NBA Player News

Hours after multiple outlets reported that the Jazz were waiving Taevion Kinsey, the team confirmed that move while announcing who would take over that two-way slot. Tshiebwe, who was not selected in the 2023 NBA Draft, spent last season on a two-way deal with the Pacers and played most of his minutes in the G League. Making 21 appearances for the Fort Wayne Mad Ants, Tshiebwe earned G League Rookie of the Year honors and was also a first-team All-G League selection. This move will not significantly impact fantasy basketball next season unless Utah moves Walker Kessler.

Randle is dealing with a sore left thumb, which is problematic since he’s a left-handed shooter. He’s yet to miss a game this season, but an absence could push Jaylen Clark into the starting lineup. No Randle would also raise Naz Reid’s ceiling, even if he’s used in his usual reserve role.

Edwards is dealing with back spasms. His status is up in the air for Monday’s game against the Grizzlies. If he’s ruled out, Mike Conley could start in his place, though Bones Hyland has been the better streaming option when Edwards has missed games before.

Initially listed as questionable with a calf injury, Reaves will remain out as he hasn’t played since December 25. The 27-year-old shooting guard’s return may not be far off, but Marcus Smart is in line for another start Sunday, though he’s not worth rostering in most fantasy leagues.

Kuzma joined Ryan Rollins as the only Bucks in double figures on Sunday. He hasn’t been the most reliable fantasy option for most of his career, but the current circumstances could make Kuzma worth the risk in points leagues. Rostered in 25 percent of Yahoo! leagues, he’s been more productive with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Porter Jr. out due ot injury. The Bucks play three games in Week 16, starting with the Bulls on Tuesday.

Rollins was essentially the only Bucks player able to establish anything offensively in Boston. The Bucks’ guard had an efficient afternoon at the office, and the absence of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Porter Jr. raises his ceiling considerably. While it remains to be seen what Milwaukee does before the trade deadline, fantasy managers should feel secure in rostering Rollins.

Queta is rounding back into form after an illness factored into his limited production over a three-game stretch that concluded with a January 26 win over the Trail Blazers. Over his last two games, the Celtics center has totaled 24 points, 23 rebounds, six assists, three steals and two blocked shots. Queta will look to carry over his last two games into a four-game Week 16, which begins on Tuesday in Dallas.

After consecutive nine-point outings against the Pistons and Pacers, Simons has reached double figures in six straight games. He was rolling on Sunday, shooting 6-of-10 from beyond the arc, with the 27 points being the most Simons has scored in a game since going for 39 in a January 15 win over the Heat. The limited assists and defensive production limit Simons’ ceiling in category leagues, with him being a better option in points leagues.

White filled the stat sheet on Sunday, with a blocked shot being the only thing missing from his line. The Celtics’ guard continues to provide excellent fantasy value, especially for those competing in category leagues. Heading into the final full week of play before the All-Star break, White is providing third-round value in eight- and nine-cat formats, according to Basketball Monster. The Celtics play four games in Week 16, beginning with a road back-to-back against the Mavericks and Rockets.

Brown was the star in the inaugural NBA Pioneers Classic, scoring 30 points on 60 percent shooting and recording his ninth double-double of the season. Named an All-Star Game starter last month, Brown has played at an NBA-caliber level throughout the season, and fantasy managers have reaped the rewards. The Celtics play four games in Week 16, starting with a Texas two-step against the Mavericks and Rockets.

The Kings remain without Russell Westbrook, who will miss a third straight game, and Domantas Sabonis was a late scratch. With Dennis Schröder traded to the Cavaliers, Clifford will serve as the starting point guard. And as was the case earlier this season when Sabonis missed time, Raynaud moves into the starting five.