NBA Player News

Morant only played 24 minutes on Thursday, one more than backcourt partner Desmond Bane. He only accumulated three turnovers against the Raptors, but that category has been an issue for the Grizzlies point guard this season. Averaging 3.8 per game, Morant’s value is three rounds lower in 9-cat than in 8-cat. Over the past two weeks, his average has been slightly higher, with Ja responsible for 4.2 per outing.

Vucevic followed up his 40-point game Friday with another strong effort. The 34-year-old center recorded a double-double and was just three assists shy of a triple-double. Vooch also added three steals and a block on the defensive end. He just continues to produce at a high level, though we would caution that he’s more of a top-50 player than a top-20 player in terms of fantasy value.

LaVine has had at least 25 points in eight of 10 games so far in January. He bounced back with a 27-point effort here after scoring only 19 in his last game. The 29-year-old shooting guard is playing at a high level, though his availability needs to be monitored as he’s playing through right patella tendinitis. The Bulls have three games in the upcoming week, starting with the Clippers on Monday.

Sharpe was replaced in the starting lineup by Deni Avdija, with coach Chauncey Billups citing defensive issues. Still, with Anfernee Simons out, the 21-year-old shooting guard managed to play 33 minutes off the bench and lead the Trail Blazers in field goal attempts. He had just 23 points on 18 shots including a 2-of-7 performance from behind the 3-point line. Sharpe won’t provide much in the other categories, but he can score when given the opportunities.

Avdija returned from a one-game absence due to a right ankle sprain and replaced Shaedon Sharpe in the starting lineup. The 24-year-old small forward scored 20 points and pulled down 10 rebounds on his way to a double-double. Avdija should remain in the starting lineup as long as Jerami Grant is also sidelined.