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NBA News

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

Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Josh Minott Not Starting for Celtics Despite Earlier Report, Remains in Reserve Role

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Josh Minott will not be in the Boston Celtics' starting lineup for Tuesday's game against the Nets, contrary to a previous report. Instead, Jordan Walsh will retain his starting spot, and Minott will remain in a reserve role. The 22-year-old forward, who signed a two-year, $4.96 million contract with the Celtics in July 2025, has seen his playing time fluctuate, averaging 7.1 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 0.9 steals over 18.8 minutes per game since November 1st. His 2025 season stats include 7.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.4 blocks. Minott, a former 45th overall pick by the Hornets (traded to Minnesota), is considered a viable deep league target for boards and defensive stats when he does get the call to start, as coach Joe Mazzulla may adjust the lineup based on matchups.

Ausar Thompson Returns from Absence, Will Come Off Bench for Pistons

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Ausar Thompson is available to play in Tuesday's game against the Hawks but will not be in the starting lineup, instead working with the second unit in his return from a four-game absence. His activation is expected to reduce minutes for Ronald Holland and Caris LeVert. The 22-year-old forward, who has averaged 13.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.8 steals, and 0.7 blocks in 2025, is under contract with the Pistons through at least the 2025-26 season, with a team option for 2026-27. Thompson, a highly athletic and versatile wing, is known for his defensive impact, ability to jump passing lanes, and shot-blocking, alongside his offensive prowess driving to the basket and excellent passing. A former Overtime Elite MVP, he is seen as a potential star who could eventually become a primary ballhandler.

Jrue Holiday Ruled Out with Calf Injury, Reflecting Consistent Role in Boston

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Jrue Holiday has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Suns due to a calf injury. After a summer 2023 journey from Milwaukee to Portland to Boston, which culminated in his second NBA championship, Holiday's 2023-24 season saw a statistical step back, averaging a career-low 12.5 points (outside his rookie year) as he deferred to Boston's other stars. His role for the 2024-25 season is expected to remain unchanged, primarily as a 3-and-D wing, with consistent minutes around 32-33 per game. Despite turning 33, Holiday remains a fantasy darling, known for his two-way play, including All-Defensive honors (Second Team last season, First Team 2020-21) and consistent all-around production (18.3 points, 6.8 assists, 4.5 rebounds in 2022-23). His career has been marked by high efficiency, versatility in roles, and significant statistical contributions across his tenures with the Pelicans, Bucks, and Celtics, including overcoming injury challenges and a personal leave for his wife's health.

Keegan Murray Nearing Season Debut for Kings After Thumb Surgery

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Keegan Murray is nearing his 2025-26 season debut for the Sacramento Kings after undergoing surgery for a torn UCL in his left thumb in October. He has been cleared for 5-on-5 contact and assigned to the Stockton Kings for practice. Murray plans to join the Kings on their current road trip, with hopes of playing before the team returns home on November 24th. His return is anticipated to help the Kings, who have struggled to a 3-11 record and are on a six-game losing streak.

Jalen Brunson Questionable for Knicks vs. Mavericks with Ankle Sprain

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Jalen Brunson has been upgraded to questionable for the New York Knicks' upcoming game against the Dallas Mavericks due to a right ankle sprain. He has missed the team's last two games with the injury, sustained on November 12th. The Knicks, also missing OG Anunoby (hamstring), could benefit from Brunson's return as they seek their first road win of the season.

Tobias Harris Sidelined with Ankle Injury, Misses Hawks Game

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Tobias Harris has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Atlanta Hawks due to an ankle injury. Harris recently signed a two-year deal with the Detroit Pistons, concluding his five-and-a-half-season tenure with the 76ers. He is anticipated to be a top offensive option for the Pistons, though the team prioritizes developing its young core. Last season, he averaged 17.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.0 steals, maintaining strong three-point shooting. Harris has consistently been a reliable fantasy contributor, ranking as a top-60 player in six of the last nine years.

Jaden McDaniels Questionable with Wrist Sprain; Defensive Anchor's Offensive Consistency Key for Timberwolves

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Jaden McDaniels (wrist) is questionable for Wednesday's game against the Wizards. A crucial defensive presence for the contending Minnesota Timberwolves, McDaniels holds a starting role alongside Anthony Edwards, Julius Randle, and Rudy Gobert. His fantasy value is tied to shooting efficiency, which declined in 2023-24 (FG% from 51.7 to 48.9, 3P% from 39.8 to 33.7). While Edwards and Randle's attention could open shots, he offers a high floor but limited upside as a late-round fantasy flier. His 2022-23 season ended prematurely when he broke his hand punching a wall, despite playing his best basketball with averages of 14.8 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.9 blocks on 53% shooting over his final 22 games. The team relies on his defense for 30-35 minutes per night, but his offensive development, particularly creating his own shots or improving three-point consistency, is vital given the roster's other offensive talents. Drafted 28th overall in 2020, he's shown defensive upside but remains raw offensively.

Kelly Oubre Remains Out with Knee Injury; Role and Fantasy Impact with Paul George in Philadelphia Debated

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Kelly Oubre (knee) has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Raptors. He finished the 2023-24 season as the 132nd-ranked fantasy player, averaging 15.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.5 three-pointers, and 1.8 combined steals and blocks. While a starting role in 2024-25 is possible, the addition of Paul George likely shifts him down the offensive pecking order behind George, Joel Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey. His fantasy appeal might be stronger off the bench as a primary option with the second unit, making him a viable late-round target, with potential for a short-term bump if Embiid misses time. Oubre, who averaged a career-high 20.3 points for the Hornets in 2022-23, joined the 76ers where he's expected to be a first or second man off the bench, unlikely to match his previous usage. His fantasy outlook would improve if James Harden were traded. Throughout his career, including stints with the Warriors and Suns, Oubre has shown versatility and scoring ability, often seeing increased minutes due to injuries or roster changes.

Jabari Smith Questionable for Wednesday with Knee Issue; Rockets Forward's Contract and Promising Collegiate Career Highlighted

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Jabari Smith (knee) is questionable for Wednesday's game against Cleveland, potentially marking his second absence this season. If sidelined, Josh Okogie would likely see increased minutes, with Jeff Green as a bench option. The 22-year-old forward's 2025 stats include 14.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.8 blocks. Smith is under contract with the Houston Rockets through the 2025-26 season, with team options for 2024-25 ($9.77 million) and 2025-26 ($12.35 million) already exercised. A highly decorated prospect, Smith was a five-star recruit who earned Mr. Georgia Basketball and Gatorade Player of the Year honors in high school. He also won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2019 FIBA Under-16 Americas Championship. In his lone collegiate season at Auburn (2021-22), he averaged 16.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.0 blocks, earning NABC Freshman of the Year and SEC Freshman of the Year before being drafted third overall by the Rockets in the 2022 NBA Draft.

Jalen Williams Remains Sidelined with Wrist Injury, Doubtful for Jazz Game

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Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Kings due to a wrist injury and is considered doubtful for Friday's game against the Jazz. The 24-year-old has yet to make his season debut as he recovers from offseason surgery on his right wrist, with an estimated return date of November 21, 2025. Williams signed a five-year, $287 million contract extension with the Thunder in July 2025. A former 12th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, Williams was a two-time All-WCC selection at Santa Clara, averaging 18.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.2 assists in his junior year.

Jalen Suggs Cleared to Play Tuesday Against Warriors After Groin Injury

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Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs will play in Tuesday's game against the Warriors despite a groin injury. Coming off his best season, Suggs logged 75 games last year, averaging 12.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.4 steals, 0.6 blocks, and 2.0 three-pointers on 47.1% shooting. He is expected to start the 2024-25 season as the point guard, leveraging his defensive impact over Anthony Black and Cole Anthony. While a lead facilitator role could boost his assists, he's not projected as a high-volume scorer. Suggs, the No. 5 overall pick two years ago, has faced past injury struggles and efficiency concerns, but shows signs of improvement and remains a valuable fantasy asset for steals and assists.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Out 1-2 Weeks with Groin Strain, Bucks Face Rotation Adjustments

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Giannis Antetokounmpo is expected to miss one to two weeks with a 'low-grade' left groin strain, which forced him to leave Monday night's game against the Suns. Coach Doc Rivers indicated the injury is not severe but will sideline the MVP candidate for approximately two weeks. Antetokounmpo has been instrumental for the Milwaukee Bucks, averaging 31.2 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 6.8 assists. His absence will significantly impact the team's net rating, which suffers when he is off the floor. The Bucks will likely see increased minutes for players like Jericho Sims and Bobby Portis as they adjust their rotation to compensate for the loss of their star forward.

Zaccharie Risacher Ruled Out for Tuesday's Game with Left Hip Contusion

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Atlanta Hawks forward Zaccharie Risacher has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Pistons due to a left hip contusion, marking his first missed game since October 25. His next opportunity to play will be Thursday against the Spurs, with Luke Kennard, Mouhamed Gueye, and Asa Newell potentially seeing increased minutes. 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. As a high-lottery prospect, Risacher has shown significant improvement in his shooting efficiency, hitting nearly 39% from three-point range this season, though his playmaking remains an area for development.

Onyeka Okongwu Upgraded to Available for Hawks' Tuesday Matchup

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Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu has been upgraded to available for Tuesday's game against Detroit after dealing with a knee issue. Despite an uptick in playing time, his production has remained stable, averaging 10.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks. Okongwu, the sixth overall pick in 2020, has shown must-roster potential even in limited minutes, finishing as the 76th-ranked player in his second season with 9.9 points, 7.2 rebounds, 0.7 steals, and 1.4 blocks on 64.0% shooting. He is expected to continue as the backup center behind Clint Capela, but his value could significantly increase if Capela is traded. Okongwu has demonstrated an improved offensive repertoire and strong defensive upside throughout his career.

Alex Sarr Questionable for Wednesday's Game with Left Big Toe Soreness

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Washington Wizards center Alex Sarr is listed as questionable for Wednesday's game against the Timberwolves due to left big toe soreness, potentially marking his first missed game of the season. If Sarr is ruled out, Marvin Bagley and Tristan Vukcevic are candidates for increased playing time. The 20-year-old, who signed a two-year, $23.05 million contract with the Wizards in July 2024, has averaged 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 2.0 blocks in 30.6 minutes over his last five outings. For the 2025 season, he is averaging 18.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 0.7 steals, and 2.2 blocks. Standing 7-foot-1, Sarr's defense is his standout skill, with potential for further development in shooting and playmaking.

Zion Williamson Questionable for Denver Game with Hamstring Injury

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New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is listed as questionable for Wednesday's game against Denver due to a hamstring injury. This follows a 2023-24 season where he played a career-high 70 games but suffered another hamstring strain in the Play-In Tournament, sidelining him for the postseason. In those 70 games, he averaged 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.7 blocks on 57/33/70 splits. Williamson's career has been marked by elite production when healthy, but also significant injury concerns, having played only 114 total games in his first four seasons. The No. 1 overall pick from 2019 signed a five-year, $231 million max contract, committing his future to the Pelicans despite ongoing health questions.

Domantas Sabonis Out for Wednesday's Game Against Oklahoma City Due to Knee Injury

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Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis has been ruled out for Wednesday's game against the Thunder due to a knee injury. In the 2023-24 season, Sabonis led the NBA in rebounds and further developed his playmaking, establishing himself as a consistent triple-double threat. Despite modest free-throw shooting and limited three-point makes, he has finished among the top 10 players in eight-category fantasy leagues for two consecutive seasons. Sabonis is expected to remain the Kings' primary offensive hub, even with the addition of DeMar DeRozan. Known for his durability, he has missed only two regular-season games over the last three years and has never played fewer than 62 games in his eight NBA campaigns.

Paul George Sidelined with Knee Injury for 76ers' Wednesday Matchup

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Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George is out for Wednesday's game against Toronto due to a knee injury. George signed a four-year max contract with the 76ers this summer after an injury-riddled five-year tenure with the Clippers, where he averaged 23.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals but played in only 263 total games. Entering his age-34 season, durability remains a significant concern, having played over 56 games only once with the Clippers (74 games last season). He projects as the 76ers' third option behind Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, but is expected to have ample offensive opportunities. George has consistently delivered All-Star caliber numbers when healthy, despite a history of significant injuries.

Joel Embiid Doubtful for Wednesday's Game with Knee Issue; Injury History and MVP-Caliber Production Detailed

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Joel Embiid is listed as doubtful for Wednesday's game against Toronto due to a knee issue, continuing a career marked by significant injury concerns. The 2022-23 MVP, Embiid was off to another great campaign in 2023-24, averaging 34.7 points, 11.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.7 blocks, and 1.2 steals in 39 games before a meniscal flap tear derailed his season. Despite never playing 70 games in a season, his per-game production consistently ranks among the league's elite. Past injuries include foot surgeries (2014, 2015) and a knee contusion (2017). With the addition of Paul George, the 76ers aim to manage Embiid's minutes to preserve him for the playoffs, acknowledging his first-round fantasy talent despite the inherent health risk.

Stephon Castle Out 1-2 Weeks with Left Hip Flexor Strain; Spurs Guard's Impressive Start Halted

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Spurs guard Stephon Castle sustained a left hip flexor strain during Sunday's win over the Kings and is expected to be re-evaluated in 1-2 weeks, according to Shams Charania. The second-year player had an impressive start to the season, averaging 17.3 points, 7.5 assists, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.7 steals with 49.7% field goal shooting in 32.0 minutes across 13 appearances. His absence, alongside Dylan Harper, will likely lead to increased minutes for Julian Champagnie and Keldon Johnson. Castle, a former McDonald's All-American and UConn standout, signed a two-year, $18.67 million contract in July 2024. Known for his physicality and defense, his ultimate ceiling depends on developing his perimeter shot (27% 3PT, 76% FT).