NBA Player News

Minott’s strong preseason continued as the former second round pick had another excellent performance. The former second-round pick won’t make much of an impact in redraft leagues this season, but he may end up being part of the rotation at times if he is able to carry over some of this preseason production. However, dynasty managers have to be excited about these numbers. He has long been considered a sleeper prospect, and his ceiling is incredibly high.

Thursday’s game is the second Williams has missed with his sprained ankle, the first being Monday’s loss to the Mavericks. Deandre Ayton and Donovan Clingan will be the starting and backup centers on Thursday. Clingan’s fantasy value as the backup isn’t great, but he’s worth rostering in deep leagues.

Banton missed two games with a hip injury last week before returning for Monday’s game against the Mavericks. The 25-year-old point guard is out again Thursday. While his absence doesn’t significantly impact fantasy basketball, it’s a blow to the Trail Blazers’ bench depth.

Sabonis was trending towards missing Thursday’s game as he was initially listed as questionable and then missed the afternoon shootaround. Trey Lyles has started both games Sabonis has missed this season and figures to be in the starting lineup again against the Pistons.

Toppin spent some time in the locker room after injuring his ankle during the first quarter of Thursday’s game. He has since returned to game action, which is obviously good news for the Pacers and fantasy managers.

Booker and Allen will miss another game, with the former’s absence being far more impactful on fantasy basketball. Royce O’Neale will remain in the starting lineup until Booker returns, and he is worth rostering for the time being.

Already dealing with a left calf contusion, Payton suffered a mild strain of the same calf during the fourth quarter of Wednesday’s loss to the Lakers. He’ll be re-evaluated in one week, meaning GPII will miss at least three games, beginning with Friday’s game against the Clippers. His absence does not significantly impact fantasy basketball, but it will free up added minutes for Moses Moody.

Olynyk will make his first start of the season on Thursday, replacing Jonathan Mogbo. Olynyk gives Toronto a little more size, which is key with the Grizzlies starting Jaren Jackson Jr. and Zach Edey. The other four Raptors starters are unchanged.

Toppin played three first-quarter minutes before exiting with what the Pacers have announced to be a sprained ankle. If he cannot return, starter Myles Turner and fellow reserve Jarace Walker will need to play more minutes.

Bol’s continued absence does not impact fantasy basketball, as he is not in the rotation when healthy.

Finney-Smith may have said Thursday afternoon that he planned to play, but the Nets have decided otherwise. Noah Clowney will remain in the starting lineup, and he is worth streaming until DFS returns.