NBA Player News

Finney-Smith’s name has come up in trade rumors, and with the Nets rebuilding, it’s no surprise that he is on the move. He gives the Lakers a credible 3-and-D wing, which was an area of need for this roster. However, fantasy managers should not expect Finney-Smith’s value to jump much, if at all. The trade also gives the Lakers some salary cap/luxury tax relief, saving the team $15 million. In Brooklyn, Finney-Smith’s exit opens things up for Noah Clowney, who is worth adding since he’s likely to play starters’ minutes moving forward.

Anderson won’t have a fantasy-relevant role even if he’s able to play Thursday. Draymond Green is probable with a back injury, but even if he were to miss the matchup with the 76ers, Anderson likely won’t play enough minutes to be worth rostering.

While Green played 35 minutes in his first game back from the injury, he only logged 25 in Monday’s loss to the Cavaliers. The “probable” tag is encouraging regarding his availability for Thursday night; fantasy managers should plan for Green to play. If he cannot, Jonathan Kuminga could move into the starting lineup.

Outside of dropping 38 points on the Lakers on Christmas Day, Curry struggled with his shot for most of December. Now the 36-year-old point guard is dealing with a thumb sprain on his shooting hand, which is unlikely to help matters. Dennis Schroder would likely take on additional usage if Curry were to miss Thursday’s game.

Podziemski did not play in Monday’s loss to the Cavaliers and is officially out for Thursday’s game against the 76ers. He partially participated in Wednesday’s practice, which included no “live” work but primarily shooting drills and skill work. Moses Moody was productive in his 21 minutes against Cleveland, but he is not at a point where he should be trusted in most fantasy leagues.

Johnson is a late addition to the Hawks injury report and an important one. The good news for Atlanta is that Dyson Daniels (illness) is on track to return, which would help account for Johnson’s absence if he doesn’t play. De’Andre Hunter would have added importance if Johnson is ruled out, while Vit Krejci might remain in the starting lineup.

Grant sat out Monday with the facial injury, but fortunately, he avoided a concussion. Grant’s status for Thursday’s tilt with the Lakers is unclear, but if he’s sidelined again, Deni Avdija would likely earn another start.

Eric Gordon and Kyle Lowry are questionable, and multiple players are out for Wednesday’s tilt with the Kings. Oubre Jr.'s potential absence could free up additional playing time for the likes of Reggie Jackson, Caleb Martin and Ricky Council IV.

Brown made his season debut on Sunday and played the first half of Toronto’s back-to-back set on Tuesday. He’ll be held out for the second leg as he works his way back into game shape following a two-month absence to start the season.

Collins is poised to miss a fifth straight game, which means Walker Kessler should continue to see increased work. Kessler has averaged 9.3 points, 14.0 rebounds and 2.0 blocks across his last four with Collins on the sidelines.

Quickley has been sidelined since November 10, and he’s only appeared in three games this season. He hasn’t yet been cleared for contact, so his status is a bit surprising. Even if IQ is given the green light to return, he’ll likely face a minutes restriction while he ramps back up.