NBA Player News

Trayce Jackson-Davis has been Golden State’s starting center for most of the year, but Looney got the nod in this game and took advantage. He was able to stuff the stat sheet before fouling out in the final two minutes. If this is a change that sticks, Looney may be able to provide some value in deeper formats, though he shouldn’t be considered a reliable option. There’s also a chance that this was just to have a better passer in the starting lineup with Draymond out or to match up better with Nikola Jokic.

Beal is expected to make his return following a two-game absence. If he’s officially given the green light, Royce O’Neale will likely slide back to the bench.

DJJ was expected to miss at least two weeks based on a report from December 10, but he’s apparently ahead of schedule. He’s got a shot to face his former team, though it’s unclear if he’ll handle his normal workload.

With Smart unlikely to play, expect Scotty Pippen Jr. and Luke Kennard to see a bump in playing time off the bench. If Morant ends up sitting too, Pippen Jr. is likely to earn a spot start, making him a worthwhile streaming option.

Okongwu has played well off the bench this season, and his absence should free up additional minutes for Larry Nance Jr. behind Clint Capela.

Hawkins has been in and (mostly) out of New Orleans’ lineup this season, but he’ll get a chance to return Thursday against the Rockets. He’ll likely face a minutes restriction if he’s cleared to take the court.

Miller left Monday’s matchup with the 76ers after sustaining the injury, and his status at Washington is up in the air. Isaiah Wong and Tidjane Salaun could see an uptick in playing time if Miller is sidelined.

It’s surprising to see that Sabonis missed practice while Murray is looking to bounce back after missing the Kings’ last game against the Nuggets with an ankle issue. Doug McDermott started for Murray in Sacramento’s last game and could get another chance to.

Beal practiced in full after missing the Suns’ last two games. He’ll have a chance to suit up for Thursday’s Suns-Pacers matchup and will likely bump Royce O’Neale to the bench if available.

Bufkin appeared in just 10 games before his 2024-25 season came to a close. The Hawks guard is expected to make a full recover for the 2025-26 campaign.

Both the Mavericks’ leading scorers missed practice on Tuesday but only Irving returned ahead of Wednesday’s Mavericks-Clippers game. There’s been no indication that either star is on track to miss their next game.