NBA Player News

Tatum is back after sitting out Wednesday’s rout of the Suns. His return will push Al Horford to the bench, where the veteran forward/center offers less fantasy value. However, managers in deep leagues should hold onto Horford, as he will still play reliable minutes.

Leonard is good to go after his left ankle tightened up on him late in Friday’s loss to the Lakers. He’ll take on his usual role as the focal point of the Clippers offense. Kris Dunn, Kobe Sanders, Derrick Jones Jr. and Brook Lopez complete the starting five in LA’s final game of Week 17.

Hayes sprained his right ankle during the first half, limiting his first stint to five minutes. With Deandre Ayton in foul trouble, the Lakers were forced to go small, with Rui Hachimura serving as the small-ball center. If Hayes misses time beyond Sunday, there may be a few minutes available to Drew Timme.

Playing against the team that was his biggest rival while with the Bucks, Middleton enjoyed his best performance of the season on Sunday. The veteran guard’s 25 points were a season-high and his first with at least 20 since dropping 23 in his first game of the season on October 22. Also of note was Middleton playing 30 minutes for a second straight game; the minutes restriction that limited his value in Washington does not appear to be an issue in Dallas. The only concern for Middleton in Week 18 is that Dallas’ four-game week includes a back-to-back, so he may be limited to three appearances.

Having missed Friday’s loss to the Timberwolves, Christie returned to the starting lineup on Sunday and logged 31 minutes. The percentages, assists and three-pointers were a solid capper to his Week 17, and the good news for Christie managers is that Dallas plays four games in Week 18. Tuesday’s matchup with the Nets could be another positive one for the guard, who’s scored at least 16 points in four of his last five appearances.

After struggling with his shot in Friday’s loss to the Timberwolves, Washington was much better against the Pacers. In addition to recording his first 20-point game since January 28, the Mavericks’ forward recorded a complete stat line. Due to Dallas’ injuries, particularly Cooper Flagg’s, Washington has a higher fantasy ceiling. However, he’s rarely made good on that promise, with Sunday’s performance being an exception. Dallas begins a four-game Week 18 on Tuesday against the Nets.

The Suns lost Dillon Brooks to a fractured left hand during Saturday’s win over the Magic, opening up a spot in the lineup. Dunn, who started the third quarter against Orlando, will take on that responsibility. While not the best streaming option, he’s worth the risk in deeper leagues due to the Suns’ many injuries on the wings.