NBA Player News

Despite the Pacers listing Sheppard as questionable for Friday’s game against the Mavericks, he’s expected to miss time with a left meniscus injury. Carlisle said on Friday that the reserve guard could miss two weeks or more. With Aaron Nesmith cleared to return from a strained hamstring, he’ll absorb most of the minutes that would have gone to Sheppard.

Nesmith will return after missing Wednesday’s win over the Pelicans, according to Pacers coach Rick Carlisle. With Nesmith back, Kelly Oubre Jr. will head to the bench for Friday’s game against the Mavericks.

Peavy was waived by the Grizzlies earlier this week and went unclaimed. Now the former 18th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft will try to carve out a role for himself on the Thunder. He reportedly picked Oklahoma City over Toronto as the Raptors had also offered him a two-way contract.

Okpara is available for Friday’s game, but that doesn’t guarantee he’ll see action. The rookie should only be rostered in dynasty leagues.

Embiid told reporters after the win over the Cavaliers on Thursday that he will sit out one of the 76ers’ games this weekend. Given that he’s not listed on the injury report for Saturday’s game against the Bucks, it looks like he’ll play Saturday and sit out Sunday’s game against the Pistons. Adem Bona or Jabari Walker will likely start in Embiid’s absence.

Bilodeau’s continued absence will not affect fantasy basketball, as he is unlikely to receive consistent minutes in the rotation even when healthy.

Diop will remain sidelined for a second consecutive game, but his absence does not significantly impact fantasy basketball. As for the Cavaliers’ rotation, they’ll likely continue to stagger the minutes of starters Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen to keep one on the floor at all times.

LeBron had 17 points in the 76ers’ dramatic 29-point comeback against the Cavaliers on Thursday. With Philadelphia being the only team with four games in Week 1, it’s reasonable to assume James could sit for one of the games this weekend. The 41-year-old forward is listed as questionable for Saturday against the Bucks with a back injury. His status will have to be monitored leading up to game-time.

Barlow and Fall remain out, and both are likely to miss extended time due to their respective injuries. Adem Bona and Jabari Walker will continue to fill out the back end of the 76ers’ interior rotation.

LaRavia was initially listed as questionable, but it should be no surprise that he’s been ruled out Friday after he sprained his right ankle in Wednesday’s win over the Warriors. The good news is that the injury isn’t considered serious and he should return to game action soon. Without LaRavia, Quentin Grimes could see enough minutes off the bench to be worth steaming consideration in category leagues.