NBA Player News

McCants had signed overseas but was released after failing his physical. At this point, he’s a major longshot to return to ever return to the NBA.

After lower back soreness limited him to 14 minutes in Thursday’s loss to the Wizards, Jones was available and started Friday’s rematch. Interestingly, the rookie logged 39 minutes before gingerly walking back to the locker room late in the fourth quarter. The good news is that Jones recorded a season-high 11 assists, but the finish was disappointing for injury-related reasons. If Jones is available for Sunday’s game against the Mavericks, he’ll come off the bench if Andrew Nembhard (back) plays.

Before Friday’s game, Wizards head coach Brian Keefe said that he hoped to use Riley some at the point during Thursday’s win over the Pacers. Why the inability to do so led to the rookie playing for only four minutes was a question that went unanswered. And for those hoping to see more of Riley on Friday, he played 12 minutes. The good news is that the 6-foot-8 wing was productive, but this is something to watch moving forward. Hopefully, the low minutes don’t become the norm for Riley.

Johnson shot the ball well on Friday, but the lack of playing time was a disappointment for fantasy managers. Due to the ankle injury suffered in late January, the rookie guard remains on a minutes restriction. While Johnson’s overall stat line was lean, there were signs that he could be a silly-season standout. However, that depends on how the Wizards handle the playing time, especially with fellow rookie Will Riley playing 12 minutes despite being healthy.

Added to the injury report on Friday afternoon, James is good to go for the Lakers’ first game out of the All-Star break. The Lakers will be able to roll out their preferred starting lineup, as Luka Dončić and Deandre Ayton are also available.

Pickett is cleared to play Friday in the Nuggets’ second game in as many nights. He was also available against the Clippers on Thursday, but didn’t see any action in the one-point loss. Pickett is averaging just 5.4 points per game thus far, but is capable of big nights as a three-point shooter. Should he earn minutes on Friday, it’ll likely be in a reserve role.

Murray is good to go after being listed as questionable on the initial injury report. He’ll take on his usual responsibilities as the Nuggets’ starting point guard.

Vukčević, who was in the starting lineup for Friday’s game, has been ruled out for the rest of the night with a hand contusion. He played 20 minutes, finishing with 14 points (7-of-12 FGs), eight rebounds, one assist, one steal and one blocked shot. Vukčević’s absence should result in more minutes for Anthony Gill, as he’s the only other healthy big in the Wizards’ rotation.