NBA Player News

Williamson has scored 18 points or more in four straight games, shooting 45 percent or better from the field in each. While the lack of defensive production may be a point of frustration for some category league managers, the good news is that he hasn’t missed a game since December 11. And over the past two months, Williamson has provided top-50 value for managers punting free-throw percentage, according to Basketball Monster. The Pelicans complete their Week 17 with two games after the All-Star break, starting with Milwaukee on February 20.

Suggs is dealing with back spasms, which is why he’s on the injury report. With Anthony Black already in the starting lineup, Tristan da Silva is a potential replacement if Suggs can’t play. Under those circumstances, da Silva would be worth streaming.

Tshiebwe is good to go for Friday’s game, and there may be rotation minutes available. Jusuf Nurkić (nose) has been ruled out, and Lauri Markkanen (illness) was downgraded to doubtful, so the Jazz are on track to be without two starters. That leaves Kyle Filipowski, Kevin Love and Tshiebwe as legitimate post players who would be available.

Initially questionable for Friday’s game, Markkanen is now on track not to play. If he sits, there should be more minutes available to Kyle Filipowski and Svi Mykhailiuk, with the former offering higher fantasy upside.

Barnes, who played 34 minutes in Thursday’s win over the Bulls, was excused from Friday’s practice for personal reasons. The Raptors don’t play their next game until Sunday against the Bucks, and more will be learned about his status for that contest when Toronto releases its injury report on Saturday. Barnes has only missed one game this season, a January 9 loss to the Celtics, with Ja’Kobe Walter replacing him in the starting lineup.

Pickett was available for Thursday’s loss to the Clippers but did not see any action. With Jamal Murray (hamstring) listed as questionable, Pickett may be asked to take on a prominent role against the Trail Blazers if he’s allowed to play.

Murray logged 35 minutes in Thursday’s one-point loss to the Clippers, and he’s questionable for Friday’s game due to tightness in his right hamstring. If the Nuggets have to go without their All-Star point guard, Jalen Pickett is the most likely replacement in the starting lineup.

Nembhard was limited to 22 minutes in Thursday’s loss to the Wizards. Due to the Pacers’ lack of depth at the point, Jarace Walker spent more time on the ball as the team’s primary playmaker. While he was responsible for five turnovers, Walker also recorded 21 points, 14 rebounds and seven assists. Regardless of what happens with Nembhard, Walker is a player who should be rostered in deep leagues.

McConnell did not play in Thursday’s loss to the Wizards, so Ethan Thompson and Taelon Peter played rotation minutes off the bench. With Andrew Nembhard (back) listed as doubtful, the Pacers could ask even more of Peter if McConnell remains out for a second consecutive game.

With Luka Dončić and Deandre Ayton back in action, it’s possible the Lakers are playing it safe with the 41-year-old James. If James is ultimately sidelined, Rui Hachimura could see additional playing time, and James’ next chance to take the court would come on Sunday against the Celtics.

Also listed on the injury report ahead of Thursday’s loss to the Wizards, Potter played 27 minutes off the bench. If he’s available for the rematch, Potter’s playing time will likely decrease, with starter Jay Huff playing more than the 21 minutes he logged the night prior.