NBA Player News

It was a subpar two-game stretch for Maxey entering this game, but he got back on track in a big way. Not only did he have his first 40-point game since November, but he also hit a game-winning layup with less than two seconds left. Maxey has had a fantastic season and continues to be one of the most effective players in fantasy basketball. He’ll look to stay hot against the Pelicans on Saturday to wrap up the week.

In an homage to former teammate Tyus Jones, Suggs recorded his first triple-double on Thursday. Add in the seven “stocks,” and this was an excellent night for fantasy managers who have the guard rostered. While he isn’t a prolific scorer, Suggs’ ability to fill a stat line is why he remains so valuable in category leagues. Orlando finishes its Week 16 schedule with a game against the Jazz on Saturday.

Not only did Bane lead the way offensively for Orlando, but he and Jalen Suggs combined for seven steals. Bane has scored at least 23 points in four of his last five games, and his fantasy value has improved. He’ll look to finish the week on a high note when the Magic host the Jazz on Saturday afternoon.

After shooting 17-of-41 from the field in his three previous games, Banchero was more efficient on offense in Thursday’s win over the Nets. Add in the assists and blocks, and this was a solid night as far as his category league value is concerned. Banchero and the Magic end their Week 16 schedule on Saturday against the Jazz, which also appears to be an advantageous matchup for the forward.

Huerter made his Pistons’ debut on Thursday, but he wasn’t on the floor long. He played six minutes during the first half and did not see the floor again. Adding Huerter gives the Pistons another shooter to work into the rotation, but this may be a case where he proves more critical to his new team than to fantasy managers. Which isn’t much of a change from his time in Chicago.

With Jalen Duren not returning for the second half of Thursday’s game due to a sore right knee, Holland joined the starters to begin the third quarter. The second-year wing recorded his first double-double and three “stocks” in what was a productive night. Detroit was also without Tobias Harris for Thursday’s game; how this performance affects Holland’s fantasy prospects moving forward depends on Harris and Duren’s availability.

It’s fair to question if Friday’s showdown with the Knicks was on the Pistons’ minds, as they started slowly in a game the Wizards would lead wire-to-wire. Cunningham did his best to lead Detroit back, scoring a game-high 30 points. Finishing two rebounds and two assists shy of a triple-double, Cunningham will look to get the Pistons back on track Friday night.

Cooper was one of the reserves who benefited from the Wizards’ apparent decision to cut the playing time of a few of their starters. Not only did he log a career-high 34 minutes, but Cooper hit double figures for the first time as an NBA player. There’s no need for fantasy managers to add him, but don’t be surprised if he’s logging extended minutes after the All-Star break as Washington looks to avoid losing its top-8 protected lottery pick.

If how Wizards head coach Brian Keefe handled the playing time in Thursday’s win is an indication of what’s to come, Riley will be an attractive “silly season” option. While starters Alex Sarr (12/6/1/0/1 with two three-pointers) and Kyshawn George (8/3/3 with one three-pointer) were limited to 18 minutes, the rookie out of Illinois played 29 off the bench. And he was productive, enjoying one of his best performances of the season. Washington plays its last game of Week 16 on Saturday against the Nets.