NBA Player News

Popovich broke a tie with Don Nelson, winning his 1,336th regular-season game on Friday night. “All of us share this record,” Popovich said. “It’s not mine. It’s ours, here in the city.” Murray wasn’t as efficient as he normally is, shooting 9-of-23 from the floor (1-of-5 from three) and making 8-of-12 free throws. He now has scored at least 20 points in seven-straight games, and he will try to make it eight on Saturday against Indiana in night two of a back-to-back.

Murray’s left knee issue limited him to 16 minutes in Friday’s win over the Nets. If he cannot play against the Mavericks, Russell Westbrook will be the lone point guard in the starting lineup. Aaron Gordon’s availability will determine who will move into the starting lineup if Murray sits. Gordon would be the choice if he’s cleared to return from his strained calf; Peyton Watson would receive the nod if not.

Jokic returned Friday after missing two games with an illness. He had a 35-point triple-double against the Nets in his first game back. Jokic is the top player in fantasy basketball this year. Expect the 29-year-old center to suit up and play without limitations Sunday.

The Jazz remain without multiple rotation players, notably Keyonte George and John Collins. Also out is Johnny Juzang, and his absence pushes Micah Potter into the starting lineup. Potter hasn’t been a great streaming option this season; fantasy managers would be better served rolling the dice on Kyle Filipowski.

Howard injured his ankle during Friday’s loss to Milwaukee, playing just seven minutes. However, his availability does not impact fantasy basketball, especially with Paolo Banchero back in the lineup. Howard’s absence would result in more minutes for Caleb Houstan, who should not be rostered in most fantasy leagues.

Caldwell-Pope left Friday’s game against the Bucks with knee soreness, but is listed as probable for Sunday against the 76ers. That bodes well for the 31-year-old shooting guard’s return, though he’ll be relied on less offensively going forward with the return of Paolo Banchero.

Walsh is available after sitting out Friday’s loss to the Kings. His availability does not impact fantasy basketball, as the second-year wing has not consistently played rotation minutes.

Peterson is not guaranteed rotation minutes when healthy. His absence does not impact fantasy basketball, but it may lead to a few more minutes for Jordan Walsh if Boston takes care of New Orleans with relative ease.

This will make 10 straight games that Caruso has missed with a hip injury. Cason Wallace, Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins will continue to see extra minutes. The team hasn’t given a firm timetable for when Caruso might return.

Murray was also questionable for Friday’s game against Philadelphia, but he played 32 minutes in the eight-point Pelicans win. Fantasy managers should expect the New Orleans point guard to be on the court Sunday evening, taking on his usual responsibilities. However, if Murray cannot play, Jose Alvarado will be asked to fill the void.