NBA Player News

Bullock has been dealing with lower back pain for a few weeks, which has limited his availability. Even when available, the veteran wing hasn’t done enough to merit being rostered in fantasy leagues.

Booker is a late addition to the injury report, a concerning development for the Suns and fantasy managers. With Ryan Dunn (ankle) ruled out, Grayson Allen will likely be the next man up if Booker cannot sit.

Williamson was already dealing with a sore right thigh, but it’s his left hamstring that is keeping him out Friday. It’s probably for the best to let Zion rest his legs. Jeremiah Robinson-Earl will move into the starting lineup against the Magic. Brandon Ingram will see as much usage as he can handle with Zion out in addition to CJ McCollum and Dejonte Murray.

Dunn was initially doubtful for Friday’s game, so the status downgrade is unsurprising. Royce O’Neale can absorb some of the minutes that would have gone to Dunn, as the rookie plays about 10 minutes when starter Bradley Beal is available.

Walter injured his shoulder during Wednesday’s loss to the Kings, and the Raptors declared it a bruise. Further examination revealed that the rookie aggravated the AC joint sprain he suffered just before training camp. That injury kept Walter on the sideline for over one month, so it may be a little while before he can resume playing. Walter’s absence will not impact fantasy basketball.

Duren rolled his ankle in the first quarter of Wednesday’s game against the Hornets. Isaiah Stewart and Paul Reed will pick up the slack in Duren’s absence with Stewart likely ascending into the starting lineup. Stewart could be worth streaming in deeper leagues against the Hawks as Reed serves as a traditional backup.

Smith is again listed as probable before a game, so fantasy managers should expect to see him on the court. However, the minutes won’t be enough to make him fantasy-relevant. Leave Smith on the waiver wire.

LaVine has missed Chicago’s last three games, but the questionable tag suggests he’s progressing. Ayo Dosunmu has filled the void in the starting lineup and will continue to do so as long as LaVine is sidelined. Dosunmu is worth streaming in deep leagues, especially on a four-game night.

Craig was a late scratch on Thursday, with the Bulls not announcing his status until the third quarter. His potential absence on Saturday will not significantly impact fantasy basketball, but it may ensure Matas Buzelis will play rotation minutes. There’s no need to stream Buzelis.

On most nights, Smith is on the back end of the Hornets’ rotation. Hopefully, he’ll be available to play, but his status will not impact fantasy basketball.

Hachimura is on track to return following a one-game absence. Dalton Knecht, who started in Hachimura’s place on Wednesday, should head back to the bench.