NBA Player News

Wembanyama took over as San Antonio’s primary catalyst in the second half, scoring a game-high 16 points on 6-of-12 shooting. The 22-year-old generational talent remains limited from a minutes standpoint as he works his way back from a knee issue, but he’s still delivered some monster fantasy performances off the bench. He’s averaged 22.3 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.0 steals and 2.7 blocks in just 24.5 minutes over his last three games since returning from a brief two-game absence. The Spurs close out the week with a road tilt against the Timberwolves before opening up a three-game week against the Thunder and Bucks before a rematch against Minnesota.

Robinson is managing a back sprain, but he is expected to suit up against Houston. He’ll look to stay red-hot in this game, having hit at least four triples in six consecutive games.

Jones has missed the Pelicans’ last eight games, but there is a chance he returns to take on Memphis. If that happens, Saddiq Bey will liikely head back to playing a reserve role, which will limit his fantasy impact.

Williamson had to exit Wednesday’s loss to the Pistons prematurely due to illness. His absence from the initial injury report for Friday’s game means that he’ll be ready to take on his usual responsibilities within the Pelicans’ lineup. Micah Peavy and Bryce McGowens will lose out on minutes, especially if Herb Jones (ankle) is available.

Initially probable for Thursday’s game, Powell is trending toward not playing, according to the most recent update on his injury status. With Tyler Herro (ribs) out and Davion Mitchell (shoulder) doubtful, the Heat could be without its entire starting backcourt. Dru Smith, who did not play in Tuesday’s win over the Kings, would likely re-enter the rotation if Powell sits.

Mitchell was initially listed as questionable after playing on Monday, which was his first game back after a two-game absence. However, he’s now expected to be sidelined. Kasparas Jakučionis should return to the starting lineup, though his impact was limited in the increased role.

Initially questionable for Thursday’s game, Johnson is officially available. However, since he isn’t guaranteed to be in the rotation, fantasy managers in redraft leagues should leave the Wizards guard on the waiver wire.

Given what the Nets showed in their 120-66 loss to the Knicks on Wednesday, it makes sense for the Celtics to give one of their mainstays Friday night off. With White unavailable, Baylor Scheierman may be the player most likely to move into the starting lineup. While not a must-stream player, the second-year guard will have every opportunity to offer tangible value if he starts.

Minott has appeared in one game since Christmas, a January 3 win over the Clippers in which he logged three minutes. His continued absence does not affect fantasy basketball or the Celtics’ rotation. Fantasy managers should operate under the assumption that Minott is out indefinitely.

Sabonis will be back after missing Wednesday’s game against Toronto, which was the second night of a back-to-back. Following an extended absence, it isn’t surprising that Sabonis wasn’t asked to play two nights in a row. His minutes have been strictly monitored, so he will likely continue to come off the bench against Cleveland.

Mitchell returned to the Heat lineup on Monday after missing the prior two games with a left shoulder contusion, most recently logging 19 minutes in Tuesday’s win over the Kings. If he’s unable to play against Portland, the Heat will likely turn to Kasparas Jakučionis to fill the void. The rookie would be worth streaming if allowed to start.