Pelle

Larsson

Larsson has started Miami’s last two games, recording solid stat lines in each. The question worth considering is whether this move will stick for the long haul, or only as long as it takes Andrew Wiggins to find his offensive form. Against the Jazz, Wiggins scored 13 points on 5-of-8 shooting but did not record any other stats. Even with his reserve role at the start of the season, Larsson has been the superior fantasy option.

Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra has changed his starting lineup, replacing the struggling Andrew Wiggins with Larsson. At a minimum, Larsson is worth streaming for Sunday. If the change holds, he’ll offer more value because of his playmaking.

Larsson has recorded at least 12 points, at least four assists, at least one steal and at least one three-pointer in three consecutive games. He’s also played at least 31 minutes in three consecutive games and had at least six rebounds in two of the last three games. Larsson is turning out to be a key bench player for the Heat and worth considering picking up given his recent production.

Larsson was initially listed as probable for this game, and now he has officially been given the all-clear to play his typical role off the bench. He’ll continue to be an important reserve for a Heat squad that is still looking for their first win.

After a rough start to the year offensively, Larsson was able to get things going in this one. He totaled nine points on 1-of-9 shooting across his first two outings, so this performance was a huge step in the right direction. Larsson was a late-round flier for fantasy managers hoping he would take a step forward for the Heat this season. He’s trending in the right direction, but he’ll need to produce to this level more consistently to be worth keeping rostered.

Larsson was initially listed as probable, and he has now officially been cleared to suit up. He has played a significant role off the bench this season, though he hasn’t been able to find his shot yet.

Larsson is the only player on the Heat’s injury report. He’s probable with a left finger sprain. Miami figures to be at full strength as they look for their first win of the season against the Hornets.

The good news for fantasy managers was that Mitchell recorded a double-double, which included a game-high 10 assists. However, for category-league managers, the six turnovers hurt. Mitchell logged 33 minutes in Wednesday’s opener, with Pelle Larsson (two points, three rebounds, four assists, one steal and one block) taking on the playmaking responsibilities when “Off Night” was on the bench. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo can also initiate the offense, and they’ll likely need to because Miami lacks depth at point guard.

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.

Adebayo is dealing with right groin tightness, and his absence frees up additional minutes for Nick Richards. With his contract for the upcoming season not being guaranteed unless he makes the Opening Night roster, this is a big opportunity for Richards. With Klay Thompson available, he’ll slide into the starting lineup spot Larsson occupied in Saturday’s loss to the Timberwolves. Smith’s absence won’t change anything regarding fantasy basketball, as starting point guard Davion Mitchell is available.