NBA Player News

Johnson has scored efficiently in both of Washington’s games in Las Vegas, totaling 39 points on 14-of-24 shooting from the field. Given how poor the Wizards were offensively last season, ranking 27th in points per game and 30th in offensive rating, and Jordan Poole’s departure, efficiency will be critical in 2025-26. If Johnson’s performances in Las Vegas carry over into the regular season, that would do wonders for the rebuilding Wizards. While he’ll be more valuable in dynasty leagues than redrafts, it would be unsurprising if Johnson were to offer consistent value as a rookie.

Eason has missed Houston’s last four games with a sprained ankle. Josh Okogie has been the replacement in the starting lineup, but his production has not made him worth streaming.

Hayes will miss a third consecutive game, once again leaving the Lakers shorthanded in the post. With Deandre Ayton (knee) still questionable, JJ Redick could be without both of his rotation centers. If so, Maxi Kleber and possibly even Drew Timme would be forced to play rotation minutes.

Initially questionable, Holiday is on track to play Saturday night. While he has returned to the starting lineup, the veteran guard remains under a minutes restriction, having most recently played 21 minutes in Thursday’s win over the Hawks. Caleb Love will come off the bench if Holiday plays, but he’s still worth a look in deep leagues.

Initially questionable for Saturday’s game, Grant is trending toward being available. If he plays against the Lakers, fantasy managers should operate under the assumption that the Trail Blazers’ forward won’t be available for Sunday’s game against the Kings. Rayan Rupert will miss out on a boost to his playing time if Grant plays Saturday night.

Avdija will officially miss a third consecutive game after initially being listed as doubtful. Sidy Cissoko has been the fifth starter, but his playing time has decreased somewhat since Jerami Grant returned from an Achilles injury. There isn’t much to gain from streaming Cissoko.

Gafford will miss a second straight game after initially being listed as doubtful. Dwight Powell should start once again, with Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and Moussa Cisse set to fill out the center minutes off the bench.

Flagg will miss a second straight game, which isn’t a surprise after he was initially listed as doubtful. Naji Marshall and Caleb Martin should remain the starting forwards with Flagg and PJ Washington (personal) sidelined.

Christie will return after missing the Mavs’ last two games. He should immediately take back over as a starter, which would push Jaden Hardy back to a reserve role, eliminating the streaming value he held.

Diabaté has been downgraded after initially being listed as questionable. Ryan Kalkbrenner should start at center, with Grant Williams available to fill out the reserve minutes. Kalkbrenner should see a nice boost in production as a starter.

Russell is a late scratch, but with Brandon Williams and Ryan Nembhard healthy and available, Russell likely wouldn’t have seen meaningful minutes regardless of his status.