Tim

Hardaway Jr.

THJ’s role is to be a source of floor spacing for them, but he has struggled in recent weeks. It culminated with a full Tony Snell performance in their last game, but he was able to bounce back in this one. In fantasy hoops, THJ is only a source of 3-pointers, but he hasn’t been consistent enough this year to justify a roster spot. If he gets hot, then you can stream him for a stretch, but as of now, he should be left on the waiver wire.

Both guards were initially listed as probable and have now officially been cleared to play in this game. THJ is back after a three-game absence and should replace Malik Beasley in the starting unit.

Hardaway has missed Detroit’s last three games, with Malik Beasley replacing him in the starting lineup. While THJ starting on Monday would not mean there are no restrictions, that declaration is an encouraging sign for managers who have him rostered. As for Beasley, his fantasy value will decrease if he comes off the bench.

Hardaway will remain sidelined for a third consecutive game. As a result, Malik Beasley will stay in the starting lineup and will add value in category leagues. Simone Fontecchio (toe) has been cleared to play and may sneak into the back end of the rotation, but Beasley is the player fantasy managers should target.

Injured during Tuesday’s win over the Heat, Hardaway has missed Detroit’s last two games. Malik Beasley’s minutes will likely take a hit if Hardaway can play on Sunday. As for Fontecchio, he’s been out of the rotation most nights, so his availability will not impact fantasy basketball.

Hardaway and Fontecchio were initially doubtful for Friday’s game, so the status downgrades were expected. The former’s absence is far more impactful, opening up a spot in the starting lineup. With Hardaway out, Malik Beasley and Ron Holland II will play more minutes, with the former the likely choice to start. Beasley is worth streaming while Hardaway sits, especially for managers needing 3-pointers.

Given the doubtful tags, it appears unlikely that Hardaway or Fontecchio will play on Friday. The good news for the former is that the Pistons list his injury as a laceration without mentioning a potential concussion after his scary fall on Tuesday. Malik Beasley and Ron Holland will play more minutes, with the former being a worthwhile streamer in deep leagues.

Hardaway will be getting stitches after taking elbow to face and then slamming back of his head against the hardwood. Haynes notes that it’s great news considering how scary it looked as Hardaway was down on the floor for more than a couple minutes and headed to the locker room on a wheelchair. There’s still no clear timetable for his return.

Hardaway Jr. (head) collided with Jalen Duren as the two Pistons defended a drive by Miami’s Tyler Herro in the third quarter for Tuesday’s game against the Heat. Hardaway Jr. appeared to be on the receiving end of a knee to back of the head from Duren. He was down on the floor for several minutes before heading to the locker room on a wheelchair. We’ll have another update once more is known about Hardaway Jr.'s condition.

Thompson has been sidelined since March while dealing with blood clots, but he’ll be available to start ramping up in anticipation of a return in the near future. Thompson’s eventual return could mean fewer minutes for the likes of Tim Hardaway Jr., Malik Beasley and Simone Fontecchio, though it’s likely Thompson is eased back into action after such a long layoff.