NBA Player News

Initially questionable, Vanderbilt is back after sitting out Thursday’s Game 2 defeat. He’ll provide added frontcourt depth off the bench but is unlikely to get the run needed to be an impact player for manager in playoff fantasy leagues.

Reaves found his rhythm again on Monday after an unspectacular Game 3. He shot efficiently both inside and outside the arc and repeatedly made his way to the free-throw line before finishing with a team-high in points. The fifth-year guard did struggle with turnovers against a tough Thunder defense. Still, his scoring and facilitating across his 43 minutes were important for the Lakers. Reaves missed a lot of time with injuries throughout the regular season, which hurt his fantasy value. When healthy, he was as productive as last season. He’ll likely be one of the better guards in fantasy leagues next season if injuries aren’t as big an issue.

Hachimura came alive in the third quarter following a four-point first half. He produced in the midrange and from beyond the arc before repeating the process in the fourth quarter. Hachimura made some big shots to keep the Lakers’ hopes alive down the stretch. Yet, his season ends in a fourth straight victory. Hachimura’s role fluctuated throughout the season, leading to one of his least productive seasons in several years. His fantasy value this season came from efficient scoring, which he didn’t do enough of to really be a difference maker in leagues.

James’ final game of the season was a solid one when simply glancing at the counting stats. He was one of the Lakers’ three best scorers on the evening, and he led the team in rebounds along the way before finishing his 23rd season with a double-double. James missed the first chunk of the season due to injury but eventually returned to log 60 regular-season games. His numbers declined from the 2024-25 season, and the accomplished veteran also saw a drop in fantasy production. James enters the offseason as an NBA free agent. Where he ends up next season could determine his fantasy outlook.

Holmgren’s final stat line on Monday rivaled Game 3’s. Again, he took advantage of his opportunities inside on the offensive end, including a key dunk down the stretch to give OKC the lead for the final time. Holmgren also nearly did enough on the glass to come away with a double-double. The former second-overall pick failed to block a shot for the first time, but his presence was certainly felt. He finishes the series having averaged 20.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and 1.5 steals per game.

Mitchell, once again, put on a stellar display of basketball. On the offensive end, he missed only seven shots en route to a near-30-point performance, while his four steals reflected the type of disruptiveness he displayed on that end of the floor on Monday. He’s remained crucial to OKC’s success following Jalen Williams’ injury. After setting career-highs in points in back-to-back playoff games, Mitchell will get some rest before facing the winner of Timberwolves-Spurs in the Western Conference Finals.

Gilgeous-Alexander bounced back from an unspectacular Game 3 to log a series-high in points, ending the Lakers’ season in four games. The reigning MVP was steady throughout the win, making subtle contributions as a scorer as the game progressed. Yet, he put his foot on the gas in the third quarter, scoring 12 points, before closing the show in the final frame to end with a game-high 35 points. SGA handled the defensive schemes well and patiently picked them apart to tally eight assists. He and the Thunder will get some rest as they await the winner of Timberwolves-Spurs, which is currently tied 2-2.

LeVert was part of a Pistons reserve unit that performed well on Monday. In his 31 minutes off the bench, the veteran guard shot the ball efficiently and led all Detroit players in scoring. LeVert had yet to have a big scoring night during the playoffs before Game 4, having totaled just 27 points across nine games. The Pistons would likely benefit from him having a similar impact in Game 5 on Wednesday.

Harris scored in double figures on Monday, but did so on inefficient shooting. The veteran forward did most of his scoring damage in the first half, which played a part in Detroit’s success through the first two quarters. He scored just two points in the second half, while the Cavaliers’ offense woke up and overpowered Detroit. Harris will have a chance to bounce back in Game 5, which the Pistons need to win to avoid falling behind in the series.

Cunningham logged his least impressive stat line of the series on Monday. In his 39 minutes, he tallied five or more assists for the third consecutive game and was held under 20 points for the first time this postseason. Cunningham’s six assists were unspectacular, more than insignificant. However, he didn’t have his usual impact in Monday’s loss. Detroit will be counting on its All-Star guard to lead the way in Game 5.

Mobley had a monster performance on Monday to help the Cavaliers record a second straight victory. He mixed things up on offense by showcasing his skill to score the ball both inside and outside the arc, and also finished as one of Cleveland’s top passers. But arguably his biggest impact came on defense. Mobley totaled eight stocks in his 39 minutes, completely controlling the interior on the defensive end of the floor. He was sensational in Game 4 and will have a chance to put together back-to-back strong performances in Game 5.