NBA Player News

The Celtics are once again resting their top six players, as there is nothing for the team to play for regarding playoff positioning. Pritchard, Hauser, and Kornet remain the safest available options for fantasy, while Walsh will make his first official start as a Celtic. In a game like this, his defensive potential could shine through.

Miller’s appearance in the lineup on Saturday was his first since the season opener in Houston. Understandably, there was some rust for him to shake off, but the opportunities to produce were there. Miller’s percentages weren’t significant, but the production in other categories was solid. Charlotte plays four games in Week 3, beginning with the Timberwolves on Monday.

With Nick Richards (shoulder) sidelined, Williams moved into the starting lineup on Saturday. This game was a reminder that fantasy managers should not expect too much from Williams regarding streaming value. He played 34 minutes, but the production wasn’t there. Moussa Diabate played the other 14 at center, finishing with one point, four rebounds, and one assist.

Ball put up big numbers in Charlotte’s two games against the Celtics, scoring 67 points and knocking down 11 3-pointers. Sure, the turnovers are high, with the Hornets guard racking up six on Saturday, but the overall value had made up for that issue thus far. Something else for managers to track: fouls committed. Ball picked up two cheap ones during the first quarter and fouled out during the game’s final minute, the third time he’s been disqualified in six games. Charlotte plays four games in Week 3, beginning with the Timberwolves on Monday.

White has scored 17 points or more in six of Boston’s first seven games, building on his stellar 2023-24 campaign. After surprising many fantasy basketball managers with his production last season, White’s current status as a top-20 player won’t shock anyone. Given his skill set, he’s capable of maintaining this production level, even after Kristaps Porzingis returns later this season.

The days of using the “when the Celtics are shorthanded” qualifier to discuss Pritchard’s fantasy value may be finished. He’s scored 15 points or more in five of Boston’s seven games and made at least five 3-pointers in four. Jaylen Brown sat out Saturday’s win with a hip injury and is considered day-to-day moving forward. Now would be an excellent time to add Pritchard, as the Celtics play four games in Week 3.

Tatum scored 63 points in the Celtics’ two wins over the Hornets, and he did a lot of his damage at the foul line. He shot 27-of-32 from the stripe, boosting the point total while producing quality stats across the board. Boston plays four games in Week 3, beginning with the Hawks on Monday night. With Jaylen Brown (hip) sidelined, Tatum’s already-high usage will increase if JB misses additional time.

Beal is officially available for Saturday’s game and will start after sitting out Thursday’s win over the Clippers. Ryan Dunn returns to the bench, but the defensive potential and improved shooting make him worth holding onto in very deep leagues. With Portland being among the worst teams in the league, Dunn could play extended minutes if Phoenix takes care of business.

Jackson suffered the non-contact injury during the fourth quarter of Friday’s loss to the Pelicans. He’s the second Pacers big man to suffer a torn Achilles this season, with James Wiseman doing so during the opening game. This leaves Indiana severely shorthanded behind starter Myles Turner. Obi Toppin may take on some center minutes, freeing up additional opportunities for Jarace Walker at the four.

Wiggins is back after a two-game absence and will reclaim his place in the starting lineup. Lindy Waters III, who struggled in a spot start on Wednesday, returns to the bench while Moody and Podziemski retain their places. Even with the Warriors playing without Stephen Curry and De’Anthony Melton, there’s no need to hold onto Waters if you streamed him.

While available for Saturday’s game, Porter is not guaranteed rotation minutes due to Ty Jerome serving as the backup point guard. There’s no need to consider rostering Porter currently.