NBA Player News

There was concern for some fantasy managers that Reaves would be adversely impacted by LeBron James’ return to the Lakers’ lineup after missing two weeks with a strained groin. This type of performance alleviates those worries as Reaves continues to provide excellent fantasy value, even with James back in the mix. Reaves has provided second-round value in eight- and nine-cat formats since LeBron’s return, and he’s scored 30 points or more in consecutive games for the first time this season. With all the attention opposing defenses must devote to James and Luka Doncic, things have opened up for Reaves, and he’s taken advantage. The Lakers play four games during Week 22, starting with the Rockets on Monday.

The Rockets won’t have Jabari Smith Jr. for Friday’s game, as he is out with an ankle injury. As a result, Sheppard, who started for Thompson earlier this week, returns to the starting lineup.

Hart was initially listed as questionable with a lower back contusion, but was ruled in for Friday’s game against the Nuggets. Hart had 10 points and 12 rebounds in Wednesday’s loss to the Thunder.

O’Neale is dealing with a sore right foot and will go through his pregame routine before a decision is made regarding his availability for Friday’s game. If O’Neale can’t play, Grayson Allen and Ryan Dunn are potential replacements in the starting lineup.

Smith is set to miss only his fourth game of the season on Friday against the Trail Blazers. The 22-year-old forward is dealing with an ankle injury. With Smith out, Tari Eason and Josh Okogie should see additional minutes.

Murray is set to miss his second game in a row with an illness. With Deni Avdija (back) also sidelined, Scoot Henderson should start again for the Trail Blazers.

Already without Norman Powell, the Heat won’t have Andrew Wiggins for Friday’s game, either. Gardner moves into the starting lineup, where he offers modest value as a deep-league streamer.

The Mavericks are without Daniel Gafford and Marvin Bagley III for Friday’s game, so Powell will be the starting center. While he offers a limited fantasy ceiling, the veteran forward/center will play plenty due to Dallas’s lack of interior depth.

Avdija is set to miss his sixth consecutive game as he continues to manage a lower back injury. Scoot Henderson should be in line for another start with Avdija and Kris Murray (illness) sidelined.

Tatum will make his season debut on Friday, prompting a change to the Celtics’ starting lineup. Baylor Scheierman heads to the bench, which lowers his fantasy ceiling, especially with Tatum not under a minutes restriction.

Coward and Hendricks sat out Wednesday’s loss to the Trail Blazers, as it was Memphis’ second game in as many nights. The former’s return will likely mean fewer minutes for Jahmai Mashack, while the latter may siphon minutes away from GG Jackson and Olivier-Maxence Prosper.