NBA Player News

The first month of Scoot’s rookie season was disappointing, but he was able to showcase the reason that he was selected with the No. 3 pick in the draft. He set a new career-high for scoring in this game in what was the best game of his young career. He is still working through the struggles that most rookies face, but he will figure it out eventually. It is only a matter of time before he is putting up big numbers consistently. Until that starts, there will be some poor performances, but this was an encouraging performance for the rookie.

After playing Saturday’s game without a legitimate center, the Bulls will have Yabusele for Monday’s matchup with the Spurs. While the opportunity raises his fantasy ceiling, this is a challenging matchup for Yabusele. Leonard Miller heads to the bench, but he should still play plenty.

Spencer joins the opening unit for the Grizzlies on Monday, replacing the injured Javon Small (back). Mashack’s inclusion in the starting five also comes by way of injury — he’ll start on the wing in place of the injured Olivier-Maxence Prosper (shoulder). While the Grizzlies are out of playoff contention, they still offer some intriguing fantasy options, namely Cedric Coward and GG Jackson.

Gibson remains out for another game, but his availability does not affect fantasy basketball.

Clayton is available for Monday’s game despite an ankle injury. He played 30 minutes in Saturday’s win over the Bulls, coming off the bench behind Javon Small. With Small (back) unavailable, the rookie guard may move into the starting lineup. Clayton is worth a look for deep-league managers in need of assists.

Prospoer is one of several Grizzlies ruled out for Monday’s contest. The third-year forward has started games for Memphis lately and is playing well, scoring 31 points against the Rockets on Friday. With him unavailable on Monday, Adama Bal could see an uptick in playing time and opportunities against the Suns.

Small was initially doubtful for Monday’s game. With Walter Clayton Jr. available, the Grizzlies will rely on the rookie and Cam Spencer to handle the point guard duties.

Monday’s game will be the seventh that Martin has missed with a right foot injury. His continued absence does not affect fantasy basketball, but it does contribute to the Mavericks’ current injury woes.

White and Brown are back in the Celtics’ starting lineup after missing Sunday’s win over the Hornets. However, Jayson Tatum and Neemias Queta are out. Scheierman and Garza will start after coming off the bench on Sunday, and Walsh remains in the starting lineup at Sam Hauser’s expense.

Edwards’ return from a six-game absence will be a huge boost for the Timberwolves, who are still battling for seeding in the Western Conference. The versatile shooting guard is averaging a career-high 29.5 points per game this season on very good 49.2/40.2/79.6 shooting splits. His return comes at an even more important time for the Wolves, following Jaden McDaniels’ knee injury. Obviously, Edwards should be a lock in fantasy lineups throughout Championship Week.

Gafford is good to go after missing a few games with a shoulder injury. He’ll return to the starting lineup, but with Marvin Bagley III out, Dwight Powell will serve as the backup.