NBA Player News

Warriors coach Steve Kerr started Friday’s game with a smaller lineup: Green at center and Kyle Anderson at power forward. Draymond didn’t provide much value in that role, and bigs Kevon Looney (two points, five rebounds, and two assists in 15 minutes) and Trayce Jackson-Davis (two points, four rebounds, one assist, and two blocks in 16 minutes) were also quiet. Green playing extended minutes at the five would lower TJD’s ceiling, especially if Looney also continues to receive rotation minutes.

Alvarado hasn’t played since November 11, but he’s set to make his return following a 23-game absence. With the Pels still banged up at key positions, Alvarado could see meaningful minutes off the bench as soon as he has ramped back up to game speed.

Harden’s status is in doubt, and if he’s ultimately sidelined, Kevin Porter Jr. and Bones Hyland would be next in line to absorb his minutes. Whichever guard gets the nod will be worth streaming for Thursday’s modest, six-game slate.

Clowney exited Wednesday’s tilt with Toronto early, but the questionable tag suggests he’s got a chance to suit up for the second leg of Brooklyn’s back-to-back set. If he’s unable to go, Jalen Wilson could see increased run in his absence. Simmons has appeared in seven of the Nets’ last eight games, but he’ll sit out after playing Wednesday. Newly acquired D’Angelo Russell could see more playing time with Simmons on the sidelines.

It’s a brutal injury for Ivey who is enjoying the most productive season of his three-year career. Shams didn’t provide a timeline for recovery, but given the severity of the injury, it’s unlikely Ivey returns any time soon. In his absence, Tim Hardaway Jr., Malik Beasley and Marcus Sasser should absorb his minutes.

Yabusele started Wednesday’s game for Joel Embiid, who was held out of the first of two games in as many nights for the 76ers. Yabusele offered minimal value against the Kings, with Domantas Sabonis being too much for him (and Andre Drummond) to handle. Embiid should be back for Thursday’s game against the Warriors, so there’s no need to hold onto Yabusele.

Lowry was Nick Nurse’s choice to start for the injured Kelly Oubre Jr., and the veteran point guard offered little fantasy value. This is unsurprising, as Lowry has long been of greater importance to his team than to fantasy basketball. There was no need to stream Lowry on Wednesday, and that will also be the case for Thursday’s game against the Warriors, regardless of Oubre’s availability.

Gordon was back in the rotation after missing four games due to a dental procedure, and the veteran guard had a good night in Sacramento. The 14 points were one shy of his season-high, with Gordon last reaching double figures on November 4 against the Suns. He did establish a new season-high with three 3-pointers while matching his best tallies in assists and blocked shots. Wednesday’s performance isn’t enough to make Gordon a player worth adding; he’ll need to string together a few quality games before that changes.

Maxey has scored at least 27 points in five of his last six outings, providing consistent offensive value despite Joel Embiid and Paul George’s inconsistent availability. Those two stars’ ability to string together games has helped Maxey and the 76ers, who have gone 8-3 in their last 11 games. Maxey did have four turnovers on Wednesday, but that category is rarely a concern for him in fantasy basketball. The 76ers visit the Warriors on Thursday, and Embiid should be available.

George hit the 30-point mark for the second time on Wednesday, finishing three points shy of his season-high (December 16 vs. Charlotte). The field goal percentage was more important than the point total, with PG making 55% of his attempts. Over the past two weeks, George has shot a frigid 32% from the field and is ranked just inside the top 150 in 9-cat formats. Wednesday’s outing represents a step in the right direction, regardless of the game’s outcome.

Monk finished Wednesday’s game with his eighth 20-point game of the season, and he’s been responsible for at least six assists in three straight. While the Kings guard hasn’t been a great fantasy option recently, he remains a top 100 player in 8- and 9-cat formats regarding season-long value.