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Thursday, November 13, 2025

Jalen Duren Questionable for Friday's Game Against 76ers with Ankle Injury

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Jalen Duren (ankle) is listed as questionable for the Pistons' Friday matchup against the 76ers, potentially missing his second straight contest. The questionable tag indicates he is day-to-day, and fantasy managers are eagerly awaiting his return given his strong performance this season. An update is anticipated after Friday morning's shootaround. Detroit's Cade Cunningham (hip) is also questionable, putting both stars' availability in doubt. The 21-year-old center has averaged 19.4 points, 12.0 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 1.1 steals, and 1.2 blocks in 2025. Duren, a former 13th overall pick, signed a two-year, $8.45 million contract in July 2022, with team options exercised through the 2025-26 season.

Cade Cunningham Questionable for Friday, Poised for Year 4 Breakout After Strong Growth

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Cade Cunningham is listed as questionable for Friday's game against the 76ers due to a hip issue. The 2021 No. 1 overall pick showed significant growth in his third year, averaging career highs of 22.7 points and 7.5 assists per game with improved shooting splits (44.9/35.5/86.9). This marked a strong bounce-back after missing most of the 2022-23 season with a shin injury and being shut down in April 2023-24 due to left knee tendinopathy, though he scored 32+ points in three consecutive games before the shutdown. Despite his individual performance, he hasn't cracked the top 50 in fantasy leagues. The Detroit Pistons have bolstered their roster with Ron Holland, Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Tim Hardaway, aiming to provide better spacing and support for Cunningham, who remains the offensive focal point. As a rookie, he earned All-Rookie First Team honors, averaging 21.1 points, 6.5 assists, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.1 steals over his last 20 games. His collegiate stats (20.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.6 steals, 0.8 blocks, 40% from three) suggest further growth potential.

Klay Thompson Slams Ex-NBA Player's 'Disgusting' Comments About Girlfriend Megan Thee Stallion

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Dallas Mavericks star Klay Thompson publicly condemned former NBA champion Jason Williams for using a derogatory term to refer to his girlfriend, rapper Megan Thee Stallion, on the 'Hoopin' N Hollerin'' podcast. Williams, along with co-hosts Patrick Beverley and Rone, discussed Thompson's recent shooting struggles, suggesting his relationship with Megan Thee Stallion, which became public this offseason, might be a factor. Thompson, 35 and in his 13th NBA season after missing two years due to ACL and Achilles tears, is currently experiencing career-low statistics, averaging 8.5 points per game on 32% shooting after 11 games. Thompson expressed his disappointment in the comments section of the podcast's Instagram post, stating, 'Referring to my GF as a 'p—' is so disgusting and disturbing. Especially from someone who played in the NBA. How would yall feel if I referred to your wives in such a way? ...Do better fellas. Very disappointing.'

Mark Williams Sits Out Thursday's Game for Rest After Back-to-Back Performance

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Mark Williams, the 23-year-old center for the Phoenix Suns, will miss Thursday's game against the Pacers due to rest. This decision comes as Thursday marks the second leg of a back-to-back set, providing Williams with a maintenance night. On Wednesday against Dallas, Williams contributed 10 points (5-6 FG), four rebounds, two assists, two blocks, and two steals in 26 minutes. His 2025 season stats include 11.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.0 blocks. Williams, who was traded to the Suns in June 2025, originally signed with the Hornets in July 2022 and had his team options exercised through 2025-26. His absence could lead to increased involvement for players like Nick Richards, Oso Ighodaro, and Khaman Maluach.

Paolo Banchero Diagnosed with Groin Strain, Out for Friday's Game and Day-to-Day

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Orlando Magic star forward Paolo Banchero has been diagnosed with a left groin strain and will miss at least one game, starting with Friday's matchup against the Brooklyn Nets. Banchero suffered the injury during the first half of Wednesday night's win over the New York Knicks, with an MRI on Thursday confirming the strain. He is considered day-to-day and will continue to be evaluated, with his return depending on his response to treatment. Fantasy managers should consider him questionable for Sunday's game against the Rockets. This season, the 23-year-old forward is averaging 21.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.9 blocks. His absence is expected to increase usage for Franz Wagner, and the Magic may lean more on Tristan da Silva and Jonathan Isaac. Banchero signed a five-year maximum rookie extension in July 2025.

Dereck Lively Questionable for Friday's Game, Return Appears Imminent

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Dereck Lively (knee) is listed as questionable for the Dallas Mavericks' Friday game against the Clippers, according to Christian Clark of The Athletic. Lively has been sidelined for the past nine games, but his questionable status for the second consecutive time suggests that his return to the court is on the horizon. If Lively remains out, Moussa Cisse is expected to continue playing a significant role behind Daniel Gafford at the center position, especially given the uncertain status of Anthony Davis (calf).

P.J. Washington Listed as Questionable for Friday's Clippers Matchup

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P.J. Washington (shoulder) will be listed as questionable for the Dallas Mavericks' Friday game against the Clippers, as reported by Christian Clark of The Athletic. This designation makes his availability for the upcoming contest uncertain, impacting the team's frontcourt rotation.

Anthony Davis Questionable for Friday's Game Against the Clippers

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Anthony Davis (calf) is listed as questionable for Friday's game against the Clippers, according to Christian Clark of The Athletic. His status will be a significant factor for the Dallas Mavericks as they prepare for the matchup.

Bam Adebayo Listed Out for Friday's Game; Reflects on Consistent All-Around Production

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Bam Adebayo is listed out for Friday's game against the Knicks due to a toe injury. The three-time All-Star recently signed a three-year extension, securing his contract with the Miami Heat until 2028-29. In the 2023-24 season, Adebayo averaged 19.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.9 blocks across 71 games, earning All-Defensive First Team honors. Known for his consistent all-around production and strong defense, he has steadily improved his points, shots, and steals per game for five consecutive seasons. Adebayo's role as the Heat's primary big man is secure, with expectations for continued high usage and potential increases in rebounding and shot-blocking. He remains a reliable fantasy option, having ranked 21st in total fantasy points last year.

Nikola Jokić Delivers Historic 55-Point Performance, Cementing Best Season Ever

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Nikola Jokić is experiencing a season unlike any other, highlighted by a career-best 55-point outburst against the LA Clippers. Despite a defensive strategy aimed at limiting his passing, Jokić torched the Clippers on 18-of-23 shooting, including 5-of-6 from three-point range, adding 12 rebounds, 6 assists, 1 steal, and 1 block in just 34 minutes. This performance, rated as the best individual game of the season by Game Score, underscores his unprecedented efficiency, with his 78.3% field goal percentage on two-point shots and 77.3% true shooting percentage on pace to shatter all-time records. Jokić is leading the league in assists and points created by assists, and his overall statistical dominance includes leading the NBA in rebounding and assists per game, a feat never before achieved in a full season. His advanced metrics are also on track for new records, and he's nearing the accomplishment of averaging a triple-double for multiple seasons. The Denver Nuggets' offense ranks No. 1 in the NBA with Jokić on the floor, scoring an exceptional 131.3 points per 100 possessions, largely due to his ability to create open looks for teammates by drawing double teams. Coach David Adelman noted that Jokić's touches, time of possession, and usage rate are down, with a strategic shift to stationing him higher on the court to open up the paint, leading to increased scoring efficiency for the team on cuts. Bruce Brown and teammates acknowledge Jokić's current form as 'impossible to guard,' solidifying his status as the best player in the world.

Cooper Flagg Shows Star Potential Amidst Mavericks' Roster Challenges

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Cooper Flagg is beginning to perform at the level many expected, despite an awkward fit on the "clunky" Dallas Mavericks roster, which lacks creators and healthy point guards, hindering his full potential. At just 18, Flagg has already made history, becoming only the second player in NBA history, alongside LeBron James, to record multiple games with at least 15 points, five rebounds, and five assists before turning 19. His offensive game is difficult to fairly assess as he's been played out of position at point guard, a role he's unfamiliar with. Flagg excels when catching the ball on the move, utilizing his athleticism to finish at the rim or break down defenders, a trend seen in recent games, though poor spacing still limits him. Defensively, he's been as advertised, demonstrating excellent footwork, engagement, and shot-altering abilities. With the recent dismissal of Nico Harrison, there's hope for roster reconstruction to better position Flagg for a Rookie of the Year-caliber season.

Cedric Coward's Elite Efficiency Leads Grizzlies, Cooper Flagg Shows Rising Impact for Mavericks

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Rookie Cedric Coward is making a significant impact for the Memphis Grizzlies, becoming their best player through 10 games and demonstrating league-winning fantasy potential. Coward is the only rookie in NBA history to average 50/40/90 shooting splits for more than 10 games, showcasing balanced scoring, rebounding, and efficiency. Meanwhile, Cooper Flagg's preseason hype is proving justified for the Dallas Mavericks, as his usage rate continues to climb. He is contributing across scoring, rebounding, assists, and defensive stocks, with his efficiency expected to improve, pushing him towards top-60 fantasy value. The Mavericks are leaning on Flagg for secondary playmaking and perimeter defense. Other rookies making waves include VJ Edgecombe, whose explosive athleticism and scoring have been valuable for the 76ers, and Kon Knueppel, who is leading rookies in points per game and three-pointers made for the Charlotte Hornets, with his numbers rising in LaMelo Ball's absence. Derik Queen is also showing promise for the Pelicans, and players like Ace Bailey, Jeremiah Fears, and Nique Clifford are on the rise in their respective teams.

Austin Reaves Elevates Lakers, Earning All-Breakout First Team Honors

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Austin Reaves has been named to the All-Breakout First Team for his exceptional performance this season, stepping up significantly for the Los Angeles Lakers. With LeBron James sidelined, Reaves has averaged 28.3 points, 8.3 assists, and 5.1 rebounds, decisively becoming the Lakers' second-best player. His scoring average has jumped considerably, complemented by remarkable efficiency, boasting a 64.2% true shooting percentage. At 27, Reaves is hitting his prime, and his performance makes him a priority for the Lakers in the upcoming offseason when he is set to opt out of his contract. Other notable breakout players include Jalen Duren (Detroit Pistons), Deni Avdija (Portland Trail Blazers), and Jaime Jaquez Jr. (Miami Heat) on the First Team, and Alexandre Sarr (Washington Wizards), Trendon Watford (Philadelphia 76ers), Matas Buzelis (Chicago Bulls), Ajay Mitchell (Oklahoma City Thunder), and Reed Sheppard (Houston Rockets) on the Second Team. Stephon Castle (San Antonio Spurs) also made the First Team despite being last year's Rookie of the Year, due to his significant overall improvement beyond shooting.

Dominick Barlow Returns for Sixers Against Pistons After Elbow Laceration

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Dominick Barlow is "ready to go" and will be available to return for the Philadelphia 76ers in Friday's game against the Pistons. Barlow has been sidelined since October 25 due to a right elbow laceration, which head coach Nick Nurse previously described as problematic due to its location on the bend of the elbow. The 22-year-old started the Sixers' first two games at power forward and had an excellent opening night performance against the Celtics, recording 13 points, eight rebounds, and five assists. His return comes as the Sixers continue to manage other injuries, with Joel Embiid (right knee soreness) and Paul George (left knee injury recovery) both listed as out for the Detroit matchup. George practiced Thursday and is in the final stage of strengthening his left quadricep, with re-evaluation expected later this week.

Bradley Beal Sidelined for the Season, Impacting Clippers' Outlook

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Los Angeles Clippers guard Bradley Beal has been confirmed out for the entire season due to injury. This significant development is expected to have a considerable impact on the Clippers' performance and strategic planning. The news emerged during a discussion about Nikola Jokic's dominant 55-point game, highlighting the broader implications of player injuries on team dynamics and overall season trajectories for Los Angeles.

Zion Williamson Cleared for Contact Practice After Hamstring Strain

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New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson has received clearance to resume on-court basketball activities, including contact drills, following a grade 1 left hamstring strain. Williamson has been sidelined for the past five games since his diagnosis on November 4. His return is highly anticipated as the Pelicans currently hold a 2-9 record, having lost three straight games in his absence. This season, Williamson has been a key contributor, averaging 22.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 2.0 steals.

Lonzo Ball Out Thursday for Injury Management, Nearing Return After Three-Year Absence

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Lonzo Ball will not play Thursday against the Raptors as he continues injury management, though he appears on the cusp of returning to the NBA after nearly three years sidelined by ongoing knee issues, last playing in January 2022. His team is expected to manage his minutes cautiously, likely avoiding back-to-back games and limiting his playing time to the low teens. Historically, Ball was an elite on-ball defender and primary floor general, with his 2020-21 season being a career-best, averaging 14.6 points, 5.7 assists, 4.8 rebounds, 2.1 combined steals-plus-blocks, 55.1% true shooting, and 3.1 triples per game. He previously signed a four-year, $85 million deal.

Evan Mobley Cleared to Play Thursday, Cavaliers' Future Outlook Discussed

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Evan Mobley is set to play Thursday against the Raptors after being listed with a rest designation. The No. 3 overall pick in 2021 has shown consistent statistical production, averaging 15.0 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.7 blocks, and 0.8 steals as a rookie, with slight improvements in his second season. Despite not making a significant statistical leap, Mobley earned First Team All-Defensive honors in 2022-23 and was voted to First Team All-Rookie. The Cavaliers have invested in his future with a five-year, $224 million extension. While playing alongside Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, and Jarrett Allen limits his potential as a primary offensive star, Mobley is considered a premier defender with room for offensive growth, particularly in his mid-range game and three-point shooting. His fantasy value is projected in the middle rounds, with potential to crack the top 35 if his offensive game develops. The Cavaliers' frontcourt situation, including the presence of Jarrett Allen and potentially Lauri Markkanen and Kevin Love, will influence his role and statistical output.

Paul George Out Friday; Career Injury History and 76ers' Role Analyzed

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Paul George has been ruled out for Friday's game against Detroit due to a knee injury. After signing a four-year max contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, George's career has been marked by All-Star caliber production (averaging 23.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.5 steals) but also significant injury concerns, playing in only 263 games over five seasons with the Clippers and missing substantial time due to knee and elbow issues. Despite his statistical prowess when healthy, his durability has led to a slip in fantasy draft rankings. In Philadelphia, he is expected to be the third option behind Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey, but his opportunities may increase due to the team's weak bench and Embiid's injury history. Fantasy managers are advised to consider his age (33) and injury risk when drafting, with projections placing him in the third or fourth round. His well-rounded skill set is alluring, but his recent injury history, including a strained right knee last season that sidelined him for the fantasy playoffs and Clippers' postseason exit, must be factored in.

Kawhi Leonard Dealing with Foot and Ankle Sprains

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Kawhi Leonard is currently recovering from both a right foot sprain and a sprained right ankle. Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank confirmed Wednesday that the foot sprain was sustained in addition to the ankle injury, which occurred during a Nov. 3 loss to the Heat. Frank explained that the ankle sprain triggered a mechanism in Leonard's foot, resulting in the additional significant sprain. This dual injury update provides a clearer picture of Leonard's recovery process.