NBA Player News

Less than a week after it was announced by Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez that Dëmin did not have a return timeline, the rookie has been ruled out for the rest of the season. The eighth overall pick in last summer’s draft, Dëmin has been dealing with plantar fascia issues in his left foot since the summer. While the Nets managed his workload throughout the season, with the rookie not playing back-to-backs, the issue flared up recently. The expectation is that he’ll be good to go for basketball activity early in the offseason. Dëmin appeared in 52 games, starting 45, and averaged 10.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 0.8 steals and 2.4 three-pointers in 25.2 minutes. While perimeter shooting was believed to be a significant question mark during the pre-draft process, Dëmin shot 38.5 percent from beyond the arc. The most consistent of the Nets’ five first-round picks, he’s someone who will be worth picking in drafts next fall.

The Spurs are without Stephon Castle and Victor Wembanyama, opening up two spots in the starting five. As expected, Harper and Kornet will fill the resulting voids. For those in active fantasy leagues, Harper and Kornet are worth slotting into lineups.

Allen’s absence on Wednesday will remove a three-point shooting threat from the Suns’ rotation. Allen is averaging a career-best 3.2 made three-pointers per game. While sidelined, Royce O’Neale could be Phoenix’s go-to three-point shooter off the bench.

Martin remains out for another game, which frees up minutes for players like Tyler Smith. Smith is unlikely to do enough to provide reliable value in active fantasy leagues.

Washington will miss a second straight game as he continues to deal with an elbow injury. The versatile forward has put up stats similar to last season, although his three-point shooting efficiency has regressed. In his absence, veteran Khris Middleton could receive another start.

Thompson will get Wednesday night off after playing 26 minutes in Tuesday’s loss to the Clippers. Khris Middleton is available, and there may also be more minutes available to AJ Johnson off the bench.