NBA Player News

Johnson rose to the occasion on Thursday, logging one of his best performances of the season. Despite the loss, he drained half of his 10 three-point attempts, nearly pulled down double-digit rebounds, and finished as one of Denver’s most reliable scoring options on the evening. Johnson came into the season with some expectations to serve as the missing piece for the Nuggets, who acquired him via trade during the offseason. His production fluctuated throughout the season, and he ultimately averaged just 12.2 points overall, his lowest since his sophomore season. A more effective season and better fantasy production should be expected in Year 2 with the Nuggets next season.

Tatum had a decent first half and entered the break with 11 points. Unfortunately, he wasn’t able to replicate any of that success after halftime. He shot 1-of-10 from the floor in the second half, which wasn’t enough for Boston to hold onto the big lead they took in the third quarter. It was a rough start to the year for him, though he was the primary playmaker for them. If he can continue to dish out the dimes like he did in this game, he could be in for a strong season, especially once the shooting percentage evens out.

Robinson got the starting nod in his debut for the Celtics, but, as expected, he didn’t dominate the minutes. Neemias Queta played 22 minutes off the bench, and Luka Garza logged eight minutes, leaving Robinson with the other 18. It’s absolutely worth noting that Robinson injured his ankle in this game and was seen icing it after, though Joe Mazzulla downplayed the severity. If Robinson ends up missing any time, Queta will likely slide back into the starting lineup.

Walsh got the starting nod at shooting guard for the opener, but that didn’t result in him playing starter-level minutes. He logged 13 minutes, which was fewer than Payton Pritchard (28 minutes), Sam Hauser (18) and Baylor Scheierman (18). Walsh may or may not continue getting the starting nod, but it’s clear he’s not currently worth rostering in most formats.

Simons will be good to make his 76ers debut off the bench in this game. He will likely play a significant reserve role this year and provide plenty of offense when the starters are getting a breather, though it may not be enough minutes for him to produce standard-league value.

Bona was initially listed as questionable for this game, but he has been cleared to suit up for the season opener. He will fill out the backup center minutes behind Joel Embiid, which may end up being a significant reserve role.

Wade has been managing an ankle injury that will keep him out of the lineup for the season opener. Justin Edwards and Jabari Walker may be tasked with playing extra minutes off the bench, but neither will play a significant role.

What a debut it was for PG’s tenure in Boston. He scored 17 points in the first half, and then he came out hot in the third quarter, scoring 14 points in the frame without missing. He wasn’t able to add much else in the fourth quarter to counter the Pistons’ run, but it was still a superb first game for George. Outside of the scoring, he was also able to make a big impact on the defensive end. If he’s able to be this effective for Boston this season, they’ll contend for the top spot in the East, and George will end up being one of the best picks in fantasy hoops.

Alexander, who is on a two-way contract, won’t be available for the season opener. However, his absence won’t alter Utah’s rotation.

Hinson won’t be available to play against Memphis, but his absence won’t alter Utah’s rotation.

Bradley will be unavailable for the season opener, which means he won’t be a depth option for the Jazz down low. Kyle Filipowski and Mo Bamba will play the backup center minutes.