NBA Player News

This was an ugly game for the Thunder, but Hartenstein was able to be one of the lone bright spots. Though it won’t count in fantasy basketball, Hartenstein continues to be a walking double-double as the starting center in OKC. This was only their second loss with Hartenstein available to play, but he certainly wasn’t the one to blame for the result. They’ll be back in action on Thursday in Orlando, which will be the first leg of a back-to-back for them.

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.

Barnes has a chance to return from a two-game hiatus on Thursday despite suffering what was initially considered to be a significant ankle injury against the Knicks. He’s progressing faster than expected and could be back in the lineup sooner rather than later.

Kuzma has missed seven consecutive contests since logging just eight minutes against the Clippers. Fantasy managers shouldn’t expect his return to be close until he becomes a full participant in practice again.