As we wrap up another thrilling week in the NBA, it’s time to reflect on the standout performances and crucial player updates that could impact your fantasy basketball strategy. With six games on the slate this past Sunday, there was no shortage of action and intrigue.
Player Updates and Injury News
One of the most significant updates this week involves Ja Morant, who has been upgraded to questionable. The Memphis Grizzlies have a consistent pattern of moving players from doubtful to questionable before they return to play, so Morant’s return seems imminent. Marcus Smart is also off the injury report, ready to make his comeback. However, the Grizzlies are still without Vince Williams Jr., who is sidelined for weeks, and Zach Edey.
In New Orleans, the return of key players is on the horizon. While Herb Jones remains out, Jordan Hawkins is back, and CJ McCollum is expected to play soon. Dejounte Murray has been upgraded to doubtful, indicating he might return later this week. These returns will undoubtedly shake up the rotations and fantasy implications for players like BJ Boston and ElfridPayton.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have been idle since Wednesday, and Alex Caruso, who aggravated a hip injury, is out again. This extended absence is concerning for fantasy managers holding Caruso. Meanwhile, Ousmane Dieng’s fractured finger will keep him out for three to four weeks, opening up reserve minutes for Dillon Jones until Jaylin Williams returns.
Portland and Other Key Updates
Portland’s Donovan Clingan, who returned to a game with a knee issue, is now out with a knee sprain. The specifics of the injury remain unclear although we believe it is not super long-term, but Deandre Ayton is doubtful, which means Robert Williams III is a must-add in all leagues. Williams is expected to see significant minutes, and Jabari Walker might also get some playing time.
Karl-Anthony Towns has popped up with a questionable tag, and with no other centres, Ariel Hukporti could be a player to watch if Towns sits out. The Timberwolves’ decision to start Donte DiVincenzo over Nickeil Alexander-Walker in Mike Conley’s absence was intriguing, though DiVincenzo’s performance was as expected.
Naz Reid’s recent struggles continue, and while some may view him as a potential saviour, his current form suggests otherwise. Anthony Edwards, on the other hand, has been logging heavy minutes and delivering solid performances, though not quite at the top 10 level some fantasy managers hoped for.
For more insights and a deeper dive into NBA fantasy basketball, tune into the Locked On Fantasy Basketball podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast:
- The impact of CJ McCollum and Dejounte Murray’s return on team dynamics
- Analysis of Alex Caruso’s injury and its fantasy implications
- Rob Williams’ potential as a fantasy asset in Portland
- The Timberwolves’ lineup changes and their effects on fantasy value
- Updates on Karl-Anthony Towns and potential replacements
- A look at Naz Reid’s performance and future prospects
