NBA Player News

Embiid has been ineffective for most of the Olympics, and he didn’t see the floor at all against South Sudan. That was more of a personnel decision based on matchups than a true benching, according to Steve Kerr. He returned to the starting unit for this game and had his best game in a Team USA jersey. If they’re able to rely on him more, the former MVP should be able to make a big impact for them as they continue to compete for a gold medal.

Collins and Johnson were both signed to Exhibit 10 contracts earlier this week, which only guaranteed them a place in training camp. The Warriors requesting waivers on both makes them eligible for a bonus of $77,500 if they remain with the team’s G League affiliate for at least 60 days. These transactions will not impact fantasy basketball, as the Warriors aren’t expected to fill their 15th standard contract slot.

Simmons has struggled with back issues for a couple of years, most recently undergoing a microscopic partial discectomy in mid-March. According to his agent, the Nets forward will not be under any restrictions when training camp begins. While this is good news, experienced fantasy managers may hesitate to trust Simmons, and with good reason, given the track record. At best, he’s a late-round dart throw in standard league drafts. A healthy (and productive) Simmons would impact multiple players within the Nets rotation due to his ability to impact games as a distributor and defender.

There had been rumblings recently that Griffin, the 16th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, was unsure if he wanted to continue his NBA career. On Friday, he and the Rockets agreed on a contract buyout, and Griffin is now evaluating his next steps as a professional. Hopefully, Griffin will find some peace, regardless of his final decision. He missed some time last season for personal reasons, and the Rockets acquired Griffin from the Rockets in June.

Waived by the Lakers on Sunday, Hinson will reportedly head north for training camp. According to multiple reports, the Warriors don’t intend to fill their 15th roster spot, so Hinson is likely headed to Santa Cruz to play for the team’s G League affiliate.

The 41st overall pick in the 2023 draft, Bailey appeared in 10 games for the Hornets and 36 for their G League affiliate last season. He faces long odds to make the Nets’ opening night roster, so fantasy managers do not need to consider Bailey in drafts.

Not selected in the 2023 draft, Justice appears headed toward a second season with the Jazz organization. He was in training camp on a similar deal last fall before playing for Utah’s G League affiliate, averaging 11.6 points and 4.2 rebounds per game during the regular season. If the Jazz waives Justice and he then spends at least 60 days with the Salt Lake City Stars, he’ll receive a $77,500 bonus.

The Suns are rounding out their roster for training camp, with Shackelford being the most recent addition. With the Valley Suns, Phoenix’s G League affiliate, acquiring Shackelford’s returning player rights from the Oklahoma City Blue, look for him to be in the G League this season. This transaction will not impact fantasy basketball.

McCoy averaged 10.9 points, 4.6 assists, and 4.0 rebounds for the Austin Spurs last season.

Harris appeared in two games for the Orland Magic last season and averaged 2.0 points and 1.0 rebound per game.

LeDee was a star forward for the San Diego State Aztecs last season. He averaged 21.4 points and 8.4 rebounds per contest.