NBA Player News

Thursday’s game is the sixth that Kessler will miss due to hip bursitis. John Collins will remain the starter for the foreseeable future, which has boosted his fantasy value. As for streaming options, deep league managers can consider Kyle Filipowski, while Drew Eubanks is unlikely to get the opportunities needed to impact fantasy basketball.

Williams did not play in Saturday’s win over Houston, Portland’s second game in as many nights. He’s back for Monday night and will likely start, as Donovan Clingan (knee) is out, and Deandre Ayton (finger) is doubtful. The Time Lord should be rostered as long as he’s healthy.

McBride has missed New York’s last five games, and Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said before Saturday’s loss to the Jazz that he’s getting close to returning. With Deuce sidelined, Cameron Payne and Tyler Kolek have added importance within the Knicks rotation, and the former is worth streaming in deep leagues.

Towns is having a great season and the Knicks certainly need him to suit up Monday against Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets. The big man is nursing a left calf contusion, though, and is listed as questionable. The Knicks don’t have much in the way of center depth if Towns were to miss the game as Jericho Sims would likely start with Ariel Hukporti backing up.

Okoro did not experience any setbacks during his pregame workout, so he will play on Sunday after missing two games. As a result, the Cavaliers will go with the lineup of Okoro, Darius Garland, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen to begin Sunday’s game. Jaylon Tyson and Ty Jerome slide to the bench.

Monk was originally listed as doubtful, but has since been upgraded. While that trend is going in the right direction, it’s still unclear if he’ll play against the Nets. Monk has been out since November 10th, when he injured his ankle against the Spurs. Keon Ellis would be a deep streamer if Monk is ruled out.

If everyone is healthy, Murray’s availability will not significantly impact fantasy basketball, as he slots in behind Jerami Grant in the rotation. However, Grant is also questionable for Monday due to illness. If he cannot play, Murray (if cleared) would be in line for additional playing time, likely as a spot starter.

Henderson has missed Portland’s last two games, but the impact of his absence was minimal due to Anfernee Simons being available. If Henderson cannot play in Memphis, Dalano Banton will continue to play extended minutes off the bench.

Grant lands on the injury report after playing 33 effective minutes in Saturday’s win over Houston. Under normal circumstances, Kris Murray would be the player of interest (but not a must-add) if Grant cannot play. However, Murray is also questionable for Monday’s game, and both sitting would free up minutes for Rayan Rupert. He is not worth adding in most leagues.

Fernando’s ankle kept him out of Toronto’s last two games, but he’ll be available on Sunday. Still, he doesn’t play enough minutes to significantly impact the Raptors’ big man rotation.

Randle has now scored at least 20 points in five straight games. He’s a top-100 player in fantasy this season. While Randle’s usage is down compared to his time with the Knicks, his efficiency continues to play up and lead to fantasy success. Minnesota has three games in Week 6, starting with the Rockets on Tuesday.