NBA Player News

DeRozan went out firing on Wednesday, shooting just under 50 percent from the field and finishing a blocked shot shy of a complete stat line. Like other key Kings players, his fantasy value took a hit after De’Aaron Fox was traded to San Antonio. The lack of a point guard who can set up others consistently proved problematic for the Kings, who now have some significant decisions to make this offseason. DeRozan can approach top-50 fantasy value, but the task gets much easier when on the court with a legitimate lead guard.

With Poole sidelined, rookie Jeremiah Fears should get a boost, though Fears was already a player worth picking up prior to Poole’s injury. Jordan Hawkins and Jose Alvarado should see an increase in playing time as well.

After missing the first eight games of the season, Green’s debut for the Suns went about as well as it could have. He only played 23 minutes, but that ended up being enough time for him to shine in his first game for the Suns. Green may not shoot this well all season, but the shot volume should be there for him. Green’s tenure with Phoenix could not have gotten off to a better start, and he’ll look to keep it going when they take on the Clippers again on Saturday.

This was only the third time this season that Booker didn’t score at least 30 points. However, the Suns were still able to secure a win. The return of Jalen Green helped make that possible, but that shouldn’t concern fantasy managers that have Booker rostered. He’s still the superstar of this team. Things may be easier for Booker with another high-level shot creator around to take some of the defensive attention, but the offense will still run through him.

With Jalen Green (hamstring) making his season debut, Dunn came off the bench for the first time this season. However, that didn’t stop him from producing a solid line. His upside will be limited as a reserve, and the eventual return of Dillon Brooks will only limit him even more. Grayson Allen scored 18 points as a starter, and it is unlikely that he’ll be moved to the bench if he continues to play this well.

With Kawhi Leonard (ankle) and James Harden (personal) both sidelined, Zubac stepped up as the leading scorer for LA. He ended up being the lone bright spot in the starting unit; if the bench didn’t step up, this game would’ve been more lopsided. 23 points were a new season-high for Zubac, but he won’t get that opportunity often when this team is healthy.

After missing Tuesday’s game, which was the second leg of a back-to-back, Beal was back to take on the Suns. With James Harden (personal) and Kawhi Leonard (ankle) both sidelined, it was a great opportunity for Beal to get back on track against his former team. Beal was limited to 20 minutes once again. The hope is that he’ll eventually play better and play more, but at this point, he isn’t doing much to help fantasy managers or the Clippers.

Christie hasn’t been part of the rotation this season, but with James Harden (personal) and Kawhi Leonard (ankle) both out, he was given the opportunity to play a large role off the bench. He took full advantage, setting a new career-high for points. Perhaps Christie will earn more minutes, but he won’t play a significant role consistently this season. However, he’s an intriguing stash in dynasty leagues.

Wiggins started in OKC’s last game on Wednesday, but he won’t be available to play Sacramento. Chet Holmgren and Alex Caruso will be back, but Wiggins’ absence will open up more minutes for Ajay Mitchell and Isaiah Joe, even if Luguentz Dort returns from his shoulder injury.

Dort missed Wednesday’s game against Portland after an early exit on Tuesday. If he remains out for another game, Ajay Mitchell should get another start in Dort’s place. Mitchell had 21 points in 31 minutes against the Trail Blazers.

Sabonis missed Wednesday’s game against Golden State, which allowed Drew Eubanks to get the starting nod in his place. Eubanks should get another start if Sabonis remains out, with Maxime Raynaud and Precious Achiuwa filling out the reserve minutes. If Sabonis is back, he’ll play the majority of the minutes at center.