NBA Player News

The 38-year-old Varejao had not appeared in an NBA game since 2017 so it was kind of cool to see him out there tonight, although we’re still not really sure why it’s happening. Kevin Love had 18 points, eight boards and three 3-pointers and Dean Wade added 16 points, five boards and three 3-pointers off the bench tonight.

LaVine sat Monday against Toronto, but he’s off the injury report for Thursday’s tilt with Boston. LaVine could see an even bigger workload if Giddey is ultimately ruled out. Lonzo Ball and Ayo Dosunmu could log some more minutes off the bench in that scenario.

Ayton practiced Tuesday, so he’s trending in the right direction after missing two straight games. If he’s able to get back on the court, Ayton will likely start, and Donovan Clingan will head back to the bench.

James missed two in a row before returning to face Memphis on Sunday. If he’s unavailable for the third time in four games, the committee of Gabe Vincent, Max Christie and D’Angelo Russell could absorb his minutes.

Beal is expected to make his return following a two-game absence. If he’s officially given the green light, Royce O’Neale will likely slide back to the bench.

DJJ was expected to miss at least two weeks based on a report from December 10, but he’s apparently ahead of schedule. He’s got a shot to face his former team, though it’s unclear if he’ll handle his normal workload.

With Smart unlikely to play, expect Scotty Pippen Jr. and Luke Kennard to see a bump in playing time off the bench. If Morant ends up sitting too, Pippen Jr. is likely to earn a spot start, making him a worthwhile streaming option.

Okongwu has played well off the bench this season, and his absence should free up additional minutes for Larry Nance Jr. behind Clint Capela.

Hawkins has been in and (mostly) out of New Orleans’ lineup this season, but he’ll get a chance to return Thursday against the Rockets. He’ll likely face a minutes restriction if he’s cleared to take the court.

Miller left Monday’s matchup with the 76ers after sustaining the injury, and his status at Washington is up in the air. Isaiah Wong and Tidjane Salaun could see an uptick in playing time if Miller is sidelined.

It’s surprising to see that Sabonis missed practice while Murray is looking to bounce back after missing the Kings’ last game against the Nuggets with an ankle issue. Doug McDermott started for Murray in Sacramento’s last game and could get another chance to.