Lance

Stephenson

“Born Ready” should change his name to “Still Ready” after last season’s performance. Following a two-year hiatus from NBA action, Stephenson returned to play six games for Atlanta and 40 for Indiana in which he averaged 9.3 points, 3.9 rebounds and 2.8 assists. Stephenson had some highlight moments, including a 20-point first quarter in his first game back in Indiana, setting a franchise record for first-quarter points and an NBA record for first-quarter points off the bench. In his only start, Stephenson went off for 24/9/8 against Atlanta. Indiana should take a look at bringing him back to provide a veteran presence in a locker room full of youngsters.

Stephenson had surgery shortly after the season ended, but he’s already back on the floor shooting. This won’t have any impact on Stephenson’s status for the season, though he won’t be much of a fantasy asset in Indiana, barring injuries that move him up the depth chart.

Malcolm Brogdon resting does help Washington Jr., but his upside is strictly limited to points and treys at best. He’s really not worth deploying unless you’re in an incredibly deep league. Terry Taylor and Lance Stephenson lose a good chunk of value with this news.

Washington has missed the Pavers’ last two games with the hip injury, and there’s no guarantee that he’ll be able to play on Wednesday. Terry Taylor and Lance Stephenson would have the most to gain from a playing time standpoint if Washington sits, but it’s also worth noting that Malcolm Brogdon (rest) is listed as questionable. If Brogdon plays, he’ll start with Washington (if cleared), Taylor, and Stephenson all losing out.

Duarte will miss a sixth straight game due to the toe issue, and it remains to be seen when (or if) he’ll return this season. His absence frees up additional minutes for Lance Stephenson, but there’s no need to even consider streaming “Born Ready.”

Down big for most of the game, Stephenson got some extra shots up in the fourth quarter and turned them into his fourth 20-point game of the season and first since Feb. 13. It was a nice effort from the veteran (who’s come back with a vengeance this season), but there’s no reason to think he’ll be scoring 25 on the regular, even if we expect Indiana to be blown out or shorthanded frequently.

Stephenson was back in the rotation after a four-game absence, and he did not offer a whole lot. He’s already on the waiver wire in most leagues, and that should remain the case moving forward.

After a four-game absence, Stephenson will return to the lineup, but his role is in question now that the Pacers are back at full strength.

Stephenson has missed the past four due to the ankle issue, and there’s not much incentive for him to get out there with Indiana not trying to make the playoffs. Even if he is cleared, it’s unlikely he would be all that useful in fantasy hoops.

Stephenson will miss both games of the Pacers’ weekend back-to-back, which means more minutes off the bench for Duane Washington Jr. If Chris Duarte (left toe) is also scratched, that would enhance Washington’s fantasy value even more. Duarte is considered to be a game-time decision Sunday night.