NBA Player News

Okogie has been out of the Hornets’ lineup since January 31 after suffering a strained left hamstring. His return to action won’t significantly impact fantasy basketball, but Okogie should play rotation minutes off the bench once cleared.

The Knicks are already without Jalen Brunson, and Miles McBride and Cameron Payne are not available for Friday’s game, either. After not being in the rotation, Wright moves into the starting lineup, while Tyler Kolek will come off the bench. If the minutes are distributed evenly, Kolek offers a higher ceiling, especially for managers needing assists.

Quickley and Poeltl are back after missing Wednesday’s win over the Nets, pushing Jamal Shead and Orlando Robinson to the bench. Battle, who steps into the lineup with RJ Barrett (rest) ruled out, is the other change.

Earlier Friday, it was announced that LaMelo Ball (wrist, ankle) is out for the rest of the season. Simpson will replace him in the starting lineup, and the two-way rookie is eligible for every game the rest of the way. He’ll likely retain the role for the foreseeable future, with Damion Baugh potentially getting a few opportunities when he’s active. Baugh is inactive for Friday’s game.

Curry is back after a two-game absence, and no effort will be required to insert him back into the starting lineup. Gary Payton II is out indefinitely with a thumb injury, so Curry can fill that vacancy if Steve Kerr takes this approach. That would leave Brandin Podziemski and Moses Moddy in the starting lineup.

Giannis is back after sitting out Wednesday’s loss to the Nuggets. His return means Gary Trent Jr. will likely head to the bench, but his value should hold since Damian Lillard (calf) is unavailable.

Martin played 17 minutes off the bench in Thursday’s win over the Magic. He’ll likely take on a similar workload against the Bulls, which limits his fantasy ceiling. Martin should not be rostered in most leagues.

Lively II last played on January 14, but it’s unclear when he’ll return. He’s been practicing with the Mavs G League affiliate, but he’s still not ready to return. Anthony Davis is probable, and he should handle the majority of the work at center.

Ducas is not a member of the Thunder rotation when he is healthy. Therefore, his absence will not impact fantasy basketball.

Caruso and Williams exited Thursday’s win over the Grizzlies prematurely, and these injuries have been an issue in the past. With Aaron Wiggins (Achilles) out, there would be more playing time available to Kenrich Williams and Isaiah Joe if Caruso and JayWill do not play. Joe offers a higher fantasy ceiling than Kenrich due to his three-point shooting.