NBA Player News

Brooks didn’t record any defensive statistics on Friday, but he had another good night on the offensive end of the floor. He’s scored at least 20 points in 18 games this season, six more than his tally with the Rockets in 2024-25. Brooks’ overall game isn’t exactly fantasy-friendly, but he’s hovering just outside the top-100 in eight-cat formats this season. The move to Phoenix has done wonders for the wing, who’s enjoying a level of offensive freedom that he didn’t have in either Memphis or Houston.

Giddey, who missed Chicago’s final eight games prior to the All-Star break, is now expected to return to the lineup after initially being listed as questionable. They brought him off the bench in his return following his most recent extended absence, which could happen again in this game. That could allow Collin Sexton and Anfernee Simons to remain in the starting unit.

Jones was initially listed as questionable, but he is now expected to make his return from an 11-game absence in the Bulls’ first game after the All-Star break. The backcourt looks quite different than it did when Jones last played, with Jaden Ivey, Anfernee Simons, Collin Sexton and Rob Dillingham now in the mix. Jones may not be as productive as he was earlier in the season.

Anunoby was initially listed as questionable for this game but is now expected to play. He missed the final four games before the All-Star break, which allowed Landry Shamet to start in his place. Shamet will return to the bench with Anunoby expected back.

Tonje was dealt to the Celtics as part of the deadline deal that sent Chris Boucher to Utah. He signed a two-way deal with the Jazz in August after they selected him with the 53rd pick in the draft. The former Wisconsin standout is a proven scorer and will be a solid temporary depth piece for Boston.

Banton signed a 10-day deal with the Clippers a few days before the All-Star break and made two appearances for them, totaling less than 10 minutes. Now, he’ll head across the country to Boston, where he’ll be a temporary depth piece in the backcourt .

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.