NBA Player News

Thompson, who led the Rockets in scoring in Game 6, had two 20-point games in this series. While a highly valuable fantasy option, especially for managers punting three-pointers, the Rockets’ wing needs to improve his perimeter shot heading into the 2026-27 campaign. Thompson does not need to turn into the second coming of Stephen Curry, but a respectable jump shot could go a long way toward unlocking even more of his potential on the offensive end of the floor. Using a top-25 pick on Thompson in drafts next fall would not be that big of a reach in category league formats, while managers in points leagues can afford to wait a little bit.

Simmons’ 2026-27 season reportedly ended in devastating fashion days before his official return to the NBA. The 6-foot-10 guard/forward signed with the Kings with the expectation that he would back up rookie point guard Darius Acuff Jr. However, Simmons showed enough during the preseason to earn a starting spot alongside Acuff. Sunday’s injury changes that, obviously, with De’Andre Hunter being a potential replacement in the starting five. As for the point guard rotation, Malik Monk will be asked to take on more playmaking responsibilities off the bench.

Smith suffered a strained right calf during training camp and did not play in any of Miami’s preseason games. Sunday’s practice was his first “live” session, so he may not be cleared to play in games for a little while longer. Smith’s availability does not affect most fantasy leagues, but it does leave Miami light on options behind starting point guard Davion Mitchell. Pelle Larsson, who missed the final two preseason games with an illness, may be asked to do some supplementary playmaking in Smith’s absence.

Neither Adebayo nor Larsson played in the Heat’s final two preseason games, but both are on track to play in Wednesday’s regular-season opener against the Timberwolves. Adebayo’s status matters more to the Heat and fantasy managers because of his role in the rotation. As for Larsson, he’ll provide added perimeter depth off the bench.

Jones strained his left hamstring early in training camp and did not play in any of the Nuggets’ preseason games. He’s made positive strides in his recovery, most recently doing some scrimmaging during Sunday’s practice. Following the session, Jones said that he expects to be available for Sunday’s opener. If Jones plays, there may be fewer minutes available to rookie Trevon Brazile, who played well in the Nuggets’ final preseason games.

Wade rolled his left ankle in Friday’s preseason finale against the Celtics, while Barlow is dealing with back soreness. 76ers head coach Nick Nurse said after Friday’s game that Wade’s ankle injury wasn’t a major concern, which could bode well for his availability Tuesday night. Neither Wade nor Barlow is in a position to be players who absolutely need to be rostered in fantasy leagues. However, Philadelphia’s injury-riddled frontcourt frees up minutes at the forward spots.

Edgecombe woke up sore ahead of Friday’s preseason finale against the Celtics and did not play. His health has improved since then, and 76ers head coach Nick Nurse said the second-year guard is on track to be available for Tuesday’s season opener. Edgecombe will take his usual starting spot alongside fellow guard Tyrese Maxey.

Wagner exited Friday’s preseason finale against the Heat in the third quarter with right shoulder soreness. He was limited to light work in Sunday’s practice, and the Magic will continue to evaluate Wagner leading into Wednesday’s opener against the Hawks. If Franz can’t play, Tristan da Silva is the likely replacement in the starting lineup.

Injured just before training camp began, Black did not play in any of Orlando’s preseason games. He’s progressing in his recovery and practiced on Sunday, with Magic head coach Sean Sweeney saying Black “is moving well and will keep ramping up.” It’s unknown if Black will be available for Wednesday’s opener against the Hawks, but things are trending in the right direction.

Claxton injured his hamstring in early October and did not play in any of the Bulls’ preseason games. While he has been able to do a little more in practice each day, the Bulls are being cautious about bringing Claxton back. He’s likely the only rotation player who won’t be available for Wednesday’s season opener against the Raptors, meaning Jalen Smith will start at center. Smith is worth selecting with a late-round pick in fantasy drafts.

Collins, who underwent season-ending toe surgery in February, did not play in any of the Bulls’ preseason games because of a quad injury. However, he has progressed in his recovery and is expected to be available for Wednesday’s season opener against the Raptors. With Nic Claxton (hamstring) still limited in practice, Collins should play rotation minutes. However, given the time missed, his minutes will likely be limited, meaning more playing time for expected starter Jalen Smith.