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.

Sunday, November 16, 2025

Jalen Brunson Ruled Out for Monday's Game; Knicks Star Continues Evolution

AutoDraft Pro AI

New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson has been ruled out for Monday's game against the Heat due to an ankle injury. Brunson, who fractured his hand during the playoffs last season and underwent surgery, was expected to be fully available for training camp. He had a career-best 2023-24 season, averaging 28.7 points and leading the Knicks to the No. 2 seed. His fantasy value for 2024-25 is projected to shift due to the expected full health of OG Anunoby and recent trades bringing Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns to the Knicks, though he remains the team's heart and soul. Brunson has consistently been a top-50 fantasy player, establishing himself as a premier guard and primary playmaker since joining the Knicks in 2022-23, where he averaged 24.0 points, 6.2 assists, and 0.9 steals. His earlier career with the Mavericks saw him excel in an expanded role, notably stepping up during Luka Doncic's playoff absence with 32.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists across three games against the Jazz.

Miles McBride Questionable for Monday's Game Amid Knicks' Backcourt Shortage

AutoDraft Pro AI

Miles McBride is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Heat due to a personal matter, with an estimated return of November 17, 2025. This status is critical for the New York Knicks, as Jalen Brunson (ankle) remains out, leaving the backcourt shorthanded. McBride, a 25-year-old guard, started in Friday's win over the Heat, contributing nine points (4-10 FG, 1-6 3Pt, 0-1 FT), four assists, and three rebounds in 30 minutes. For the 2025 season, he is averaging 8.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.1 blocks. If McBride cannot play, the Knicks are expected to rely heavily on Landry Shamet and Jordan Clarkson. McBride signed a three-year, $13 million extension with the Knicks in December 2023.

Kelly Oubre Sidelined with Knee Injury; Role Shifts with Paul George's Arrival

AutoDraft Pro AI

Kelly Oubre (knee) will miss at least one game and is slated for re-evaluation over the weekend. Last season, Oubre was 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 he may start in 2024-25, the addition of Paul George to the Philadelphia 76ers' lineup is expected to shift Oubre down the offensive pecking order, placing him behind George, Joel Embiid, and Tyrese Maxey. His fantasy value might be higher as a primary offensive option off the bench. Oubre's role could see a short-term bump if key players like Embiid miss time due to injury, but his usage in Philadelphia will be significantly different from his time on non-contending teams where he averaged a career-high 20.3 points.

Tyler Herro Returns to Practice, Eyes Elevated Offensive Role for Heat

AutoDraft Pro AI

Tyler Herro (ankle) participated in Sunday's practice, a positive sign after his 2023-24 season was limited to just 42 games due to injuries. When healthy, Herro maintained his productive output, averaging 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 0.7 steals, and 3.1 three-pointers, securing top-90 fantasy value. Entering his fifth NBA season, Herro's role is expected to mirror his past contributions, and with Jimmy Butler and Kyle Lowry aging, he may shoulder increased offensive responsibility for the Miami Heat. He previously earned the 2021-22 Sixth Man of the Year award, reaching career highs with 20.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists. Despite his injury history, Herro is considered a worthwhile target after pick 70 in fantasy drafts, offering potential top-50 upside, especially given his high-usage offensive role and ability to step up when other stars are sidelined.

Russell Westbrook Climbs All-Time Scoring List as Kings Endure Sixth Straight Loss

AutoDraft Pro AI

Sacramento Kings star guard Russell Westbrook achieved a significant career milestone on Sunday, surpassing Naismith Basketball Hall of Famers John Havlicek (26,395 points) and Paul Pierce (26,397 points) on the NBA's all-time scoring list. The 37-year-old, now with 26,406 career points after a 14-point performance against the San Antonio Spurs, is just 90 points shy of Tim Duncan for 17th all-time. However, Westbrook's historic achievement was overshadowed by the Kings' ongoing struggles, as they suffered their sixth consecutive defeat, a 123-110 loss to the Spurs. The Kings, now 3-11, never held a lead in the game and allowed San Antonio to shoot over 50 percent from the field.

Pacers' Aaron Nesmith to Miss At Least a Month with Sprained Knee, Avoids Structural Damage

AutoDraft Pro AI

Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith is expected to miss at least a month, likely four weeks, due to a sprained knee, though fortunately, he avoided any structural damage. The injury occurred when Nesmith's knee buckled awkwardly after he stepped on teammate Jeremiah Robinson-Earl's foot while sliding defensively. Pacers coach Rick Carlisle confirmed the "very good news," noting Nesmith is not in a brace and is walking. Nesmith played a critical role in the Pacers' run to the NBA Finals last season and began this season with a much larger role due to Tyrese Haliburton's absence. He has been averaging a career-high 15.5 points per game but has struggled with efficiency, shooting just 36.7% from the field and 37.3% from three-point range, as he has become a focal point for opposing defenses.

Jalen Suggs Sidelined for Sunday's Game Against Rockets Due to Groin Injury

AutoDraft Pro AI

Jalen Suggs of the Orlando Magic has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Rockets due to a groin injury. This setback comes as Suggs was expected to build on his best season to date, where he played 75 games and developed a consistent offensive game, averaging 12.6 points, 3.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.4 steals. He was anticipated to open the 2024-25 season as the starting point guard alongside Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, aiming to establish himself as an elite defensive player for a team with playoff aspirations.

OG Anunoby Sidelined Two Weeks with Hamstring Strain, Impacting Knicks' Defense

AutoDraft Pro AI

New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby suffered a left hamstring strain during Friday's 140-132 NBA Cup win over the Miami Heat, pulling up lame after a missed layup and immediately grabbing his hamstring. He will be out at least two weeks for re-evaluation and will not travel with the team on their upcoming five-game road trip. Anunoby, 28, is a critical defensive anchor; the Knicks outscore opponents by 127 points with him on court and boast a 106.7 defensive rating, which would be the NBA's second-best. Without him, their defensive rating drops significantly to 123.7. Acquired from the Toronto Raptors, he forms a key wing defender duo with Mikal Bridges. In the game he was injured, he played 5 minutes, scoring 2 points and grabbing 3 rebounds. Through 12 games, he averages 15.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 31.1 minutes. Landry Shamet, Josh Hart, and Jordan Clarkson are expected to see increased roles, with Mikal Bridges also needing to step up defensively.

Kevon Looney Joins Pelicans, Leaves Lasting Impression as Mentor to Trayce Jackson-Davis

AutoDraft Pro AI

Kevon Looney, in his first game as an opponent against the Golden State Warriors, will play for the New Orleans Pelicans after signing a two-year, $16 million contract this summer. The Warriors did not match the offer, thanking him for his decade of service. Looney left a profound and lifelong impression on former teammate Trayce Jackson-Davis, who described him as a mentor and a "true professional." Looney's immediate text to Jackson-Davis after the draft offered support, setting the tone for their relationship. Jackson-Davis learned extensively from Looney's consistent work ethic, adaptability to role changes, rebounding, screen-setting, defensive skills, and locker room leadership. Looney is characterized as a "really, really, really good dude" who is genuine and supportive both on and off the court. He anticipates an emotional reunion with his former team but expects a professional and competitive game.

Trayce Jackson-Davis Reflects on Kevon Looney's Profound Mentorship and Professional Example

AutoDraft Pro AI

Trayce Jackson-Davis credits former Golden State Warriors center Kevon Looney for leaving a lifelong impression and serving as a crucial mentor since Jackson-Davis was drafted. Looney's initial text offering support made Jackson-Davis feel comfortable and in good hands. Jackson-Davis observed Looney's professionalism daily, learning from his approach to fluctuating roles, rebounding, screen-setting, offensive understanding, post-defense, film study, and leadership. He describes Looney as a "true professional" and a "really, really, really good dude" who is genuine and always supportive. While Jackson-Davis misses Looney, he looks forward to their reunion on the court, acknowledging the competitive nature of the game despite their friendship. The two, who spent two years as teammates, recently exchanged texts about a college football game.

Saturday, November 15, 2025

Baylor Scheierman Finds Three-Point Stroke, Awaits Expanded Role with Celtics

AutoDraft Pro AI

Baylor Scheierman has shown promising three-point shooting for the Boston Celtics, converting 53.8% of his attempts this season after a challenging preseason. Despite his efficiency, he has seen limited playing time, as the team prioritizes the energy and grit of younger wings. In his 81 minutes, the Celtics have posted a positive net rating of +10.8, indicating his positive impact. Scheierman needs to remain prepared for his opportunities and continue to develop ways to contribute beyond just his shot-making to secure a more consistent role.

Chris Boucher Struggles to Find Regular Season Role Despite Preseason Usage

AutoDraft Pro AI

Chris Boucher, who saw significant minutes and even started in some preseason games for the Boston Celtics, has surprisingly played sparingly in the regular season. His 76 minutes on the court have coincided with the team's worst defensive rebound percentage (57.1%) and a significant drop in total rebound rate (43.8%). Offensively, Boucher has struggled, missing 10 of his 11 three-point attempts. While he is expected to receive more opportunities, the Celtics have initially leaned towards smaller lineups, impacting his playing time despite his veteran status.

Xavier Tillman's Limited Minutes Raise Questions Amidst Celtics Frontcourt Overhaul

AutoDraft Pro AI

Xavier Tillman has played a team-low 61 minutes this season for the Boston Celtics, with his playing time heavily reliant on specific matchups and failing to reach double figures in November. Despite a strong season debut against Joel Embiid, Tillman has been used sparingly, a surprising development given the Celtics' frontcourt changes. His long-standing rebounding issues, coupled with his size, appear to be a factor limiting his opportunities, as coach Joe Mazzulla has not consistently utilized his defensive versatility, opting for smaller lineups instead.

Anfernee Simons Excels in Catch-and-Shoot, Celtics Seek to Maximize Offensive Impact

AutoDraft Pro AI

Anfernee Simons has demonstrated impressive shooting prowess for the Boston Celtics, particularly on catch-and-shoot three-pointers, converting 47.3% of his 4.2 attempts per game. While his ability to create his own shot is valuable, the Celtics aim to maximize his catch-and-shoot opportunities by having others facilitate for him, as his pull-up three-point percentage stands at 30.8%. Simons has been a consistent scorer, reaching double figures in 10 of 13 games, and has improved his assist percentage while reducing turnovers post-preseason, proving to be a vital, albeit sometimes ball-dominant, asset for the bench unit.

Sam Hauser's Shot Struggles and Reduced Role Amidst Celtics' Rebounding Woes

AutoDraft Pro AI

Sam Hauser, initially a starter for the Boston Celtics, has seen his role diminish due to the team's rebounding issues and a significant drop in his shooting efficiency. Averaging just 96.7 points per 100 shot attempts this season, a stark decline from his 128.2 average over the past three years, Hauser has struggled with his shot, particularly in November, hitting one or fewer three-pointers in six consecutive games. A wrist sprain may be contributing to his exasperation, as the Celtics seek alternatives to address their frontcourt challenges, hoping he can rediscover his shooting touch.

Lakers Rookie Adou Thiero Celebrates First NBA Points After Debut, Game Ball Secured

AutoDraft Pro AI

Los Angeles Lakers rookie Adou Thiero made his NBA debut Saturday, scoring his first four NBA points, including a memorable dunk, in a 119-95 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. Thiero, who missed the season's first 13 games recovering from an April surgical procedure on his left knee, was the focus of a postgame effort to secure his first game ball. After a referee initially confiscated it, Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo intervened, ensuring the ball was presented to Thiero by Luka Doncic in the locker room. Thiero, selected 36th overall after the Lakers traded up, expressed deep gratitude for his team's support, highlighting their strong connection.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Shows Class, Secures Game Ball for Lakers Rookie Adou Thiero

AutoDraft Pro AI

Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo demonstrated significant sportsmanship by intervening in a postgame dispute to ensure Los Angeles Lakers rookie Adou Thiero received his first NBA game ball. After Thiero scored his initial NBA points, a referee confiscated the ball from Lakers forward Jarred Vanderbilt. Noticing the commotion, Antetokounmpo took the ball from a Bucks team attendant and personally handed it to Lakers star Luka Doncic, who then presented it to Thiero in the locker room. This act was praised by Lakers guard Austin Reaves as showing "a lot of class" and marked a notable display of growth for Antetokounmpo, contrasting with a more contentious incident involving a game ball nearly two years prior.

Austin Reaves' 25 Points, Clutch Plays Secure Lakers' Road Trip Win

AutoDraft Pro AI

Austin Reaves played a crucial role in the Los Angeles Lakers' 119-95 win against the Milwaukee Bucks, contributing 25 points, eight assists, and six rebounds. Reaves, along with Luka Doncic and Deandre Ayton, combined for 86 points, helping the Lakers establish a commanding 31-point first-half lead. When the Bucks cut the Lakers' lead to 13 in the fourth quarter, Reaves stepped up, drilling crucial three-pointers and making free throws to ensure the Lakers secured the victory and concluded their five-game road trip with a 3-2 record.

Deandre Ayton Delivers Double-Double, Dominates Second Quarter for Lakers

AutoDraft Pro AI

Deandre Ayton was a key contributor for the Los Angeles Lakers in their 119-95 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks, finishing the game with a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds. Ayton, alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, combined for 86 points to help the Lakers secure the win and finish their five-game road trip with a 3-2 record. He was particularly impactful in the second quarter, where he scored 14 points on six-for-nine shooting and grabbed four rebounds, contributing significantly to the Lakers' 35-16 run that built a 63-34 halftime lead.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Delivers Another Dominant Performance for Western Conference-Leading Thunder

AutoDraft Pro AI

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recently poured in 33 points (13-19 FG, 3-4 3Pt, 4-5 FT), along with seven assists, four rebounds, and two steals in just 29 minutes during a 109-96 win over the Hornets. As the driving force behind the Oklahoma City Thunder, he led them to the best record in the Western Conference (57-25) in 2023-24 and finished as the MVP runner-up, after placing fifth the previous season. Gilgeous-Alexander achieved career highs in assists (6.2), steals (2.0), and field-goal percentage (53.5%) in 2023-24, also leading the league in total steals (150) and made free throws (567). He has been a top-four fantasy player for two consecutive years. Despite the Thunder's Western Conference Finals loss to Dallas, the team is on an upward trajectory, having traded Josh Giddey for Alex Caruso and added Isaiah Hartenstein. SGA's breakout 2022-23 season earned him an All-NBA First Team selection, averaging 31.4 points, 5.5 assists, and 4.8 rebounds, focusing on efficient paint scoring and drawing a career-high 10.9 free-throw attempts per game. Drafted 11th overall in 2018, the 6-foot-6 guard has developed into an elite two-way player, consistently being the Thunder's unquestioned No. 1 option.