NBA Player News

Bagley is in line to make another start, as Daniel Gafford (rest) has been ruled out. For managers in active fantasy leagues, Bagley is definitely a player to roster as the Mavericks play out their remaining games.

Harper, who started the first two games of the Western Conference Finals for the injured De’Aaron Fox (ankle), exited Game 2 after playing 25 minutes due to a sore right adductor. How impactful his absence would be in Game 3 depends on Fox; if the veteran point guard can return, the Spurs will be able to compensate for Harper’s absence. However, if both sit, Keldon Johnson could move into the starting lineup, with Jordan McLaughlin’s playing time increasing.

Fox was also listed as questionable ahead of Games 1 and 2 before being ruled out for both. Dylan Harper has filled the void in the starting lineup, but the rookie exited Wednesday’s Game 2 defeat due to a sore right adductor. If both can’t play, Jordan McLaughlin could remain in the rotation after picking up minutes on Wednesday.

Williams exited Wednesday’s Game 2 victory after playing seven minutes due to tightness in his left hamstring, which he initially injured in the first round against Phoenix. His absence affected multiple players in the Thunder rotation. Jared McCain’s minutes increased in Game 2, while Isaiah Joe entered the rotation after not being an option in the series opener. Also, Isaiah Hartenstein logged 27 minutes after playing 12 in Game 1. Look for those three to take on larger roles if Williams has to miss time.

Vassell was efficient on the offensive end on Wednesday. He led the Spurs in threes, with his six makes from beyond the arc accounting for all but one of his total made field goals on the evening. Vassell grabbed a decent number of boards but didn’t contribute much elsewhere. He’s finished the last three games with at least three made triples; his production from deep could be crucial on Friday in Game 3.

Castle had another performance marked by highs and lows. And although his aggressive approach led to a team-high 25 points, it also led to him giving the ball away nine times on Wednesday. The sophomore guard is up to 20 total turnovers through the first two games of the series, becoming the first player to hit that mark over a two-game span in NBA playoff history. With De’Aaron Fox (ankle) still out, and Dylan Harper (leg) exiting early in Game 2, even more of a burden could be put on Castle to run the offense and dominate the ball moving forward.