesn't translate as well on paper. Recent offensive performances have upped his fantasy stock, but his potential is capped due to his position on the depth chart.
Scores team-high 24 points Harden continued his role as the Clippers top offensive weapon in a convincing home win, although Wednesday's game was slight regression compared to his most recent totals. Despite key injuries hindering the squad, Harden is getting enough production from his supporting cast to reach a 9-7 record, which is a much better result than many expected given the departure of Paul George and the continuing injury struggles for Kawhi Leonard.
Solid in return to first unit The Suns have experimented with the four frequently during Kevin Durant's (calf), and they opted for O'Neale for the second time amid Durant's absence. O'Neale's performances have rarely been consequential, as he's recorded a double-digit total only two times this season. The Suns will likely mix-and-match players often at the position, making O'Neale an unreliable fantasy option.
Brings down double-double in loss Nurkic held his own despite an enormous night from Karl-Anthony Towns in the paint. The Suns are relieved to have one of their impact players off the injury report after he joined Kevin Durant (calf) and Bradley Beal (calf) on the sidelines twice over the past week. Nurkic's season has been a mixed bag, as he's performing slightly below his seasonal averages in every major category. Field-goal percentage is the most glaring shortcoming, as his 40.4 percent conversion rate is the lowest of his career, and a full 11 percentage points behind his 2023-24 average.
Paces team with 33 points in loss Booker was once again forced to carry a heavy load due to the Suns' depleted lineup, and he delivered with a solid-all-around stat line. Booker continues to be a viable DFS target with Kevin Durant (calf) and Bradley Beal (calf) out, as he's guaranteed to accrue massive production through increased usage.
Logs diverse line in victory Hart was deadly accurate from the floor and also contributed in secondary categories during the decisive win, and he stayed on the floor for 39 minutes despite New York's massive lead at the half. Every player in the first unit is getting the job done for the Knicks and Hart is a key piece. He's averaging 14.1 points, 9.0 rebounds, 5.9 assists and 1.1 steals over 15 games.
Sizzles with 34 points in win The Knicks are getting what they asked for with the Towns trade. Towns notched his fifth consecutive double-double against a struggling Phoenix squad, and he's hit that threshold 12 times through 14 games. Expect another big night from Towns as they meet Utah, another team that's struggling in the interior.
Pours in 36 points to lead team Brunson recorded his fourth double-double season on a night where every Knicks starter scored in double digits. Although the Knicks had a weak matchup against the short-handed Suns, the team is clearly in a groove with all of their elites performing at a high level. Over the first month of the season, the first unit contains some of the most dependable fantasy targets in the league, and they show no signs of slowing down.
Nursing ankle sprain After his appearance was shortened to 13 minutes during Sunday's win over the South Bay Lakers with the injury, Crawford was unable to suit up for this contest altogether. The 23-year-old rookie forward will hope to get healthy in time for Sunday's matchup with South Bay. Over four games with the G League Kings this season, Crawford is submitting 8.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and 1.8 three-pointers per contest while shooting 43.8% from beyond the arc.
Sidelined with ankle injury Beekman was also unavailable for last Friday's win over the South Bay Lakers due to the issue, with his next chance to return for Santa Cruz arriving in this Friday's tilt with the Salt Lake City Stars. Through two appearances with the G League Warriors in 2024-25, the 23-year-old Virginia product has totaled 44 points, 13 rebounds, 13 assists and three steals.
X-rays negative, DTD Podziemski was hit in the face late in Wednesday's game, which was particularly concerning because he broke his nose during the preseason. However, Podziemski has avoided another break and doesn't seem to be at risk of a long-term absence. Podziemski finished the contest with three points (1-6 FG, 1-1 3Pt), two rebounds, two assists and a steal across 15 minutes. His next chance to play will come Friday at New Orleans for the first game of a back-to-back set.
Reaches double figures again While Kinsey was outshined by teammate Isaiah Wong's 41-point showing in Wednesday's victory over the Remix, his 22 points marked a new season-high output. The 24-year-old undrafted rookie has been a consistent contributor for Salt Lake City during five outings in the G League this year, reaching double figures in scoring in all of his games to start 2024-25.
Shines with 41 points in win Wong dominated Wednesday's victory over Rip City, delivering a game-high 41 points with strong shooting splits to power Salt Lake City to the triumph. The 23-year-old former second-round pick is proving he can score at a very high level to begin his G League action in 2024-25, notching at least 26 points in each of his past four contests for the Stars and turning in 32.5 points per game over this stretch.
Struggles with turnovers in loss Bouknight came off the bench for Rip City to tie for the team lead with 21 points, but he committed a whopping seven turnovers in Wednesday's defeat to the Stars. The 24-year-old former first-round pick should continue to act as a sparkplug in the second unit for the Remix in the G League as he hopes to regain his footing back in the NBA at some point.
Ties for team lead with 21 points McGowens matched teammate James Bouknight to pace the Remix with 21 points, and he notably took very good care of the ball by not recording a single turnover after giving the ball away 19 times in his prior three appearances in the G League this season. After also totaling three three-pointers during this span, the 22-year-old former second-round pick made as many triples in Wednesday's defeat to the Stars as he did all year thus far.
Logs double-digit minutes Jones missed all three of his shot attempts, continuing his mediocre start to the season. While the rookie has suited up in all but one game this season, his role is typically based on the play of others. He is averaging 2.3 points and 2.1 rebounds in just 8.4 minutes per game, numbers typically associated with a depth piece and nothing more.
Fails to score in win Dieng didn't trouble the scorers, failing to score for the third straight game. Although he has cracked the rotation in every game this season, Dieng has scored in double digits only once. In 11.6 minutes per game, he is putting up 3.5 points and 2.6 rebounds.
Double-doubles in return Hartenstein made his season debut for the Thunder, returning from a hand injury that cost him the first month of the season. Although he did come off the bench, Hartenstein played 29 minutes, tallying a double-double while putting up a team-best plus-16 point differential. It is unclear whether he will move into the starting lineup, although given the hip injury to Chet Holmgren, it does make sense. Regardless, Hartenstein should have a sizeable role for the Thunder, even more so given their lack of center depth.
Exits after being hit in face Podziemski suffered a broken nose in the preseason and was forced to wear a mask for several weeks, making Wednesday's incident concerning. Podziemski remained down on the floor for several minutes before getting up and heading back to the locker room. While he's out, Moses Moody, Buddy Hield and Gary Payton could see some extra minutes.
Muted role continues Murray has yet to score in double-digits this season, managing just four points Wednesday. Despite the Trail Blazers dealing with a few injuries to begin the campaign, Murray has not been able to carve out a consistent role. To this point, he is putting up modest averages of 4.3 points and 2.4 rebounds in 12.8 minutes per game.
Flirst with double-double in loss Clingan fell just one rebound short of recording his second career double-double, putting together another encouraging performance. A thumb injury to Deandre Ayton has opened up more playing time for the rookie, providing him with an opportunity to play upwards of 20 minutes in each of the past four games. He has recorded 35 rebounds and 14 blocks in that span, a glimpse of what he can do when afforded meaningful minutes.
Serviceable again in loss Camara continues to be relatively consistent, be it on the offensive or defensive end of the court. Although his numbers won't jump off the page, he has been able to make the most of a favorable situation after being inserted into the starting lineup on Opening Night. In 31.8 minutes per game, Camara is averaging 9.1 points to go with 5.1 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 1.5 three-pointers.
Battles foul trouble in win Thompson picked up three early fouls, limiting him to just 17 minutes. While this was a sub-par performance, Thompson had been playing well up to this point. He continues to come off the bench but typically sees at least 25 minutes per night. Look for him to get back on track against the Trail Blazers on Friday.
Limited again Wednesday Holiday continues to play a limited role off the bench, having appeared in only nine games all season. In those games, he is averaging 4.0 points and 1.3 assists in 9.0 minutes, well below what might be considered positive contributions.
Underwhelming performance Brooks was ice cold from the field, connecting on just one of his 10 shot attempts. Despite playing upwards of 30 minutes per night, Brooks is averaging just 11.6 points and 1.9 three-pointers. While he is penciled in as an elite wing defender, he is delivering 0.7 steals per contest, well below what might be considered serviceable.
Struggles continue in loss Haliburton was a non-factor in the loss, continuing his poor start to the season. Outside of a couple of encouraging performances, Haliburton has not looked himself, especially on the offensive end of the floor. Across 15 games, he is averaging 15.3 points per game, shooting a woeful 37.5 percent from the field. He will almost certainly be better than this but given his struggles, perhaps it is reasonable to think his ceiling might not be as high as we thought coming into the season.
Plays seven minutes in debut Brown came off the bench in his season debut, playing seven minutes. Having lost both James Wiseman and Isaiah Jackson to season-ending Achilles injuries, Brown should be able to pick up consistent minutes playing behind Myles Turner. Brown has the ability to be a strong per-minute producer and could step into a larger role should Turner miss any time over the course of the season.
