NBA Player News

With the Magic’s starting lineup decimated with injuries, there’s more than enough opportunity to go around at the moment. Tristan da Silva has now played at least 28 minutes in four straight games and has scored at least 15 points in three of those games. The 23-year-old small forward has also made at least two 3-pointers in three of his last four games. He’s essentially universally available across fantasy basketball formats and is beginning to garner serious consideration in deeper leagues.

Curry didn’t have a big scoring night Wednesday. He only took 11 shots as Andrew Wiggins and Buddy Hield attempted more shots and each made five 3-pointers. Curry was content to help create for his teammates as he dished out 12 assists on his way to a double-double. The 36-year-old point guard hasn’t been available for both legs of a back-to-back since November, making it likely that he’ll miss Thursday’s game against the Bulls.

Wiggins led the Warriors in shot attempts and scoring Wednesday. He was hot from behind the 3-point line as he made 5-of-11 3-point attempts. The 29-year-old small forward got to the free throw line five times and made four of his attempts. Wiggins could be in for another heavy workload Thursday against the Bulls with Stephen Curry unlikely to play the second game of a back-to-back.

Monk’s most noteworthy play of the entire game was when he had a breakaway dunk that didn’t stay down through the net because it bounced off his head. Otherwise, the 26-year-old point guard had a solid performance with 20 points and nine assists. Monk also contributed on the defensive end as he totaled three steals and a block. He’s performed as a top-50 fantasy player over the last two months.

Sabonis didn’t have a big assist total, but he was just two rebounds shy of a 20-20 game. The 28-year-old power forward has scored at least 20 points in seven of his last eight games and has had at least 18 rebounds four times in that stretch. Sabonis is simply one of the elite players in fantasy and that was on display again Wednesday.

DeRozan’s 32 points were a game-high. The 35-year-old small forward has now scored at least 32 points in two of his last three games. He’s provided sixth round fantasy value overall on the season, but fantasy managers have to be happy that he’s seen his production increase since the Kings made a coaching change.

Aldama had to leave Wednesday’s game due to illness. He played 19 minutes off the bench and finished with two points (1-of-7 FGs), five rebounds, one assist, one steal, and one blocked shot. If Aldama misses time beyond Wednesday, fellow reserve Jay Huff may play a few more minutes, but only if Jake LaRavia (back) remains out.

Looney started Wednesday’s game but only played nine minutes. His early exit resulted in more minutes for Quinten Post, who moved into the rotation behind Trayce Jackson-Davis. Jackson-Davis is the only Warriors center worth rostering in most leagues, whether he starts or not.

Collins was back in the Utah lineup after missing eight games due to left hip injury management. While he shot the ball well and recorded his ninth double-double of the season, JC was also responsible for six turnovers. That matched his season-high, but the availability is more concerning than the turnovers for fantasy managers. With Collins being the subject of trade rumors, it would be unsurprising if the Jazz took steps to ensure he’s healthy when the February 6 deadline rolls around.

Markkanen was back in the Jazz lineup after missing four games due to lower back spasms. While the stat line was modest, more critical was Lauri playing 30 minutes without issue. With Utah focused on improving its draft lottery odds, Markkanen is a shutdown risk, especially after the trade deadline. Brice Sensabaugh (who was not available on Wednesday) and Kyle Filipowski will have added value whenever he misses time.

After sitting out Monday’s loss to New Orleans, a well-rested Sexton was back in the Jazz lineup, pushing Isaiah Collier to the bench. While he had a solid night shooting the basketball, Sexton was also responsible for a game-high eight turnovers. However, nights like this haven’t been the norm for Sexton, as he’s averaging 2.6 turnovers per game. As for Collier, he finished Wednesday’s loss with eight points, one rebound, two assists, one steal, two 3-pointers, and six turnovers in 23 minutes. This wasn’t a good night for the rookie, but those who added Collier recently should hold onto him.