Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Jontay Porter has been linked to an NBA betting scandal following the sentencing of a self-proclaimed gambling addict to two years in prison for his role. The scandal also involves Terry Rozier. This development highlights the serious consequences of illegal betting activities within the league. Porter is currently associated with the Miami Heat.
NBA player Terry Rozier has been implicated in a betting scandal after a self-proclaimed gambling addict received a two-year prison sentence for his involvement. The scandal also involves Jontay Porter. The sentencing marks a significant development in the ongoing investigation into illicit betting activities tied to the league. Rozier is currently associated with the Miami Heat.
Joel Embiid is listed as probable for Thursday's game against Houston, returning after sitting out Tuesday's back-to-back for right ankle injury management. The Philadelphia 76ers star is coming off consecutive 30-point performances and is currently averaging 24.2 points per game this season. His return is a boost for the team as they face the Rockets.
Paul George is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against Houston due to left knee injury management, aiming to return after a two-game absence. Over his last 11 contests, the star forward has averaged 15.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.1 steals in 32.6 minutes per game. If George is cleared to play, Kelly Oubre would likely move to the bench for the Philadelphia 76ers.
Jimmy Butler has reportedly suffered a season-ending torn ACL, a major blow to the Golden State Warriors. This significant injury has prompted the team to actively explore various trade solutions before the February 5 deadline, potentially involving players like Jonathan Kuminga or Buddy Hield. The article discusses potential options for the team, ranging from achievable to absurd, in response to this season-altering injury. The Warriors were 12-4 in their last 16 games before Butler's season ended.
Washington Wizards forward Bilal Coulibaly (back) is questionable for Thursday's game against Denver. Coulibaly has missed the past three games but has been upgraded to day-to-day, indicating a potential return. In 25 appearances this season, he has averaged 10.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.4 steals, 0.9 blocks, and 1.0 three-pointers. His status will be updated closer to game time as he nears a return from his back issue.
Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey (hamstring) is questionable for Thursday's game against the Timberwolves. Giddey has been sidelined since December 29, but coach Billy Donovan's recent comments suggest a return against Minnesota is a strong possibility. His potential return could impact minutes and touches for players like Tre Jones, Kevin Huerter, and Ayo Dosunmu. An update on his status is expected closer to game time.
Austin Reaves is "progressing well" from his Grade 2 left calf strain and is expected to return during the Lakers' current eight-game road trip, which ends February 1. However, due to missing 19 games, he is officially ineligible for any end-of-season awards or All-NBA consideration, despite averaging career-highs of 26.6 points, 6.3 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game this season with improved efficiency. His strong start included a 51-point game and a game-winner. The NBA's 65-game minimum rule is under scrutiny.
Charles Bediako, who spent 2.5 years in the NBA G League (most recently with the Motor City Cruise, Detroit Pistons' affiliate) after playing two seasons at Alabama, has been granted a temporary restraining order making him immediately eligible to compete for the Crimson Tide. The NCAA had denied his appeal, citing concerns about sidestepping rules and taking opportunities from high school students. Bediako, who averaged 4.9 points and 5.4 rebounds in 16 G League games this season, could return to action as early as Saturday, January 24.
Buddy Hield had a standout performance, scoring 25 points on a perfect 6-of-6 from three-point range in 19 minutes against the Raptors. After falling out of the rotation for a few games in early January, Hield's production, alongside Jonathan Kuminga's return, was a key highlight for the Warriors, who needed offensive contributions in their recent game. Fantasy managers can do far worse than kicking the tires on Hield, who showed he can light up the scoreboard.
Jonathan Kuminga returned to the Warriors' rotation after a 16-game absence, scoring 20 points (7-of-10 FG, 5-of-8 FT) with five rebounds and two assists in 21 minutes against the Raptors. GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. addressed Kuminga's trade demand, stating, 'When you make a demand there needs to be demand,' implying a limited market. His agent has been vocal about his client's situation, potentially affecting trade value. His strong performance could rekindle interest from teams like the Kings, who have consistently pursued him.
Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis will not play Wednesday against the Raptors due to rest, as it's the second leg of a back-to-back. In Tuesday's loss to Miami, Sabonis recorded six points (3-8 FG, 0-1 3Pt, 0-1 FT), 10 rebounds, and three assists in 17 minutes.
The Houston Rockets are increasingly utilizing Amen Thompson in an off-ball role, a shift from his initial projection as a primary point guard. While he excels in transition, his half-court playmaking has been inconsistent. His usage rate has decreased over the last five games, suggesting a concerted effort to leverage his strengths as an off-ball cutter and defender. Thompson has shown decent efficiency as a pick-and-roll ball-handler and in isolation, but his overall Box Plus/Minus has regressed this season, indicating a brighter future off-ball.
Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs is questionable for Thursday's game against the Hornets due to a right knee MCL contusion. After missing seven consecutive games, Suggs is aiming to return to the lineup, though he may face a minutes restriction if cleared. His return would likely impact Anthony Black's playing time.
Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon is probable for Thursday's game against the Wizards due to a strained right hamstring. This game is the first half of a back-to-back, and the team is monitoring his health. Gordon, 30, has started five consecutive games, playing at least 30 minutes in each, after missing over a month with the strain.
Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray is probable for Thursday's game against the Wizards due to a left hip issue. Despite frequently appearing on the injury report, Murray is expected to play. As it's the first game of a back-to-back, a maintenance day for Friday's game could be considered.
Immanuel Quickley had a career night, scoring 40 points in the Raptors' victory over the Warriors, continuing his improved play. He's averaging 19.2 points over his last 14 games and has exceeded 16.5 points in 10 of those matchups. With the Raptors facing a Sacramento Kings team that struggles defensively, Quickley is expected to maintain his scoring momentum. He led the way with 40 while Brandon Ingram and Scottie Barnes both had 20+ points apiece. He's a strong bet to go over his point total again.
Myles Turner (ankle) will not play Wednesday against the Thunder, marking his second missed game of the current campaign. Turner was unable to clear his questionable tag for the contest. With Turner sidelined, Bobby Portis is a strong candidate to start, and Jericho Sims could potentially see increased involvement for the Milwaukee Bucks.
Derik Queen of the New Orleans Pelicans is noted as a rookie who could potentially crack the top three for the Rookie of the Year award by the end of the season. He is also considered a strong candidate for an All-Rookie first team spot, indicating his promising performance and potential for significant impact in a deep and talented rookie class. He could make a significant move in the rankings.
VJ Edgecombe of the Philadelphia 76ers is ranked third in the midseason Rookie of the Year race, closely trailing Kon Knueppel and Cooper Flagg. He is considered a strong candidate for the All-Rookie first team, with potential to crack the top three for the award by season's end. His performance has been impressive, making him a notable player in a deep and talented rookie class.
