NBA Player News

After missing their last two games with a hamstring issue, Murray was back in the lineup for this one. This was one of his best games of the season, and he was able to lead the team in scoring as they got their second straight blowout win. Murray’s availability hasn’t been a major issue yet, and he was able to get over a week off between games, which gave his hammy plenty of extra rest. Murray’s shooting numbers have been down this year, so hopefully this is a performance that he can build off of moving forward.

The Spurs are without Jeremy Sochan, who will not play due to lower back tightness. Castle replaces him in the starting lineup, and the rookie is worthy of streaming consideration in deep leagues.

Wiggins was also probable for Thursday’s win over the 76ers, in which he started and played 26 minutes. The playing time was a bit limited due to the game being a blowout, but at the very least, Wiggins could play. Given the probable tag, fantasy managers should anticipate him playing on Saturday.

Curry missed Golden State’s December 26 game against the Clippers due to his knees, so the lingering nature of this injury is concerning. His absence opens up minutes and scoring opportunities for Buddy Hield, who has struggled recently. Hopefully, Hield can use this opportunity as a catalyst for the sake of managers who have him rostered.

After sitting out Thursday’s loss to the Thunder, Harden will be back in the lineup. His return means Amir Coffey will head to the bench after having one of his best performances of the season. Coffey isn’t worth holding onto in most fantasy leagues when coming off the bench.

Mann fractured his finger during an early December game against the Trail Blazers and has not played since. He’ll provide depth off the bench, with Jordan Miller likely to player fewer minutes. As for whether or not to roster Mann, he’s a player who should remain on the waiver wire in most leagues.

There was optimism that Leonard would be able to make his season debut on Friday, but that will not happen. Kris Dunn should remain in the starting lineup until the Warriors forward is deemed healthy enough to play. Dunn offers limited fantasy value, especially when James Harden is available.

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault has changed the fifth starter again, with Wallace re-entering the lineup. Aaron Wiggins heads to the bench, which cuts into his fantasy value. Wiggins, Wallace, and Isaiah Joe all provide more value to the Thunder than to fantasy rosters, regardless of who starts.

The Rockets will be without Jabari Smith Jr. for 4-8 weeks after he suffered a fractured hand during pregame shootaround. Jeff Green has replaced him in the starting lineup; he offers minimal streaming value in this spot. Fantasy managers should focus on Amen Thompson, Tari Eason (once healthy), and Cam Whitmore (especially if Eason misses more time) as replacements with Smith sidelined.

Merrill left Tuesday’s game against the Lakers with an ankle injury and didn’t return. He was originally listed as doubtful and ultimately won’t play Friday against the Mavericks. Max Strus is set to take on more minutes with Merrill out, though he’s still on a minutes restriction.