NBA Player News

The Kings’ leadership has been a mess for a long time, and without major strides to show in terms of team record or player development, Walton’s ouster comes as little surprise. He walks away with a guaranteed $11.5 million still coming his way through 2022-23. Kings associate head coach Alvin Gentry is expected to be a “strong candidate” for the interim job. Hope springs eternal in fantasy leagues and this could be an opportunity for underperforming De’Aaron Fox to turn things around. Among other things, we’ll be watching how Walton’s replacement handles the crowded backcourt rotation and Chimezie Metu’s role as the current starting PF.

Murray-Boyles is coming off his first double-double, having accounted for 11 points and 12 rebounds in Tuesday’s win over the Heat. Along with Sandro Mamukelashvili, the rookie has played a key role off the Raptors’ bench as they account for Jakob Poeltl’s back troubles. If CMB can’t play on Friday, Jonathan Mogbo may move into the back end of the rotation after spending some time in the G Leagues.

Barrett has not appeared in a game since November 23, and it’s unknown when he’ll be able to return after being cleared to resume on-court activities last week. Ochai Agbaji should remain in the starting lineup for the time being, with Jamal Shead picking up additional minutes off the bench.

Larsson has missed the last five games since suffering a sprained left ankle. While the Heat will remain without Tyler Herro (toe), the returns of Larsson and Nikola Jović (elbow) would make for a crowded perimeter rotation. Rookie Kasparas Jakučionas could be the odd man out, but that won’t significantly affect fantasy basketball.

Jović is on track to return to action after an elbow contusion sidelined him for Miami’s last four games. While he will provide additional depth at the forward positions upon clearance, it won’t be enough to make Jović a must-roster player in most fantasy leagues.

Johnson’s availability does not affect fantasy basketball, even with Tyler Herro (toe) still out. Plus, with Nikola Jović and Pelle Larsson considered probable, Johnson may not see any action on Friday.

Herro will miss a sixth straight game after aggravating the toe injury that sidelined him earlier in the season. Kel’el Ware has started Miami’s last four games and will likely remain in that role. He should already be rostered in most fantasy leagues.

Adebayo is dealing with lower back tightness, casting some doubt on his availability for Friday’s game. If he can’t go, Kel’el Ware would be the lone post player on the floor. The second-year center has flourished recently, whether he starts or comes off the bench.

Da Silva is on track to return after missing Orlando’s last four games. His absence resulted in rookie Noah Penda picking up additional minutes off the bench. While he didn’t do enough to affect redraft leagues, Penda will continue to have value in dynasty formats. Jase Richardson’s playing time will also decrease with da Silva available.

Horford has not appeared in a game since December 4. Given his struggles to remain healthy this season, don’t expect the veteran center to get the minutes needed to affect fantasy basketball. Leave Horford on the waiver wire.

Finney-Smith will make his season debut on Thursday after undergoing offseason ankle surgery. While he has the potential to provide the Rockets with another 3-and-D wing, Finney-Smith will be under a strict minutes restriction on Thursday. There is no need to consider rostering him right now.