NBA Player News

Barea returned from a torn Achilles last year but played a sporadic role, averaging 7.7 points on 41.1% shooting in 29 appearances. He hopes to earn an NBA roster spot this year, but it remains to be seen how much interest the 36-year-old guard can draw as a free agent.

The Raptors will have a new backcourt after getting blown out by the Celtics on Tuesday. Quickley and Dick return from their respective injuries, which pushes Davion Mitchell and Ja’Kobe Walter to the bench. Barnes, Agbaji, and Poeltl complete the quintet.

Butler is back in the lineup after missing Miami’s last five games, dropping Kevin Love to the bench. Robinson, who did not play in Sunday’s win over the Rockets, is the other change. His return coincides with Terry Rozier’s one-game suspension, and Robinson should retain the starting role for the foreseeable future.

Despite playing through his calf injury in both of New York’s wins over Washington, Brunson will not play on Wednesday. He’ll be replaced in the starting lineup by Miles McBride, who’s worth streaming due to the opportunity and opponent.

Caruso has missed Oklahoma City’s last four games, and Thursday makes five. His absence has freed up minutes for Ajay Mitchell, who, while solid, has not done enough to merit streaming consideration in fantasy leagues.

Alvarado is still not ready to return from his hamstring injury suffered in early November. Dejounte Murray and CJ McCollum are healthy, so his continued absence does not significantly impact fantasy basketball.

Robinson-Earl also missed Monday’s game with an ankle injury. Daniel Theis will continue to see extra minutes in his absence, but isn’t worth streaming.

Middleton is probably going to be on the Bucks’ injury report for a while as he continues to work his way back from bilateral ankle surgery. Fortunately, with a probable injury designation, fantasy managers can continue to count on the 33-year-old small forward to suit up most nights.

Robinson is back after sitting out Sunday’s win over the Rockets. Terry Rozier, who replaced him in the lineup, has been suspended one game by the NBA, so Robinson should slide back into the starting lineup without issue.

Antetokounmpo has been listed on numerous injury reports this season for this issue, but he has rarely missed a game because of patellar tendinopathy. The probable tag suggests he will be cleared to play against the Nets. If Giannis cannot play, Bobby Portis will move into the starting lineup.

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.