NBA Player News

Westbrook made history on two fronts in Friday’s 36-point victory, moving into eighth all-time in assists and 16th in steals. While the overall stat line was solid, a familiar bugaboo has been an issue recently. Westbrook committed six turnovers on Friday, pushing his total to 35 over his last seven games. While this isn’t an issue in eight-cat formats and leagues where managers are punting that category, Westbrook is ranked outside the top 200 in nine-cat over the past two weeks. He did not start Friday’s game despite the Nuggets being without Jamal Murray, but Westbrook’s fantasy ceiling is raised whenever the starting point guard is unavailable.

Kleber will miss a second straight game due to a lumbar sprain. With Deandre Ayton (knee) also out, Jarred Vanderbilt will likely slot in as the backup center. He is not worth the streaming risk in most leagues.

Ayton left Thursday’s game in the first half after playing five minutes and didn’t return due to a knee injury. He’ll miss Friday’s matchup against the Pacers with the same injury. With Ayton sidelined, Jaxson Hayes should start and handle the center minutes with Maxi Kleber (back) also ruled out.

Already dealing with left foot arthritis, James fell hard on his left elbow during Thursday’s loss to the Nuggets. He’ll sit out Friday’s game, likely resulting in Jake LaRavia moving into the starting five. If so, that raises LaRavia’s short-term fantasy ceiling.

Allen exited Tuesday’s win over Detroit early, and the injury could cost him a game. Fortunately, the Cavaliers don’t play again until Sunday, so fantasy managers should keep an eye on Allen’s practice availability.

Max Strus (foot) also participated. The practice is good news for fantasy managers rostering Mitchell and potentially streaming Wade. All three have a chance to take the court for Sunday’s matchup with the Celtics.

Both Gordon and Johnson have a chance to return to Denver’s lineup, but Gordon’s minutes could be managed after such a lengthy absence. Julian Strawther, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Bruce Brown could all see reductions in playing time if Gordon and Johnson are available.

Champagnie is dealing with right knee soreness that may keep him out for the second leg of San Antonio’s back-to-back set. If Champagnie is ultimately ruled out, Devin Vassell and Keldon Johnson could pick up some extra minutes.

Barnes will surprisingly miss a third straight game which should lead to additional playing time for Carter Bryant, but San Antonio’s deep rotation limits Bryant’s fantasy ceiling.

Bagley III is still working his way back from a neck strain, and he’s likely to miss a fifth straight contest. Gafford will get the night off for the second leg of Dallas’ back-to-back set, which isn’t too surprising. With both bigs expected to miss this one, expect Dwight Powell and P.J. Washington to see additional run.

Murray sat out Thursday for the first leg of the Pelicans’ back-to-back set, but he’ll be back in action against Phoenix and should handle a normal workload. Jeremiah Fears’ fantasy appeal takes a hit as a result of Murray’s availability.