Antonio

Reeves

The Pelicans are without Jordan Hawkins for Sunday’s game, as he joins CJ McCollum and Zion Williamson on the sidelines. As a result, Reeves will make his first career start. While the rookie has not provided consistent fantasy value, the opportunity makes him worthy of a look in deep leagues.

Initially questionable for Sunday’s game, Hawkins has been ruled out. His absence leaves the Pelicans thin on backcourt options, meaning more playing time for Antonio Reeves and Keion Brooks Jr. While Reeves would be worth a look as a desperation play in deep leagues, neither player qualifies as a must-stream.

While Olynyk’s case of Achilles tendonosis is a new injury, this is not the first time Hawkins has dealt with lower back spasms. Karlo Matkovic’s minutes would increase if Olynyk cannot play, with the rookie possibly moving into the starting lineup. As for what the Pelicans would do if Hawkins cannot play, Antonio Reeves will likely play additional minutes.

The second-round pick out of Kentucky hasn’t seen a large role with New Orleans consistently despite all the injury issues that they have dealt with this season. Aside from his 34-point outburst in November, this was Reeves’ highest-scoring performance of the season. He was also able to set a new career-high with five triples in this one. Managers should expect Reeves to continue to see minutes for the rest of the season, though they have come too inconsistently for him to be streamed at this time.

Hawkins was able to briefly return after initially heading back to the locker room, but he has now officially been ruled out. New Orleans was already shorthanded for this game, which allowed Hawkins to move into the starting lineup for this game. Antonio Reeves should see a few extra minutes down the stretch. Hawkins shot 4-of-14 from the field for nine points, adding five rebounds and an assist before leaving.

Brown was ejected after arguing that he was fouled on a shot attempt. He received the technical fouls quickly, ending his night after 16 minutes of play. Brown finished with two points and one rebound. Antonio Reeves and Jeremiah Robinson-Earl will play more rotation minutes as Trey Murphy exited during the first half with a shoulder injury.

Hawkins entered the Pelicans’ starting lineup on Sunday due to CJ McCollum and Zion Williamson being out of the lineup. Unfortunately for fantasy managers hoping his usage would skyrocket, the second-year guard played 24 minutes and only attempted 10 shots. Antonio Reeves (11/2/3 with three triples) played a solid 22 minutes, likely cutting into Hawkins’ opportunities. Hawkins is worth watching for the rest of the season, especially if the Pelicans decide to sit McCollum and Williamson more often.

With Bruce Brown (rest) also out for Thursday’s game, Boston’s continued absence leaves the Pelicans light on options on the wings. Jordan Hawkins and Antonio Reeves should play more despite being reserves, with the former offering a higher fantasy ceiling.

Green appeared in 50 games for the Pelicans this season, making 18 starts. While his exit won’t significantly impact fantasy basketball, it frees up minutes for players like Brandon Boston Jr. and Antonio Reeves once the Pelicans decide to focus more on their draft lottery odds. As for Green’s fit in Cleveland (if he clears waivers), he gives the Cavaliers another athletic wing defender, which will be critical due to the need to deal with Boston and New York in the East.

Reeves, the 47th overall pick in last month’s draft, played well for the Pelicans in Las Vegas. While the upside may be limited, his ability to provide instant offense helped the second-round pick secure his NBA status for next season. According to Scotto, the third year of Reeves’ deal is a team option.