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NBA News

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

Monday, November 17, 2025

Jonathan Kuminga Out Third Straight Game with Bilateral Patellar Tendonitis

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Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against the Orlando Magic due to bilateral patellar tendonitis, marking his third consecutive missed game. He initially experienced knee soreness and missed the second half of last Wednesday's game against the San Antonio Spurs. While the Warriors are being cautious, they do not anticipate an extended absence for the 23-year-old forward. Kuminga is averaging 13.8 points per game this season, the third-highest on the team, and had started 12 of his 13 games before being moved to the bench during a 2-5 team skid. The Warriors are currently on a three-game winning streak.

Clippers' Derrick Jones Jr. Out Six Weeks with MCL Sprain Amidst Team Injury Woes

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Los Angeles Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr., 28, has sustained a sprained MCL in his right knee and is expected to be re-evaluated in six weeks. The injury occurred Sunday in Boston during a 121-118 loss, following a collision with Jaylen Brown while Jones was reaching for a loose ball. Jones, who had started all 13 games this season and was averaging a career-high 10.9 points per game, was helped to the locker room unable to put weight on his leg. This injury adds to the Clippers' growing list of sidelined players, including Kawhi Leonard (ankle and foot sprain) and Bradley Beal (season-ending hip fracture). James Harden acknowledged the team's tough injury streak. Jones previously had a prominent role with the Mavericks in 2023-24, averaging 8.6 points and 3.3 rebounds, and was expected to be the Clippers' starting small forward this season. His career has seen stints with the Heat, Trail Blazers, and Bulls, showcasing his versatility and two-way play.

Hawks' Zaccharie Risacher Questionable for Pistons Game with Hip Contusion

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Atlanta Hawks forward Zaccharie Risacher, 20, is listed as questionable for Tuesday's game against the Pistons due to a hip contusion suffered after Sunday's contest against the Suns. His estimated return is November 18, 2025. Risacher, 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 this season. The 6-foot-8 Frenchman is a high-lottery prospect known for his shooting, hitting nearly 39 percent from beyond the arc, and defensive versatility. While he needs to develop his playmaking and add weight, he projects as a valuable long-term role player. Should he be sidelined, Luke Kennard, Asa Newell, and Caleb Houstan are candidates to join the Atlanta rotation.

Hawks' Onyeka Okongwu Questionable for Tuesday's Game with Knee Issue

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Atlanta Hawks center Onyeka Okongwu is listed as questionable for Tuesday's game against the Pistons due to a knee issue. Despite an uptick in playing time, the 2020 sixth overall pick's production has remained stable, with season averages of 10.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks. Okongwu typically serves as the backup center to Clint Capela, a role that has limited his fantasy upside, though rumors persist about Capela's future. In his second NBA season, Okongwu ranked 76th in per-game fantasy production, averaging 9.9 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in 23.1 minutes. He previously missed the start of his third season due to right shoulder surgery. The Hawks are reportedly gaining confidence in giving Okongwu more minutes, and a potential Capela trade could unlock his full potential.

Ja Morant Sidelined Two Weeks with Grade 1 Calf Strain, Grizzlies Face Tough Stretch

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Memphis Grizzlies All-Star point guard Ja Morant will be sidelined for two weeks due to a Grade 1 calf strain, sustained in the first quarter of Saturday's game against the Cleveland Cavaliers after scoring 7 points in 6 minutes. This injury adds to a challenging season for Morant and the 4-10 Grizzlies, as he previously missed a game with an ankle injury and served a suspension. The 26-year-old is currently posting career lows in shooting percentages (35.9% FG, 16.7% 3P) and averaging 17.9 points and 3.0 rebounds, his lowest scoring mark since his rookie year. This continues a concerning injury history, as he has never played more than 70 games in his six NBA seasons, including a 9-game season due to a prior suspension. While the Grizzlies maintain no trade interest, his mounting injuries and large contract could impact his value. Vince Williams Jr. is expected to see increased playing time, along with Cam Spencer, and a greater scoring burden will fall on Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Cedric Coward.

Jalen Suggs Questionable for Tuesday's Game with Groin Soreness; Future Role Debated

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Jalen Suggs is listed questionable for Tuesday's game against the Warriors due to right groin soreness. Coming off his best season where he played 75 games and ranked 100th in nine-category leagues, averaging 12.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.4 steals, 0.6 blocks, and 2.0 three-pointers, Suggs is expected to open the 2024-25 season as the starting point guard for the Orlando Magic alongside newly acquired Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. Despite competition from Anthony Black and Cole Anthony, his defensive impact is key. The No. 5 overall pick from two years ago, Suggs' past includes a disappointing rookie campaign marred by injuries and efficiency issues, and a reserve role in 34 of 53 games last year. He is seen as a potential late-round target for steals, assists, and threes, with a ceiling limited by not being a high-volume scorer.

Paolo Banchero to Miss Third Straight Game Tuesday Due to Groin Injury

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Paolo Banchero, the 23-year-old forward for the Orlando Magic, will miss his third consecutive game Tuesday against the Nets due to a groin injury. Ruled out a day in advance, he is considered highly questionable for Thursday's game against the Clippers, with an estimated return of November 20, 2025. Banchero's current season stats include 21.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.9 blocks. He signed a five-year maximum rookie extension in July 2025, following earlier team options exercised for 2024-25 and 2025-26. The No. 1 overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, Banchero was an ACC Freshman of the Year and Consensus All-American Second Team at Duke, where he averaged 17.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.1 steals.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Holds Top MVP Spot Despite Shifting Odds, Thunder Dominate

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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander remains the top-ranked MVP candidate according to Vaughn Dalzell, despite Nikola Jokic becoming the DraftKings favorite. SGA boasts impressive stats with 32.6 PPG (3rd), 6.6 APG (16th), and 5.1 RPG (T-92nd). He has consistently scored 30 or more points in eight of his last nine games, often playing fewer than 30 minutes due to the Oklahoma City Thunder's dominant 13-1 record, which is the best in the NBA. The Thunder are on their second five-game winning streak, facing three upcoming opponents below .500, suggesting his MVP odds (+225) could further improve, especially with Jalen Williams' anticipated return.

Daniel Gafford Out Monday with Ankle Injury; Recent Trade History Detailed

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Daniel Gafford is out for Monday's game against the Timberwolves due to an ankle injury. Gafford recently completed a breakout season, finishing as the 38th-ranked player in standard leagues with averages of 11.0 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 3.0 combined steals and blocks. A midseason trade to Dallas saw his minutes fluctuate, and he carved out a role as a starter, though often playing fewer minutes than Dereck Lively, who is considered the Mavericks' center of the future. Earlier in his career, Gafford produced a respectable season for the Wizards, averaging 9.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks, shooting 73.2% from the field. He was traded to Washington from Chicago, where he averaged 10.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks in 17.7 minutes after the trade deadline. His career averages as a starter are 9.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game. In his rookie 2019-20 campaign with the Bulls, he averaged 5.1 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks across 14.2 minutes. In college at Arkansas, he averaged 16.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks in his final season, earning First Team All-SEC honors.

Dereck Lively Sidelined for Monday's Game Due to Knee Precaution; Mavericks to Rely on Bench

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Dallas Mavericks center Dereck Lively II will miss Monday's game against the Timberwolves due to a knee injury, a precautionary measure despite playing only 12 minutes on Sunday. This absence, coupled with Daniel Gafford's ankle injury, means the Mavericks will lean heavily on Moussa Cisse and Dwight Powell. Lively, a 21-year-old center, signed a two-year, $9.79 million contract in July 2023, with team options exercised for 2025-26 ($5.25M) and 2026-27 ($7.24M). In 2025, he's averaging 4.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.6 steals, and 1.4 blocks. A former five-star recruit and Duke standout, Lively was named to the ACC All-Freshman and All-Defensive Teams, showcasing his potential as an easy lob target, defensive anchor, and willing passer.

Ace Bailey Shines as Utah Jazz's Emerging Primary Scorer in Starting Lineup

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Rookie Ace Bailey has quickly made an impact for the Utah Jazz, moving into the starting lineup last week and significantly elevating his game. Considered one of the most talented players from the 2025 NBA draft, Bailey has already demonstrated 20 PPG potential, with the Jazz beginning to feature him as a primary scorer. His continued development is expected to make him a true fantasy hoops impact player as the season progresses.

Naji Marshall Steps Up for Mavericks with Increased Role Amidst Injuries

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Naji Marshall, a small forward/power forward for the Dallas Mavericks, has seen an increased role recently due to Anthony Davis's absence. He consistently produces solid numbers, often delivering 28-30 point explosions. When playing around 30 minutes, Marshall averages close to 20 points, over six rebounds, nearly two three-pointers, and more than one steal per game, making him a valuable contributor.

Joel Embiid's Presence Significantly Alters 76ers' Offensive Dynamics and Teammate Production

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Joel Embiid, the 2022-23 NBA MVP, has played only six of the 76ers' 12 games this season, operating under a minutes restriction. While the team remains competitive without him, his presence dramatically shifts offensive dynamics. When Embiid plays, he averages 22.8 PPG, 5.4 RPG, and 3.6 APG in 24.0 MPG, with Tyrese Maxey thriving as the primary option (33.8 PPG, 8.5 APG). Rookie VJ Edgecombe and Kelly Oubre Jr. also see strong numbers. Conversely, when Embiid sits, Maxey's efficiency dips, and Andre Drummond steps up as a strong double-double threat (14.0 PPG, 12.3 RPG) as the starting center, while Quentin Grimes' production improves. Embiid's impact on defensive focus makes life easier for perimeter players, influencing fantasy strategies for Maxey, Edgecombe, Drummond, Oubre, and Grimes, especially with Paul George's impending return.

Kawhi Leonard Out Monday with Ankle Injury, Continues Battle with Health Concerns

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Kawhi Leonard is out for Monday's game against the 76ers due to an ankle injury. This adds to his extensive injury history, which includes missing the entire 2021-22 season with an ACL tear and being limited to 52 games in 2022-23 due to load management and a torn meniscus. Despite playing 68 regular-season games last year—his most since 2016-17—and consistently producing All-Star numbers (23.5+ points, 6.0+ rebounds, 3.0+ assists), his status for the start of 2024-25 was questionable after offseason surgery. With Paul George now in Philadelphia, Leonard and James Harden will lead the Clippers, but his fantasy value remains limited by his lack of games played, making him a significant risk/reward proposition.

Lauri Markkanen's Trade Value Debated: Is He Worth Five First-Round Picks?

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NBA analysts Kevin O’Connor and Es Baraheni engaged in a discussion regarding Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen, specifically debating if he is worth five first-round picks. This topic was highlighted as an early-season overreaction during their podcast, indicating a significant point of analysis concerning Markkanen's perceived value and potential market demand.

Trae Young's Impact on Hawks Questioned: Are They Better Without Him?

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NBA analysts Kevin O’Connor and Es Baraheni discussed the Atlanta Hawks' performance, specifically debating whether the team is better without star guard Trae Young. This question was posed as an early-season overreaction, indicating a significant point of contention and analysis surrounding Young's role and the team's dynamics. The discussion included a visual reference of Young dribbling against the Toronto Raptors.

Reed Sheppard Thrives in Expanded Rockets Role, Becomes Elite Shooter

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Reed Sheppard, of the Houston Rockets, has stepped into a significantly larger role this season due to Fred VanVleet's injury, after playing sparingly as a rookie. Despite initial defensive struggles, Sheppard's confidence has led to high-clip shooting, providing a much-needed outside threat. He's shooting 53.2% from three-point range in November and an impressive 59.5% on wide-open threes for the season, leading all sophomores in both 3-pointers made (33) and 3-point percentage (47.8%).

Miles McBride Cleared to Play Monday Against Heat Amidst Knicks' Injury Concerns

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Miles McBride has been cleared to play in Monday's game against the Miami Heat, as reported by Steve Popper of Newsday. Previously listed as questionable, McBride participated in the morning shootaround and has the green light to play. This availability is particularly crucial for the New York Knicks, as both Jalen Brunson (ankle) and OG Anunoby (hamstring) are sidelined, indicating McBride is likely to see significant playing time. McBride, a 25-year-old guard, signed a three-year, $13 million contract extension in December 2023. His career includes playing college basketball at West Virginia University, where he earned Big 12 All-Freshman Team and Second Team All-Big 12 honors. He was drafted 36th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Thunder and subsequently traded to the Knicks.

Derik Queen Exceeds Expectations as Rookie Amidst Pelicans' Front Office Turmoil

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Despite the New Orleans Pelicans' significant front office issues and a historically poor start to their season, rookie Derik Queen is proving to be a bright spot, performing well beyond the expectations tied to his draft position. The trade that brought Queen to New Orleans, involving unprotected future first-round picks and a high draft selection, has been heavily criticized, with potential disaster scenarios looming. However, evaluating Queen as a player reveals impressive skills for a rookie. He has shown advanced balance, craft, and comfort shooting at odd angles, utilizing a remarkable spin move. His vision and passing instincts are uncommonly good for a big man, allowing him to effectively find open teammates. Queen's usage rate is high among rookies, and he is outperforming other top rookies on a per-possession basis. While his lack of elite athleticism and developing jumper are areas for growth, and he is likely to remain a defensive minus, his on-ball skills and playmaking suggest potential as a long-term NBA starter. The evaluation of Queen the player is separate from the controversial trade that acquired him, and he has been one of the more impressive rookies in a strong class.

Keegan Murray Assigned to G League for Thumb Injury Recovery

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Keegan Murray has been assigned to the G League's Stockton Kings as he continues to recover from a thumb injury. Murray underwent surgery in October to address a torn UCL in his left thumb and has been sidelined for the entire season. His assignment to the G League suggests he will participate in practices, indicating a potential return to play in the near future. While no official return date has been set, Murray may require only a few practice sessions to be deemed ready. Upon his return, it is anticipated that he will reclaim his spot in the Sacramento Kings' starting lineup, likely replacing Keon Ellis. Murray, who signed a five-year, $140 million contract extension in October 2025, had a notable college career at Iowa, earning Consensus First Team All-American honors and winning the Karl Malone Award before being drafted fourth overall by the Kings in 2022. His pre-career stats show promise, and his development is a key focus for the Kings.