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NBA News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Zaccharie Risacher a Game-Time Decision for Thursday with Hip Injury, Hawks Prospect's Development Continues

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Zaccharie Risacher is a game-time decision for Thursday's game against the Spurs due to a hip injury, having sat out Tuesday's matchup with a bruised left hip. The 20-year-old forward, who signed a two-year, $25.77 million contract with the Hawks in July 2024, is currently averaging 12.9 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.6 blocks. Risacher, a high-lottery prospect, is noted for his size (6-foot-8), length, and improved shooting, hitting nearly 39 percent from three this season. While he rebounds well and shows defensive range, he's primarily a catch-and-shoot threat, with playmaking (under 1.0 assists per game) being a key development area. He's unlikely to be an instant-impact player in Year 1, requiring patience to develop his body and refine his ballhandling and defensive awareness.

Josh Okogie Heads to Bench for Wednesday's Game, Role Diminishes After Previous Starting Stint

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Josh Okogie will come off the bench for Wednesday's game in Cleveland. Last season, he played a significant role for the Suns, starting the final 25 games and averaging 11.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.2 steals, and 1.7 three-pointers, ranking 158th in standard formats during that period. However, with the team adding multiple rotation pieces this offseason, his expanded role is unlikely to be sustained. Historically, Okogie has been a defensive specialist with a low usage rate, averaging 5.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in a prior season, ranking 307th in per-game fantasy production. Despite showing incremental improvements in his sophomore year with the Timberwolves, his offensive game has remained limited, making him a deep-league fantasy target at best, with his value primarily tied to defensive stats.

Draymond Green Officially Out for Wednesday Due to Illness, Continues Season Fragmented by Absences

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Draymond Green is officially out for Wednesday's game against the Heat due to illness, adding to a season fragmented by multiple absences and significant suspensions. His 2023-24 campaign included a five-game suspension for an on-court scuffle and a month-long suspension for striking Jusuf Nurkic, which also required counseling. Upon his return, he averaged 8.3 points, 7.9 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.9 blocks over his final 40 games, consistent with his previous five seasons. Green, who signed a four-year, $100 million contract, remains a premier defender and the starting power forward for his 13th NBA season. While his all-around stats are consistent, his fantasy value is often limited due to inconsistent scoring and efficiency, with his real-life impact often outweighing his fantasy production.

Jabari Smith Cleared to Play Wednesday, Rockets Forward Returns to Starting Lineup After Injury Scare

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Jabari Smith has been cleared to play in Wednesday's game against Cleveland, avoiding his second missed game of the season due to a knee injury. The 2022 third overall pick will resume his usual role in the starting lineup. Through 11 games this season, Smith has averaged 14.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.8 blocks in 33.0 minutes per contest. Smith signed a two-year, $18.21 million contract with the Rockets in July 2022, with team options for 2024-25 and 2025-26 already exercised. A highly touted prospect from Auburn, where he averaged 16.9 points and 7.4 rebounds as a freshman, Smith continues to be a key piece for the Houston Rockets.

Jimmy Butler Ruled Out Wednesday with Back Injury, Highlighting Ongoing Durability Concerns

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Jimmy Butler (back) has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Heat. This absence continues a trend for Butler, who hasn't played more than 65 regular-season games since 2016-17, missing 57 games in 2021-22 and 64 in 2022-23. Despite consistent missed time, he remains an elite fantasy option, finishing inside the top 40 for six straight campaigns before a 62nd-place finish in 2023-24. Last season, he averaged over 20 points, five assists, and five rebounds for the fourth consecutive year, achieving a career-high 41.4 percent from deep on 2.4 attempts, though his 1.3 steals per game was a low since 2012-13. Butler is still the leading man in Miami, expected to see plenty of usage, but the Heat prioritize his playoff health over regular-season availability. His 2022-23 season saw averages of 22.9 points, 5.9 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 1.8 steals with elite shooting percentages (53.9% FG, 85.0% FT). While his days as a perennial top-20 fantasy pick may be over, Butler is a safe middle-round selection, offering quality all-around production despite his ongoing durability issues.

Darius Garland Nears Return from Toe Injury, Cavaliers Guard Poised for Sixth NBA Season

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Darius Garland (toe) is reportedly close to being cleared to play. His 2023-24 season was previously interrupted by a six-week absence (mid-December to late January) due to a fractured jaw. Before the jaw injury, he averaged 20.7 points, 5.9 assists, and 1.6 steals through 20 games, with numbers slightly dipping to 16.6 points and 6.9 assists after his return. His playoff production also saw a slight step back. Garland, entering his sixth NBA season, is expected to continue shining alongside Donovan Mitchell, forming a top-tier backcourt. He had a breakout All-Star campaign in 2021-22, setting career bests with 21.7 points, 8.6 assists, 1.3 steals, and 2.6 three-pointers per game, shooting 46.2% from the field and 89.2% from the free-throw line. While Mitchell's presence limits his ceiling, Garland remains the driving force of the offense and has room to grow at 22 years old. He's a reliable third-round fantasy option, offering strong all-around production and respectable three-point shooting (37.1% last season).

Jaden McDaniels Out Wednesday with Sprained Wrist, Ending Nearly Two-Year Iron Man Streak

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Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels has been ruled out of Wednesday's game against Washington due to a sprained left wrist. This marks his first absence in nearly two years, ending a streak of 188 consecutive games played, which included 31 playoff appearances over the last two seasons. His last missed game was on December 8, 2023, due to a sprained right ankle. McDaniels, considered Minnesota's best perimeter defender, played a season-low 23 minutes in Monday's win over Dallas before exiting. He is currently having a career-best season, averaging 17.5 points per game and leading the NBA in three-point shooting at an impressive 52.1 percent. His field-goal (55.3%) and free-throw (84.2%) shooting rates are also the highest of his six seasons in the league.

Alex Sarr Sidelined Wednesday with Toe Injury; Wizards Rookie's Development and Contract Details Highlighted

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Rookie center Alex Sarr will miss Wednesday's game against the Timberwolves due to a toe injury, his first absence this season, after previously being listed as questionable. His next opportunity to play is Friday against the Raptors, with Marvin Bagley and Tristan Vukcevic expected to see increased minutes. Sarr, a 20-year-old, 7-foot-1 center, signed a two-year, $23.05 million contract with the Washington Wizards in July 2024, including a team option for 2026-27. Known for his standout defense, perimeter guarding, and rim protection, Sarr also shows potential as a ballhandler and passer. While his shooting (28% from deep, 71% FT last year) and thin frame are areas for development, he's projected to be an impactful defender capable of double-doubles, drawing comparisons to Evan Mobley.

Wendell Carter Jr. Confirms Relationship with Angel Reese, Anchors Magic Frontcourt

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Orlando Magic center Wendell Carter Jr., an eight-year NBA veteran, recently confirmed his relationship with Chicago Sky All-Star Angel Reese, stating, "That's my girl, though. We locked in for sure." The couple was first linked in early 2025, with Carter attending Reese's birthday and wearing her picture on a shirt at the WNBA All-Star Game. Drafted seventh overall by the Chicago Bulls in 2018, Carter was traded to the Magic in March 2021. This season, he's averaging 12.7 points and 7.7 rebounds, shooting 44% on nearly three three-point attempts per game. He recently anchored the Magic's frontcourt in a 121-113 victory over the Golden State Warriors, contributing 40 fantasy points.

Joel Embiid Confirmed Out Wednesday, Health Remains Key Question Mark

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Joel Embiid has been downgraded to out for Wednesday's game against Toronto due to a knee injury. This follows a 2023-24 season where a meniscal flap tear sidelined him from late January to early April, limiting him to 39 games. Despite the injury, Embiid averaged an impressive 34.7 points, 11.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals, making him the No. 1 fantasy producer per game. Embiid, the 2022-23 MVP, has a career marked by elite performance but also significant injury history, never playing 70 games in a season and missing his first two NBA years due to foot issues. While he played a career-high 68 games in 2021-22 and 66 in 2022-23, concerns persist as he enters his age-30 season. The 76ers' acquisition of Paul George could theoretically reduce Embiid's minutes, aiming for playoff preservation. His consistent MVP-caliber production, including leading the NBA in scoring for two consecutive seasons (2022-23, 2021-22), solidifies his status as a first-round fantasy talent, but his health remains the primary risk factor.

Stephen Curry Out Wednesday with Ankle Injury; Reflects on Historic Career and Rivalries

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Stephen Curry has been ruled out of Wednesday's game against the Miami Heat due to right ankle soreness, marking his first absence for this specific injury after tweaking it against the Spurs and re-aggravating it in Tuesday's loss to the Magic. The 37-year-old star, who also dealt with a lingering cold earlier this season, played 34 minutes against Orlando, scoring 34 points and dishing out 9 assists for 64 fantasy points. Since returning from his illness, Curry has been on a "heater," averaging 29.8 points on 48% shooting from the field and 39% from three-point range in 30.4 minutes over five games. His absence on the second night of a back-to-back, during a demanding stretch of 17 games in 30 days, highlights concerns about player injuries. Off the court, Curry recently parted ways with Under Armour after 12 years and launched his sneaker free agency, while also reflecting on his deep mutual respect and bond with LeBron James, with whom he co-hosts the "Mind the Game" podcast.

Paolo Banchero to Miss Fourth Straight Game with Groin Strain

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Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero has been listed as out for Thursday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers due to a left groin strain. This marks the fourth consecutive game Banchero will miss, and he continues to be ruled out a day in advance. He is considered highly questionable for Saturday's game against the New York Knicks, as he has not yet returned to full practice. Banchero, 23, signed a five-year maximum rookie extension in July 2025. His career includes being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, ACC Freshman of the Year at Duke, and a decorated high school career where he excelled in multiple sports.

Luka Dončić Thrives with Lakers After Controversial Mavericks Trade

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Luka Dončić, now with the Los Angeles Lakers, has been a central figure in recent NBA news, both for his on-court performance and his controversial trade from the Dallas Mavericks. The trade, orchestrated by former Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, sent Dončić to the Lakers in exchange for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a 2029 first-round pick, a move heavily criticized by former Mavericks owner Mark Cuban. Harrison reportedly had concerns about Dončić's long-term fit, citing defensive struggles, conditioning issues, and recurring calf strains, believing a potential supermax contract would be a poor investment. Despite the trade controversy, Dončić has thrived with the Lakers, jump-starting his MVP campaign and rising to the top of the NBA scoring leaderboard. In LeBron James' recent season debut, Dončić remained a primary offensive option, delivering 37 points and 10 assists (74 fantasy points), showcasing strong chemistry with James, who has called him his favorite current player. He contributed to the Lakers' season-high 140 points in a recent victory, demonstrating his continued impact as a top-tier scorer and playmaker.

Victor Wembanyama Out Multiple Weeks with Calf Strain; Spurs Adjust Starting Lineup

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San Antonio Spurs rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama has been diagnosed with a strained left calf and is expected to miss a few weeks. His absence has prompted a shift in the team's rotation, with Luke Kornet being promoted to the starting lineup, making him a viable streaming option in some fantasy formats. Backups Kelly Olynyk and Jeremy Sochan are also expected to see minutes, though they offer less fantasy value. Additionally, key players De'Aaron Fox and Devin Vassell are anticipated to have higher ceilings in terms of offensive production while Wembanyama is sidelined.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Out Multiple Weeks with Groin Strain; Bucks Adjust Rotation

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Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo is sidelined for at least two weeks due to a low-grade left groin strain suffered during Monday's loss to the Cavaliers. This injury will significantly impact the team, with Ryan Rollins expected to see increased usage. There's also speculation about Myles Turner taking on a more prominent offensive role. In Antetokounmpo's absence, Gary Trent Jr. and Bobby Portis are potential candidates for the starting lineup, and Kyle Kuzma's value may be boosted, though efficiency concerns remain with increased usage. Last season, without Antetokounmpo, Kuzma averaged 16.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.9 assists across seven games, while Portis put up robust averages of 18.1 points, 11.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in eleven games.

Scoot Henderson's Hamstring Recovery Slows, Return Remains 'Week to Week'

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Portland Trail Blazers' Scoot Henderson, the former No. 3 pick, is still "week to week" in his recovery from a torn left hamstring sustained before training camp. Eight weeks post-injury, he is not close to returning, despite having made "a lot of progress." Henderson can walk and do some stationary ballhandling and free throws, but no jumping or exploding. The team initially projected a 4-8 week return timeline. This extended absence pauses a crucial evaluation season for Henderson and the Trail Blazers, who need to assess his potential as a franchise cornerstone alongside teammates like Deni Avdija and Shaedon Sharpe. The team is being patient due to the nature of hamstring injuries.

Reed Sheppard's Elite Shooting Fuels Breakout Stretch for Houston Rockets

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Reed Sheppard has rapidly emerged as one of the Houston Rockets' most impactful players, overcoming a slow start where defensive limitations initially kept his minutes down. Over the past two weeks, his elite 47.8% three-point shooting, a significant jump from 33.8% last season, has been a key catalyst for his rise. In his last six games, Sheppard is averaging 15.7 PPG, 2.8 APG, 2.3 RPG, and 2.3 SPG in just 25.3 MPG, showcasing growing confidence and offensive presence. As the Rockets navigate injuries and utilize a committee at point guard, Sheppard has established himself as their most reliable option off the bench, turning a quiet beginning into a breakout stretch.

Dyson Daniels Transforms into Key Distributor for Hawks with Young Sidelined

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Dyson Daniels, previously recognized as a premier defender averaging 3.0 SPG last season, is now showcasing significant offensive growth as a facilitator for the Atlanta Hawks. With Trae Young sidelined, Daniels has thrived as a distributor, averaging 7.3 APG in games without Young, a substantial increase from the 3.0 APG he posted alongside him. This enhanced playmaking stems from a shift in his role, as he now ranks 18th in the league with 13.7 drives per game, effectively collapsing defenses to generate assists. Daniels is also consistently contributing points, rebounds, and steals, and the Hawks' offensive rating is notably higher when he is on the court.

Donovan Mitchell Elevates Play Amidst Garland's Absence, Reaching Career Highs

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Donovan Mitchell is experiencing a career-best season for the Cleveland Cavaliers, averaging 30.9 PPG, a 50.9% field-goal percentage, and 7.5 free-throw attempts per game. His scoring average is currently fifth-highest in the league, behind only Luka Doncic, Tyrese Maxey, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Giannis Antetokounmpo. This increased output is largely due to Darius Garland's limited availability (only three games), forcing Mitchell into a heavier workload, reflected by his 33.0% usage rate. His minutes have also risen from 31.4 to 34.1 per game, a significant jump from last season when the team reduced player minutes. The emergence of other Eastern Conference teams like Detroit further necessitates Mitchell's elevated performance.

Collin Murray-Boyles Downgraded to Doubtful for Wednesday's Game with Knee Injury

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Collin Murray-Boyles (knee) has been downgraded to doubtful for Wednesday's game against the 76ers, indicating the Raptors will likely hold him out. This absence could create opportunities for Ochai Agbaji, who is expected to return from a back issue. The 20-year-old forward signed a two-year, $12.98 million contract with the Raptors in July 2025, with a team option for 2027-28. Murray-Boyles, a former four-star recruit, showed significant growth in his two years at South Carolina, elevating his sophomore year averages to 16.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 blocks. While he lacks a perimeter shooting touch for a small forward, his above-average strength, elite defensive feel, and instincts make him a versatile frontcourt player, despite being potentially undersized for power forward. He is projected to play more as an undersized interior presence, drawing comparisons to Grant Williams for his physicality and defensive prowess.