NBA Player News

While Jones-Garcia agreed to a two-way contract with the Jazz last November, he did not see any time in the NBA. He’s one of many looking to use the summer as a springboard into greater security, and Sunday’s performance likely aided his cause. Jones-Garcia shot over 50 percent from the field and filled the stat line, with his six turnovers being the lone negative. There’s no need to consider Jones-Garcia for fantasy drafts, but he may be able to earn another two-way opportunity with a good summer.

Caldwell-Pope will undergo surgery to address the misalignment of his right pinky finger, with the Grizzlies expected to provide a return timeline afterward. Given where the team is in the standings, it may be a while before KCP returns to game action, as there’s no need to risk anything. When healthy, Caldwell-Pope has not affected fantasy basketball, so he can be left on the waiver wire.

Morant last appeared in a game on January 21, and the Grizzlies announced on Wednesday that he will be out at least two more weeks before being re-evaluated. The point guard is still dealing with discomfort in his left elbow, which is why he needs more rehab time. With Morant down, the Grizzlies will continue to rely on Ty Jerome, Scotty Pippen Jr. and Cam Spencer to handle the playmaking responsibilities. Jerome offers the highest fantasy ceiling of the three.

Having missed the Kings’ final two games before the All-Star break, Monk will be available on Thursday. He should take on his usual role as the second unit’s top offensive option in the short term. However, Monk’s playing time could decrease as the Kings look to develop Devin Carter while also improving their draft lottery odds.

Westbrook sat out the Kings’ final game before the All-Star break, resulting in Devin Carter making his first career start. The veteran’s return should push Carter to the bench, but playing time won’t be an issue for the second-year guard, given where the Kings are in the standings.

While Hunter participated in Wednesday’s practice, he is not yet ready to play in games. The good news for the Kings is that Keegan Murray (ankle) will be available for the first time since late January. He should absorb a good percentage of the minutes that would go to Hunter.

With Spencer Jones set to be upgraded to a standard contract, the Nuggets will have a two-way contract slot to work with. According to Charania, the team has decided to use the available slot to sign Simpson. The 42nd overall pick in the 2024 draft, the 6-foot point guard was waived by the Hornets after the trade deadline. A hip injury sidelined Simpson before Charlotte waived him, so there’s no guarantee he’ll be available immediately upon signing with the Nuggets.

Batum is back after sitting out the Clippers’ February 11 win over the Rockets. His return does not affect fantasy basketball, so the veteran forward can be left on the waiver wire.

Richard did not play in the Warriors’ final game before the All-Star break, a February 11 loss to the Spurs. His return gives the Warriors another option off the bench, which will be helpful with Stephen Curry (knee) unavailable. However, there isn’t much to gain from rostering the rookie in redraft leagues.

Porziņǵis was a full participant in the scrimmage the Warriors held on Wednesday, opening the door for him to make his debut for the team on Thursday. If Porziņǵis can play, fantasy managers should expect him to be under a minutes restriction. Quinten Post, whose minutes have decreased recently, may take another hit with Porziņǵis in the fold.

Curry did not participate in Wednesday’s practice, as he did not “feel right,” according to Warriors head coach Steve Kerr. Gui Santos has played well since moving into the starting lineup, and he is worth streaming in deeper leagues while Curry remains out.