Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Jamal Murray (hamstring/hip) is probable for Tuesday's game against the Pistons. The Denver Nuggets guard missed Sunday's postponed game, which may have aided his recovery. With Aaron Gordon sidelined, Murray is expected to see increased usage. This update confirms his likely return to action after dealing with his injury, providing a boost to the team's offense.
Three-time defending NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion Mac McClung has decided not to participate in the 2026 All-Star showcase, electing not to defend his title. The Indiana Pacers player's absence marks a significant change for the event, as he has been a dominant force in recent competitions. His decision means a new champion will be crowned this year, ending his reign.
Sacramento Kings guard Zach LaVine is questionable for Tuesday's game against the Knicks, battling a back injury that could see him miss his second straight contest. His potential absence, alongside Malik Monk (ankle) also being questionable, may force the Kings to lean more heavily on Nique Clifford, Dennis Schroder, and Keon Ellis for offensive production.
Dominick Barlow is slated to start for the Philadelphia 76ers in Monday's game against the Hornets, filling in for the injured Paul George (knee). Barlow has demonstrated solid production in his previous 14 starts, averaging 7.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 0.9 steals in 21.3 minutes per contest, while shooting an efficient 57.1 percent from the field. His increased role is expected to continue during George's absence.
Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is sidelined indefinitely with a calf strain, confirmed by coach Doc Rivers. An MRI indicates a 4-6 week recovery, impacting playoff chances. The Bucks are reportedly exploring trade offers for Antetokounmpo, with 10 teams identified as potential suitors. The injury is expected to keep him out past the trade deadline, complicating potential roster moves. Kyle Kuzma, Bobby Portis, and Pete Nance could see increased roles during his absence. His return date remains uncertain.
Indiana Pacers guard Bennedict Mathurin (thumb) has been cleared to play in Monday's game against the Hawks. Mathurin, who missed the past 11 games due to the injury, was able to clear his questionable tag. It is not yet clear if he will face any minute restrictions in his return. His return could potentially move Johnny Furphy back to the second unit for the Pacers.
Atlanta Hawks forward Zaccharie Risacher (left knee bone contusion) has been upgraded to day-to-day, signaling a positive step in his recovery. Risacher will miss his ninth consecutive game Monday against the Pacers but is trending in the right direction following a G League rehab assignment. There's a possibility he could return to action as early as Wednesday against the Celtics, though that game is the first leg of a back-to-back set. This update suggests his return to the court is imminent.
Nic Claxton (Brooklyn Nets) played through a right pinky finger injury suffered Friday against the Celtics, wearing a bandage during the Nets' 126-89 loss to the Clippers. He finished with 6 points and 5 rebounds in 24 minutes, showing discomfort after being raked across the hand by Kawhi Leonard in the third quarter. Imaging results for the injury were not yet available, but coach Jordi Fernández praised his willingness to compete.
Luka Dončić (Los Angeles Lakers) showcased an unexpected defensive prowess in a 116-110 comeback win over the Mavericks, recording six straight stops as the primary defender in the fourth quarter. Coach JJ Redick praised his commitment to containing the ball and physicality, noting he blocked a shot, contested a runner, forced long twos, and drew a charge. Dončić, an MVP-quality player, demonstrated his ability to disrupt opponents, contributing significantly to the Lakers' victory.
LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers) was sidelined for training camp, the preseason, and the first 14 regular-season games due to sciatica. This significant injury misfortune has impacted the Lakers' ability to consistently field their three best players, contributing to the team's ongoing struggle to find consistency and become true contenders.
Austin Reaves (Los Angeles Lakers) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Bulls due to a left calf strain. He has progressed to full-contact practice and is nearing his return, with his next opportunity to play scheduled for Wednesday against the Cavaliers. Reaves has played only two games since mid-December due to his calf injuries, impacting the Lakers' lineup consistency.
Kawhi Leonard (Los Angeles Clippers) was cleared to play Sunday against the Nets after dealing with a left knee contusion and illness. He then scored 28 points, with 21 in the first half, leading the Clippers to a dominant 126-89 rout of Brooklyn. Leonard had recently returned from a three-game absence due to the knee issue, previously recording 24 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 1 steal in 26 minutes against the Lakers, and could still face a minutes restriction.
James Harden (Los Angeles Clippers) scored 19 points, contributing to the Clippers' fast start and dominant 126-89 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday. His performance helped the team secure their eighth win in nine games.
Jordan Miller (Los Angeles Clippers) scored 16 points in the Clippers' decisive 126-89 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday. His contribution helped the team build a significant lead early and secure their eighth win in nine games.
John Collins (Los Angeles Clippers) added 18 points to the Clippers' offensive effort in their commanding 126-89 win against the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday. His scoring helped fuel the team's fast start and contributed to their eighth victory in nine games.
Ivica Zubac (Los Angeles Clippers) contributed a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds in the Clippers' dominant 126-89 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday. His performance helped the Clippers secure their eighth win in nine games, maintaining their strong form.
Devin Vassell (San Antonio Spurs) returned to action from a strained left adductor, playing 25 minutes and scoring 13 points in the Spurs' 104-95 loss to the Pelicans. He looked understandably rusty at times but hit some shots and was up to the challenge against a physical team, stating postgame, "You don't want to be a team that's looked at as being soft."
Quinten Post (Golden State Warriors) contributed to the team's offensive flow in their win over the Timberwolves, involved in plays with Stephen Curry and the second unit. He is reportedly expected to be held out for Monday night's rematch against Minnesota, impacting the Warriors' rotation.
Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors) was cleared to play Sunday against the Timberwolves despite knee soreness, scoring 26 points, 7 assists, and 4 steals in a 111-85 victory. With this performance, he passed John Havlicek to enter the NBA's top 20 all-time scoring list, tying Paul Pierce at 26,397 career points. Curry's status for Monday's rematch against Minnesota is now questionable due to the ongoing knee soreness.
Devin Booker (Phoenix Suns) sustained a right ankle injury during Friday's loss to the Hawks after stepping on Onyeka Okongwu's foot, forcing him out of the game. He has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Heat and is expected to miss at least one week, with reevaluation scheduled for early February. The Suns guard, who averages 25.4 points, 6.2 assists, and 4 rebounds, had 31 points before leaving. Coach Jordan Ott expressed encouragement that the injury wasn't worse.
