JaKarr

Sampson

It’s hard to say how much he’ll play with Domantas Sabonis playing so well but the Pacers could use the big-man depth he’ll provide.

His return would be welcome news for the short-handed Pacers, and they’ll need all the size at their disposal against Joel Embiid. If you’re intrigued by Sampson for DFS purposes, check back closer to tip-off to see if he’s playing.

Sabonis will make his return after missing nearly two weeks due to the sore lower back. He should slot right back into the starting lineup, with JaKarr Sampson being the player most likely to move to the bench. Sampson wasn’t all that valuable to begin with, so that won’t have much of an impact as far as fantasy is concerned. Oshae Brissett’s value stands to take a hit, but with Myles Turner still sidelined, those who have him rostered may want to hold off on dropping Brissett for the time being.

He’s a game-time decision but it sounds like there’s a decent chance he’ll play tonight. JaKarr Sampson is still out with a concussion, so Oshae Brissett should still get some run tonight, even if Sabonis is back. But Brissett would likely take somewhat of a hit if Sabonis is a go.

He played 20+ minutes in four straight with the Pacers so short-handed so this is another tough blow for Indiana. Doug McDermott and Justin Holiday will see heavy minutes in the meantime and Oshae Brissett will look to keep his momentum going.

The injuries are piling up for this Pacers squad, and they now just have one true big active in Amida Brimah. Indiana plays again on Saturday, so hopefully Sampson is ready to roll for in that one for this very short-handed team.

This comes from coach Nate Bjorkgren and it’s not a big surprise considering Bitadze wasn’t able to practice on Wednesday. He was initially listed as ‘questionable’, at least, so perhaps he’ll be ready to go in an ideal matchup vs. the Thunder on Saturday.

Malcolm Brogdon, Edmond Sumner and Caris LeVert will join them in the starting lineup against the Trail Blazers.

He’ll join Myles Turner and Domantas Sabonis on the sidelines again so we should get another healthy dose of JaKarr Sampson and Oshae Brissett again tonight.

Sampson made his return from a one-game suspension Saturday night and, due to injuries, he was thrown right into the starting lineup. As long as Myles Turner, Domantas Sabonis and Goga Bitadze all remain sidelined, there will be room for Sampson in the rotation. But he still isn’t worth utilizing as a streaming option, regardless of league format. Oshae Brissett, who played 38 minutes and recorded a line of 11 points (3-of-8 FGs, 3-of-4 FTs), 11 rebounds, two assists, one block and two 3-pointers, would be a much better choice.