NBA Player News

Dunn finished his rookie season with a double-double and a complete stat line on Sunday. While his season-long fantasy value was low, ranking outside the top-300 in eight- and nine-cat formats, Dunn did enough to earn consistent rotation minutes. He would move into the starting lineup for good in mid-March, providing top-150 value in nine-cat formats over the season’s final month. Like many other Suns, projecting Dunn’s fantasy value next season is difficult, as the roster should look far different.

With the Jazz in the midst of a rebuild, there have been questions regarding Markkanen’s future with the franchise. However, while John Collins and Collin Sexton were traded this offseason and Jordan Clarkson’s contract was bought out, the team reportedly does not plan to move Markkanen. “It would be too much to describe Markkanen as untouchable, but the Jazz still project the All-Star forward as a key player in their future core,” MacMahon wrote. In addition to how he’s viewed within the franchise, Markkanen’s contract may deter some teams. Last August, he agreed to a five-year extension worth $238 million. Utah still needs some veterans to lead the way for their young roster, which is why Markkanen remains so valuable to the franchise.

Knecht had a rough night, shooting 1-of-8 from beyond the arc. Unfortunately for the second-year wing, he’s had more difficult nights than good ones this summer, which is concerning for the Lakers. Generally speaking, teams want to see their returnees excel in Las Vegas, if not dominate. Knecht has not done that, which may result in him playing more games at summer league than the Lakers would have hoped.

James put forth his best performance of the NBA 2K26 Summer League on Monday, leading the Lakers in scoring and offering solid value in the rebound and assist categories. Looking forward to the regular season, the second-year guard is not in a great position to provide tangible fantasy value. The Lakers remain in win-now mode, likely limiting Bronny’s opportunities to contribute. His ability to crack the rotation will likely hinge on what James can provide as a defender and perimeter shooter.

After two subdued performances, Konan Niederhauser was more involved offensively on Monday. The nine shot attempts exceeded his total in the Clippers’ first two games in Las Vegas, and the rookie’s teammates appeared more intent on getting him the ball. That led to a few dunks that likely boosted Konan Niederhauser’s confidence, and he finished in double figures. The hope is that he’ll be more consistent on both ends of the floor.

Waived by the Clippers just before the start of summer league, Miller is looking to earn another NBA opportunity, whether it’s with Los Angeles or another team. He needs to improve three-point shooting and defense, both on and off the ball. Miller looked good against the Lakers and performed well in Sunday’s win over the Bucks. The Clippers have a few standard contract slots available, and Miller may be positioning himself to earn one. However, he won’t be worth the risk in fantasy leagues.

After spending his first two seasons with the Celtics, Peterson is reportedly headed to Charlotte. The player and his new head coach are familiar with each other, as Hornets coach Charles Lee was a Celtics assistant during the 2023-24 season. While the change of scenery may result in more opportunities for Peterson, he is not a player to target in fantasy drafts.

After missing Phoenix’s first two summer league games with a sore right knee, Fleming was available to make his debut on Monday. The second-round pick out of Saint Joseph’s was a Suns target, as evidenced by the team’s moves to draft him. Fleming had a quiet night, but he’s a frontcourt player who has range beyond the three-point line and can defend multiple positions. Due to the Suns’ defensive struggles last season, Fleming may be able to earn consistent playing time as a rookie.

Dunn was back in the Suns’ lineup after sitting out Sunday’s loss to the Hawks. Unfortunately for Phoenix, his return did not impact the “bottom line,” as the Suns were routed for a second straight night. Dunn was the lone player to have a good night offensively and was also solid defensively. While the Suns will likely head into training camp with a surplus of wings, Dunn’s defensive ability will get him onto the court. How much he plays will likely depend on the progress he’s able to make as a scorer.

While Carter wasn’t as explosive offensively as he was on Saturday, the second-year guard still produced an efficient stat line. Not only did he shoot over 50 percent from the field, but Carter also provided value as a playmaker and defender. Being consistent in those two categories will significantly impact how much he plays next season. Dennis Schröder was signed to be the starting point guard, but the Kings need depth behind him. Carter has the potential to help fill that void, especially if he can carry over his play in Sacramento’s last two games into training camp.

Clifford and the Kings pulled away during the second quarter of Monday’s rout, as they outscored Phoenix by a 27-11 margin. And the rookie wing’s versatility will be an asset for Sacramento, especially when considering the words of general manager Scott Perry. During an in-game interview, he said the Kings envision Clifford being able to fill in at all three perimeter positions. If that’s how things play out, Clifford’s fantasy value will be enhanced, even with DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine in the rotation.