NBA Player News

The Spurs will be without four starters on Friday, on top of Devin Vassell still being sidelined and Jakob Poeltl being traded. Keita Bates-Diop, Doug McDermott and Stanley Johnson should play large roles in this game, but there isn’t a ton of fantasy appeal coming from San Antonio right now.

Not only was Sunday’s start Monk’s first of the season, but it was also his first since the 2022-23 season. He was efficient in that role, shooting 50% from the field and knocking down five 3-pointers. Monk will start on Tuesday against Houston, which boosts his fantasy value, with Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis taking hits to theirs. Murray (eight points, six rebounds, one steal, and one block in 38 minutes) attempted nine shots, while Ellis (eight points, three rebounds, one block, and two 3-pointers) only played 17 minutes off the bench.

DeRozan was on the court after missing two games with muscle inflammation in his lower back, and he showed no ill effects against the Spurs. He led Sacramento in points while recording solid numbers in rebounds, assists, and steals. DeRozan is providing 3rd-round value in 9-cat formats and is also ranked within the top-50 in 8-cat. Provided he stays healthy, there’s no reason to doubt DeRozan’s ability to maintain this production level.

Sabonis didn’t record any steals or blocks on Sunday, the first game he’s failed to contribute defensively since November 10. However, the double-doubles continue to pour in, and Sabonis is ranked among the most productive players in fantasy basketball regardless of league format. He’s providing top-10 per-game value in 8-cat formats while ranking a few spots outside that threshold in 9-cat.

Grimes has been on a tear over the Mavs’ last three games. He has been part of the starting lineup during his last five appearances and in seven of his last nine. However, over his last three, he has averaged 24.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.0 steals and 4.7 threes while shooting 59.5% from the floor. He was dealt from Detroit in exchange for Tim Hardaway Jr. this summer, and he has thrived in his new home. Grimes may not remain in the starting unit when Kyrie Irving and Klay Thompson get healthy, but he’s earned a larger role off the bench, and he’ll continue to put up big numbers until they’re back.