NBA Player News

VDN was asked if he thought Chris Paul wanted him out as coach and also whether he thought owner Donald Sterling would’ve preferred for Del Negro to return. His answers to both questions were mostly straight-forward, non-answers so neutral that it was clear Del Negro had opinions on both that he didn’t want to say. There have been a lot of rumblings that Paul didn’t want Del Negro to return and the Clippers’ desire to re-sign the point guard forced the coach out the door. Whatever the truth is, Del Negro likely wants to coach in the NBA again and is smart enough not to throw Paul or the Clippers under the bus.

Smith is good to go after initially being listed as questionable. With Davion Mitchell (illness) unavailable, there should be a few more minutes available to Smith. That said, he won’t be worth the risk in most redraft leagues.

Mitchell’s absence opens up a spot in the starting lineup, with Tyler Herro being his potential replacement. Herro may still be under a minutes restriction, so there may also be a few more minutes for Dru Smith.

Yabusele was initially probable for Saturday’s game, so the status upgrade was expected. With Jalen Smith back in the Bulls’ lineup, Yabusele is unlikely to get the minutes needed to affect fantasy basketball.

Having last appeared in a game on October 29, Jordan will make his third appearance and second start of the season on Saturday. He’ll match up with Andre Drummond, with the Pelicans likely hoping that their veteran pivot can keep his 76ers counterpart off the glass. Bryce McGowens heads to the bench.

Jović is out after being listed as questionable on the initial injury report. His absence frees up a few more minutes for Simone Fontecchio and Jaime Jaquez Jr., with the latter being the superior fantasy option.

Powell was initially probable for Saturday’s game, so he was on track to play. Officially good to go, he’ll take on his usual role within the Heat starting lineup.

Brooks, back in the lineup after a one-game suspension for technical foul accumulation, injured his left hand during the first quarter and was taken back to the locker room. The Suns announced at halftime that he would not return, and Ryan Dunn was inserted into the lineup to begin the third quarter. Brooks finished with five points (2-of-7 FGs), three rebounds and one three-pointer in seven minutes.

Having returned to action on Friday, Herro will be available for Saturday’s game as well. He logged 24 minutes in Friday’s win over the Hawks and will likely take on a similar workload against the Grizzlies.

Murray was initially doubtful for Saturday’s game against the 76ers before being ruled out. His return to action is reportedly on the horizon, with Tuesday’s matchup with the Warriors being the target. Given the injury, a ruptured Achilles tendon, and the time missed, Murray’s playing time is likely to be limited. The question is how much his return will affect Jeremiah Fears, who has served as the backup point guard.

Caruso sprained his left ankle during Friday’s win over the Nets and did not return. His absence makes Isaiah Joe and Jared McCain players of greater importance among the Thunder reserves, especially with Ajay Mitchell also out.