NBA Player News

Having injured his ankle during a December 9 loss to the Knicks, Barnes was initially expected to miss “several weeks.” While he still has not been cleared for contact, the work done recently suggests that Barnes may not be on the sideline for too long. While Jonathan Mogbo replaced the Raptors star in the lineup for their first game post-injury, Davion Mitchell and Ja’Kobe Walter also have increased opportunities to contribute.

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.

Giddey didn’t return to action after tweaking his ankle against the Raptors and isn’t likely to suit up against the Celtics. Zach LaVine’s availability will likely determine whether Lonzo Ball or Talen Horton-Tucker step into the starting lineup in his place.

Strus might finally be ready to make his 2024-25 debut after being scratched from his initial target against the Nets on Monday. The Cavs forward’s return could bump Isaac Okoro down a notch on the depth chart.

Jones is set to return from a six-game layoff. The Spurs guard has been in and out of the lineup due to a string of injuries and is looking to establish himself in a bench role. He’ll have to get past Stephon Castle on the depth chart to make his mark, though.

Okoro is at risk of missing his third game this month after missing practice with a shoulder injury. He’s held down a starting forward spot with Max Strus out, but could be relegated in the near future when the sharpshooter is made active.

Watford is back on the shelf after tweaking his hamstring against the Cavaliers. Noah Clowney has a chance to capitalize on his absence.

Poeltl is set to miss his second game of the month on Thursday. Chris Boucher and Kelly Olynyk will get chances to contribute more in the aftermath.