NBA Player News

Allen recorded career highs in points (16.5) and assists (2.7) per game last season and continued to be a strong rebounder and defender for Cleveland. Fantasy managers should view him as a strong fantasy center option ahead of 2024-25 despite how banged-up he was during last year’s playoffs.

Avdija, who finished one rebound shy of his third triple-double of the season, continues to make a strong case for a spot in February’s All-Star Game. The Trail Blazers’ forward, who has taken on primary playmaker responsibilities, is averaging 25.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 2.3 three-pointers per game while shooting 46.9 percent from the field and 79.1 percent from the foul line. Turnovers have been the lone issue for Avdija, as he’s averaging nearly four per game and committed six on Monday. However, the overall production has been excellent in a breakout campaign for Avdija.

Wembanyama started things off with some excitement in the first quarter as he slammed home an alley-oop from Stephon Castle that came off the backboard. The 21-year-old center was efficient with 26 points and 14 rebounds in 27 minutes, but wasn’t much of a factor on the defensive end with one block after recording five blocks in his last game. The Spurs will take on the Knicks Wednesday in the second game of a four-game week.

Allen hadn’t even scored 20 points in his last 12 games, but dropped 27 points in the victory over the Spurs on Monday. It’s the most points Allen has had in a game since scoring 30 on November 12 against the Heat. He rose to the challenge against the Spurs and center Victor Wembanyama, adding 10 rebounds as well. The Cavaliers will be back in action Wednesday against the Suns for the second game of a four-game week.