NBA Player News

It was reported exactly a week ago that Atkinson had emerged as the front-runner for the job, and this makes it official. Shams Charania of The Athletic also reported minutes ago that Atkinson met with Hornets officials, including owner Michael Jordan, on Wednesday and the franchise has decided on the former Nets coach to be its new head coach. Per Shams, Atkinson will bring development and defensive structure to a young and talented roster highlighted by players like LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges, and we’re excited to see how their fantasy games improve upon the hire. Atkinson did say that he’s only focused on the Warriors’ Finals run for the time being, but in Atkinson’s perfect world, he’d win a championship with the Dubs and then shift his focus to the Hornets rather quickly. What a dream that would be.

Irving has been asked to carry the Mavericks without Luka Doncic lately and will miss his second consecutive game on Monday. Quentin Grimes is likely to fill in as a starter for the dynamic scoring guard.

Barrett is now set to miss a fourth straight contest. Ochai Agbaji has filled in at a starter and will likely continue to do so to wrap up the weeeknd.

Jackson has established himself as a starter but has played less than 15 minutes in three straight contests. The defense-first wing could be replaced by Gary Trent Jr. or Taurean Prince if Jackson is ruled out.

Antetokounmpo and Middleton appear to be set to play. Both Bucks forwards are on track to start. Middleton will likely continue to have a lighter workload, though.

Brown is set to return from a two-game layoff to take part in a huge interconference matchup against OKC. The Celtics wing should bump Sam Hauser to the bench in his first game back.

Jordan Clarkson has already been ruled out so George’s absence could make Utah’s backcourt very thin. Isaiah Collier could be in for a spot start if the Jazz’s starting point guard can’t go.

The Jazz will be exceedingly thing in this matchup, as Lauri Markannen has been ruled out as well. Brice Sensabaugh and Isaiah Collier are in line to get boosts in playing time against Orlando.

Markkanen unexpectedly popped up on the injury report after scoring 15 points against the Heat on Saturday. Johnny Juzang will be one of Utah’s top options to step in as a starter in Markkanen’s place.

With Jalen Johnson (shoulder) sitting out the second game of Atlanta’s back-to-back, Krejci received the starting nod against the Clippers. He hit a few 3-pointers, but that was about it regarding value. Garrison Mathews was more productive off the bench, hitting four triples and finishing with 15 points, eight rebounds, three assists, and two steals in 25 minutes. With Johnson likely returning for Tuesday’s game against the Jazz, there’s no need to add Krejci or Mathews. The latter offers greater streaming value when the Hawks are shorthanded.

Hunter began Saturday’s game in his usual reserve role, but the need for more offense led to him moving into the lineup to start the third quarter. Making that move permanent would likely require Jalen Johnson to be sidelined for an extended period, as he was unavailable for Saturday’s game. Johnson should be back for Tuesday’s game in Utah, so look for Hunter to retain his usual role.