NBA Player News

While incoming rookies and high-upside returnees tend to be the focus of summer league competition, it’s also an essential proving ground for veterans looking to earn a longer NBA look. Swider qualifies, and he’s played well in the Lakers’ first two games of the summer. After scoring 24 points against the Warriors on Saturday, he produced another 20-point effort on Sunday. Swider is not a player to consider for fantasy leagues, but he is a player who may earn himself a two-way contract or training camp deal if he can build on his first two games of the month.

Giddey was efficient with 23 points on 13 attempts, three three-pointers and 12 assists. Still, the Bulls couldn’t hang with the 76ers and the 23-year-old point guard ended up -15 in 33 minutes. Giddey has provided first-round per game value over the last two weeks. The Bulls have two more games this week with a back-to-back against the Thunder and Grizzlies on Friday and Saturday.

Edgecombe had scored at least 35 points in two of his last three games, but it’s difficult to project that ceiling with Joel Embiid and Paul George back in the lineup. Both Embiid and George took more shots than the 20-year-old point guard on Wednesday. Edgecombe was efficient with 22 points on nine attempts and four three-pointers, but his volume took a hit.

With no Deandre Ayton (knee), Hayes made his ninth start of the season on Wednesday. Having averaged 11.4 points and 4.5 rebounds in his previous eight starts, the backup 7-footer had an excellent night against the Pacers. Not only did Hayes record new season-highs in points and rebounds, but he was also responsible for two steals and two blocks. If Ayton remains out for Friday’s game against the Nets, don’t hesitate to stream Hayes in what will be another good matchup.

Dončić and the Lakers appeared intent on ending their road trip on a high note, scoring 45 points in the first quarter. Luka was responsible for 21 of those points, and he finished with his third game of at least 40 points in the last five. Since the All-Star break, Dončić has provided top-5 value in eight- and nine-cat formats, according to Basketball Monster. While the Lakers only play once more in Week 22, the game is against the Nets. That could be another big night for Dončić.

Grant is back in the starting lineup on Wednesday after missing the Blazers’ loss to the Nuggets. The veteran has spent time as both a starter and reserve throughout the season, averaging 18.6 points over 55 games. His production could be important as Portland battles for seeding down the stretch of the season.