NBA Player News

With Victor Wembanyama (ankle) out, Collins would receive the starting nod if he’s available to play. Sandro Mamukelashvili and Julian Champagnie are worth rostering regardless of what happens with Collins, as they’ll be in the starting lineup. As for Barlow, his continued absence will not impact active fantasy leagues.

Middleton is good to go after being listed as probable on the initial injury report. While his minutes may still be managed to a certain extent, he’ll occupy his usual place in the starting lineup. Fantasy managers with Middleton rostered should ensure he isn’t sitting on their bench before lineups lock.

Robinson-Earl has missed New Orleans’ last two games, and his absence has not significantly impacted fantasy basketball. Javonte Green played more minutes off the bench in those two contests, but he is not worth streaming. Neither player has much value when available, even with the Pelicans’ many injuries.

Coulibaly exited early from their game on Wednesday, which allowed Malcolm Brogdon to take on some extra minutes in his place. However, it was Kyle Kuzma that replaced him to start the second half, and Kuz should fill Coulibaly’s starting spot after coming off the bench in his first game back.

This will be a fourth straight absence for Porzingis, which means that Al Horford should be in line for another start at center. Horford has struggled over their last two games, and he’ll look to get back on track in this one.

Brown will not play in Thursday’s game, freeing up a spot in the starting lineup. With Kristaps Porzingis also out, Sam Hauser is the player most likely to replace Brown in the starting lineup. He can provide points and 3-pointers in this role. Also worthy of increased fantasy attention with Brown out is Payton Pritchard, who’s already rostered in most standard leagues.

Sochan exited early from Tuesday’s game due to this back issue, and now the team is saying that they won’t have him for Friday’s game against the Nuggets. Stephon Castle started the second half in his place and should fill that role once again in this game.

Jeffries has been solid when given the chance for the Hornets this season, but his role has been inconsistent. LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller and Cody Martin also have a chance to be back in the lineup for this game, which may make Jeffries’ status irrelevant. His absence may open up a few extra minutes for other reserves.

Martin has missed Charlotte’s last two games, resulting in Seth Curry moving into the starting lineup. The fantasy values of both players hinge on the availability of Brandon Miller, who is also questionable for Friday’s game. If Miller plays, there’s no need to roster Martin or Curry.

Martin has missed five of the team’s last six games with this ankle injury, but there is a chance that he is back in the lineup to take on Detroit. His return would push Seth Curry back to the bench, which would eliminate the limited fantasy value that he has held recently.