NBA Player News

After shooting 2-of-14 from the field in Thursday’s win over the Magic, Carter bounced back significantly during Saturday evening’s contest. Only missing three shots from the field, the second-year guard was elite as a scorer while also providing value as a rebounder and defender. Carter’s name has come up in some trade rumors this offseason, but nothing has come to fruition. Whether in Sacramento or elsewhere, the 2024 first-round pick is working to ensure he logs consistent rotation minutes next season. Saturday’s performance was unquestionably a step in the right direction for the former Providence College standout.

Randle has been dealing with a sore left thumb for a few games, but the injury has not forced him to the sidelines. Look for the Timberwolves’ forward to be available and taking on his usual responsibilities as Anthony Edwards’ sidekick.

Love will miss a second consecutive game due to illness. Jusuf Nurkić is available, but that was also the case for Tuesday’s win over the Pacers, a game in which he did not play. The only safe option for fantasy managers is Kyle Filipowski.

Thursday’s game against the Bulls will be the 23rd that Poeltl has missed since aggravating a lower back injury during a December 21 loss to the Nets. After Thursday, the Raptors have two games remaining on the schedule before the All-Star break. Collin Murray-Boyles and Sandro Mamukelashvili have picked up the slack in Poeltl’s absence, and both have been productive enough to merit being rostered.

Thursday’s game will be the fourth that Okongwu has missed due to a dental fracture that required surgery. The Hawks will continue to rely on Christian Koloko and Mouhamed Gueye to fill the void as they await Okongwu’s return and the arrival of Jock Landale.

Acquired from the Bulls on Tuesday, Vučević will be available to make his Celtics debut on Friday. While his addition to the rotation may not eliminate starter Neemias Queta’s fantasy value since they have different skill sets, Vooch’s arrival likely means fewer opportunities for Luka Garza. Those who have rostered Vučević or Queta throughout the season should hold, at least until it’s clear how head coach Joe Mazzulla will set up the new rotation.

Hauser is back after missing Wednesday’s win over the Rockets, the Celtics’ second game in as many nights. With the sharpshooter back in the fold, Luka Garza will head to the bench. And with Nikola Vučević available to make his Celtics’ debut, Garza’s limited fantasy value will take a hit.

Brown did not play in Wednesday’s win over the Rockets, which was Boston’s second game in as many nights. His return will push Ron Harper Jr. to the bench, whether the fourth-year wing will have minimal value at best.

Wagner has appeared in only two games since suffering a high left ankle sprain during a December 7 game against the Knicks. Getting him back will give Orlando a much-needed boost on the playmaking front. With Wagner already out for Thursday’s game against the Nets, the next opportunity for him to play would be on Saturday against the Jazz. While Anthony Black may be the player who heads to the bench, he’s worth holding onto in 12-team leagues.

Avdija has missed Portland’s last two games with a lower back injury that first surfaced during a January 11 loss to the Knicks. His absence on Friday would coincide with the return of Scoot Henderson, who will be available for the first time this season. While he certainly won’t log heavy minutes, Scoot can help Portland account for Avdija’s absence.

After suffering a torn left hamstring during the offseason, Henderson’s path to a full recovery has been an arduous one. He’ll make his season debut on Friday, and the point guard is likely to be under a minutes restriction. Henderson won’t affect fantasy basketball immediately, but he’s someone who could have added value after the All-Star break due to the Blazers’ need for playmakers on the perimeter.