Marcus Smart (forearm) questionable Saturday

For the first time since his rookie season, DeRozan is being asked to come off the bench. As expected, the veteran forward needs to adjust to the unfamiliar role. After taking 19 shots in Denver’s first two games, he took 15 against the Warriors and recorded his first 20-point stat line of the season. As DeRozan gets more comfortable in his role, his chances of providing the fantasy value managers have grown accustomed to over the years improve.

Monday’s start was the second in as many games for Hopkins, who continues to fill in for the injured Cameron Johnson (ankle). Unlike Saturday’s win over the Pelicans, when he offered limited production, the rookie was more aggressive on offense. The result was Hopkins’ first double-figure scoring night as an NBA player. He should remain a starter until Johnson is healthy enough to play.

After going off for 42 points in Saturday’s win over the Pelicans, Murray cooled off a bit on Monday. However, he still shot well; the final line reflected lower shot volume and his inability to get to the foul line. After attempting 13 free throws against New Orleans, Murray didn’t attempt any against the Warriors. Monday’s outcome aside, Murray’s gotten off to a good individual start this season.

Two nights after recording a triple-double in Denver’s comeback win over the Pelicans, Jokić posted a double-double on Monday. The three-time MVP finished with a complete stat line and committed one turnover, a good start to the week for those rostering him. However, the Nuggets are now 1-2, and they needed to erase a large deficit to get that lone win. Simply put, Jokić needs more help from teammates not named Jamal Murray.

Back in the lineup after sitting out Saturday’s loss to the Suns, Podziemski recorded his second 18-point game of the season. He played 33 minutes against the Nuggets, a positive sign given the back issue that kept Podz out of the Warriors’ October 21 season opener. Golden State has three more games in Week 2, ending with a Sunday/Monday back-to-back, so another injury management night could be on the horizon for Podziemski.

For just the second time in his illustrious career, Curry finished a game without missing a shot. After making his lone attempt during the first half, the Warriors guard shot 7-of-7 from the field in the second half as they pulled away from the Nuggets. Given Yaxel Lendeborg’s play, the Warriors didn’t have to rely as much on Curry. If that continues, it would make the future Hall of Fame guard’s job a little easier.

On a night when Stephen Curry attempted just one shot in the first half, Lendeborg had his best game as a pro. The rookie forward recorded his second double-double in four games and his first 30-point stat line. Given Lendeborg’s role with the Warriors and how much the team seems to trust him, he could be one of the best rookies in fantasy basketball this season.

Both Jaren Jackson Jr. (knee) and Lauri Markkanen (wrist) exited early from this game, which allowed Bamba and Josh Green to start the second half. Green wasn’t productive, but Bamba made the most of the opportunity. If Jackson remains out against the Spurs on Wednesday, Bamba may be in line to start. However, it is unlikely be produces to this level again, and the matchup against Victor Wembanyama isn’t ideal.

Bailey has been excellent over Utah’s last two games, posting a double-double in both. However, his production could continue to climb. Lauri Markkanen (knee) and Jaren Jackson Jr. (knee) both exited early from this game and could remain sidelined. Bailey already moved into the starting unit after opening night, but his usage will continue to increase if Utah is missing two starters. He’ll look to stay hot against the Spurs on Wednesday.

Gordon was given two technical fouls in quick succession after arguing a call, ending his night with 8:34 left in the fourth quarter. He finished with seven points (2-of-10 FGs, 3-of-3 FTs), four rebounds, two assists and one steal. Marvin Bagley III replaced Gordon in the lineup after he was ejected.