Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Bryce McGowens delivered a season-high performance for the New Orleans Pelicans, tallying 23 points (8-11 FG, 5-5 3Pt, 2-2 FT), seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals in 30 minutes during Thursday's 143-120 win over the Trail Blazers. McGowens, who drew a starting nod at halftime, helped snap the Pelicans' seven-game losing streak and matched his campaign-best scoring mark. He is trending up as a waiver-wire pickup.
Kyle Kuzma delivered a season-high 31 points (13-17 FG, 1-2 3Pt, 4-5 FT) along with six rebounds and one block in 31 minutes during the Milwaukee Bucks' 116-101 win over the Celtics. Kuzma shot an efficient 76.5 percent from the field and combined with Bobby Portis for 58 points. While he has started the last two games, Kuzma is expected to return to a bench role as AJ Green (shoulder) nears his return.
Jaylen Brown continued his scoring surge for the Boston Celtics, tallying 30 points (10-17 FG, 2-4 3Pt, 8-9 FT), three rebounds, and three assists in 29 minutes during Thursday's 116-101 loss to the Bucks. This marks Brown's fourth consecutive game with 30 or more points. Despite his efforts, the Celtics struggled in the second half. Brown is averaging 33.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists in his first four December appearances.
Herbert Jones was ejected from Thursday's game against the Trail Blazers after receiving two technical fouls for arguing a foul call at the end of the first half. He finished with 4 points (2-7 FG, 0-1 3Pt), 4 rebounds, and 1 block in 14 minutes. His ejection opened up more minutes for Bryce McGowens.
Coby White (Chicago Bulls) has been added to the injury report as probable for Friday's game against the Hornets due to right calf tightness. Despite the late addition, the probable tag indicates he's expected to play. This follows a left calf injury less than two weeks ago and a right calf strain in August that caused him to miss the first 11 games of the season, suggesting the current listing is likely a precaution.
Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves) is listed as questionable for Friday's game against the Warriors due to right foot soreness. This injury emerged unexpectedly, but the questionable status suggests he is day-to-day. In his last game Monday against the Suns, Edwards delivered 40 points (15-21 FG, 3-7 3Pt, 7-9 FT), nine rebounds, two assists, and one steal across 38 minutes.
Robert Williams (Portland Trail Blazers) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Pelicans due to an illness. This marks his second consecutive missed matchup because of the same condition. His absence continues to impact the Blazers' center rotation.
Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford is doubtful for Friday's game against the Nets due to an ankle injury. He is expected to miss his third consecutive game. His absence will likely result in increased playing time for Anthony Davis, Dwight Powell, and Moussa Cisse at the center position.
Memphis Grizzlies center Zach Edey will miss at least a month due to a stress reaction in his left ankle, announced Thursday. This is the same ankle that required offseason surgery, which caused him to miss the season's first 13 games. His agent, Mark Bartelstein, described it as a "management plan to optimize Zach's long-term health" with an "excellent" prognosis. Edey averages 13.6 points and 11.1 rebounds. Jock Landale is expected to start in his absence, with Jaren Jackson Jr. also seeing more time at center.
Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen (illness) is available for Friday's game against the Grizzlies. After missing his first game of the season Sunday due to an illness, he has been given the green light to return. Markkanen has been off to a solid start in December, averaging 25.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in his first three appearances.
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (calf) is listed as questionable for Friday's game against the Jazz. Morant practiced without limitations Thursday and appears to be trending in the right direction for a return from a 10-game absence. If he gets through warmups without any setbacks, he will likely get the green light to play. His return would likely lead to less offensive involvement for Cam Spencer and Vince Williams.
Detroit Pistons forward Tobias Harris (ankle) has been removed from the injury report and is set to return for Friday's game against the Hawks. Harris sat out the last game against the Bucks due to an ankle problem. This season, the veteran has averaged 14.7 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 29.7 minutes over 14 contests. His return is expected to move Isaiah Stewart to the bench.
Cleveland Cavaliers center Jarrett Allen (finger) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Wizards. Despite practicing in full on Tuesday, Allen is not yet cleared for game action. In his absence, Thomas Bryant and Dean Wade are expected to continue picking up additional minutes.
Washington Wizards forward Khris Middleton (knee) will not play Friday against the Cavaliers, marking his second consecutive absence. His next opportunity to return to action will be Sunday against the Pacers. Justin Champagnie and Will Riley are expected to see increased minutes in Middleton's absence.
Washington Wizards center Alex Sarr (thigh) will miss his fifth consecutive game, sitting out Friday's contest against the Cavaliers. Being ruled out 24 hours in advance suggests a prolonged absence. Marvin Bagley and Tristan Vukcevic are expected to continue filling the void in Sarr's absence.
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid is listed as probable for Friday's game against the Pacers due to left knee injury management. This designation appears to be a precautionary measure, with all indications pointing towards Embiid being available to play in the matchup.
Philadelphia 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey is listed as probable for Friday's game against Indiana due to an illness. While dealing with the ailment, it is not anticipated to sideline him. Further clarification on his availability is expected closer to tipoff.
Charlotte Hornets guard Collin Sexton (quadriceps) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Bulls, marking his third consecutive absence. He is dealing with a left quad strain. Sexton's next opportunity to return to the court will be on Sunday in Cleveland.
Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball (ankle) will miss his second consecutive game, sitting out Friday's matchup against the Bulls. Being ruled out 24 hours in advance is concerning for his status. Given the Hornets' cautious approach with Ball, he is considered highly questionable for Sunday's game against the Cavaliers.
Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young was part of an ESPN mock trade scenario that would send him and Luke Kennard to the Sacramento Kings. In this proposed deal, the Kings would acquire the four-time All-Star, known for his clutch moments, in exchange for Zach LaVine, Devin Carter, Doug McDermott, and draft picks. This move would provide Sacramento with a younger solution at point guard without giving up any draft assets.
