NBA Player News

Already down a few rotation players, the Thunder lost Ajay Mitchell during Wednesday’s game with a hip contusion. The absences created opportunities for Williams to increase his production, and “Kenny Hustle” had one of his best games of the season. Wednesday’s game was his sixth this season in double figures, and the 18 points were three shy of his season-high. There’s no need to add Williams after this performance, but there may come a time later this season when his playing time increases due to other players resting for the postseason.

Grimes missed Philadelphia’s last two games before the All-Star break. His return means fewer minutes for Justin Edwards, and MarJon Beauchamp (G League) is likely to be inactive.

Tomlin’s absence is due to a sore left calf. With Evan Mobley returning from a strained calf, Jaylon Tyson and Sam Merrill may not lose out on playing time in the reigning Defensive Player of the Year’s return.

Mobley is good to make his first appearance since straining his calf during a January 26 win over the Magic. While he isn’t guaranteed to start immediately due to a potential minutes restriction, Mobley’s return likely means Jaylon Tyson and Sam Merrill will lose some playing time.

Embiid missed Philadelphia’s final two games before the All-Star break, and there was hope that he would be healthy enough to play after the break. Unfortunately, that won’t be the case. Andre Drummond should continue to start, with Adem Bona slotting in as the backup.

Zubac is progressing in his recovery from a sprained ankle, but he may not return to game action anytime soon. And, given where the Pacers are in the standings, it would likely be in the team’s best interest to keep Zubac out for as long as possible. Jay Huff should remain in the starting lineup.

Siakam, who sat out the Pacers’ final game before the All-Star break with a hamstring injury, is away from the team for personal reasons. His absence on Thursday means that Jarace Walker will likely remain in the starting lineup. While efficiency can be an issue, Walker should be streamed when he starts.

Potter is dealing with a sprained left ankle. If he’s unable to play, the Pacers will be light on frontcourt options, as Pascal Siakam (personal) and Ivica Zubac (ankle) are already out. Jay Huff and Jarace Walker should play heavy minutes on Thursday if Potter sits.

Nesmith, who did not play in Indiana’s final game before the All-Star break, is dealing with a lumbar sprain. Ben Sheppard replaced him in the starting lineup and should retain that role if Nesmith can’t play against the Wizards.

McConnell’s right hamstring has been a lingering issue throughout this season, with the veteran guard most recently sitting out Indiana’s final game before the All-Star break. His availability likely affects Quenton Jackson, who’s listed as questionable due to his status as a two-way contract player.

Anunoby missed the Knicks’ final four games before the All-Star break, with Landry Shamet providing solid value as the replacement in the starting lineup. Shamet should get another start if Anunoby cannot play against the team with the East’s best record.