NBA Player News

While Cleveland’s “core four” is available and will start Friday’s game, Max Strus is not. Isaac Okoro, who is most valuable as a defender, will replace him in the lineup. Okoro offers limited production on the offensive end of the floor, especially with Garland and Mitchell available. Mobley’s return pushes Dean Wade to the bench.

Horford suffered a sprained right knee during Sunday’s win over the Wizards and will not play on Tuesday. Kristaps Porzingis (illness) could be cleared to play, which would more than help account for Horford’s absence. Also in line to benefit is Luke Kornet, who grabbed 14 rebounds on Sunday.

The good news for Miami is that Herro is back after missing Saturday’s loss to the Bucks due to an injury. His return means Duncan Robinson heads to the bench, where his fantasy value takes a noticeable hit. However, the Heat will be without Ban Adebayo, so Highsmith moves into the starting five. While starting gives him a shot at fantasy relevance, Haywood’s inconsistent production makes him difficult to rely on.

With Justin Edwards out due to injury and Guerschon Yabusele for personal reasons, the 76ers had two voids to fill in their starting lineup. Walker and Bagley move into the starting five, with the former being the safer streaming choice for managers in active leagues.

Siakam and Sheppard sat out Sunday’s win over the Nuggets, with the former’s absence being more impactful. Obi Toppin replaced Spicy P in the starting lineup and was excellent, hitting four three-pointers and scoring 22 points. He’ll remain in that role if Siakam cannot play on Tuesday. As for Sheppard, his absence led to Johnny Furphy playing a few rotation minutes, but that was not enough to impact fantasy basketball.

While Vukcevic was held out of Sunday’s loss to the Celtics, Gill played 22 minutes off the bench. If he can play, the latter’s playing time is impacted by the former’s availability. Vukcevic has deep-league value when available, despite backing up Alexandre Sarr. If Vukcevic or Gill does not play on Tuesday, additional minutes may also be available to JT Thor.

After being included on the Kings’ initial injury report Monday afternoon, Ellis is good to go. He’ll occupy his usual place in the starting lineup, which is good news for those who have him rostered in active leagues.

Duren is available after sitting out Saturday’s loss to the Grizzlies. His return means Isaiah Stewart will come off the bench, with Beef Stew’s fantasy value taking a hit for those in active leagues.

Harris will miss a third straight game with a heel injury. Dennis Schroder received the starting nod for Saturday’s loss to the Grizzlies and should remain in that role. Harris’s absence also increases Malik Beasley’s value, despite his coming off the bench.

Edwards suffered a rib contusion during the first half of Saturday’s loss to the Timberwolves and did not return. His absence means Lonnie Walker IV will move into the starting lineup after starting the second half of Saturday’s defeat.