NBA News
Trey Lyles A Full-Go In Wednesday’s Practice
Sacramento Kings forward Trey Lyles (calf) fully participated in Wednesday's practice, and there's a chance he could be available for Thursday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers. If either Domantas Sabonis or Keegan Murray can't play, Lyles could see a larger role in the frontcourt. He's shown his fantasy potential before, like when he posted 12 points and 10 rebounds in a double-double against the Atlanta Hawks on November 18th. Fantasy managers should check for updates as Thursday's game approaches to see if Lyles takes on a bigger role.
4 hours ago
Kevin Huerter Uncertain for Thursday
Sacramento Kings guard Kevin Huerter (shoulder) is uncertain for Thursday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers due to a shoulder sprain. It's unclear how he will be labeled on the injury report, so fantasy managers should check for an update on Thursday. Huerter has been struggling with his shooting this season, posting a career-low 31.1% from beyond the arc and averaging only 9.9 points per game, his lowest since his rookie season. Hopefully, he can round back into form and stay healthy moving forward. If he is sidelined, Keon Ellis would likely see increased playing time.
4 hours ago
Nuggets, Nets Hold "Exploratory Talks" Regarding Cameron Johnson
According to Evan Sidery of Forbes, the Nuggets and Nets held "exploratory talks" surrounding forward Cameron Johnson. The former Sun has been rumored to be on the move for a while. But with teams having more flexibility to make trades, things are starting to pick up steam. Johnson had a rocky 2023-24 campaign. However, he's having the best year of his career, averaging 18.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 43.3% shooting from behind the arc. A trade with the Nuggets would likely involve Michael Porter Jr. Either way, it's unknown how much progress was made between both sides. With that in mind, Johnson would surely see a dip in production in Denver, considering he'd be sharing the floor with multi-time MVP Nikola Jokic.
4 hours ago
Keegan Murray Misses Wednesday’s Practice
Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray (ankle) did not practice Wednesday as he continues to deal with left ankle soreness. Murray missed his first game of the season on Monday, and his status for Thursday's matchup against the Lakers remains uncertain. Fantasy managers should monitor updates as more clarity emerges. The 24-year-old has been a key contributor for the Kings this season, averaging 36.2 minutes, 12.4 points, and 7.7 rebounds per game, so his absence could open up opportunities for Keon Ellis and Doug McDermott.
4 hours ago
Heat Reportedly Not Interested In Bradley Beal
According to Evan Sidery of Forbes, the Heat aren't interested in acquiring Phoenix Suns guard/forward Bradley Beal (knee). Talks surrounding a trade involving Jimmy Butler have picked up momentum over the last week, with the veteran expressing his desire to suit up in Phoenix or Golden State. However, with the Suns strapped for cash, a move for Butler would most likely need to involve Beal. But with a no-trade clause along with an extensive injury history, Phoenix could have a tough time dealing the former Wizard to any team, even if it's not to the Heat. The situation is worth monitoring. For now, Beal is probable for Thursday's meeting with the visiting Pacers after missing the last two games with swelling in his left knee. As a result, Royce O'Neale, will likely head back to the bench, although it shouldn't impact his workload much.
4 hours ago
Domantas Sabonis Misses Practice On Wednesday
Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis did not practice Wednesday for undisclosed reasons, leaving his status for Thursday's game against the Los Angeles Lakers uncertain. The star big man has been a focal point of the Kings' offense, averaging 21.5 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game. Sabonis is a fantasy gem and a reliable stat-stuffer, making his potential absence a significant concern. Fantasy managers should stay tuned for updates as his availability remains up in the air.
4 hours ago
Trae Young Expected To Face The Spurs
Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (Achilles) is expected to play in Thursday's game against the Spurs. It's another game, although Young is back on the injury report due to right Achilles tendinitis. However, barring a significant setback, he should be out there on Thursday. The 26-year-old has averaged only 21.5 points this season, four points less than he had during the 2023-24 campaign. Yet, he's at least averaging a career-high 12.1 assists. As usual, Young is a must-start, with Vit Krejci and Bogdan Bogdanovic on deck for more work if he can't suit up.
7 hours ago
Kawhi Leonard Progressing
Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (knee) practiced on Wednesday. Even better, it was a full-contact session. The veteran is moving in a favorable direction and will accompany the Clippers on their three-game road trip. Unfortunately for fantasy managers, he still remains without a return date. Without question, Leonard is one of the most talented players in the National Basketball Association, averaging 20.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.7 steals in 696 regular season contests. However, he has missed more than enough time over the years. Still, fantasy managers should keep him stashed for now, although it will be a while before he's healthy enough to handle his usual workload. In the meantime, James Harden and Norman Powell should remain the Clippers' top options on the offensive end.
7 hours ago
Onyeka Okongwu Out At Least Four Games
Atlanta Hawks forward Onyeka Okongwu (knee) will miss at least four games due to left knee inflammation. He will be re-evaluated in a week. The 24-year-old is currently having the best season of his career, averaging 11.3 points and 6.6 rebounds. But while he's sidelined, Larry Nance Jr. could see some minutes at the five spot. However, Nance has some work to do to gain the trust of fantasy managers, although he's worth considering for rosters if he can make good use of his time on the court.
7 hours ago
Kobe Bufkin Done For The Rest Of The Season
Atlanta Hawks guard Kobe Bufkin (shoulder) will miss the remainder of the 2024-25 campaign. The 21-year-old has appeared in only 27 games during his two-year career. He has also played sparingly, averaging only 5.0 points in 11.9 minutes per contest. Unfortunately, Bufkin will need surgery to address instability in his right shoulder. With that said, now is not the time for dynasty managers to move him, considering his value can't get much lower. However, the 2023 No. 15 overall pick is talented enough to turn things around, although he'll need to figure out how to stay healthy.
7 hours ago
Marcus Smart Unlikely To Face The Dubs
Memphis Grizzlies guard Marcus Smart (shoulder) is unlikely to play on Thursday versus the Warriors. Like last season, Smart has had trouble staying on the court during the 2024-25 campaign, missing 10 of Memphis' initial 27 games. Even worse, he has averaged only 9.2 points. He could have been in line for more work with Ja Morant (back) questionable. But now it appears Scotty Pippen Jr. could fill the hole at the one against Golden State, with the 24-year-old averaging 14.3 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals in 10 starts this season.
7 hours ago
Ja Morant Questionable For Thursday Night
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (back) is questionable heading into Thursday's encounter with the Golden State Warriors. The 2019 No. 2 overall pick has averaged 22.0 points, 8.4 assists, and 1.1 steals during the 2024-25 campaign. However, he's also missed 11 games for various reasons. With Marcus Smart (shoulder) doubtful, Scotty Pippen Jr. may fill the void at the one if low back soreness keeps Morant off the floor versus the Dubs. Pippen has played well with the first-five this season, averaging 13.4 points, 5.9 assists, and 1.4 steals in 10 starts, making him a must-start in nearly any fantasy format.
8 hours ago
Malcolm Brogdon Rejoins Practice
Washington Wizards guard Malcolm Brogdon (hamstring) was back in practice on Tuesday. He's missed four games with a left hamstring strain but appears to be on track to return to action soon. The oft-injured guard has appeared in only nine games this season, averaging 13.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in 23.8 minutes. Brogdon has been a regular starter despite seeing limited minutes. Kyshawn George (ankle) and Corey Kispert (ankle) also practiced on Tuesday, so Washington might get much-needed help for Thursday's encounter with Charlotte. Justin Champagnie and Jared Butler will be bumped down the depth chart once the Wizards return to full health.
15 hours ago
Kyle Kuzma Ramping Up
Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma (ribs) wasn't available for Tuesday's practice but is ramping up in his recovery. Kuzma suffered a rib cartilage sprain on Nov. 27 in a game against the Clippers. He's been out for the subsequent seven contests. It looks like Kuzma still needs more time to recover, but his return shouldn't be far away anymore. The 29-year-old sits second in scoring on the team with 15.8 points per game and has averaged 5.6 rebounds. Bilal Coulibaly's role on offense has grown during Kuzma's absence. He's averaged 21.0 points across the past three games.
16 hours ago
Moses Moody Doubtful For Thursday's Action
Golden State Warriors guard/forward Moses Moody (knee) will likely remain unavailable on Thursday against Memphis. After Moody missed Tuesday's practice, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said he would be listed as doubtful for the game. An issue with his left knee has kept Moody sidelined for a couple of contests already. The 22-year-old has posted 7.4 points and 1.9 rebounds in 15.6 minutes this season. Moody tends to spark into life occasionally but not often enough to make an impact in fantasy basketball.
16 hours ago
Christian Wood Cleared For On-Court Workouts
Los Angeles Lakers forward/center Christian Wood (knee) has been cleared to resume on-court workouts. The veteran big man is working his way back from left knee surgery, which he had in early September. He appears to be making steady progress, but it remains unclear when Wood will be able to make his season debut. Wood's addition would give the Lakers much-needed frontcourt depth, especially with Jaxson Hayes (ankle) also out of commission. Hayes has missed nine games and will be re-evaluated next week.
16 hours ago
Matisse Thybulle Limited To Standstill Shooting
Portland Trail Blazers guard/forward Matisse Thybulle (ankle) is limited to standstill shooting in practice, head coach Chauncey Billups revealed on Tuesday. An ankle injury has kept the 27-year-old off the court for the entire campaign so far, and Thybulle's return doesn't appear to be imminent. Last season, Thybulle averaged 5.4 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.7 steals in 22.9 minutes. He has earned two NBA All-Defensive Second Team selections during his five-year career. Thybulle's addition would help Portland improve its defense, but the former first-round pick lacks fantasy appeal due to his limited offensive arsenal.
16 hours ago
Deandre Ayton Back At Practice
Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (illness) was able to practice on Tuesday, signaling he could be ready to return to the lineup on Thursday versus Denver. An illness has kept Ayton out for two games. Donovan Clingan and Jabari Walker have filled in for Ayton in the starting unit. The Portland big man has averaged a double-double for the season with 14.2 points and 10.0 rebounds, but he can't seem to stay healthy, missing nine games already this term. If he's ready to return on Thursday, Ayton will, of course, find himself in a very challenging matchup against Nikola Jokic.
16 hours ago
Jared McCain Undergoes Successful Surgery
Philadelphia 76ers guard Jared McCain (knee) underwent successful surgery on Tuesday to repair a torn left meniscus. He is out indefinitely. The 20-year-old out of Duke was in the running to win this season's Rookie of the Year award, averaging 15.3 points (23.8 points in eight starts). Without question, it's a tough blow to a team that has been riddled with injuries, with Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George all missing time during the 2024-25 campaign. Nonetheless, dynasty managers should hold on to McCain, considering he appears to have a bright future ahead of him. But until he's cleared to return, Eric Gordon could see more minutes, although he's not worth adding to any fantasy roster.
Yesterday
Joel Embiid's Current Injury "Not Nearly As Severe"
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (face) remains sidelined due to another sinus fracture, his third throughout his career. He's due to be re-evaluated in a week. However, fantasy managers have reason to remain hopeful, with head coach Nick Nurse indicating his latest fracture is "not nearly as severe" as his previous two. In hindsight, Embiid didn't miss as much time as expected in previous instances. But when he's cleared to return, he'll likely need to wear protective face covering. Embiid has missed plenty of time due to various injuries this season. Yet, the 30-year-old was beginning to heat up in previous appearances ahead of his most recent injury. With that in mind, there's a good chance Embiid will return in the next few weeks. Until then, Andre Drummond and Guerschon Yabusele will handle things in the middle.
Yesterday
Trey Lyles
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Kings
