NBA Player News

Through the first two games of the series, Banchero has scored 68 points on 26-of-52 shooting from the field. There’s no denying the fact that the third-year forward is getting what he wants as a scorer. However, due to the inability of some of his Magic teammates to hit shots, Banchero’s assist tally has not been as robust as it could be. In many instances, role players tend to perform better at home. The Magic, who are staring at a 0-3 deficit, certainly hope that will be the case in Game 3 on Friday.

Valančiūnas was initially listed as probable with a calf injury, so his availability isn’t a surprise. With Nikola Jokic (knee) returning from injury, though, Valančiūnas will head back to the bench and lose most of his fantasy value.

Murray was initially listed as probable, so it doesn’t come as a surprise that he’ll suit up. He had 27 points against Brooklyn on Thursday and will look to stay hot against LA in this game.

Jokić is set to return after being sidelined with a knee injury he suffered in a December 29 loss to the Heat. Nuggets coach David Adelman told reporters the 30-year-old center will start and be on a minutes restriction. Jokić’s return is a welcomed sight for fantasy managers. Jonas Valanciunas will move to the bench and lose most of his fantasy value with the three-time MVP back in the starting lineup.

LaVine returns to the starting unit after coming off the bench on Thursday, which will push Nique Clifford back to the bench. Domantas Sabonis is out on the second night of this back-to-back, which results in Raynaud making his return to the opening unit. This is likely just a one-game nod for Raynaud, but he should have some upside in an increased role.

Williams missed Tuesday’s game against the Wizards as he continues to manage a knee injury. The 28-year-old backup center will be back on the court Friday against the Knicks. He improves the Trail Blazers’ depth, especially with Duop Reath (foot) done for the year, but isn’t worth rostering in most fantasy leagues.

Avdija was initially listed as questionable, but he will be good to go against New York. He struggled in his return to the lineup on Tuesday, and he’ll look to have a better performance in this one while occupying his usual spot in the starting unit.

Santos was listed as probable and has officially been cleared to suit up. He scored 16 points on Wednesday, which was a season high, but he hasn’t contributed much value this season and shouldn’t be viewed as a target for fantasy managers.

With Tre Johnson (ankle) and Khris Middleton (knee) sidelined for the second leg of this back-to-back, Carrington and Champagnie will enter the starting lineup. Both players should see a nice boost in production in increased roles.

McBride was downgraded to doubtful earlier in the day and has now officially been ruled out for a second straight game. Landry Shamet and Tyler Kolek should take on large reserve roles once again, just as they did against Toronto on Wednesday.