Player news from trusted outlets
Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.
Al Horford has been ruled out for Saturday's game against Cleveland due to right sciatic nerve irritation. This sidelines him for the opening leg of Golden State's back-to-back set. Horford had previously missed four straight games due to the injury before starting Thursday's loss to Philadelphia.
Draymond Green is listed as questionable for Saturday's game against Cleveland due to a right foot injury suffered during Thursday's contest. Despite being spotted in a walking boot postgame, the veteran big man is expected to play through the issue. He'll officially carry a questionable tag into Saturday's contest. If Green can't play or is limited, Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quinten Post could see more minutes.
Jimmy Butler is questionable for Saturday's game against Cleveland due to left knee soreness. He missed Thursday's game and is at risk of missing a second consecutive contest due to the issue. The star forward suffered the injury during Tuesday's game against OKC.
Kyle Kuzma could hit the trading block as part of a potential roster blow-up for the Milwaukee Bucks. This scenario is contingent on Giannis Antetokounmpo deciding to leave the team, as reported.
Myles Turner could hit the trading block as part of a potential roster blow-up for the Milwaukee Bucks. This scenario is contingent on Giannis Antetokounmpo deciding to leave the team, as reported.
Bobby Portis could hit the trading block as part of a potential roster blow-up for the Milwaukee Bucks. This scenario is contingent on Giannis Antetokounmpo deciding to leave the team, as reported.
Dallas Mavericks forward P.J. Washington (ankle) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Thunder, marking his fourth consecutive missed game. He can be considered questionable for the second half of Dallas' back-to-back set Saturday against the Rockets. Naji Marshall is expected to draw another start in Washington's absence against Oklahoma City.
Joel Embiid will miss Friday's game against the Bucks due to left knee injury management, as reported by Adam Aaronson of PhillyVoice.com. This absence is for the second leg of Philadelphia's back-to-back. Embiid has been battling a right knee injury all season, limiting him to eight games, and now appears to be dealing with a left knee issue as well. Andre Drummond, Adem Bona, and Dominick Barlow are expected to cover center duties. His next opportunity to play is Sunday against the Lakers.
Marcus Smart was ruled out of Friday's game due to a left lumbar muscle strain. The injury prevented him from participating in the contest.
Jakob Poeltl (back/rest) is not listed on the injury report for Friday's game against the Hornets and is expected to return to action. He rested during Thursday's loss to the Lakers. Over his last 10 appearances, Poeltl has averaged 12.3 points, 9.2 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.0 steals in 28.7 minutes per game.
RJ Barrett (knee) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Hornets and remains out indefinitely. He has not played since November 23 and is due for re-evaluation any day now. Barrett is also considered doubtful for Sunday's game against the Celtics as the Raptors await more information on his status.
Orlando Magic All-Star Paolo Banchero is set to return to the court Friday night against Miami after missing 10 games with a left groin strain; he is listed as available. The Magic went 7-3 in his absence, showcasing a top-10 offense and defense. Banchero, averaging 21.9 points and 8.7 rebounds this season, will also be available for Tuesday's NBA Cup quarterfinals against the Miami Heat.
Jaylon Tyson has been highlighted by Steve Alexander in a fantasy basketball column as a player to 'add.' The article, which identifies names trending upwards or downwards, provides key takeaways for various players. No specific details regarding Tyson's current status, performance, or injury were provided in the source text beyond his inclusion in this fantasy recommendation.
Derik Queen, ranked No. 5 among rookies, has showcased unique versatility for the Pelicans under interim coach James Borrego. He excels as a passer from the top of the key and can physically attack 1v1, driving with good footwork to spin and finish. While his offensive game is strong, an area for improvement lies on the defensive end, where he needs to work early to avoid fouling.
Kon Knueppel is ranked the No. 1 rookie, making NBA history as the first player with 50 3-pointers in his first 15 career games. The Hornets rookie has also scored 20+ points in at least 10 of his first 20 games. His shot-making creates opportunities for drives, and his confidence is growing as he initiates contact and effectively works off screens, battling as a screener to slip into space.
Ryan Nembhard has emerged as a key player for the Dallas Mavericks, averaging 17 points, 7.5 assists, and 2.8 rebounds in his four starts. The rookie has recorded back-to-back double-doubles and led the Mavericks to three straight wins. His strong play and consistent minutes indicate a significant role, making him a must-add across all fantasy formats as he solidifies his position as the starting point guard.
Saddiq Bey is seeing expanded minutes and production for the New Orleans Pelicans, especially with Zion Williamson out for at least three weeks due to an adductor injury. Bey has scored at least 20 points in four straight games, averaging over 32 minutes. His consistent scoring and increased role make him a valuable fantasy asset, with his team's struggles and injuries opening the door for his consistent output.
With Giannis Antetokounmpo sidelined for 2-4 weeks due to a calf strain, Kyle Kuzma is positioned to see increased minutes and usage for the Milwaukee Bucks. Kuzma has been averaging 21.2 points and 24.2 minutes over his last five games, and this extended absence for Antetokounmpo presents a significant opportunity for Kuzma to re-establish himself in fantasy discussions, assuming he can secure at least 27 minutes per game.
VJ Edgecombe secured his first career game-winning basket with a clutch put-back layup in the Philadelphia 76ers' dramatic win over the Warriors. Despite a career-high 35 points from Tyrese Maxey, Edgecombe's late-game heroics, including a crucial steal and timeout, sealed the victory. He also contributed 10 points, six rebounds, and five assists, showcasing his knack for clutch plays despite five turnovers and limited minutes due to a calf injury.
LeBron James' historic streak of 1,297 consecutive regular-season games scoring 10 or more points concluded as the Lakers defeated the Raptors. James finished with eight points, but his 11 assists included the game-winning pass to Rui Hachimura. Despite the streak's end, James emphasized playing the 'right way,' contributing significantly with assists and rebounds in the Lakers' victory.
