NBA Player News

Chicago was playing without four members of their normal starting five, allowing Blakeney to take on a far larger role than usual. He didn’t have any steals, blocks or 3-pointers tonight, and he was inefficient as a scorer, so it was basically a bust in most leagues. Lauri Markkanen is done for the season and guys like Otto Porter, Kris Dunn and Zach LaVine could follow suit, so Blakeney is at least worth adding to your ‘watch lists’ for streaming potential.

Poole is the lone change to the Wizards’ starting lineup, as he returns after a two-game absence. Malcolm Brogdon will come off the bench. Also of note is Champagnie retaining his spot in the starting lineup, even after Kyle Kuzma returned to action on Monday. This means Champagnie remains of some value to deep-league managers.

Cunningham is officially available after the Pistons listed him as probable on the initial injury report. He’ll start in his usual spot and should be slotted into fantasy lineups as usual.

Lively II has missed the last three games, but will return Wednesday against the Rockets. He’ll continue to share minutes at the center position with Daniel Gafford.

The continued absences of Dillingham and Garza will not impact fantasy basketball, as neither is a consistent member of the Timberwolves rotation when healthy.

Carrington is available after hitting the back of his head on the court during Monday’s loss to the Knicks. The rookie guard will remain in the rotation, but his fantasy ceiling is lower with Jordan Poole (hip) available to play.

Poole is back after a two-game absence, which means Malcolm Brogdon returns to the bench. Brogdon is a deep-league option at best when used in a reserve role.

Brown played 25 minutes in Tuesday’s win over the Raptors, but his playing time had more to do with the nature of the game (125-71, Celtics) than his shoulder. If Brown cannot play, Sam Hauser may move into the starting lineup alongside Jayson Tatum. Hauser can provide points and 3-pointers when allowed to start.

Porzingis has missed Boston’s last three games, and Al Horford has replaced him in the starting lineup. With the Celtics visiting the Rockets on Friday, fantasy managers should prepare for Porzingis and Horford missing one of the following two games. If KP plays against Minnesota, don’t be surprised if Horford sits.

Walter popped up on the injury report as questionable with a sprained finger, but will ultimately suit up Wednesday. He has a chance to see additional minutes with RJ Barrett (illness) out.

Barrett missed practice Monday and didn’t travel with the team to Boston for Tuesday’s game. He’ll miss his second game in a row with an illness Wednesday. With Barrett out, Ja’Kobe Walter could see additional minutes, though his usage might remain in check with Immanuel Quickley (elbow) returning.