AutoDraft Pro
Get the app

Player news from trusted outlets

NBA News

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

Monday, November 17, 2025

James Harden Scores 28 Points in Close Loss to 76ers

AutoDraft Pro AI

James Harden scored 28 points, along with six rebounds, five assists, one steal, and two blocks in a 110-108 loss to the 76ers. After being traded to the Clippers, Harden experienced his least productive season since his Oklahoma City days, averaging 16.6 points and 8.5 assists. Despite a decline in shot attempts at the rim and free throws, he still provided third-round fantasy value due to his passing and shooting. Entering his age-35 season, Harden may see a mini-bounceback with the Clippers due to Paul George's departure to Philadelphia, potentially increasing his usage. Previously, with the 76ers, he averaged 21.0 points, 10.7 assists, and 6.1 rebounds over 58 games, despite a scoring regression. His career has seen him as a top fantasy player, leading the league in assists and maintaining strong all-around production, though his efficiency and free-throw attempts have declined in recent seasons.

Donovan Mitchell's 37-Point Outburst Leads Cavaliers to Victory

AutoDraft Pro AI

Donovan Mitchell scored 37 points, grabbed five rebounds, dished seven assists, and recorded one steal in a 118-106 win over the Bucks. This performance follows Mitchell signing a three-year extension with the Cavaliers. Despite injuries limiting him to 55 games last season, he made his fifth All-Star appearance and set career highs in assists (6.1) and rebounds (5.1). Mitchell has consistently been an elite fantasy guard, finishing seventh in per-game value last season. He had a career-best scoring season in 2022-23 with 28.3 points per game on career-high 48.4% shooting. Throughout his career, Mitchell has demonstrated strong scoring, playmaking, and efficiency, even while playing alongside other talented guards like Darius Garland. His durability has been a factor, with at least 67 games played in five of his first six seasons.

Ryan Rollins Steps Up with 24 Points in Bucks' Loss Amidst Giannis' Injury

AutoDraft Pro AI

Ryan Rollins scored a team-high 24 points, along with five assists, three rebounds, and one steal in 29 minutes during the Milwaukee Bucks' 118-106 loss to the Cavaliers. With Giannis Antetokounmpo leaving the game due to a left groin strain, Rollins stepped into a larger playmaking role, leading the starting unit in assists. The 23-year-old guard has been performing well in a starting capacity, averaging 19.8 points, 4.5 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.0 steals over his last four games. Rollins, who signed a three-year deal with the Bucks in July 2025, was a second-round pick in the 2022 NBA Draft after a standout freshman and sophomore season at the University of Toledo, where he earned MAC Freshman of the Year honors.

Grayson Allen Ruled Out for Tuesday's Game with Quadriceps Injury

AutoDraft Pro AI

Grayson Allen (Phoenix Suns) has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Trail Blazers due to a quadriceps injury. This absence follows a strong 2023-24 season where Allen delivered a top-60 fantasy performance, averaging 13.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 0.9 steals, and leading the league with 46.1 percent from three-point range (2.7 made threes). His production, which also included 90.5 percent from the free-throw line, faces potential shifts with the addition of Tyus Jones, possibly impacting his playing time or moving him to the bench. Acquired by Phoenix in the Damian Lillard trade, Allen is valued as a solid depth option and floor spacer, despite historical health concerns and limited upside.

Kyle Filipowski Questionable for Tuesday's Game with Wrist Sprain

AutoDraft Pro AI

Kyle Filipowski (Utah Jazz) is questionable for Tuesday's game against the Lakers due to a sprained right wrist. The 22-year-old center, who signed a three-year, $9 million contract with the Jazz in August 2024, is currently averaging 7.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.5 blocks in 2025. Filipowski, a seven-footer capable of playing both power forward and center, had a notable college career at Duke, earning All-ACC First Team honors as a sophomore (16.4 points, 2.8 assists, 1.5 blocks, 55.9% FG). His high floor, elite basketball instincts, excellent assist rate, and floor-stretching ability made him a safe lottery pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. His status for Tuesday will be determined by his activity at shootaround, with Brice Sensabaugh potentially seeing more minutes if he is sidelined.

Cameron Johnson Cleared to Play Against Bulls After Biceps Recovery

AutoDraft Pro AI

Cameron Johnson (Brooklyn Nets) has been cleared to play Monday against the Chicago Bulls, having recovered from a biceps injury. Johnson aims to rebound after an injury-hampered season where he played only 58 games, averaging 13.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 2.4 three-pointers. Following the trade of Mikal Bridges, Johnson is projected to start as the power forward for the re-tooling Nets, potentially becoming the team's second offensive option after Cam Thomas. He enters the season healthy and with a four-year, $108 million contract. Johnson previously showed significant upside with the Nets, averaging 16.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.4 steals in 25 games after being acquired in the Kevin Durant trade.

Jrue Holiday Doubtful for Tuesday's Game Due to Calf Injury

AutoDraft Pro AI

Jrue Holiday (Boston Celtics) is doubtful for Tuesday's game against the Suns due to a calf injury. Holiday's journey from Milwaukee to Portland and then to Boston in the summer of 2023 culminated in his second NBA championship. In his first season with the Celtics, his statistical production saw a step back, averaging a career-low 12.5 points per game as he deferred to stars like Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown. His role for the 2024-25 season is expected to remain consistent, focusing on three-point shooting and strong defense, often playing a 3-and-D wing role. Despite turning 34, Holiday has maintained high-level play, previously setting career highs in free-throw percentage (85.9%), rebounds (5.4), and three-pointers made (2.4) in 2022-23.

Rui Hachimura Cleared to Play Against Jazz, Off Injury Report

AutoDraft Pro AI

Rui Hachimura (Los Angeles Lakers) is not listed on the injury report and is expected to play in Tuesday's game against the Jazz, having recovered from a calf issue. In his first full season with the Lakers in 2023-24, Hachimura started 39 of 68 games, posting solid averages of 13.6 points, 4.3 rebounds, 1.2 assists, and an impressive 42.2 percent from three-point range. His fantasy upside largely depends on his role in JJ Redick's rotation, as he functions as a complementary piece alongside high-usage players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Hachimura, acquired by the Lakers in January 2023 from Washington, proved crucial in their postseason success, delivering multiple 20-plus point games and shooting 48.7 percent from beyond the arc in the playoffs. This performance led to his re-signing on a three-year, $51 million deal.

Marcus Smart Returns from Illness, Not on Injury Report for Tuesday

AutoDraft Pro AI

Marcus Smart (Memphis Grizzlies) is not listed on the injury report, indicating he has recovered from an illness and is expected to play in Tuesday's game against the Jazz. Smart's first season in Memphis was significantly impacted by ankle and finger injuries, limiting him to just 20 games. When healthy, he averaged 14.5 points, 2.7 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 2.1 steals, and 2.1 three-pointers on 43.0 percent shooting, with an offensive uptick noted when Ja Morant was sidelined. Traded to Memphis after nine seasons with Boston, Smart is expected to log starter's minutes, potentially off the bench, bringing his tough-minded defensive approach to a team that lost Dillon Brooks. He previously recorded a career-high 6.3 assists per game in 2022-23 with Boston, alongside 11.5 points and 1.5 steals, and was named Defensive Player of the Year in 2021-22.

LeBron James Nears Season Debut After First Full Lakers Practice, Questionable for Jazz Game

AutoDraft Pro AI

LeBron James is nearing his season debut for the Los Angeles Lakers after missing training camp and the first 14 games due to sciatica on his right side, an issue that began in August. He completed his first full practice with the team on Monday, following two practices with the G-League South Bay Lakers where he engaged in 5-on-5 work for the first time since an MCL injury. James described his lungs feeling like a "newborn baby" and his voice "already gone" from practice, but stated he's "doing pretty good" with the sciatica. He is listed as questionable for Tuesday's game against the Utah Jazz, with a decision pending on how his body responds over the next 24 hours. If he plays, he will set an NBA record for reaching 23 seasons. The Lakers have performed well in his absence, holding a 10-4 record led by Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. James acknowledges a "feel-out process" will be necessary to integrate back into the team's established chemistry. Rui Hachimura and Marcus Smart are expected to be available for the Jazz game.

Tre Jones Sidelined Monday with Ankle Injury; Bulls Backcourt Adjusts

AutoDraft Pro AI

Tre Jones, the 25-year-old Chicago Bulls guard, has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Nuggets due to an ankle injury, marking his likely second consecutive missed game. He was initially doubtful for Monday, November 17, 2025, with his next opportunity to play scheduled for Wednesday against the Trail Blazers. His absence, coupled with Coby White resting, is expected to increase usage for Josh Giddey, Ayo Dosunmu, and Kevin Huerter in the Bulls' backcourt. Jones signed a three-year, $24 million contract in June 2025 and averaged 13.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 2.1 steals, and 0.2 blocks in 2025. A Duke product, he was the 2020 ACC Player and Defensive Player of the Year.

Saddiq Bey Ruled Out Monday with Ankle Injury; Pelicans Forward Faces Extended Absence

AutoDraft Pro AI

Saddiq Bey has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Thunder due to an ankle injury. The 25-year-old forward, currently affiliated with the New Orleans Pelicans, is also recovering from a left ACL tear suffered in March 2023, making him unlikely to be ready for the start of the 2024-25 season. Despite this, the Wizards signed him to a three-year, $20 million contract this offseason, where he is expected to face competition for minutes from Kyle Kuzma, Bilal Coulibaly, and Corey Kispert upon his return. Bey had a down year in 2023-24, averaging 13.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists on poor efficiency (41.6% FG, 31.6% 3PT). His career includes stints with the Pistons and Hawks, where he once averaged 16.1 points in a full season and recorded a 50-point game.

Zion Williamson Ruled Out Monday Amid Ongoing Injury Concerns and Offseason Moves

AutoDraft Pro AI

Zion Williamson has been officially ruled out for Monday's game against the Thunder due to a hamstring injury. This latest setback follows a career-high 70 games played in 2023-24, where he averaged 22.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, though his efficiency from three-point range and the free-throw line, coupled with his injury history, remains a fantasy liability. Despite averaging elite production when healthy, including 26.0 points and 7.0 rebounds in 2022-23, his career total games played is only 114. The Pelicans' acquisition of Dejounte Murray and potential increased role at center for Williamson in 2024-25 could impact his usage and efficiency. Historically, Williamson has shown flashes of dominance, averaging 27.0 points and 7.2 rebounds in 2020-21, but persistent injuries, including missing all of 2021-22 with a foot injury, have limited his availability. He signed a five-year, $231 million contract, signaling commitment from the team, but concerns about his health persist, with potential for sitting out back-to-back games. Fantasy drafts often see him as a second or third-round pick, with his upside heavily dependent on staying on the court.

Isaiah Stewart to Join Starting Unit Monday Against Indiana

AutoDraft Pro AI

Isaiah Stewart is set to start in Monday's game against Indiana, with Paul Reed moving to the bench. Stewart has been a strong contributor as a starter this season, averaging 13.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, 2.3 blocks, and 2.0 assists in 24.8 minutes per game across three starts. The 24-year-old center, who signed a three-year, $45 million contract extension in July 2023, was a standout in college at the University of Washington, earning All-Pac-12 First Team honors. He was known for his double-double ability, leading the Pac-12 in two-pointers made, free throws made, and total rebounds during his freshman year, while also contributing defensively with 2.1 blocks per game. Stewart wears number 33 in honor of Patrick Ewing and can be followed on Twitter at @Dreamville_33.

Cade Cunningham Ruled Out for Monday's Game, Reflects on Career-High Season and Future Role

AutoDraft Pro AI

Cade Cunningham (hip) has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Pacers. This follows his shutdown in early April due to left knee tendinopathy, causing him to miss the final seven games of the 2023-24 season, despite scoring at least 32 points in three consecutive appearances prior. The 2021 No. 1 overall pick had a bounce-back Year 3, averaging career highs of 22.7 points and 7.5 assists with improved shooting splits (44.9/35.5/86.9), after missing most of 2022-23 with a shin injury. While healthy for most of 2023-24, his fantasy production hasn't cracked the top 50. The Pistons have bolstered their roster with Ron Holland, Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Tim Hardaway, aiming to provide better spacing and support. Cunningham is expected to remain the offensive focal point, with his 2022-23 averages (19.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 6.0 assists) considered his floor. Despite the team's increased depth, he is still viewed as one of the most talented young players in the NBA and a third-round fantasy pick, though top-30 production may be an overestimation. As a rookie, he earned All-Rookie First Team honors, showing room for growth in his perimeter shooting.

Ausar Thompson Sidelined for Fourth Consecutive Game with Right Ankle Sprain

AutoDraft Pro AI

Ausar Thompson, the 22-year-old Pistons forward, has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Pacers due to a right ankle sprain, marking his fourth consecutive absence. Despite participating in Monday morning's shootaround, he faces a short turnaround for Tuesday's game in Atlanta. Thompson, who signed a two-year, $16.35 million contract in July 2023, with team options exercised through 2026-27, posted 2025 stats of 13.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.8 steals, and 0.7 blocks. A former five-star recruit and two-time Overtime Elite Finals MVP, Thompson is known for his hyper-athletic and versatile defense, capable of guarding multiple positions, and his offensive prowess when driving to the basket. He's also an excellent passer, with potential to become a primary ballhandler. His all-around skillset, though with a developing jump shot, draws comparisons to players like Jimmy Butler and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Javonte Green is expected to continue seeing heavy minutes in his absence.

Rookie of the Year Stephon Castle Out for Tuesday's Game with Left Hip Flexor Soreness

AutoDraft Pro AI

Stephon Castle (hip), the 2024-25 Rookie of the Year, has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Grizzlies due to left hip flexor soreness, having not played in the second half of Sunday's win over the Kings. His estimated return is November 20, 2025. The 21-year-old Spurs guard, who signed a two-year, $18.67 million contract in July 2024, has posted 2025 stats of 17.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 7.5 assists, 1.7 steals, and 0.4 blocks. A former five-star recruit and UConn standout who helped win the 2024 NCAA Tournament, Castle is known for his physicality, passing ability, and tough defense. However, his perimeter shooting remains a project (27% from deep in college), which will be crucial for his ultimate ceiling. With Castle, Dylan Harper (calf), and Jordan McLaughlin (hamstring) sidelined, Julian Champagnie, Keldon Johnson, and Lindy Waters are expected to see increased playing time. His next opportunity to play will be Thursday against the Hawks.

Dylan Harper Remains Sidelined for Spurs with Strained Left Calf, Week-to-Week Status

AutoDraft Pro AI

Dylan Harper (calf) will remain out for Tuesday's game against the Grizzlies as he continues to nurse a strained left calf, with his status deemed week-to-week until the Spurs provide a further update. His estimated return is November 23, 2025. The 19-year-old rookie first-rounder, who signed a two-year, $25.36 million contract in July 2025, has posted 2025 stats of 14.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 0.7 steals. Harper, a consensus five-star recruit and Rutgers' highest-rated signee, had a challenging collegiate season due to illness but finished strong, showcasing his potential as a big-bodied, versatile playmaker. He excels at attacking the rim and passing, with an elite catch-and-shoot jumper, though his off-the-dribble shooting needs refinement. Drawing comparisons to Cade Cunningham, Harper possesses the elements to make a similar leap in the NBA. With Harper, Stephon Castle (hip), and Jordan McLaughlin (hamstring) sidelined, De'Aaron Fox is expected to handle a heavy workload in San Antonio's depleted backcourt.

Ty Jerome Out Indefinitely for Grizzlies with High-Grade Calf Strain

AutoDraft Pro AI

Ty Jerome (calf) has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Spurs as he continues to recover from a high-grade right calf strain suffered during the preseason. The Grizzlies have not provided a timetable for his return, classifying the 28-year-old guard as week-to-week. Jerome, who signed a three-year, $28 million contract with the Grizzlies in June 2025, was a key player for Virginia, leading them to the 2019 NCAA Tournament title and earning All-ACC Second Team honors. He led the ACC in assists and was seventh in steals during his junior year before being drafted 24th overall in 2019. With Jerome, Ja Morant (calf), and Javon Small (toe) all sidelined, Cam Spencer, Vince Williams, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and Jahmai Mashack are all candidates for increased playing time in the Grizzlies' backcourt. His estimated return is November 24, 2025.

Austin Reaves Shines for Lakers, Leading Offense Alongside Luka Doncic

AutoDraft Pro AI

Austin Reaves has been instrumental in the Los Angeles Lakers' strong 10-4 start to the season in LeBron James' absence, forming a potent two-way tandem with Luka Doncic. He is currently averaging 28.3 points per game, ranking ninth in the NBA, and 8.2 assists per game, placing him seventh in the league. His strong play has been a key factor in the team's success.