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  Bogut to miss 2-4 weeks with injury
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Andrew Bogut, C MIL |
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| News: Milwaukee Bucks center Andrew Bogut will be out for two to four weeks with a left leg injury. General manager John Hammond said late Thursday that Bogut suffered a leg strain and contusion in Wednesday's 99-85 win against New Jersey. Bogut scored 21 points and 11 rebounds before leaving the game in late in the fourth quarter. An MRI revealed the injury on Thursday. |
Analysis: The 24-year-old Bogut, now in his fifth season, is averaging 16.1 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. He is very productive as a No. 1 caliber center when healthy, but injuries have plagued him throughout his NBA career. He is well worth stashing in all leagues. Dan Gadzuric and Francisco Elson will see a boost in playing time at center and Hakim Warrick could see a major boost at power forward for the Bucks along with Ersan Ilyasova. |
 Murphy to return Friday night
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Troy Murphy, C IND |
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| News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer is reporting that Pacers F Troy Murphy will return to the Pacers lineup Friday night after missing his last six games due to a back problem. He is listed as the starting power forward in the given projected starting lineup. |
Analysis: Murphy's Fantasy owners in weekly leagues should use the weekend to see how ready he'll be to activate for Week 5 (Nov. 23-29). Barring any setbacks, Murphy is a player you'll likely want to activate in all leagues. The Pacers are slated for three games. |
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Redd to play three games in Week 5?
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Michael Redd, SG MIL |
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| News: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Michael Redd is still out for "a few more games" due to a patella injury. General manager John Hammond said it's realistic to think Redd could be available in time for Wednesday's game at New Orleans, the third game on the Bucks' upcoming four-game road swing. "We expect Michael back within the next two or three games," Hammond said. |
Analysis: Redd was able to take part in non-contact practice Thursday, but is still going to miss another couple of games. It appears Fantasy owners won't be able to count on him for a full week in Fantasy Week 5 (Nov. 23-29), but he could still be available to play three games. He's a gamble, but is such an elite scorer that he could be worth the risk. |
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Haslem still considered questionable
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Udonis Haslem, PF MIA |
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| News: The Miami Herald reports that Udonis Haslem (shoulder) is still considered questionable for Friday's game in Toronto. Haslem missed Wednesday's game. |
Analysis: Haslem is no longer a starter for the Heat, but he has averaged nearly a double-double off the bench. He remains worth using as a No. 4 forward in Fantasy, when healthy. Consider healthier alternatives in daily lineup leagues. |
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Marion hoping to return Tuesday
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Shawn Marion, PF DAL |
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| News: ESPNDallas.com is reporting that Shawn Marion will not play Friday night against the Sacramento Kings, but that he is hoping to return for the team's next game Tuesday against Golden State. "Hopefully one more game and I'll be good," Marion said after the team's morning shootaround Friday. "It's feeling better, but it still hurts." |
Analysis: Marion sprained his left ankle in the opening moments of Monday's win against the Milwaukee Bucks and didn't return for the second half. He sat out Wednesday's win against the San Antonio Spurs. He should still be considered a mild injury risk for the upcoming scoring period, but the fact the Mavericks have four games sure helps his chances. |
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Chandler unlikely to play Friday
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Tyson Chandler, C CHA |
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| News: The Charlotte Observer reports that it appears Tyson Chandler will not play Friday night against Milwaukee, though Chandler said there's a "slight" chance he could play if he wakes up from an afternoon nap feeling dramatically better. |
Analysis: The report added that Chandler is sounding as if the goal is to play Sunday versus the Pacers. The Bobcats have not yet announced a starter in his place, but the report added that it depends on what the Bucks, who are without Andrew Bogut, do at center. It could be Nazr Mohammed against a conventional center like Dan Gadzuric or it could be Boris Diaw against a small lineup if the team goes with a Hakim Warrick or Ersan Ilyasova at center. Chandler has been dreadful in Fantasy and is active in just 20 percent of CBSSports.com leagues. |
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Bynum expects to play Sunday
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Andrew Bynum, C LAL |
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| News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Andrew Bynum suffered a jammed right ankle in Thursday's game against the Bulls. He is considered day to day, but expects to play in the team's next game Sunday against Oklahoma City. |
Analysis: Bynum had 11 points and 8 rebounds in just 24 minutes Thursday and did not seem to be overly affected by the return of Pau Gasol. However, Gasol's return should have an impact on his overall numbers as it's unlikely he will be able to maintain his current averages of 19.4 points and 11.4 rebounds. He remains a No. 1 center, but temper expectations. The injury does not appear to be much of a concern at this point. |
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Harris to return off the bench
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Devin Harris, SG NJ |
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| News: Nets G Devin Harris (groin) announced Thursday night that he would come off the bench Saturday against New York on his official Twitter feed. Harris has not played since Oct. 30. |
Analysis: Harris is going to make his return Saturday and he said on his Twitter feed that he's going to try to win the NBA 6th Man of the Year award. We don't expect his stay on the bench to be for very long, though. Fantasy owners should count on activating him for Week 5 and can begin to activate him even in daily lineup leagues, though conditioning could be an issue. |
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Camby says he'll play Friday
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Marcus Camby, C LAC |
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| News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Marcus Camby says he will play Friday night against Denver. He suffered a lower back bruise Tuesday in New Orleans and played limited minutes Wednesday at Memphis. "I'll definitely be out there . . . and give it a go," said Camby. "It's Denver, my former team. There's no more motivation than that." |
Analysis: All signs point to Camby playing Friday. Fantasy owners should always treat Camby, notorious for being injury plagued, as day to day anyway. As long as he is healthy and playing, he remains a great source for rebounds blocks and scoring around 10 points per game. |
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Knicks no longer after Iverson
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Allen Iverson, SG MEM |
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| News: The New York Times and Newsday are reporting that the Knicks have dropped their pursuit of free agent G Allen Iverson. Iverson cleared waivers Thursday after being released by the Grizzlies. |
Analysis: Fantasy owners were getting excited over A.I. possibly joining one of the best offensive teams in the NBA, but that seems to be unlikely now. He is still likely to get picked up by another team, but his appeal is not likely to be as high on another team. |
 Gasol doesn't miss a beat in debut
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Pau Gasol, C LAL |
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| News: Against the Bulls on Thursday, Lakers F/C Pau Gasol finally returned from a hamstring injury that had sidelined him for 11 games. He appeared fully healthy in his first appearance since early in the preseason, finishing with 24 points and 13 rebounds. Gasol scored 10 of the Lakers' first 13 points, moving easily on his injured leg while playing 35 minutes. "Definitely, I missed it a lot," said Gasol. "It's so much fun to play with our guys in front of our crowd. I really wasn't expecting to be as effective as I was tonight, but my teammates found me a couple of times and made it easy." |
Analysis: Gasol played in just two preseason games before sitting down with a hamstring injury that didn't appear to improve much with rest. He wondered aloud whether his hectic schedule over the past two years -- including a summer with an NBA title run and a tournament MVP award at the European championships in Poland -- had worn down his body. So much for that. Gasol was a first-round pick in most Fantasy leagues, so his return just made someone in your league much, much better. He won't lead the Lakers in scoring, but he should dominate as a sidekick to Kobe Bryant, averaging somewhere in the neighborhood of 18 points and nine rebounds with more assists than the average PF/C. Clearly, you want to get him active in all Fantasy leagues. |
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Love progressing well in rehab
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Kevin Love, PF MIN |
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| News: The Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports that Kevin Love says the pain from his hand is almost gone. He was able to do some outside shooting Friday and says that full contact practice is likely two weeks away. |
Analysis: That would put Love on schedule to return in three weeks more or less and that puts him out through mid December at this point. He averaged 12.5 points and 11.5 rebounds per game in the preseason. He averaged 11.1 points and 9.1 rebounds last season and led the NBA in offensive rebounding percentage, the first rookie to do so since Hakeem Olajuwon 24 years ago. Continue to keep tabs on his progress. |
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R. Lopez able to practice
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Robin Lopez, C PHO |
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| News: The Arizona Republic reports that Robin Lopez participated in his first full-contact practice Friday. He has yet to play this season due to a fracture in his foot. |
Analysis: Lopez will be a backup upon his return. His limited minutes make him useless in most Fantasy formats and he should remain on waivers in all leagues. |
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Varejao to play Friday night
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Anderson Varejao, C CLE |
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| News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that Anderson Varejao (hip) said after the team's morning shootaround that he would play against the Pacers. Varejao missed Tuesday's game against the Warriors and Wednesday's game at Washington as well. |
Analysis: Varejao could see an increased role Friday night with Shaquille O'Neal out of the lineup, but the emergence of J.J. Hickson has cut into his Fantasy appeal. He can be useful during some four-game weeks, but he should remain on waivers in most leagues. |
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Richardson still questionable
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Quentin Richardson, SF MIA |
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| News: The Miami Herald reports that Quentin Richardson (shoulder) is still considered questionable for Friday's game in Toronto. Richardson left in the third quarter Wednesday after landing awkwardly as he secured a defensive rebound. |
Analysis: Richardson is not a player who carries a lot of Fantasy appeal despite his role as a starter. He certainly isn't somebody you should take any sort of an injury risk on. He is best saved for use in deeper leagues when he is playing well and facing favorable matchups. |
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Howard chimes in on his rehab
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Josh Howard, SF DAL |
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| News: The Dallas Morning News reports that Josh Howard (ankle) was asked at his annual charity bowling event Thursday how his rehab was going and he said it is going well. "It's getting better, and I'm going to try to be out there real soon," he said. |
Analysis: There isn't too much information to read into there, more like an empty answer from Howard. He said he probably rushed back too fast from off-season surgery but added "at the time, it felt like it was OK." ESPNDallas.com has reported that he will not return until late December. |
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No timetable for Dampier's return
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Erick Dampier, C DAL |
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| News: The Dallas Morning News reports that all major medical issues that would be considering life- or career-threatening have been eliminated in regard to center Erick Dampier's health, according to an NBA source. The Mavericks are still waiting on the returns from more tests, the source added. There is no timetable for a return to game action for Dampier. |
Analysis: This is great news on all fronts as Dampier can just get back to being an NBA player who is out day to day. Fantasy owners should not activate him in any league, however, until he is cleared by the team to return to action. |
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Mohammed to start for Chandler?
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Nazr Mohammed, C CHA |
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| News: The Charlotte Observer reports that it appears Tyson Chandler will not play Friday night against Milwaukee, though Chandler said there's a "slight" chance he could play if he wakes up from an afternoon nap feeling dramatically better. Nazr Mohammed did not play |
Analysis: The report added that who would start at center depends on what the Bucks, who are without Andrew Bogut, do at center. It could be Nazr Mohammed against a conventional center like Dan Gadzuric or it could be Boris Diaw against a small lineup if the team goes with a Hakim Warrick or Ersan Ilyasova at center. Chandler has been dreadful in Fantasy and is active in just 20 percent of CBSSports.com leagues. Mohammed would be a very unappealing replacement option. |
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Alston's Fantasy run to end?
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Rafer Alston, PG NJ |
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| News: Nets G Devin Harris (groin) announced Thursday night that he would come off the bench Saturday against New York on his official Twitter feed. Harris has not played since Oct. 30. Rafer Alston has been starting in his place. |
Analysis: Alston has been decent in Harris' place and while it is possible the team could look to leave him in the starting lineup for a few games while Harris gets his conditioning back in order, Harris' return likely means the end of Alston's Fantasy appeal for now unless the team decides to start Harris at shooting guard. |
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Rose's play limited due to ankle?
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Derrick Rose, PG CHI |
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| News: Yahoo! Sports reports that Derrick Rose continues to be limited by a sprained right ankle Rose suffered early in the preseason. "I really can't run [well] unless I'm taped," Rose said. "I depend on the tape a little bit too much. But I know it's getting back there." |
Analysis: The most telling sign, the report notes, is that Rose has yet to dunk this season. By the look of Rose's play and statistics, his ankle still isn't 100 percent. Rose averaged 16.8 points on 47.5 percent shooting from the field, 6.3 assists and 3.9 rebounds in 37 minutes per game last season. This season, those numbers have dropped to 13.4 points on 43.8 percent shooting, 5.5 assists and 2.9 rebounds in 32.4 minutes per game. The further he is removed from the ankle injury, the closer he'll get back to his excellent production. With the Bulls playing just two games in the upcoming scoring period, perhaps it could be a good excuse to sit him in cumulative leagues. |
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Gordon could return vs. Minnesota
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Eric Gordon, SG LAC |
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| News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Eric Gordon could return "early next week." The report adds that his return could come Monday against Minnesota. |
Analysis: Gordon is out due to a strained groin and while he could return Monday, he will still be a mild injury risk in Fantasy leagues for Week 5 (Nov. 23-29). The Clippers play four games in Week 4, which does help. When healthy, Gordon is a solid No. 2 Fantasy guard. |
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Ilyasova to see a Fantasy boost
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Ersan Ilyasova, SF MIL |
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| News: Milwaukee Bucks center Andrew Bogut will be out for two to four weeks with a left leg injury. General manager John Hammond said late Thursday that Bogut suffered a leg strain and contusion in Wednesday's 99-85 win against New Jersey. Bogut scored 21 points and 11 rebounds before leaving the game in late in the fourth quarter. An MRI revealed the injury on Thursday. Dan Gadzuric and Francisco Elson are likely to split time at center in his absence. Hakim Warrick and Ersan Ilyasova are also likely to see a Fantasy boost. |
Analysis: Ilyasova has averaged 12.0 points and 9.0 rebounds over his last five games and has been a surprising force for the Bucks down low. He also can provide some three-point shooting and is an interesting sleeper off the waiver wire while Bogut is sidelined. |
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Ginobili will miss about a week
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Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Manu Ginobili, SG SA |
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| News: Spurs SG Manu Ginobili will miss about a week because of a strained left groin. Ginobili was inactive for Thursday night's game against Utah. He left the first quarter of Wednesday's overtime loss at Dallas and didn't return. |
Analysis: Ginobili battled a hamstring injury just last week and continues to have injury concerns at age 32. When healthy, he contributes enough points, rebounds and assists to start in all Fantasy leagues, but he looks like a risky start for Fantasy Week 5 (Nov. 23-29). |
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Warrick to see a Fantasy boost
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Hakim Warrick, PF MIL |
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| News: Milwaukee Bucks center Andrew Bogut will be out for two to four weeks with a left leg injury. General manager John Hammond said late Thursday that Bogut suffered a leg strain and contusion in Wednesday's 99-85 win against New Jersey. Bogut scored 21 points and 11 rebounds before leaving the game in late in the fourth quarter. An MRI revealed the injury on Thursday. Dan Gadzuric and Francisco Elson are likely to split time at center in his absence. Hakim Warrick is also likely to see a Fantasy boost. |
Analysis: Warrick is likely to see a boost in offensive touches down low as well as in rebounding. He is a player that has been able to contribute good numbers in spurts in the past and will have the ability for increased production in the next couple of weeks. He's an excellent addition off the waiver wire where available. |
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Elson to see a Fantasy boost
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Francisco Elson, C MIL |
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| News: Milwaukee Bucks center Andrew Bogut will be out for two to four weeks with a left leg injury. General manager John Hammond said late Thursday that Bogut suffered a leg strain and contusion in Wednesday's 99-85 win against New Jersey. Bogut scored 21 points and 11 rebounds before leaving the game in late in the fourth quarter. An MRI revealed the injury on Thursday. Dan Gadzuric and Francisco Elson are likely to split time at center in his absence. |
Analysis: Dan Gadzuric and Francisco Elson will see a boost in playing time at center and Hakim Warrick could see a major boost at power forward for the Bucks along with Ersan Ilyasova. Gadzuric and Elson remain very low-end Fantasy options with limited upside, but they could be of some use in deeper leagues where their added playing time will lead to at least some modest gains. |
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Gadzuric to see a Fantasy boost
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Dan Gadzuric, C MIL |
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| News: Milwaukee Bucks center Andrew Bogut will be out for two to four weeks with a left leg injury. General manager John Hammond said late Thursday that Bogut suffered a leg strain and contusion in Wednesday's 99-85 win against New Jersey. Bogut scored 21 points and 11 rebounds before leaving the game in late in the fourth quarter. An MRI revealed the injury on Thursday. Dan Gadzuric and Francisco Elson are likely to split time at center in his absence. |
Analysis: Dan Gadzuric and Francisco Elson will see a boost in playing time at center and Hakim Warrick could see a major boost at power forward for the Bucks along with Ersan Ilyasova. Gadzuric and Elson remain very low-end Fantasy options with limited upside, but they could be of some use in deeper leagues where their added playing time will lead to at least some modest gains. |
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Still no timetable for T-Mac
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Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Tracy McGrady, SG HOU |
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| News: The Houston Chronicle reports that Tracy McGrady dressed up in his Rockets uniform after his customary pregame workout Wednesday, but he remained on the inactive list. "We have no timetable," coach Rick Adelman said when asked about McGrady's return. |
Analysis: T-Mac had targeted Nov. 18 as a possible return date, but that had been recanted by both himself and the team as nothing more than a pipe dream. McGrady seems antsy to return, but until a concrete return date is given (and supported by the team) Fantasy owners should continue to keep him stashed away. |
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Odom back to playing reserve role
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Lamar Odom, PF LAL |
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| News: Lakers PF Lamar Odom, who was starting with Pau Gasol sidelined by a hamstring injury, returned to the bench with Gasol back in the lineup Thursday against the Bulls. He had 11 points, eight rebounds and two assists in 26 minutes, playing aggressively enough that he needed six stitches in his right eyebrow after the game. |
Analysis: Odom didn't produce numbers much better than that as a starter, so he might not lose much value with this move. The Lakers need someone to produce off the bench, after all. If Odom didn't play for such a loaded team, he'd be a high-end Fantasy option. As it is, he's no more than a No. 4 forward in Fantasy. |
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Fisher in double figures for once
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Derek Fisher, PG LAL |
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| News: Lakers PG Derek Fisher scored 12 points against the Bulls on Thursday, putting him in double figures for the first time in seven games and the second time this season. He shot a perfect 5 for 5 from the field, including 2 for 2 from 3-point range. He also had two rebounds and two assists. |
Analysis: Fisher starts for the Lakers, but Kobe Bryant gets all the numbers out of the backcourt. Fisher is nothing more than a veteran caretaker and not worth using outside of the deepest of Fantasy leagues. |
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Noah going crazy with the DBL-DBLs
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Joakim Noah, PF CHI |
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| News: Bulls C Joakim Noah had another big double-double Thursday at the Lakers, finishing with 12 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, four steals and two blocks. He has double-doubles in six straight games, averaging 14.3 points and 14.8 rebounds during that stretch. |
Analysis: Noah is one of the biggest breakout players in Fantasy this season and is especially valuable in categorical leagues since he contributes plenty of blocks to go along with those points and rebounds. Safe to say he has emerged as a No. 1 center. |
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Miller finally puts up some numbers
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Brad Miller, C CHI |
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| News: Bulls C Brad Miller had 15 points, five rebounds, four assists and two steals in 31 minutes off the bench Thursday at the Lakers. He has scored in double figures in three straight games, averaging 13.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists during that stretch. |
Analysis: Before this hot three-game stretch, Miller went three games without scoring more than three points. The Bulls are still trying to figure out how to use him now that Joakim Noah is the clear starting center, but as long as he gets this kind of production, he has some Fantasy appeal. Keep an eye on him to see if it continues. |
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Duncan looks like he's back in form
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Tim Duncan, PF SA |
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| News: Spurs PF Tim Duncan, who recently missed two games because of an ankle injury, had 21 points, nine rebounds and five assists Thursday against the Jazz. He's averaging 21.7 points, 11.0 rebounds and 4.7 assists in three games since returning. |
Analysis: Duncan was off to a slow start -- at least scoring-wise -- before the injury, but he's playing like his usual 20-10 self now. He's obviously a must-start in all Fantasy formats. |
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Blair not doing much damage anymore
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| DeJuan Blair, PF SA |
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| News: Spurs PF DeJuan Blair had just three points, two rebounds and one assist off the bench Thursday against the Jazz. He played only nine minutes and has a total of 15 over his last two games. |
Analysis: Blair, a rookie, played a big role for the Spurs back when Tim Duncan was hurting, but he doesn't look like an important part of their rotation now, averaging just 3.2 points over his last six games. Leave him for deeper leagues. |
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Millsap steps up with Okur out
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Paul Millsap, PF UTA |
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| News: Getting to play 37 minutes off the bench with C Mehmet Okur home with the flu Thursday at San Antonio, Jazz PF Paul Millsap scored 20 points, his most since he had 23 back on Oct. 30. He also had seven rebounds. He has scored in double figures in each of his last four games, but he's still averaging only 14.0 points and 5.5 rebounds during that stretch. |
Analysis: Clearly, Millsap isn't the same player he was last year now that Carlos Boozer is back healthy, but when injuries afford him more playing time, he still has the ability to put up those kinds of numbers. He's worth stashing in the event Boozer gets traded, but he's just a low-end forward in Fantasy right now. |
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Brewer offers defense over offense
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Ronnie Brewer, SG UTA |
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| News: Jazz SG Ronnie Brewer scored 13 points Thursday at San Antonio, his most in three games. He continued his solid defensive play, however, contributing two blocks and one steal to give him at least one steal in eight straight games. |
Analysis: Brewer averaged 17.3 points over his first three games but has averaged only 9.9 points in the nine games since. He's good for a few steals, but not much more, making him borderline rosterable in standard Fantasy leagues. |
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D. Collison picks up slack for Paul
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Darren Collison, PG NO |
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| News: Hornets rookie PG Darren Collison, getting an opportunity to start with Chris Paul sidelined by an ankle injury, had 15 points, five rebounds and five assists against the Suns on Thursday. He shot only 4 for 15 from the field, however. |
Analysis: Aside from the field-goal percentage, Collison had his best game as a professional Thursday and will get a chance to strut his stuff with Paul sidelined. He likely won't keep the job long enough to matter in standard leagues, but you can take a flier on him in deeper leagues. |
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D. Brown looks good with minutes
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Devin Brown, SG NO |
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| News: Hornets SG Devin Brown, getting a chance to start and play more than 30 minutes for the second straight game Thursday against the Suns, had 19 points, six rebounds and five assists, hitting two 3-pointers. He has played at least 30 minutes three times this year and has averaged 20.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.3 assists in those contests. |
Analysis: With Chris Paul sidelined by injury, the Hornets might continue to give Brown heavy minutes. With his unexpected production, he's worth a flier in deeper leagues and worth monitoring in all leagues. |
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Okafor finally scores some points
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Emeka Okafor, C NO |
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| News: Hornets C Emeka Okafor, who went three games without scoring in double figures, finally got back on track with 13 points and 12 rebounds Thursday against the Suns. The double-double was his sixth of the season. |
Analysis: Okafor recorded double-doubles in four of his first five games, but his numbers have been pretty pathetic since then. He's still worth starting in most Fantasy formats since he's a good source of rebounds and blocks, but he's playing more like a No. 2 Fantasy center than a No. 1. |
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Stojakovic gets first double-double
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Peja Stojakovic, SG NO |
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| News: Hornets SF Peja Stojakovic scored 25 points, hitting 7 of 11 threes, and pulled down 13 rebounds, by far a season high, Thursday against the Suns, giving him his first double-double of the season. He's averaging 21.7 points over his last three games. |
Analysis: The Hornets recently inserted Stojakovic into the starting lineup, and the move has paid off. He's picking up some of the points left behind by Chris Paul, but his performance might be spotty since he relies so heavily on the 3-pointer. Still, he's worth a flier if you need an extra forward for your bench. |
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Hill's numbers back down to earth
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Grant Hill, SG PHO |
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| News: Suns SF Grant Hill, who averaged 17.5 points and 10.3 rebounds over his first four games, had 10 points, six rebounds and three rebounds Thursday at New Orleans. He's now averaging 9.0 points and 5.8 rebounds over his last four games. |
Analysis: Hill must have realized he's 37 years old and well beyond the days he could average 20 points and 10 rebounds per game. If he can maintain his current averages of 12.5 points and 7.7 rebounds, he's worth using as a No. 4 forward in Fantasy, but keep in mind those averages are skewed by his early-season numbers. |
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Frye records second double-double
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Channing Frye, PF PHO |
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| News: Suns C Channing Frye had 11 points and 10 rebounds Thursday at New Orleans, giving him only his second double-double of the season. He also had two blocks and two assists, but he shot just 4 for 15 from the field, including 1 for 7 from 3-point range. |
Analysis: Frye hits more threes than the average big man, but he rarely scores more than a dozen points per game and isn't much of a rebounder. He's a No. 2 Fantasy center at best. |
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Dudley again plays well off bench
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Updated 11/20/2009 |
| Jared Dudley, PF PHO |
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| News: Suns SF Jared Dudley, who had gone two games without scoring in double figures, had 17 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals Thursday at New Orleans. He shot 5 for 6 from 3-point range. |
Analysis: Dudley has emerged as one of the Suns' best scorers off the bench, averaging 11.3 points over his last nine games. Still, his output is too inconsistent for him to matter in standard-sized leagues. |
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Price out, but won't need surgery
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Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Ronnie Price, PG UTA |
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| News: Jazz PG Ronnie Price missed his fifth straight game with a sprained left big toe Thursday at San Antonio. According to the Salt Lake Tribune, the injury won't require surgery, but the Jazz still have no timetable for his return. |
Analysis: Looks like Price might still be a week or two away. Even healthy, he doesn't get enough minutes to factor in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers. |
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Okur sidelined again with the flu
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Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Mehmet Okur, C UTA |
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| News: Jazz K Mehmet Okur, who missed Wednesday's game with the flu, sat out again Thursday at San Antonio. He was feeling better, though, according to the Salt Lake Tribune, and shows no signs of the H1N1 virus. |
Analysis: The Jazz play their next game Saturday against the Pistons, and Okur has a good chance of returning then. When healthy, he'll score 15-17 points and rebound just enough to function as a No. 1 center in Fantasy, especially since he hits 3-pointers. |
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Armstrong sits out another game
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Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Hilton Armstrong, PF NO |
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| News: Hornets C Hilton Armstrong missed a second straight game Thursday against the Suns because of a sprained right shoulder. |
Analysis: Armstrong gets a few minutes off the bench as Emeka Okafor's backup, but not enough to do anything worthwhile in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers. |
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Parker still out with ankle injury
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Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Tony Parker, PG SA |
|
| News: Spurs PG Tony Parker missed his second straight game Thursday against the Jazz with a sprained left ankle. He re-aggravated the injury in a loss Saturday against Oklahoma City and didn't play Wednesday against the Mavericks. Parker, who has missed four of San Antonio's last five games, rolled his ankle in a loss on Nov. 6 at Portland. |
Analysis: Parker remains day to day, so you'll just have to keep an ear out for any new information, but the hunch here is he misses a few more games. The Spurs won't want to risk bringing him back too soon a second time. When healthy, he's a must-start Fantasy guard capable of averaging 20 points and six assists per game. |
|
Mbah a Moute wearing a boot
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Luc Richard Mbah a Moute, SF MIL |
|
| News: The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reports that Luc Richard Mbah a Moute sat out practice Thursday and was wearing a boot on his left foot. He was diagnosed with a left foot sprain following the Dallas game on Monday and did not play against the Nets Wednesday. |
Analysis: Mbah a Moute has had some sporadic performances early on this season and that is more or less what you should expected from him when he is healthy. That makes him a very unreliable Fantasy option and definitely not one to go to when he is less than 100 percent. |
|
Carney suffers sprained wrist
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Rodney Carney, SF PHI |
|
| News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Rodney Carney has a sprained right wrist. He is expected to play in the team's next game against Memphis, however. |
Analysis: Carney is coming off his best performance of the season Wednesday with 10 points, 8 rebounds and 2 assists with 2 threes and a block against the Bobcats. He could be in line for a bigger role in the next few games with the team a bit banged up. |
|
Thomas makes debut with Dallas
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Tim Thomas, PF DAL |
|
| News: Mavericks F Tim Thomas made his Dallas debut Wednesday against San Antonio. He played 13 minutes off the bench and managed 2 points with 2 rebounds. |
Analysis: Thomas will be a reserve off the bench in Dallas and he is not much of a Fantasy option. He could get some run with the team dealing with some injuries, but is not someone we recommend activating in Fantasy at this time. |
|
Bell plays despite surgery looming
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Raja Bell, SG GS |
|
| News: Golden State SG Raja Bell, who still plans to undergo surgery on his left wrist Thursday as he still has a partially torn ligament, played 23 minutes on Wednesday at Boston. The Warriors are decimated with injuries and needed at least eight healthy players on the bench. That was the same scenario on Tuesday when Bell dressed but didn't play. He definitely played on Wednesday, however, and played well. Bell scored 11 points in 23 minutes on 4 of 6 shooting and even went 3 for 3 from long distance. He added three assists and even grabbed two rebounds. He said after the game that he will have surgery on his left wrist -- that was heavily taped -- on Thursday. "He was going to have surgery anyway so he didn't think that he would injure it worse," coach Don Nelson said. "He's going to leave us tomorrow and have surgery." |
Analysis: This is just about the most confusing situation Fantasy owners could have so let's simplify it for you. Basically, the Warriors have no healthy players and so they kept an injured guy on the court. Bell will still have possibly season-ending surgery on his wrist on Thursday and should be reserved in all Fantasy formats until further notice. |
|
Harden goes off for 24 points
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| James Harden, SG OKC |
|
| News: Thunder SG James Harden went off on Wednesday against the Magic. Harden played 31 minutes off the bench and scored a career-high 24 points on 7 of 14 from the field with six threes in seven tries. He added three assists, three rebounds and a steal. |
Analysis: Harden scored in double figures for the first time this season and did it with panache. We are uncertain production like that will continue, especially since he saw at least six more minutes on Wednesday than he had in his previous five games. That said, if he plays this way, he'll earn more minutes. It is time to track his progress and begin to think about adding him off waivers. The rookie had value as a sleeper and if he can play like this more consistently, he'll begin to realize that value. |
|
Jamison triumphantly returns
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Antawn Jamison, PF WAS |
|
| News: Wizards forward Antawn Jamison has made his season debut, starting against the Cleveland Cavaliers after missing Washington's first nine games. Jamison injured his right shoulder during an exhibition game last month. After his shoulder healed, he was sidelined with the flu. Jamison is Washington's captain and led the team in scoring and rebounding each of the past two seasons and he didn't disappoint on Wednesday. He scored a team-high 31 points in 38 minutes on 12 of 22 shooting with two threes. Jamison also recorded a double-double as he added 10 rebounds. |
Analysis: Jamison proved on Wednesday that Fantasy owners need not temper expectations for the must-start Fantasy option. He looked like he's been playing all season at full strength on Wednesday and can be used in all leagues immediately. |
|
Nowitzki drops 41 points on Spurs
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Dirk Nowitzki, PF DAL |
|
| News: The Mavericks needed a big game from Dirk Nowitzki to compensate for the loss of three injured starters, and that's exactly what he gave them. Nowitzki scored 11 of his season-high 41 points in overtime and the Mavericks held on to beat the injury-depleted San Antonio Spurs 99-94 on Wednesday night. Nowitzki's three-point play with 2:28 left in overtime put Dallas in front for good, 92-91. After Jason Terry hit a 15-footer, Nowitzki made a 3-pointer on Dallas' next possession to stretch the lead to 97-91, closing out the Spurs. "He's playing great basketball and [I] think he's one of the top guys right now in the league," Gooden said. "He's really playing at a high level. We need that because of all the injuries we have right now and he's doing everything he can to carry this team." |
Analysis: Nowitzki went 15 for 29 from the field, converted 10 of 12 free throws and pulled down 12 rebounds to continue a big week for the German superstar. Nowitzki's buzzer-beating overtime jumper gave Dallas a 115-113 victory at Milwaukee on Monday night after he scored 25 in a 95-90 road victory against Detroit on Sunday. "I hoped he was having an off night," said Matt Bonner, one of several Spurs who tried to guard Nowitzki. "I can play perfect defense and jump as high as I can and he can still score." Nowitzki remains a must-start option in all Fantasy formats. |
|
Boozer's 18 rebounds a season high
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Carlos Boozer, PF UTA |
|
| News: Jazz PF Carlos Boozer recorded his sixth double-double in his last seven games Wednesday against the Raptors, finishing with 22 points and a season-high 18 rebounds. He's averaging 21.0 points and 12.7 rebounds during that seven-game stretch. |
Analysis: After a slow start, Boozer looks as good as ever and is again a safe bet for 20 points and 10 rebounds every night. He's a No. 1 forward in all Fantasy leagues. |
|
Jefferson gets double-double at Dallas
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Richard Jefferson, SF SA |
|
| News: San Antonio SF Richard Jefferson put together a double-double on Wednesday in an overtime loss to the Mavericks. Jefferson scored 13 points in the game and added 11 rebounds. He was 5 for 11 from the field, adding a blocked shot to his totals but also turning the ball over five times. |
Analysis: Jefferson's numbers are down in San Antonio as Tim Duncan continues to take away from his scoring opportunities. He is looking like a No. 3 Fantasy option at best at this point in the season. |
|
Jack not doing much off the bench
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Jarrett Jack, PG TOR |
|
| News: Raptors G Jarrett Jack had only two points, two rebounds and five assists in 21 minutes off the bench Wednesday at Utah. He shot 1 for 6 from the field. He has yet to score in double figures this season. |
Analysis: Jack hasn't fared well in a reserve role after coming over from the Pacers in the offseason. He's good for a handful of assists, but if he doesn't do any scoring, he doesn't have any Fantasy appeal. Leave him for deeper leagues. |
|
Hill keeps putting up numbers
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| George Hill, PG SA |
|
| News: San Antonio PG George Hill had another solid game for the Spurs on Wednesday, starting against the Mavericks. He went 6 for 15 from the field in 35 minutes of action, scoring 15 points with four assists and two rebounds. It was his fourth game in a row in which he has reached double digits. |
Analysis: Hill is getting a chance to put in big minutes with the Spurs as both Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker are dealing with injuries. He is worth taking a flier on in deeper Fantasy formats but his usefulness will be limited when Parker and Ginobili get healthy. |
|
Bosh pulls down a season-high 17
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Chris Bosh, PF TOR |
|
| News: Raptors PF Chris Bosh scored 32 points Wednesday at Utah, topping 30 for the first time in five games. He also pulled down a season-high 17 boards, giving him seven straight double-doubles. He's averaging 25.3 points and 12.6 rebounds during that stretch. |
Analysis: Those averages really aren't too far off from Bosh's season averages. He offers perhaps the best combination of points and rebounds of any player in the league, making him a must-start in all Fantasy formats. |
|
Terry misses 15 of 19 shots vs. Spurs
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Jason Terry, PG DAL |
|
| News: Dallas SG Jason Terry struggled with his shooting on Wednesday in an overtime win over the Spurs. He went 4 for 19 from the field, hitting 1 of his five three-point attempts. Terry added three assists and a rebound to his stat line. |
Analysis: Terry continues to ptu up pedestrian numbers of late as he is averaging just 14.4 points per game over his last five games and just 2.4 assists. He is a No. 3 Fantasy option at this point in the season but his early season form is a bit of a concern for his owners. |
|
Maynor still solid off the bench
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Eric Maynor, PG UTA |
|
| News: Rookie PG Eric Maynor is getting some playing time for the short-handed Jazz because of injuries. The way he's playing, Maynor can expect to still be on the court even when the rest of the Jazz get healthy. Maynor scored 11 of his 15 points in the fourth quarter Wednesday against the Raptors even though he came off the bench with starter Deron Williams back from a personal matter. He also had six assists and four rebounds. Maynor and Williams ran Utah's backcourt for the fourth quarter, and the combination of point guards was too much for the Raptors to overcome. "He continues to impress me," said Williams. "He's playing great. He's composed, he's making plays. He takes a lot of pressure off a lot of people." |
Analysis: Maynor started two games in place of Williams, giving him 17.3 points, 3.7 rebounds and 7.0 assists over his last three. We have a hard time believing he can make a real Fantasy contribution with Williams back in the lineup, but he certainly bears watching. If nothing else, you know he has the potential. |
|
Miller gets double-double vs. Detroit
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Andre Miller, PG POR |
|
| News: Andre Miller had no excuses for Portland's near slip Wednesday night against the Pistons. "We relaxed," he said simply. Miller had 10 points and 11 assists for the Trail Blazers in their 87-81 victory against tenacious Detroit. Portland led by as many as 20 points in the second half, but the Pistons closed to 78-77 with 1:05 left. "They could have easily laid down, but they fought and got back in the game," Miller said. "We could have easily lost that game." |
Analysis: Miller got off to a slow start with his new team but seems to be coming around much better of late. With so many scoring options in Portland, Miller has plenty of people to pass the ball to and his assists numbers should continue to go up. He should remain active in the majority of Fantasy formats. |
|
Oden grabs 10 boards against Detroit
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Greg Oden, C POR |
|
| News: Portland C Greg Oden was effective on the glass Wednesday against Detroit, grabbing 10 rebounds in an 87-81 win. He added six points as well on 3 for 7 shooting, contributing three blocked shots. |
Analysis: Oden is nearly averaging a double-double on the season with 9.8 points per game and 8.4 boards per game. He is hovering around those numbers over his past five starts as well as he continues to develop into a No. 1 Fantasy center. He should be active in the majority of Fantasy formats. |
|
Williams returns with usual numbers
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Deron Williams, PG UTA |
|
| News: Jazz PG Deron Williams, who left the team for two games last week to be with his young daughter as she went through medical tests for an undisclosed condition, returned to the lineup Wednesday against the Raptors and put up his usual numbers. He finished with 20 points, nine assists and six rebounds. |
Analysis: Williams is averaging right at 20 points and nine assists this season and has for each of the last few seasons. He's clearly one of the elite players in Fantasy, so get him active. |
|
Roy pours in 20 points vs. Detroit
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Brandon Roy, SG POR |
|
| News: Portland SG Brandon Roy managed to score 20 points on Wednesday in a win over the Pistons. He was 7 for 14 from the field, adding four rebounds and five assists to his stat line. |
Analysis: Roy continues to put up consistent numbers with the Blazers although his production has been slightly down of late, averaging 18.2 points, five assists and six rebounds over his last five games. He remains a must-start in all Fantasy formats. |
|
Turkoglu back in lineup Wednesday
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Hedo Turkoglu, SF TOR |
|
| News: Raptors SF Hedo Turkoglu, who missed Tuesday's game with a sore left hip, returned to the lineup Wednesday at Utah. He finished with 11 points, six rebounds and four assists in 39 minutes. |
Analysis: Turkoglu is averaging 13.2 points over his last six games and hasn't been quite as effective with the Raptors as he was with the Magic. He's still a No. 2 forward in Fantasy, but he's looking more on the low end than the high end of that classification. |
|
Villanueva bounces back from dud
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Charlie Villanueva, PF DET |
|
| News: Detroit F Charlie Villanueva scored 20 points on Wednesday, one night after being held to just two points at the Lakers. Villanueva went 9 for 15 from the field hitting two of four three pointers. He added three boards to his stat line as well. |
Analysis: Villanueva had struggled in his two previous games before Wednesday, scoring a combined 15 points on 7 for 22 shooting. Hopefully he'll perform more like he did on Wednesday as he has the potential to be a major stats earner in Detroit with Richard Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince nursing injuries. Get Villanueva active as a No. 3 Fantasy option. |
|
Evans still dealing with hurt foot
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Reggie Evans, PF TOR |
|
| News: Raptors PF Reggie Evans missed another game Wednesday at Utah with a foot injury. He has yet to play this season. |
Analysis: Evans won't get enough playing time when he returns to make a significant Fantasy impact. Leave him on waivers. |
|
Big Ben grabs 12 boards, doesn't score
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Ben Wallace, C DET |
|
| News: Detroit PF Ben Wallace was held scoreless on Wednesday against the Blazers but did manage to lead the team in rebounds with 12. He attempted only rwo shots in the game, missing both. Wallace also had a blocked shot, two assists and a steal in the game. |
Analysis: Wallace continues to struggle to score points with the Pistons but remains a cheap source of assists. He remains just a low-end Fantasy option however. |
|
Gasol sets Grizz consecutive FGs mark
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Marc Gasol, C MEM |
|
| News: Memphis C Marc Gasol set a club record for consecutive field goals made, making 15 straight over a two-game span before a miss in the third period of Wednesday's game against the Clippers. He finished with 16 points in the game on 7 of 8 shooting with eight rebounds and six assists. |
Analysis: Gasol continues to shine with the Grizzlies early on in the seaosn and Fantasy owners are reaping the benefits. He continues to average a double-double for the season and remains a high-end Fantasy option. |
|
Delfino destroys his previous high
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Carlos Delfino, SG MIL |
|
| News: Bucks SG Carlos Delfino, who had yet to score in double figures coming into the game, scored 21 points on 7 of 15 shooting, including 4 of 8 from 3-point range, Wednesday against the Nets. He also had six assists, four rebounds and a steal. |
Analysis: Delfino usually starts for the Bucks, but other players do most of the damage. Delfino will need a few more of these games to have any Fantasy relevance. |
|
Randolph ties for team-high in points
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Zach Randolph, PF MEM |
|
| News: Clippers F Zach Randolph tied Rudy Gay for the team high in scoring on Wednesday in a win over the Grizzlies. He scored 21 points in the game, adding eight rebounds, an assist and a block. |
Analysis: Randolph's scoring production has tailed of a bit of late, averaging only 15.4 points per game over his last five starts. He is still averaging a double-double for the season however and should remain active across the board as long as he is healthy. |
|
Gay averaging 20-plus of late
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Rudy Gay, SG MEM |
|
| News: Memphis SF Rudy Gay scored 21 points in 35 minutes on Wednesday in a win over the Clippers. He went 9 for 15 from the field and 3 for 3 from the charity stripe. He also had three assists, four rebounds and three steals in the game. |
Analysis: Gay is averaging 20.6 points over his last five games, adding 2.8 assists and 4.8 rebounds. He remains a high-end Fantasy forward and should remain active in all formats. |
|
Williams has perhaps his best game
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Terrence Williams, SG NJ |
|
| News: Nets rookie SG Terrence Williams scored a career-high 20 points in 33 minutes off the bench Wednesday at Milwaukee, also pulling down 10 boards to give him his fourth double-double. He also had four steals and three assists in 33 minutes. |
Analysis: Williams has gotten plenty of playing time so far, but his contributions have been erratic. The Nets also can't seem to decide whether to use him as a starter or a reserve. He clearly has upside, but until he becomes more consistent, he's just a low-end Fantasy option. |
|
CDR sets yet another career high
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Chris Douglas-Roberts, SG NJ |
|
| News: One day after setting career highs with 27 points and 12 rebounds, Nets SG Chris Douglas-Roberts topped one of those marks with 31 points Wednesday at Milwaukee. He also had 10 rebounds, giving him two straight double-doubles. "We lost. That's the only thing that means anything to me. Wins and losses. We lost. I don't pay attention to how many points and how many minutes I play," Douglas-Roberts said. |
Analysis: But Fantasy owners do! Seriously, Douglas-Roberts needs to stop with all the downer talk with the way he's playing right now. He's averaging 23.0 points in the last six games in which he played 30 minutes, which he should do routinely going forward. Clearly, he deserves a roster spot in all Fantasy leagues. |
|
Davis has 20-plus in 3 straight
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Baron Davis, PG LAC |
|
| News: Clippers PG Baron Davis led the team in scoring on Wednesday against the Grizzlies and finished with more than 20 points for the third straight game. Davis chipped in 23 points in the game for the second straight night, going 8 for 13 from the field. He added two steals, a block, five assists and two rebounds to his stat line. |
Analysis: Davis has seen an increase in scoring of late, averaging 20.8 points over his last five games. He played only 29 minutes on Wednesday, making his scoring even more impressive. Keep Davis active in all Fantasy formats as a high-end Fantasy G. |
|
Flynn losing numbers to Sessions
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Jonny Flynn, PG MIN |
|
| News: Timberwolves rookie PG Jonny Flynn had only nine points and two assists in 24 minutes Wednesday against the Rockets, shooting 4 for 12 from the field. He's now averaging 13.0 points and 3.2 assists over his last five games. Meanwhile, reserve Ramon Sessions is averaging 11.4 points and 4.6 assists over that same stretch, bouncing back from a slow start. |
Analysis: Sessions and Flynn are cutting into each other's numbers right now, and unfortunately, that trend will likely continue. Flynn has plenty of upside, but he's learning on the job and not getting as many minutes as most starters. He's just a No. 4 Fantasy guard. |
|
T-Wolves learn what Sessions can do
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Ramon Sessions, PG MIN |
|
| News: Timberwolves PG Ramon Sessions, who got off to a slow start after signing as a free agent, averaging 5.0 points and 2.4 assists over his first seven games, had 16 points and five assists in 24 minutes off the bench Wednesday against the Rockets. He's averaging 11.4 points and 4.6 assists over his last five games, playing just as well as rookie starter Jonny Flynn, who's averaging 13.0 points and 3.2 assists during that same stretch. |
Analysis: Sessions and Flynn are cutting into each other's numbers right now, and unfortunately, that trend will likely continue. With more playing time, Sessions could rank among the league leaders in assists, but in his current role, he's just a No. 4 Fantasy guard. |
|
James hurts wrist on rim
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| LeBron James, SF CLE |
|
| News: LeBron James says he hurt his left wrist by banging it on the rim while dunking late in the Cleveland Cavaliers' 108-91 loss to the Washington Wizards. James was icing his wrist in the locker room after Wednesday night's game. He said the injury came on Cleveland's final basket of the game, with about 2 1/2 minutes left. James said he hit his funny bone, "but it's not funny at all." He said he hurt the same wrist earlier this season, too. James had 34 points and nine assists Wednesday. |
Analysis: James shouldn't be forced to miss any time with this injury but you hope it doesn't affect his play. He is clearly a No. 1 Fantasy option. |
|
Pecherov back to doing something
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Oleksiy Pecherov, C MIN |
|
| News: Timberwolves F/C Oleksiy Pecherov, whose numbers had declined since he moved out of the starting lineup, had a decent performance Wednesday against the Rockets. He scored 12 points and pulled down four boards in 22 minutes, shooting 2 for 4 from 3-point range. |
Analysis: The sad truth is Pecherov probably won't have games much better than this in his current role, and he'll score less than 10 points more often than not. He looked like a low-end sleeper earlier in the year, but he's not worth owning outside of the deepest of Fantasy leagues right now. |
|
Landry quiets down on Wednesday
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Carl Landry, PF HOU |
|
| News: Rockets PF Carl Landry, who had a season-high 27 points and nine rebounds against the Suns on Tuesday, wasn't nearly as effective Wednesday at Minnesota. He finished with five points in only 16 minutes off the bench. |
Analysis: Chuck Hayes, who actually starts for the Rockets, did more damage than Landry for once. Landry averages about 15 points and five rebounds off the bench, so he's worth using in Fantasy, but his output can sometimes be inconsistent since he is, in fact, a reserve. Still, you shouldn't let him go unowned in Fantasy. |
|
Scola back with huge double-double
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Luis Scola, PF HOU |
|
| News: Rockets PF Luis Scola, who entered the game averaging 12.7 points and 7.7 rebounds in three games since his last double-double, had 20 points, 16 rebounds and three assists Wednesday at Minnesota, shooting 10 for 21 from the field. |
Analysis: Scola has put up some big rebounding totals, averaging nearly 10 a game, but his scoring has been inconsistent. Still, he's doing enough damage to pass as a No. 2 or 3 forward in Fantasy. |
|
Hayes finally in double figures
|
Updated 11/19/2009 |
| Chuck Hayes, PF HOU |
|
| News: Rockets C Chuck Hayes, who went six games without contributing double-digit points or rebounds, had both Wednesday at Minnesota, giving him his second double-double of the season. He finished with 11 points, 10 rebounds and four steals in 33 minutes. |
Analysis: Hayes starts for the Rockets, but Carl Landry does far more damage off the bench. Hayes is mostly just a placeholder better left for deeper Fantasy leagues. |
|
Jefferson solid in return to team
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Al Jefferson, PF MIN |
|
| News: Minnesota C Al Jefferson was back on the court on Wednesday against the Rockets after taking care of personal issues relating to an ill family member in Florida. Jefferson didn't miss a beat as he led the team with 20 points on 9 of 11 shooting in 33 minutes. He added 10 rebounds, four assists, three steals and two blocks. |
Analysis: Jefferson missed two games while he was away and came back looking rejuvenated on the court. He is clearly a must-start Fantasy option now that he's returned to the team. |
|
Barnes sits with Lewis back
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Matt Barnes, SF ORL |
|
| News: Magic F Matt Barnes, who started seven games and played in all 11, didn't see action until the fourth quarter on Wednesday against the Thunder. He finished with 12 minutes played and scored two points on 1 of 2 shooting with three boards. |
Analysis: Barnes was not needed with Rashard Lewis nearly completing at triple-double in his second game back with the team. Lewis sat out the entire fourth and that was likely the only reason that Barnes played almost at all. Barnes Fantasy value takes a huge hit now and he only needs to be on rosters in the deeper leagues. |
|
Psycho T plays more minutes
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Tyler Hansbrough, PF IND |
|
| News: Indiana PF Tyler Hansbrough looked healthy on Wednesday against the Knicks. He got his most minutes in a while with 21 off the bench and went 5 of 10 for 14 points. He added five rebounds, three assists and a block. |
Analysis: Hansbrough is still getting limited minutes but is making the most out of them. He's averaging nine points and five boards over his last five games and Wednesday was his best yet. Keep him reserved until his minutes and numbers are a little more consistent but it seems he's headed in the right direction. |
|
Hughes has 22, 10 and 7 vs. Pacers
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Larry Hughes, SG NY |
|
| News: Knicks SG Larry Hughes was fantastic off the bench on Wednesday in a win at Indiana. Hughes played 36 minutes and came within three assists of a triple-double. He scored 22 points on 6 of 14 shooting with three threes and added 10 rebounds, seven assists, three steals and a block. |
Analysis: Hughes is still averaging just 13 points, four rebounds and 5.2 assists over his last five games. He brings solid Fantasy value to deeper leagues but should not be counted on to have games like Wednesday's consistently. |
|
Brand finally doubles up for 76ers
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Elton Brand, PF PHI |
|
| News: 76ers PF Elton Brand finally had a big game on Wednesday against Charlotte. Brand has been struggling but looked good against the Bobcats with 19 points and 11 rebounds. The double-double was just his first of the season. He shot 8 of 17 from the floor and also blocked six shots. Brand was clearly a catalyst in this victory. "That's not my best," Brand said. "I've still got a lot better games ahead of me. I still feel like I missed some easy shots." Brand played a season-high 41 minutes, including meaningful minutes down the stretch. In six of the last seven games, Brand didn't play at all in the fourth quarter. |
Analysis: It is crazy to think that Brand has played in nine games this season and only now saw his first double-double. Hopefully he can continue to play as he did on Wednesday because that is exactly what his owners hope to get out of him. He might have the upside of a No. 2 Fantasy forward, but you can't use him as more than a No. 4 until this happens a little more consistently. |
|
Najera still out for Nets
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Eduardo Najera, PF NJ |
|
| News: New Jersey PF Eduardo Najera missed a second straight game on Wednesday against the Bucks. He is day to day with a back injury. |
Analysis: Najera plays just a small role off the bench when healthy. Don't bother with him in Fantasy. |
|
Lee still out for Nets
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Courtney Lee, SG NJ |
|
| News: Nets SG Courtney Lee missed the game Wednesday against Milwaukee with a groin injury. This was his sixth straight missed game. He remains day to day. |
Analysis: Lee has gotten to practice some lately, but he still might be a game or two away. He had begun to come around as a scorer for the Nets before the injury, and he's also a good source of steals. He's worth stashing as a No. 4 Fantasy guard. |
|
Curry finally plays for Knicks
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Eddy Curry, C NY |
|
| News: New York welcomed back a slimmer Eddy Curry onto the court on Wednesday against the Indiana Pacers. Curry saw his first action of the season after missing the earlier part of the year with a calf injury. He finished the game with 10 points in 12 minutes on 3 of 4 shooting. He added four rebounds but turned the ball over three times. |
Analysis: Curry has been away from the team during practices and games working on his conditioning after tearing his right calf muscle on the opening day of training camp. He looks much thinner, particularly around his face and neck, where he was sporting a long goatee. He's an intriguing player to stash in Fantasy since he used to be one of the better scoring centers in the game, but he has a long way to go before he becomes a viable option again, if that ever happens. |
|
Thabeet decent in limited minutes
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Hasheem Thabeet, C MEM |
|
| News: Memphis C Hasheem Thabeet played on Wednesday against the Clippers for the first time since getting one minute against Portland on Nov. 10. Thabeet saw 11 minutes on Wednesday and did well in the limited time. The former UConn star shot 2 of 4 from the field for four points and added four rebounds with a block. |
Analysis: Thabeet has played a total of 23 minutes in the Grizzlies' last five games and has three blocks and seven rebounds over that span. Unfortunately, it doesn't appear as if he'll ever see enough minutes consistently this season to matter in Fantasy play. He clearly has value if that ever happened, however. |
|
House scores in double figures
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Eddie House, SG BOS |
|
| News: Boston SG Eddie House had his best effort since scoring 12 points in 15 minutes on Nov. 3 at Philadelphia on Wednesday night against the Warriors. House played 17 minutes Wednesday and scored 11 points on 4 of 10 shooting. He was much better from deep at 3 for 5. He added two dimes. |
Analysis: House will reach double figures every now and again but is still averaging just 4.8 points per game over his last five contests. He only has low-end Fantasy appeal at this time. |
|
Rondo nets big double-double
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Rajon Rondo, PG BOS |
|
| News: Boston PG Rajon Rondo had a great game on Wednesday in a win over Golden State. Rondo doubled up with 18 points and 12 dimes and added seven rebounds. He was 8 of 12 from the field. |
Analysis: Rondo is averaging 12.4 points, 7.8 assists and 3.6 rebounds per game over his last five contests and that isn't even close to as good as he can play. The numbers will go up and he remains a No. 1 Fantasy PG. |
|
Maggette playing well of late
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Corey Maggette, SF GS |
|
| News: Golden State SF Corey Maggette continues to play well as the Warriors continue to be desperate for healthy bodies. The team dressed just eight players on Wednesday at Boston and Maggette started and played 32 minutes. He scored 23 points and added eight rebounds one game after going for 19 and 11 on Tuesday. |
Analysis: Maggette is shooting well, hitting threes and even adding rebounds and assists into the mix. That said, he still plays for Don Nelson and his playing time will continue to go up and down like a yo-yo. He's going to have his ups and downs and is just a No. 3 Fantasy forward, at best. |
|
Tinsley plays in 1st game since 07-08
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Jamaal Tinsley, PG MEM |
|
| News: Jamaal Tinsley saw his first NBA action since the middle of the 2007-08 season when the guard entered the Memphis Grizzlies' game against the Los Angeles Clippers on Wednesday night in the first quarter. The Grizzlies signed the former Indiana Pacers point guard on Saturday in hopes of bringing in a veteran playmaker to help run the Memphis offense. He joined the team Monday, worked out Tuesday and went through shootaround earlier Wednesday. "He's going to play," Memphis coach Lionel Hollins said before the game. "I don't know how much, but why wait?" |
Analysis: In his seven seasons with Indiana, Tinsley averaged 10.4 points and seven assists. The assists average puts him seventh among active players. He is worth taking a flier on in deeper formats but little else until he proves his value on the court. |
|
George can't play vs. Celtics
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Devean George, SG GS |
|
| News: Golden State SF Devean George (knee) remained out on Wednesday against Boston. He has yet to play this season. |
Analysis: George will get sparse minutes off the bench when he returns. Don't bother with him in Fantasy. |
|
Pierce's knee just fine vs. Warriors
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Paul Pierce, SG BOS |
|
| News: Boston SF Paul Pierce was probable for the game Wednesday against Golden State and didn't miss it as expected. Pierce played 35 minutes and shot 7 of 12 with two threes for 19 points. He added four rebounds, a steal and a block and dished out two assists. |
Analysis: Pierce is averaging 17.4 points, 3.4 rebounds and 4.2 assists per game over his last five contests to go with 1.2 steals and over a three per. Consider him a solid starter in all formats in Fantasy. |
|
Moon scores 10 against Wizards
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Jamario Moon, SG CLE |
|
| News: Cleveland SF Jamario Moon (ankle) did not miss any time with his injury as he was back at it on Wednesday at Washington. Moon scored 10 points on 4 of 8 shooting with two threes. He added five rebounds. |
Analysis: Moon contributes only modest numbers for the Cavaliers, rarely playing more than about 15 minutes off the bench. Leave him on waivers in Fantasy. |
|
Foye sees four minutes on court
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Randy Foye, PG WAS |
|
| News: Washington SG Randy Foye returned to action on Wednesday night against Cleveland after missing time with an ankle injury. Of course, he only played four minutes in the game and scored zero points on 0 for 1 shooting. He could still be feeling that ankle so be careful of his use until he plays his usual game. |
Analysis: Foye is nothing but a reserve for the Wizards at this point but he should do more than he did on Wednesday. Something might be up and that limits his Fantasy value for the time being. |
|
Shaq to miss the next few games
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Shaquille O'Neal, C CLE |
|
| News: Cleveland Cavaliers coach Mike Brown says Shaquille O'Neal could miss the team's next couple of games with a strained shoulder. O'Neal did not travel with the Cavaliers for their game at the Washington Wizards on Wednesday night. It's the third consecutive game he's missed. Brown said O'Neal would be out Friday at Indiana, and also might miss Saturday's home game against Philadelphia. The coach called it "an opportune time to let him get some rest and let him get his body back." |
Analysis: The Cavaliers will give Shaq plenty of time to rest since his greatest value will come during the postseason anyway. He hasn't played as well in Cleveland as he did during a rebound season in Phoenix last year. When healthy, he's just a low-end No. 2 Fantasy center. |
|
Diener still yet to play for Pacers
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Travis Diener, PG IND |
|
| News: Pacers PG Travis Diener (toe) remained out on Wednesday night against the Knicks. |
Analysis: Diener has yet to play this season and is too low on the depth chart to make a difference in Fantasy anyway. Leave him on waivers regardless of this injury. |
|
Jackson looks more comfortable with Bobcats
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Stephen Jackson, SG CHA |
|
| News: Charlotte SF Stephen Jackson scored 13 points in his Bobcats debut and said he needed to learn the system. Apparently it didn't take very long to do. Jackson saw 45 minutes on Wednesday at Philadelphia and shot 9 of 21 to score a team-high 26 points with two threes. He added five assists and five rebounds and also stole three balls. |
Analysis: Jackson played on Wednesday like you could have expected out of him in Golden State. That is great news for Fantasy owners who were worried his production would take a hit with the move. Jackson remains a high-end Fantasy option for use in all leagues. |
|
Beasley drops 21 points at Atlanta
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Michael Beasley, PF MIA |
|
| News: Miami PF Michael Beasley scored 21 points on Wednesday at Atlanta. He shot 8 of 15 from the field and picked up nine rebounds. He added a block as well. |
Analysis: Beasley scored a career-high 24 points against Cleveland but combined to score just 15 over his next two games before going over 20 again on Wednesday. Unfortunately, that is what you will get from him for the near future. He has loads of upside but disappears at times. He still has high-end potential, but he's not worth using as more than a No. 3 Fantasy forward right now. |
|
Quinn still out for Miami
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Chris Quinn, PG MIA |
|
| News: Miami PG Chris Quinn is still out with a foot injury. He did not play on Wednesday against the Hawks and is day to day. He may play on Friday at Toronto. |
Analysis: Quinn will play a minimal role off the bench when he returns. Leave him on waivers. |
|
Lewis just misses triple-double
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Rashard Lewis, SF ORL |
|
| News: Orlando PF Rashard Lewis apparently needed one game to get his rhythm back. Two days after struggling in his return to the team, Lewis scored 17 points on Wednesday against the Thunder. That is not all he did. He added 10 rebounds and nine assists as he just missed a triple-double. Lewis hit two threes and shot 7 of 16 from the field. |
Analysis: Lewis looked much better on Wednesday and can officially be considered back now. Treat him as a high-end Fantasy option for use in all leagues. |
|
Gortat returns from flu with 10 points
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Marcin Gortat, PF ORL |
|
| News: Orlando C Marcin Gortat (flu) was able to get back on the court on Wednesday against the Thunder. He played 24 minutes and shot 3 of 5 to score 10 points. He added four rebounds and two blocks. |
Analysis: Gortat missed only one game against Charlotte with the flu. Over his last four games, he's averaging 5.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per night. If you are desperate for blocks, think of him. Otherwise, he really only needs to be on rosters in the deepest of Fantasy leagues. |
|
Oberto has hamstring problem
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Fabricio Oberto, C WAS |
|
| News: Washington C Fabricio Oberto could not play against Cleveland on Wednesday because of a hurt left hamstring. |
Analysis: Oberto only had minor Fantasy value when he was starting in place of Antawn Jamison. The Wizards got back the services of Jamison on Wednesday and so you can cut Oberto in all leagues if you own him. |
|
Outlaw gone 3-5 months after surgery
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Travis Outlaw, SF POR |
|
| News: Trail Blazers forward Travis Outlaw had surgery Wednesday to repair a stress fracture of the fifth metatarsal bone in his left foot. The team says he will be sidelined three to five months. Outlaw, who averages 9.9 points, hurt the foot during the first quarter of the Trail Blazers' game against Charlotte on Saturday night. |
Analysis: Outlaw really only has low-end Fantasy value and doesn't need to be stashed on any rosters while he's out. |
|
Andersen day to day with knee issue
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Chris Andersen, PF DEN |
|
| News: The Denver Nuggets say Chris "Birdman" Andersen is day-to-day with moderate patellar tendinitis in his right knee. Anderson has been sore, so he underwent an MRI on Wednesday in Denver, and Dr. Steve Traina said the test revealed no structural damage. |
Analysis: Andersen is all flash and little Fantasy value. He plays limited minutes in Denver and really only has limited Fantasy value at this time. |
|
Azubuike will miss rest of season
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Kelenna Azubuike, SF GS |
|
| News: Warriors swingman Kelenna Azubuike will undergo surgery to repair a torn patellar tendon in his left knee and miss the rest of the season. The team says the operation will be performed Wednesday in Phoenix. |
Analysis: Azubuike injured his knee last Saturday in Milwaukee. He was averaging 13.9 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 assists in nine games this season, playing a significant role in a crowded rotation. He had some low-end appeal in Fantasy before this injury, but obviously not anymore. |
|
Nelson out with knee surgery
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Jameer Nelson, PG ORL |
|
| News: Magic PG Jameer Nelson is having surgery again. The team says the All-Star point guard will have arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Wednesday to repair a torn meniscus. He is expected to miss four to six weeks. Nelson was injured in the fourth quarter of Monday night's win against Charlotte. This is the second straight season he has been sidelined. Nelson tore the labrum in his right shoulder in February and had surgery. In a surprise move, he returned for the NBA finals, struggling to regain his form as Orlando lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in five games. Nelson is averaging 13.7 points and 5.5 assists per game this season. |
Analysis: With Nelson out, the Magic will turn the starting job over to Jason Williams, who has been the No. 2 option on the bench. Williams is averaging 5.4 points and 4.0 assists in 18.4 minutes per game. Keep Nelson reserved in all leagues and hope he can return soon. When healthy, Nelson is a No. 2 Fantasy guard in all scoring formats. |
|
Despite migraines, 'Melo drops 32
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Carmelo Anthony, SF DEN |
|
| News: Nuggets SF Carmelo Anthony awoke with his first migraine in a couple of years Tuesday but never once thought of sitting out that night's game against the Raptors. Good thing for the Nuggets. Anthony scored 32 points in 30 minutes of play, shooting 12 for 15. "My legs could work," he said. "As long as I could run up and down that court, I was good." The Nuggets didn't shake off the Raptors until well into the third quarter, and coach George Karl suggested it took that long for Anthony to shake off the cobwebs, too. "It's funny, man, I still have one," Anthony said after the game. "I had the aftereffects. You know if you've ever had one, they don't just go away like that. It will still be lingering around. There were some points at the beginning of the game where I felt it and then some points when I didn't. And then I got hit in the head twice and that brought it all the way back." |
Analysis: Anthony used to get migraines all the time but hadn't had one in a while. "That's why it was weird to all of a sudden wake up with one," he said. "Today I felt lethargic. All I can do is sleep. You've just got to sleep it away. I'm all right, though. I played. We won. I can't complain." And even with the throbbing headache, 'Melo was 'Melo. "Carmelo did a good job of creating shots for other guys," Raptors forward Antoine Wright said, referring to Anthony's five assists. "He's just matured as a basketball player. He's not only looking for his shot but he's looking how to make players better and I think that's what beat us tonight." Anthony has topped 30 points seven times in 11 games so far and is apparently becoming a better passer to boot. He's clearly one of the top players in Fantasy and a must-start in all leagues. |
|
Biedrins sidelined through weekend
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Andris Biedrins, C GS |
|
| News: Warriors C Andris Biedrins missed his fifth straight game Tuesday at Cleveland with back and groin injuries. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, the team won't reevaluate him until Monday. |
Analysis: At best, Biedrins will return Tuesday at Dallas, but that's only if his reevaluation goes well. He averaged nearly a double-double last year but hasn't been quite as productive this year. Think of him as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy center when he returns. |
|
Bynum becoming monster off bench
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Will Bynum, PG DET |
|
| News: Pistons PG Will Bynum continued to play a huge role off the bench Tuesday at the Lakers, finishing with 24 points, six assists and four rebounds in 36 minutes. He shot 9 for 12 from the field. Over his last three games, he's averaging 23.7 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.0 assists. |
Analysis: Bynum's emergence originally looked temporary, like something destined to end once Richard Hamilton returned from injury, but with the way he's playing right now, you have to wonder if he'll cut into Rodney Stuckey's minutes even after Hamilton returns. Bynum is no sure thing, but he's worth a flier in all Fantasy leagues right now. |
|
Stuckey plays, but not very well
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Rodney Stuckey, SG DET |
|
| News: Pistons PG Rodney Stuckey, who left Sunday's game with a sprained ankle, managed to play Tuesday at the Lakers. He didn't do much damage, though, scoring just 11 points on 3 of 12 shooting in 31 minutes. He also had one rebound and one assist. |
Analysis: Stuckey is averaging over 16 points per game, but he has disappointed with his assists so far. He might lose minutes to Will Bynum once Richard Hamilton returns from injury, but he remains a No. 3 Fantasy guard for now. |
|
Kobe overcomes groin to score 40
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Kobe Bryant, SG LAL |
|
| News: Lakers SG Kobe Bryant scored 40 points for the 100th time in his career Tuesday against the Pistons, showing no signs of his strained groin while scoring 27 points in the middle two quarters before reaching 40 on a 3-pointer with 19 seconds left. With four 40-point games already this season after getting just four all last year, Kobe trails only Wilt Chamberlain (271) and Michael Jordan (173) in 40-point games in NBA history. "It's a true honor," Bryant said. "A lot of work went into it, and when I look back on that, I [can't believe] I had 100 of those games. It's just a good feeling." |
Analysis: Bryant also had five rebounds, five assists and three steals, though you've come to expect those numbers from him along with the impressive scoring. He's obviously one of the best players in Fantasy and a must-start in all leagues. |
|
Smith finding his form, scores 29
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| J.R. Smith, SG DEN |
|
| News: Nuggets SG J.R. Smith, who missed the first seven games because of a suspension, upped his production again Tuesday against the Raptors, scoring 29 points in 22 minutes off the bench. He shot 5 for 9 from 3-point range. |
Analysis: Smith won't do much other than hit threes and score points, but he does enough of it to serve as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy guard. Don't let him go unowned now that his suspension has ended. |
|
Nene's defense as good as offense
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Nene, PF DEN |
|
| News: Nuggets C Nene had one of his more well-rounded games against the Raptors on Tuesday, finishing with 20 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, four steals and four blocks. It was his first 20-10 game of the season. |
Analysis: The points, steals and blocks represented season highs for Nene, who averages about a double-double per game. He's not an elite contributor in any category, but he's good enough all-around to serve as a No. 2 center in Fantasy. |
|
Belinelli stays in double figures
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Marco Belinelli, SG TOR |
|
| News: Raptors SG Marco Belinelli came off the bench to score a season-high 16 points at Denver on Tuesday, shooting 3 for 7 from 3-point range. He also had four rebounds, two assists and two steals. |
Analysis: Belinelli has scored in double figures in four of his last five games, averaging 12.0 points during that stretch. He scored in double figures only once in his first six games, so his role appears to be increasing. Still, he's just a low-end option in Fantasy. |
|
DeRozan finally in double figures
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| DeMar DeRozan, SG TOR |
|
| News: Raptors rookie SG DeMar DeRozan scored a career-high 17 points at Denver on Tuesday. He had yet to break double figures in his young career. |
Analysis: DeRozan benefited from the absence of Hedo Turkoglu, who missed the game with a hip injury. The rookie starts, but he doesn't get many scoring opportunities at this stage of his career. He's just a low-end option in Fantasy. |
|
D. Cook finally does some scoring
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Daequan Cook, SG MIA |
|
| News: Heat SG Daequan Cook, who missed five games with a strained right shoulder, scored in double figures for the first time since the season opener Tuesday against the Thunder. He finished with 17 points on 5 of 11 shooting, including 4 of 9 from 3-point range. |
Analysis: Cook is a lights-out 3-point shooter, which can sometimes lead to some big numbers off the bench. Still, he's too inconsistent to use in most Fantasy leagues. |
|
D-Wade has 10 steals in last two
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Dwyane Wade, SG MIA |
|
| News: Heat SG Dwyane Wade scored just 22 points for the second straight game Tuesday against the Thunder, but he did have seven assists, six rebounds and four steals, giving him 10 steals in his last two games. |
Analysis: The 22 points equaled Wade's season low, which says something about his Fantasy value in and of itself. Among the elite scorers in the league, he's one of the better sources of assists and obviously steals. Keep him active in all leagues. |
|
Durant scoring like crazy right now
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Kevin Durant, SF OKC |
|
| News: Thunder SF Kevin Durant had 32 points, nine rebounds and five assists Tuesday at Miami, shooting 11 for 23 from the field. He has topped 30 points in four of his last five games, averaging 32.8 during that stretch. |
Analysis: Durant has only once scored less than 25 points in a game this season, so he's a clear contender for the scoring title. He's obviously a must-start in Fantasy. |
|
Sefolosha picks four more pockets
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Thabo Sefolosha, SG OKC |
|
| News: Thunder SG Thabo Sefolosha didn't provide much offense Tuesday at Miami, scoring only two points to fall short of double figures for the fifth straight game, but he did have nine rebounds, four assists and four steals. He now has three four-steal games this year. |
Analysis: Sefolosha is useful in categorical leagues if you really need steals, but his lack of scoring makes him not worth owning in most Fantasy leagues. |
|
Gibson shooting well off the bench
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Daniel Gibson, PG CLE |
|
| News: Cavaliers PG Daniel Gibson scored 13 points off the bench Tuesday against the Warriors, reaching double figures for the first time in four games. He shot 3 for 4 from 3-point range. |
Analysis: Gibson is still an excellent 3-point shooter, but he's just a role player at this stage of his career and doesn't get enough minutes to make an impact in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers. |
|
Hickson has another career game
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| J.J. Hickson, PF CLE |
|
| News: Cavaliers PF J.J. Hickson had a career-high 21 points Tuesday against the Warriors, taking advantage of injuries to Shaquille O'Neal (shoulder) and Anderson Varejao (hip) to set a career high for the third straight game. He also had nine rebounds. Still, coach Mike Brown was concerned with his mental lapses. "I saw when he didn't box (Vladimir) Radmanovic out, and Radmanovic got the rebound and scored it," Brown said. "He's got to do better in that area." |
Analysis: Those mental lapses explain why Hickson isn't normally a starter despite his productivity. Still, he has opened some eyes with this performance and will likely see an increase in minutes going forward. He's worth using as a stopgap option in deeper leagues. |
|
Morrow gets back on track Tuesday
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Anthony Morrow, SG GS |
|
| News: Warriors G/F Anthony Morrow, who had started at shooting guard recently, got a start at small forward Tuesday at Cleveland with the Warriors ravaged by injuries. He finished with 18 points, his most in four games, and shot 4 for 7 from 3-point range. He entered averaging only 4.7 points over his last three games. |
Analysis: Morrow seemed to do his best work off the bench, but maybe all these injuries will force the Warriors to lean on him more. He can be a good scorer and is an excellent 3-point shooter, but he'll need to be more consistent to emerge as anything more than a low-end Fantasy option. |
|
S. Curry looks better as a starter
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Stephen Curry, PG GS |
|
| News: Warriors PG Stephen Curry, who returned to the starting lineup Tuesday at Cleveland after having to come off the bench for several games, had 14 points, five rebounds and seven assists, his most in seven games. |
Analysis: Curry looked more comfortable in the starting role, but if not for all the Warriors' injuries right now, he probably would have continued to come off the bench. He'll disappear at times in Don Nelson's ever-changing rotations, but he has too much talent not to emerge as a must-start Fantasy option eventually. For now, he's a No. 4 guard. |
|
Nocioni dealing with hip pointer
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Andres Nocioni, SF SAC |
|
| News: Kings F Andres Nocioni missed Tuesday's game against the Bulls, his former team, with a hip pointer. |
Analysis: Nocioni had recently begun starting for the Kings and was averaging 13.6 points in such a role. He doesn't have the upside for much more with all the developing players competing for shots around him, so he's just a low-end forward in Fantasy. |
|
Carter continues to sit Tuesday
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Anthony Carter, PG DEN |
|
| News: Nuggets PG Anthony Carter missed his second straight game with a strained left hip Tuesday against the Raptors. He's day to day. |
Analysis: Carter's injury is chronic and flares up from time to time. He's usually good for a few assists when given enough playing time, but he doesn't look like he'll play a big role for the Nuggets this season. |
|
K. Rush done for year with torn ACL
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Kareem Rush, SG LAC |
|
| News: Clippers reserve guard Kareem Rush has a serious ligament tear in his right knee. Team spokesman Rob Raichlen says an MRI shows Rush tore his anterior cruciate ligament when his knee buckled during the first quarter of the Clippers' game at New Orleans on Tuesday night. The injury occurred as Rush hopped into the lane to receive a pass and then crashed to the floor, holding his knee while grimacing in pain. |
Analysis: This injury is unfortunate, but Rush was hardly playing for the Clippers and has no Fantasy value. He should remain on waivers in all leagues. |
|
Diogu to return to practice soon
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Ike Diogu, PF NO |
|
| News: Hornets PF Ike Diogu missed another game Tuesday against the Clippers and has yet to play this season, but he told the New Orleans Times-Picayune his sprained left knee is well enough for him to return to practice this week. |
Analysis: Diogu will likely need some time to get back into playing shape, and he'll play just a minor role off the bench even when he does return. Leave him on waivers in Fantasy. |
|
Jones still providing big numbers
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Dahntay Jones, SG IND |
|
| News: Pacers SG Dahntay Jones, who scored a season-high 25 points in his last game Saturday, had 17 points, five rebounds, four assists and three steals Tuesday at New Jersey, shooting 5 for 12 from the field. He's now averaging 18.2 points in six November games. |
Analysis: Jones didn't look like anything special coming into the season, but he has become a critical part of the starting lineup with Mike Dunleavy sidelined. He's worth a flier in all Fantasy leagues just in case this performance continues. |
|
Hibbert does his most scoring yet
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Roy Hibbert, C IND |
|
| News: After going two games without a double-double, Pacers C Roy Hibbert contributed his fourth of the season Tuesday at New Jersey, tying a career high with 19 points and also pulling down 10 boards. He also had three blocks. |
Analysis: Hibbert has really impressed and has begun to look like a must-start Fantasy option, especially in Rotisserie leagues, where his blocks come in handy. He should remain a nightly double-double threat going forward. |
|
Lopez has a monster double-double
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Brook Lopez, C NJ |
|
| News: Nets C Brook Lopez had a combined 42 points and rebounds in his fourth double-double of the season Tuesday against the Pacers, equaling the mark he set in the season opener, when he had 27 points and 15 rebounds. He had 26 points and a season-high 16 rebounds Tuesday. He also equaled a season high with five blocks. |
Analysis: After few so-so performances early, Lopez is beginning to look like one of the elite centers in Fantasy, averaging 19.2 points and 10.3 rebounds over his last six games. He's emerging like we thought he would for a Nets team deprived of talent. Clearly, you want him active. |
|
Simmons returns, comes off bench
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Bobby Simmons, SF NJ |
|
| News: Nets SF Bobby Simmons, who missed a game Saturday because of a personal issue, returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Pacers. He played 21 minutes off the bench, finishing with three points and four rebounds. |
Analysis: Simmons got a few starts earlier this year and might get a few more with the Nets playing short-handed, but he normally isn't a big enough contributor off the bench to make an impact in Fantasy. |
|
J. O'Neal stays on track in return
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Jermaine O'Neal, PF MIA |
|
| News: Heat C Jermaine O'Neal, who missed Saturday's game because of a bruised left hip, returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Thunder and recorded his third double-double of the season. Both his 19 points and his 10 rebounds were his most since he had 22 and 12 in each of his first two games. |
Analysis: O'Neal isn't the Fantasy stud he once was, but he's averaging over a dozen points and about eight rebounds per game, making him worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy center. Just watch out for those injuries. |
|
Chalmers returns, still does little
|
Updated 11/18/2009 |
| Mario Chalmers, PG MIA |
|
| News: Heat PG Mario Chalmers, who left Saturday's game with a strained right shoulder, returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Thunder. He finished with seven points, four rebounds and two assists in 31 minutes. |
Analysis: Chalmers has scored in double figures in only four of his first six games. He's still a good source of steals and 3-pointers, but his lack of points and assists makes him just a low-end option in Fantasy. |
|
D. West activated out of necessity
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Delonte West, SG CLE |
|
| News: Already down Shaquille O'Neal (shoulder) and Anderson Varejao (hip), the Cavaliers had no choice but to activate troubled G Delonte West against the Warriors on Tuesday. He scored two points in 14 minutes after being inactive for the previous three games. |
Analysis: The Cavaliers really didn't want this, so you can't expect West to play a major role even when he does have to play. He has enough talent to start and make an impact in Fantasy, but until that happens, he's just waiver fodder. |
|
Turiaf remains out with knee injury
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Ronny Turiaf, PF GS |
|
| News: Warriors C Ronny Turiaf missed his eighth straight game with a knee injury Tuesday at Cleveland. According to the San Francisco Chronicle, he'll be out longer than Andris Biedrins (groin, back), who won't be reevaluated until Monday. |
Analysis: Turiaf is a good blocks specialist in Rotisserie leagues, but he doesn't offer enough production in any other category to have significant Fantasy appeal. Leave him on waivers. |
|
Livingston has surgery, out a month
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Shaun Livingston, PG OKC |
|
| News: Thunder G Shaun Livingston had surgery Tuesday to remove staples from an earlier procedure on his left knee and is expected to be out three to four weeks. "Everything went well," coach Scott Brooks said before the Thunder played the Heat in Miami. "It was minor surgery." Livingston has spent nearly three years trying to recover from tearing three ligaments in an ugly spill during a game in February 2007. Dr. James Andrews, who has worked on Livingston before, handled Tuesday's operation in Birmingham, Ala. "Shaun Livingston had successful minor arthroscopic surgery on his left knee," Andrews said in a statement released by the Thunder. "His knee surfaces and previously repaired ligaments look excellent. He should be back to 100 percent in a few weeks." |
Analysis: Livingston once had potential, but this injury and the subsequent healing process has sapped him of whatever Fantasy relevance he had. Ignore him in all leagues. |
|
Mensah-Bonsu back with the Raptors
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Pops Mensah-Bonsu, PF TOR |
|
| News: Toronto claimed forward Pops Mensah-Bonsu off waivers from Houston on Tuesday. Mensah-Bonsu played for the Raptors last season. He signed a free-agent deal with Houston on Sept. 3 and played a total of 12 minutes in four games before he was waived Friday. |
Analysis: Mensah-Bonsu doesn't figure to get enough minutes off the bench to make an impact in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers. |
|
Hamilton won't play on road trip
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Richard Hamilton, SG DET |
|
| News: The Detroit News reports that Pistons guard Rip Hamilton (severely twisted right ankle) is on Detroit's current four-game road trip, but he won't play in any of the games. Hamilton has not played since the season-opener and remains out indefinitely. |
Analysis: Keep Hamilton reserved in all leagues and hope he can return soon. When healthy, Hamilton is a No. 3 Fantasy guard in all scoring formats. |
|
Prince remains 'out indefinitely'
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Tayshaun Prince, SF DET |
|
| News: The Detroit News reports Pistons forward Tayshaun Prince is on Detroit's current four-game road trip, but he's not expected to play any time soon with a ruptured disc in his back. "It's very frustrating," said Prince on Tuesday. "When you're not playing, you're not part of that family, that bond, and you want to be part it, part of being with the guys. Your competitiveness makes you want to play through anything, but you can't do it." Prince has missed the last seven games and pronounced himself "out indefinitely." |
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Prince reserved in all leagues for the time being and hope he can return following the road trip. When healthy, Prince is a No. 3 Fantasy forward in all scoring formats. |
|
Johnson moves up depth chart
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Anthony Johnson, PG ORL |
|
| News: Magic PG Jameer Nelson is having surgery again. The team says the All-Star point guard will have arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Wednesday to repair a torn meniscus. He is expected to miss four to six weeks. Nelson was injured in the fourth quarter of Monday night's win against Charlotte. This is the second straight season he has been sidelined. Nelson tore the labrum in his right shoulder in February and had surgery. In a surprise move, he returned for the NBA finals, struggling to regain his form as Orlando lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in five games. Nelson is averaging 13.7 points and 5.5 assists per game this season. |
Analysis: Anthony Johnson will now be the No. 2 PG for the Magic behind Williams with Nelson out. Still, unless something happens to Williams, keep Johnson reserved in all leagues since he has minimal Fantasy value. |
|
Williams now starting for Magic
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Jason Williams, PG ORL |
|
| News: Magic PG Jameer Nelson is having surgery again. The team says the All-Star point guard will have arthroscopic surgery on his left knee Wednesday to repair a torn meniscus. He is expected to miss four to six weeks. Nelson was injured in the fourth quarter of Monday night's win against Charlotte. This is the second straight season he has been sidelined. Nelson tore the labrum in his right shoulder in February and had surgery. In a surprise move, he returned for the NBA finals, struggling to regain his form as Orlando lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in five games. Nelson is averaging 13.7 points and 5.5 assists per game this season. |
Analysis: With Nelson out, the Magic will turn the starting job over to Jason Williams, who has been the No. 2 option on the bench. Williams is averaging 5.4 points and 4.0 assists in 18.4 minutes per game. Williams is worth adding in deeper leagues now that he's starting, but he still remains a No. 4 Fantasy guard at best. |
|
Hornets: Paul out indefinitely
|
Updated 11/16/2009 |
| Chris Paul, PG NO |
|
| News: Further tests on Chris Paul's ankle show nothing beyond a sprain, but there is no timetable for the star point guard's return to the New Orleans Hornets. The team says an MRI confirmed the initial diagnosis. Paul twisted his left ankle in the Hornets' loss Friday night to Portland. Team spokesman Dennis Rogers said Monday that Paul will be evaluated daily but remains out indefinitely. |
Analysis: In 10 games this season, Paul has averaged 23.8 points and 9.2 assists and he is one of the top three options in all of Fantasy hoops. But this injury threatens to keep him out for a while and it currently sounds more like it is week-to-week than day-to-day. Fantasy owners have to keep him reserved for Week 4 (Nov. 16-22). Darren Collison will start in his place in the meantime and Devin Brown could also see an indirect boost. |
|
PG Jennings not ready to slow down
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Brandon Jennings, PG MIL |
|
| News: Bucks rookie PG Brandon Jennings, who became the youngest player in NBA history to top 50 points with 55 in his last game Saturday against the Warriors, had another impressive performance Monday against the Mavericks. He had 25 points, eight assists and seven rebounds. |
Analysis: Jennings is now averaging 37.3 points and 7.3 assists over his last three games. He has clearly emerged as a Fantasy stud despite his young age. His scoring might decrease some when Michael Redd returns from a knee injury, but not enough to make him anything less than a must-start in all leagues. |
|
Ridnour gets big numbers off bench
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Luke Ridnour, PG MIL |
|
| News: Bucks PG Luke Ridnour set season highs with 17 points, six assists and four steals in 34 minutes off the bench Monday against the Mavericks. He shot 7 for 14 from the field and 3 for 4 from 3-point range. |
Analysis: After a slow start, Ridnour has scored in double figures in four of his last five games, averaging 12.0 points. He should continue to play this way for as long as Michael Redd remains sidelined by a knee injury, but his minutes figure to decrease once Redd returns, especially now that rookie Brandon Jennings has clearly established himself as the team's starting point guard. Think of Ridnour as nothing more than a stopgap in Fantasy. |
|
Kidd gets 17 assists, near TPL-DBL
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Jason Kidd, PG DAL |
|
| News: Mavericks PG Jason Kidd set season highs with 17 assists and 10 rebounds Monday in an overtime victory at Milwaukee. He also had nine points, nearly giving him his first triple-double of the season. |
Analysis: Kidd has only twice scored in double figures this season, but all those other contributions make him still worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy guard. He still has some triple-doubles in him even if he doesn't quite score the way he used to. |
|
Gooden gets big numbers as starter
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Drew Gooden, PF DAL |
|
| News: Mavericks F/C Drew Gooden, starting for the second straight game with Erick Dampier sidelined by an illness, had 22 points and 14 rebounds at Milwaukee on Monday. He also had a double-double in his first start, finishing with 11 points and 11 rebounds. |
Analysis: Gooden was a nightly double-double threat in his earlier days with Cleveland and Chicago, but now that he typically comes off the bench in Dallas, he doesn't get the minutes he needs to produce those kinds of numbers. Once Dampier returns, Gooden belongs on waivers in Fantasy. |
|
Bass has competition off the bench
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Brandon Bass, PF ORL |
|
| News: Magic PF Brandon Bass, who didn't play at all in the team's last game Friday against the Nets, played 14 minutes off the bench Monday against the Bobcats. He finished with 10 points and six rebounds. He lost some playing time with fellow PF Ryan Anderson, back from an ankle injury, also coming off the bench. Anderson was previously in the starting lineup with Rashard Lewis serving a 10-game suspension. |
Analysis: The Magic frontcourt has suddenly become much more crowded, which can only hurt Bass' prospects going forward. He's still a good scorer and rebounder off the bench, but his minutes will be too inconsistent for Fantasy use. |
|
Diaw repeats season-high effort
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Boris Diaw, SF CHA |
|
| News: Bobcats F Boris Diaw, who scored a season-high 21 points against the Trail Blazers in his last game Saturday, repeated the feat Monday in Stephen Jackson's debut for the Bobcats at Orlando. He also had three rebounds, two steals, an assist and a block. |
Analysis: Jackson doesn't look like he'll cut into Diaw's numbers too much. Diaw isn't known for his scoring, but he does enough of it to make him a high-end Fantasy forward with all the other numbers he accumulates, particularly his assists. |
|
R. Murray scores a career-high 31
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Ronald Murray, PG CHA |
|
| News: Bobcats PG Ronald Murray set a career high and more than doubled his season high with 31 points in 34 minutes off the bench Monday at Orlando. He shot 13 for 21 from the field and 2 for 6 from 3-point range. |
Analysis: Murray delivered this performance even with Stephen Jackson making his debut and playing 45 minutes. The 30-year-old has apparently emerged as the Bobcats' favored scoring option, ahead of the younger and perhaps more talented D.J. Augustin, so he has some appeal in deeper Fantasy leagues. His scoring is still too inconsistent for standard leagues, though. |
|
Anderson comes off bench in return
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Ryan Anderson, PF ORL |
|
| News: Magic PF Ryan Anderson, who missed four games with a sprained right ankle, returned to the lineup Monday against the Bobcats and had 12 points, three rebounds and two assists in 18 minutes. He was starting before the injury, but he'll come off the bench now with Rashard Lewis back from a 10-game suspension. |
Analysis: Anderson won't average the 15.0 points and 5.0 rebounds he did as a starter, but he should score in double figures more often than not and contribute more 3-pointers than the average power forward. Still, he's a low-end option in standard Fantasy leagues. |
|
Blake gets a season-high 11 assists
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Steve Blake, PG POR |
|
| News: Trail Blazers PG Steve Blake had one of his best games of the season Monday at Atlanta, playing 40 minutes in the overtime affair. He finished with eight points and a season-high 11 assists. He shot only 3 of 11 from the field, however. |
Analysis: Blake gets to start alongside fellow point guard Andre Miller in the Blazers backcourt, but he gets the lesser numbers of the two. Unless you're desperate for assists or 3-pointers, you can leave him on waivers. |
|
Fernandez puts up 19 off the bench
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Rudy Fernandez, SG POR |
|
| News: Trail Blazers reserve G Rudy Fernandez had perhaps his best performance of the season Monday at Atlanta, scoring 19 points on 7 of 12 shooting, including 4 of 6 from 3-point range, in 32 minutes. He even hit a buzzer-beating 3-pointer at the end of regulation, sending the game to overtime. He also had four rebounds and two assists. |
Analysis: Fernandez had a good game obviously, but then again, he also had a good one Wednesday at Minnesota, when he finished with 15 points, five rebounds and four assists. He has scored in double figures in three of his last four games and seems to be gaining more and more of a role in the Trail Blazers' rotation. He still doesn't put up consistent enough numbers for standard Fantasy leagues, but keep an eye on him. |
|
Williams can't get double figures
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Marvin Williams, SF ATL |
|
| News: Hawks SF Marvin Williams scored only four points in an overtime game against the Trail Blazers on Monday even though he played a season-high 34 minutes. He also had two rebounds and three assists. He has now gone four games without scoring in double figures. |
Analysis: Williams is averaging only 8.5 points per game this season and has sort of become the odd man out with all the scorers the Hawks now possess. He still gets minutes, but he doesn't put up the kind of numbers to make him relevant in Fantasy. Despite his upside, he looks like waiver fodder in standard leagues. |
|
Smith a monster on glass recently
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Josh Smith, SF ATL |
|
| News: Hawks F Josh Smith, who had 17 points and a season-high 17 rebounds in his last game Saturday, had another huge double-double in an overtime game against the Trail Blazers on Monday. He finished with 20 points and 16 rebounds in 44 minutes. He also had two blocks and two steals. |
Analysis: Smith is averaging 19.0 points and 12.2 rebounds over his last five games, looking like he might be ready to take another step forward at age 23. He has plenty of talent around him in Atlanta these days, so you can't expect him to maintain quite this pace, but he's beginning to look like a No. 1 Fantasy forward again, especially since he's such a good shot blocker. |
|
J. Johnson at his best in overtime
|
Updated 11/17/2009 |
| Joe Johnson, SG ATL |
|
| News: Hawks SG Joe Johnson set season highs with 35 points and nine assists Monday in an overtime game against the Trail Blazers. He had a combined 18 points in the fourth quarter and overtime. "When my team needs it the most, that's when I want to come up big," he said. He shot 13 for 31 overall and 3 for 7 from 3-point range. |
Analysis: Johnson had yet to record a 30-point game this season, which is a bit surprising for a player who has averaged at least 20 points each of the last four seasons. But Johnson has more talent around him now than he did in the past, so the Hawks don't have to lean on him as much. Still, he's back over 20 points per game and is averaging his usual five rebounds and five assists as well. He's clearly a No. 1 guard in Fantasy. |
|
Watson tests positive for swine flu
|
Updated 11/16/2009 |
| C.J. Watson, PG GS |
|
| News: Warriors PG C.J. Watson has tested positive for the swine flu. Following league precautions, Watson will not be with the team for Tuesday's game at the Cavaliers or Wednesday's at the Celtics. |
Analysis: Watson could potentially miss a few games beyond those two, but he's not a significant part of the Warriors rotation. Leave him on waivers in Fantasy. |
|
Walton to miss time with hurt back
|
Updated 11/16/2009 |
| Luke Walton, SF LAL |
|
| News: Lakers SF Luke Walton was examined Monday by back specialist Dr. Robert Watkins in Los Angeles and diagnosed with a pinched nerve. He will miss at least six weeks. |
Analysis: That timetable puts Walton out until at least late December, though the injury could linger into January. Walton, a former starter, gets inconsistent minutes at this stage of his career and has no Fantasy value. |
|
Ilgauskas could see quick boost
|
Updated 11/16/2009 |
| Zydrunas Ilgauskas, C CLE |
|
| News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer is reporting that Shaquille O'Neal is doubtful for Tuesday's game against Golden State. O'Neal was scratched from the Cavaliers' lineup Saturday night against Utah because of a strained shoulder. In his absence, Zydrunas Ilgauskas, Anderson Varejao and J.J. Hickson could benefit. |
Analysis: This news makes Shaq a risky play in weekly formats for the upcoming scoring period. The Cavaliers will play four games, however, which helps. Ilgauskas is more of a flier option as an injury replacement as a return for O'Neal during the week would mean a limited role off the bench again. |
|
Speights to miss 6-8 weeks
|
Updated 11/16/2009 |
| Marreese Speights, PF PHI |
|
| News: 76ers forward Marreese Speights will miss six to eight weeks with a left knee injury. Speights was injured in the fourth quarter of a 94-88 loss at Chicago on Saturday night. An MRI on Sunday revealed he has a partial tear of the medial collateral ligament in his left knee. |
Analysis: Speights has averaged 13 points and 6.4 rebounds in the first 10 games. He averaged 7.7 points and 3.7 rebounds as a rookie last year. He can be held on to in deeper formats but needs to be benched in all formats until he is able to return. When healthy, he is a serviceable low-end option. |
|
Radmanovic traded to Golden State
|
Updated 11/16/2009 |
| Vladimir Radmanovic, SF GS |
|
| News: The Bobcats announced Monday they acquired Stephen Jackson and guard Acie Law from the Warriors for guard Raja Bell and forward Vladimir Radmanovic. The deal breaks up a difficult relationship for Jackson and Warriors coach Don Nelson while giving a boost to the NBA's lowest-scoring team. |
Analysis: Radmanovic could be used more in Golden State than he had been getting used in Charlotte this year, but he will be far too erratic to rely upon under coach Don Nelson. Keep him reserved for now, though playing for a high-scoring team like Golden State could lead to good things in the future. |
|
A. Law gets traded to Charlotte
|
Updated 11/16/2009 |
| Acie Law, PG CHA |
|
| News: The Bobcats announced Monday they acquired Stephen Jackson and guard Acie Law from the Warriors for guard Raja Bell and forward Vladimir Radmanovic. The deal breaks up a difficult relationship for Jackson and Warriors coach Don Nelson while giving a boost to the NBA's lowest-scoring team. |
Analysis: Jackson is said to be on his way to Orlando and will reportedly try to play Monday night at the Magic in his debut for the Bobcats. He actually gains a game in Week 4 (Nov. 16-22) with this news and is going to be an interesting start in all leagues. Law was added to the deal more for his contract than anything else and is not a recommended Fantasy option. |
|
Ford doesn't miss time due to back
|
Updated 11/15/2009 |
| T.J. Ford, PG IND |
|
| News: Indiana PG T.J. Ford did not miss Saturday's game against the Celtics after leaving Wednesday's contest with back spasms. He scored 10 points on Saturday, playing 18 minutes. He grabbed four rebounds and added three assists. |
Analysis: Ford had a double-double in the game prior to Wednesday when his back flared up. He has the potential to put up big numbers at times and was playing like a No. 2 Fantasy option before the injury. Think of him as a No. 3 option for Week 4 (Nov. 16-22) considering his back issues and recent form. |
|
Miller back from shoulder injury
|
Updated 11/15/2009 |
| Mike Miller, SF WAS |
|
| News: Washington SG Mike Miller scored 20 points after missing the three previous games with a shoulder injury in a loss to the Pistons Saturday. He added three rebounds and three assists to his stat line as well. |
Analysis: This is about when we expected Miller to return from the shoulder injury. He is now a safe play for Fantasy Week 4 (Nov. 16-22) as he performed well coming off the injury against Detroit. He should be considered a No. 4 Fantasy option for the upcoming scoring period. |
|
Thornton proves worth without Paul
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Marcus Thornton, SG NO |
|
| News: New Orleans rookie PG Marcus Thornton couldn't have picked a better game to have his best performance of his young career Friday against Portland. Starter Chris Paul hurt himself and will likely miss a few games and Thornton was fabulous behind him Friday. Thornton scored a career-high 20 points on 8 of 15 shooting with two threes. He added two rebounds, a steal and an assist in 23 minutes on the floor. |
Analysis: Thornton had previous highs of eight points and 17 minutes played on the season. He didn't even see the court in the first five games of the season for the Hornets. He still only has low-end Fantasy value but could become viable as a stopgap option for Paul. The Hornets play three times in Week 4 (Nov. 16-22) and we expect Paul to get back for at least one of those games. Thornton is still yet to be worth starting in Fantasy play. |
|
Novak has 1st double-digit scoring night
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Steve Novak, SF LAC |
|
| News: Clippers SF Steve Novak scored in double figures for the first time this season on Friday night in a loss to Toronto. Novak shot 4 of 9 from the field in 17 minutes of action to score 10 points. He hit two threes and added three rebounds and a steal. |
Analysis: Novak has only played more than five minutes in a game twice this season for the Clippers. He can definitely score when given time but he's not expected to see much of that time this year in L.A. Keep him on waivers until further notice. |
|
Aldridge picks up scoring
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| LaMarcus Aldridge, PF POR |
|
| News: Portland PF LaMarcus Aldridge continues to play at a high level. On Friday in a win at New Orleans, Aldridge scored 20 points and grabbed 13 rebounds. He shot 10 of 19 from the field and added a steal. |
Analysis: Aldridge is averaging almost 15 points and eight boards per game and has double-doubles in three of his last four contests. He definitely deserves to stay active as a No. 2 Fantasy PF in all leagues. Portland plays four times in Week 4 (Nov. 16-22). |
|
Ellis scores 22 on Friday
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Monta Ellis, SG GS |
|
| News: Golden State SG Monta Ellis scored 22 points on Friday in a win at the Knicks. Ellis shot 10 of 19 from the field and did not hit a three. He added three rebounds and two assists. |
Analysis: Ellis scored over 20 points for the first time in four games. Ellis remains a No. 1 fantasy PG. His numbers will get consistently better going forward. The Warriors play three times in Week 4 (Nov. 16-22). |
|
Gallinari has first double-double
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Danilo Gallinari, SF NY |
|
| News: Knicks SF Danilo Gallinari scored 19 points on Friday night in a loss to the Warriors. He added 10 rebounds for his first double-double. Gallinari shot 7 of 10 from the field and was 4 of 6 from deep. |
Analysis: The Knicks' sharpshooter has been scoring less than earlier in the year of late but as long as he added rebounds and continues to consistently hit threes the way he has, he'll remain a solid Fantasy option at least in all deeper leagues. Gallinari remains about a No. 3 forward in Fantasy, though he's not the most consistent you'll find. The Knicks play three games in Week 4 (Nov. 16-22). |
|
Howard has arguably best game yet
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Dwight Howard, C ORL |
|
| News: Orlando C Dwight Howard played arguably his best game of the season on Friday in a win over the Nets. Howard scored a season-high 26 points on 10 of 14 shooting and added 12 rebounds and a season-high five blocked shots. |
Analysis: Howard is averaging 19.2 points, 10.7 rebounds and almost two blocks per contest. Those numbers still below what Fantasy owners expect from him but he'll improve and he remains a No. 1 Fantasy option for use at all times. The Magic play four times in Week 4 (Nov. 16-22) so he should be active in 100 percent of leagues. |
|
Iggy dishes out 10 assists
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Andre Iguodala, SF PHI |
|
| News: 76ers SF Andre Iguodala hit double figures in assists on Friday in a loss to Utah. Iggy scored 11 points on poor 4 of 13 shooting but dished out 10 dimes in the loss. He added seven rebounds and four blocks. |
Analysis: Iguodala's Fantasy game is so much more than scoring. That is good news since he'll drop 25 one game and eight the next. His value comes with his ability to have at least one steal per game, 6.8 rebounds, 5.4 assists. He has five blocks in his last two games. He's a No. 1 Fantasy option in Rotisserie and regular Fantasy leagues. |
|
Matthews shines in first NBA start
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Wesley Matthews, SG UTA |
|
| News: Utah undrafted rookie SG Wesley Matthews received his first start on Friday night in a win at Philadelphia. Matthews played well over 38 minutes on the court. He scored a career-high 16 points on 5 of 11 shooting with three threes. Matthews added four rebounds, two assists and two steals. |
Analysis: Matthews has scored in double figures three times in his last five games. His minutes keep going up for the Jazz, especially with Deron Williams out. Matthews clearly has earned the trust of his coaches, meaning he'll see added minutes going forward. Monitor his progress and begin to add him in deeper leagues if this continues. |
|
Udrih scores season-high 22
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Beno Udrih, PG SAC |
|
| News: With Kevin Martin out, Kings PG Beno Udrih continues to play at a higher level. Udrih scored a season-high 22 points on Friday night in a win over Houston. He added four assists, three rebounds and four threes as he shot 9 of 15 from the field in 40 minutes of action. |
Analysis: Udrih has scored 20 or more points in two of his last three games and has scored in double figures in six straight after starting the year with nine points in his first two games. Udrih and the Kings play three times during the next Fantasy scoring period so he only has marginal appeal in deeper leagues. That said, you should be picking him up in most Fantasy formats right now. |
|
Battier explodes for 23 points
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Shane Battier, SF HOU |
|
| News: Houston SF Shane Battier, who scored four points on 1 of 3 shooting over 27 minutes on Wednesday against Memphis, exploded for a season-high 23 points on Friday in a loss at Sacramento. Battier shot 8 of 11 from the field and hit 4 of 6 from three-point land. He grabbed two rebounds, had two assists and blocked two shots. |
Analysis: Battier is averaging 9.9 points per game this season but has scored in double figures just three times. He isn't rebounding much at 2.9 per game and outside of a block per game and a little over a three pointer per game, he really isn't doing all that much to help Fantasy owners. He could see some increase Fantasy use on the heels of the big scoring night in Week 4 (Nov. 16-22) because the Rockets play four times. |
|
Ariza drops 28 points on Kings
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Trevor Ariza, SF HOU |
|
| News: Houston SF Trevor Ariza scored 28 points in a loss to the Kings on Friday night. The former UCLA star shot 10 of 21 from the field and hit four threes -- on 12 attempts. He added six rebounds, five assists and a block. |
Analysis: Ariza is averaging 19.4 points per game this season for the Rockets after averaging a career-high-tying 8.9 points per game for the Lakers last year. He's clearly playing far above his career levels at the moment and we believe that could continue for the rest of the year. The Rockets play four times in Week 4 (Nov. 16-22) and he's well worth starting in all leagues. |
|
Robinson returns to action vs. Warriors
|
Updated 11/13/2009 |
| Nate Robinson, PG NY |
|
| News: Knicks G Nate Robinson was back in action on Friday in a loss to the Warriors. Robinson played 23 minutes off the bench, scoring nine points on 3 for 9 shooting. He handed out four assists and grabbed a rebound in the game as well. |
Analysis: Robinson has to compete with several other guards in a crowded rotation in New York, which certainly has limited his Fantasy value this season. Now that he is back, think of him as a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy option for Week 4 (Nov. 16-22). |
|
Thompson drops new career high
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Jason Thompson, PF SAC |
|
| News: Jason Thompson's improvement is starting to pay off for the Sacramento Kings. Thompson had a career-high 27 points and added 11 rebounds for the Kings, who won their fourth straight game, defeating the Houston Rockets 109-100 on Friday night. "It's starting to get kind of loud in this building, I really like that," Kings coach Paul Westphal said. Westphal also really likes the production he is getting from Thompson, a second-year post player who is learning how to avoid the early foul trouble that plagued his rookie season. Playing 37 minutes, Thompson made 9 of 15 shots, hit 9 of 10 free throws, and gave the Kings plenty of extra opportunities with nine offensive rebounds. "He's a remarkable young player who is learning how to stay in the game," Westphal said. "He's having an impact in a lot of ways like rebounding, he's one of our most creative passers, and he can shoot the ball." |
Analysis: Thompson added two blocks for good measure on Friday. He has scored at least 19 points in four of his last five games and after starting slow, has his average up to 15 points per game. That comes with 10 boards per contest and he's been in double figures in rebounds in five straight games. He also has at least one blocked shot in every game this season thus far and is beginning to play like a No. 1 Fantasy option consistently. The Kings have three games in Week 4 (Nov. 16-22). |
|
Afflalo getting starts for Denver
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Arron Afflalo, SG DEN |
|
| News: Denver SG Arron Afflalo continues to play superb defense and did so on Friday night in a win over the Lakers. Afflalo scored eight points in the game on 3 of 4 shooting with a three. He added three rebounds, an assist and a steal. |
Analysis: Afflalo is having a fine season for him and has been starting in the last three games. That said, his scoring numbers and minutes have actually dipped since entering the starting lineup. He only has low-end Fantasy appeal for Week 4 (Nov. 16-22) especially since Denver plays three times. |
|
Lawson dunks over 7-footer
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Ty Lawson, PG DEN |
|
| News: Denver rookie PG Ty Lawson continues to play at a high level for the Nuggets in the early part of his first NBA season. Lawson scored 13 points on Friday night in an easy win over the Lakers. Lawson shot 4 of 7 from the field and went 1 of 1 from three-point range but it was a two-point basket that stole the show. The 5-foot-11 Lawson dunked over 7-footer D.J. Mbenga and 6-foot-9 forward Josh Powell late in the game. The dunk sent the crowd and the players into a frenzy and signified the nail in the coffin for the Nuggets. Lawson added six assists and a steal. |
Analysis: Lawson is averaging double figures with 10.3 points per game after his first 10 NBA games. He already has a career-high of 23 points, is shooting over 52 percent from the field, is nailing almost one three per game and continues to play more and more minutes. This guy is going to be a star in the league. Denver plays three times during Week 4 (Nov. 16-22) and Lawson still has low-end value since he doesn't get consistent playing time. We can see this changing later in the year, however. |
|
Kaman comes up big despite virus
|
Updated 11/14/2009 |
| Chris Kaman, C LAC |
|
| News: Clippers C Chris Kaman, who had been dealing with virus and missed practice on Thursday, was the Clippers' top performer on Friday in a loss to the Raptors. He went 10 for 16 from the field, scoring 25 points. He also grabbed seven rebounds and added an assist, blocking two shots. |
Analysis: Kaman has scored more than 20 points in four of his last five contests and is currently scoring 21.7 points per game and 9.6 rebounds on the season. He has once again emerged as a top-flight Fantasy talent and should remain active in all formats as this virus has not been slowing him down. |
|
Rockets make personnel decisions
|
Updated 11/13/2009 |
| Joey Dorsey, PF HOU |
|
| News: The Rockets have assigned center Joey Dorsey to the team's developmental league partner and waived forward Pops Mensah-Bonsu on Friday. |
Analysis: The 6-foot-8 Dorsey, who has not appeared in a game with the Rockets this season, will join the Rio Grande Valley Vipers. The Rockets took over basketball operations of the Vipers in June. Mensah-Bonsu played a total of 12 minutes in four games this season, averaging 1.3 points. He signed as a free agent on Sept. 3. Neither of these players have any Fantasy value and can be left on waivers. |
|
Amundson nearly has double-double
|
Updated 11/13/2009 |
| Louis Amundson, PF PHO |
|
| News: Suns PF Louis Amundson, who hadn't gotten as much playing time lately, played only 14 minutes at the Lakers on Thursday, but he made the most of it. He finished with 10 points and nine rebounds, nearly giving him his first double-double of the season. |
Analysis: Amundson is good for a few rebounds and blocks when he gets significant minutes, but his playing time seems spotty right now. He doesn't matter outside of the deepest of leagues. |
|
Powell makes most of his minutes
|
Updated 11/13/2009 |
| Josh Powell, SF LAL |
|
| News: Lakers PF Josh Powell set season highs with 14 points, seven rebounds and three assists in 20 minutes off the bench during a blowout victory against the Suns on Thursday. He's averaging 21.7 minutes over his last three games. |
Analysis: Powell has gotten to play more off the bench lately, but he won't put up these kinds of numbers consistently enough to make an impact in Fantasy. Leave him for deeper leagues. |
|
Farmar gets season-high eight dimes
|
Updated 11/13/2009 |
| Jordan Farmar, PG LAL |
|
| News: Lakers PG Jordan Farmar, playing 21 minutes off the bench, recorded a season-high eight assists against the Suns on Thursday. He also had three points and four rebounds. |
Analysis: Farmar has gotten about 20 minutes per game lately, but he still doesn't have an opportunity to do much scoring for a loaded Lakers squad. He projects as a starter eventually, but until he overtakes Derek Fisher as the starter (something that doesn't look like it'll happen soon), he remains just a low-end option in Fantasy. |
|
Artest held to single digits again
|
Updated 11/13/2009 |
| Ron Artest, SF LAL |
|
| News: Lakers SF Ron Artest scored only five points in 28 minutes against the Suns on Thursday. He also had three assists, one rebound, one block and one steal. He has scored less than 10 points in each of his last two games and three of his first eight. |
Analysis: Artest still gets about five rebounds and five assists per game, but his scoring has dipped as expected now that he plays for the Lakers. It only stands to dip more when Pau Gasol returns from a hamstring injury. Think of Artest as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy forward. |
|
Rookie Clark has his best game yet
|
Updated 11/13/2009 |
| Earl Clark, SF PHO |
|
| News: Suns SF Earl Clark got his most playing time yet Thursday at the Lakers. He nearly recorded his first double-double in the process, finishing with 10 points and eight rebounds. |
Analysis: The 6-foot-9, 225-pound Clark averaged a team-best 14.2 points and team-leading 8.7 rebounds as a junior last season at Louisville. The Suns used a first-round pick on him, but he doesn't have a significant role in the rotation right now and only got so many minutes Thursday because the game was a blowout. Leave him on waivers in Fantasy. |
|
Stoudemire cools off, goes 2 for 15
|
Updated 11/13/2009 |
| Amar'e Stoudemire, C PHO |
|
| News: Suns PF Amar'e Stoudemire, who hadn't scored less than 16 points all season, scored only eight in 22 minutes at the Lakers on Thursday. He shot 2 for 15 from the field. |
Analysis: Ouch. A player can't shoot much worse than that, which is reason enough to assume Stoudemire just had an off night. He'll hit more of those shots next time and get back to averaging 20 points with seven-plus rebounds. He remains a No. 1 forward in Fantasy. |
|
Brooks hits first snag of season
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Aaron Brooks, PG HOU |
|
| News: Rockets G Aaron Brooks was held to 8 points with 3 assists in Wednesday's game against Memphis. He It was the first time this season he was held under 10 points. |
Analysis: Brooks is averaging 18.9 points and 6.7 rebounds and he just suffered a poor shooting night (3 of 10 from the field). We would not be too alarmed about it. He's been a breakout-caliber player this season and should remain a must-start through thick and thin. |
|
Budinger productive off bench
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Chase Budinger, SF HOU |
|
| News: Rockets G Chase Budinger had 15 points in Wednesday's game against Memphis. He shot 3 of 4 from beyond the arc. He is averaging 13.0 points, 4.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists in his last five games. |
Analysis: Budinger has not put back-to-back double-digit scoring performances yet, but he does have a useful stat line just about every other game. He's not a reliable starter on a regular basis in Fantasy, but could be useful as a last-resort stopgap. |
|
Conley continues to struggle
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Mike Conley, PG MEM |
|
| News: Grizzlies G Mike Conley was held to just 2 points, 3 assists and 3 rebounds in Wednesday's game against Houston. He was limited to 17 minutes on the floor. He has failed to score in double figures in four of his last five games. |
Analysis: Conley continues to start, but Fantasy owners can't wait for him to come around any longer. He's got enough upside to deserve stashing away among your reserves, but until he can get back on track he should be reserved in all leagues. |
|
Mayo continues 20-point drought
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| O.J. Mayo, SG MEM |
|
| News: Grizzlies G O.J. Mayo had 19 points with 3 rebounds and an assist Wednesday at Houston. He has not scored 20 points in a game since Nov. 2. |
Analysis: Mayo has been up-and-down some early this season, but he is averaging 18.0 points per game to go with 4.8 rebounds and 2.9 assists this season. He remains a quality play in all leagues. |
|
Douby released by Toronto Raptors
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Quincy Douby, SG TOR |
|
| News: The Toronto Raptors have released guard Quincy Douby. The Raptors announced the move Thursday. The four-year NBA veteran has averaged 4.1 points, 1.1 rebounds and 10.7 minutes in 143 career games with the Raptors and Sacramento Kings. |
Analysis: Douby had been on the inactive list since Oct. 28 and did not appear in any regular-season games. He joined the Raptors in March and appeared in seven games last season. He averaged 4.4 points, 1.0 assists and 10.4 minutes a game. He has no Fantasy appeal. |
|
Williams shooting well once again
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Mo Williams, PG CLE |
|
| News: Cavaliers G Mo Williams had 28 points, 6 assists, 1 block and shot 4 of 5 from beyond the arc Wednesday at Orlando. He shot 12 of 20 from the field. He has shot 13 of 24 from beyond the arc in his last five games. |
Analysis: Williams is averaging 18.0 points, 4.6 assists and 2.2 rebounds in that span and has gotten over a recent shooting funk in a big way. As long as he's healthy, Williams remains a great play in any Fantasy format for his numbers in scoring, threes and assists. |
|
Westbrook struggles on hurt ankle
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Russell Westbrook, PG OKC |
|
| News: Thunder PG Russell Westbrook went down with 4:09 remaining in the third quarter Tuesday at the Clippers when Marcus Camby stepped on his left ankle. Westbrook left the court and returned to start the fourth, but he finished with two points in 22 minutes. He shot 1 for 11 from the field. |
Analysis: Ankle injuries can be tricky, so even though Westbrook returned late in the game, he might end up missing some time with this injury. Keep an eye on him in the coming days. He entered the game averaging nearly 17 points and seven assists per game, having emerged as a No. 1 Fantasy guard. |
|
West plays through strained knee
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| David West, PF NO |
|
| News: The Hornets were hurt early Wednesday at Phoenix when David West, their second-leading scorer, left after only 1:12 with a strained right knee. He limped to the locker room and missed about six minutes, but when he returned he was generally ineffective. West wound up with only 10 points on 3-of-9 shooting in 28 minutes. |
Analysis: Sounds like West will be able to play through this injury, but if it flares up later in the week, the Hornets might opt to sit him for a game or two. His numbers are a little down this season, but he's still a nightly candidate to go 20-10 and a must-start in all Fantasy formats. |
|
Douglas gets first start, scores 23
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Toney Douglas, PG NY |
|
| News: Knicks rookie SG Toney Douglas, who had averaged 18.5 points over his last two games, got his first career start Wednesday against the Hawks and scored a career-high 23 on 10 of 19 shooting, including 2 of 6 from 3-point range. He also had four rebounds and one assist. |
Analysis: Douglas is a favorite of coach Mike D'Antoni, and it's showing up in his playing time. As long as he continues to score this way, his role will only continue to expand. He's now worth a flier in Fantasy, particularly in deeper leagues. |
|
Brewer's double-digit streak ends
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Corey Brewer, SF MIN |
|
| News: Timberwolves swingman Corey Brewer had 7 points, 3 assists, 3 steals and a rebound in Wednesday's game against Portland. It was the first time this season in which he was held under 10 points. |
Analysis: Brewer has hit the wall a bit in the last couple of games after his strong sart, but he's still getting 30-plus minutes on most nights and has the ability to fill up a stat sheet with useful numbers across the board. He remains a worthy low-end starter in most formats -- to be used when facing favorable matchups. |
|
Hollins doesn't do much as starter
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Ryan Hollins, C MIN |
|
| News: Timberwolves C Ryan Hollins started at center in Wednesday's game against Portland and finished with 6 points and 2 rebounds in 26 minutes. He is averaging just 4.0 points and 2.6 rebounds over his last five games. |
Analysis: Hollins got a chance to start for the first time this season and did not do much with it. Even if he remains in the starting lineup while Kevin Love is injured, we do not recommend activating him in any format. |
|
Gomes chipping in across the board
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Ryan Gomes, PF MIN |
|
| News: Timberwolves F Ryan Gomes had 9 points and 7 rebounds in Wednesday's game against Portland. He's averaging 10.2 points and 6.4 rebounds over his last five games. Gomes also has made five shots from beyond the arc in that span with six steals |
Analysis: Gomes continues to see 30-plus minutes per game. He's not putting up great numbers, but he's not putting up useless numbers either. He's worth starting in deeper formats -- mostly as a stopgap. |
|
The Squirrel back in the NBA
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Earl Boykins, PG WAS |
|
| News: The Washington Wizards have signed free-agent guard Earl Boykins after a series of injuries at that position and waived center Paul Davis. Boykins has averaged 9.4 points and 3.4 assists in 10 NBA seasons with eight teams. He played in Italy last season. |
Analysis: Wizards guard Randy Foye sprained his right ankle during Tuesday's loss to Miami, causing the team to add some depth at guard. We don't expect Boykins to have any Fantasy appeal outside of the deepest of leagues. Even in those formats, you are probably reaching. |
|
Horford scores a season-high 25
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Al Horford, PF ATL |
|
| News: Hawks C Al Horford, who hadn't topped 20 points since the opener, led the Hawks with a season-high 25 at New York on Wednesday. He also had nine rebounds, three assists, two blocks and two steals. |
Analysis: Horford normally won't lead the Hawks in scoring, but he averages a double-double per game and contributes as many blocks as you'd want from a center. He's a No. 1 Fantasy option. |
|
Bibby looking more like himself
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Mike Bibby, PG ATL |
|
| News: Hawks PG Mike Bibby, who had struggled following the offseason acquisition of Jamal Crawford, averaging 9.1 points and 3.7 assists in his first two games, got back on track with 19 points and nine assists Wednesday against the Knicks -- both season highs. He also played 35 minutes, equaling a season high. |
Analysis: Bibby will probably continue to have an up-and-down season, becoming almost an afterthought on nights when Crawford gets hot off the bench. He's still worth using in Fantasy since he contributes steals, 3-pointers and assists, but he's more of a matchups type than a must-start. |
|
Duhon again scoreless Wednesday
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Chris Duhon, PG NY |
|
| News: The Knicks got another dismal outing from PG Chris Duhon against the Hawks on Wednesday. He went scoreless for the second time in four games and shot 0 for 6 with two assists and three turnovers. "Obviously he's going to have to play better, and hopefully he'll do it," Knicks coach Mike D'Antoni said. |
Analysis: Duhon has a total of nine points in his last four games, shooting 2 for 23 (8.7 percent) during that stretch. He's a good source of assists in D'Antoni's offense, but his scoring is inconsistent and might ultimately cost him his starting job. He's still worth using as a matchups type, especially in leagues that reward two points for assists, but his value is on the decline. |
|
T. Young gets back up to 20 points
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Thaddeus Young, SF PHI |
|
| News: Sixers F Thaddeus Young scored 20 points for only the second time this season Wednesday against the 76ers, doing so on 8 of 16 shooting, including 2 or 4 from 3-point range. He also had five rebounds and two assists. |
Analysis: Young might not get the opportunity to average 15.3 points per game like he did last year, but he's a good enough scorer to serve as a No. 4 Fantasy forward in Head-to-Head leagues. He doesn't contribute in many other categories, though, making him slightly less than that in Rotisserie leagues. |
|
Smith active, scores six points
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Craig Smith, PF LAC |
|
| News: Clippers F Craig Smith was able to play on Wednesday against the Thunder after leaving Monday's game with a cut on his right eye. He scored six points, grabbed two rebounds and added an assist. |
Analysis: Smith scored 18 points two games ago but has scored only 10 in his previous two. Smith gets limited playing time and should only be considered a low-end Fantasy option. |
|
Gordon passing as well as scoring
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Ben Gordon, SG DET |
|
| News: Pistons SG Ben Gordon recorded a season-high eight assists against the Bobcats on Wednesday, scoring 22 points on 10 of 16 shooting. Gordon was wide open once in the third quarter, but he chose to pass to Charlie Villanueva for an open shot. "That's just playing the game the right way," said Gordon, who signed a $55 million, five-year contract. "Sometimes, you have to give up a good shot to get a great shot. Charlie had it going." |
Analysis: Gordon has scored at least 19 points in every game this season, so he hasn't become unselfish to the point of hurting his Fantasy value. If anything, he has more value now than ever before. All that might change once Richard Hamilton returns from injury, but Gordon is playing like a No. 1 Fantasy guard right now. |
|
Wallace back to earth with boards
|
Updated 11/12/2009 |
| Gerald Wallace, SF CHA |
|
| News: Bobcats F Gerald Wallace, who averaged 14.8 rebounds over his first five games, had a season-low six at Detroit on Wednesday, also contributing 12 points and two assists. He's averaging 8.0 rebounds over his last three games. |
Analysis: Wallace is still getting plenty of rebounds even if not at the same insane level from earlier in the season. He's a Rotisserie stud since he contributes in just about every category, but he's a good enough scorer and rebounder to be a must-start regardless of format. |
|
Dooling yet to play for Nets
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Keyon Dooling, PG NJ |
|
| News: Nets PG Keyon Dooling still has yet to play this season for the Nets as he continues to rehab his surgically repaired hip. |
Analysis: Even when he returns, Dooling won't see enough minutes off the bench to make an impact in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers. |
|
Walker gets into game action
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Bill Walker, SG BOS |
|
| News: Boston SG Bill Walker saw his first action of the season on Wednesday against the Jazz. Walker finally made his debut after offseason knee surgery and did not score in two minutes on the court. |
Analysis: Walker doesn't seem like he's got any Fantasy value at this point. Keep him on waivers until he sees more than two minutes, at least. |
|
Daniels returns from personal matter
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Marquis Daniels, SG BOS |
|
| News: Boston SG Marquis Daniels returned from a personal issue to play on Wednesday against Utah. Daniels scored 10 points on 3 of 5 shooting over 21 minutes off the bench. He added three assists. |
Analysis: Daniels is simply a low-end Fantasy option. He is averaging almost eight points and 3.3 assists per game in his last five contests. |
|
Watson scores 16 with Ford out
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Earl Watson, PG IND |
|
| News: Indiana PG Earl Watson played 35 minutes off the bench on Wednesday in a win over the Warriors. Watson played well, scoring 16 points on 4 of 6 shooting with three threes. He added three steals and six rebounds. |
Analysis: Watson played more minutes with T.J. Ford getting injured in the game. Watson took advantage of the playing time but since we can't expect that to continue, he remains a low-end Fantasy option. |
|
Granger rips down 16 rebounds
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Danny Granger, SF IND |
|
| News: Danny Granger's swagger is back. Granger scored 31 points and grabbed a career-high 16 rebounds to help the Indiana Pacers beat the Golden State Warriors 108-94 on Wednesday night for their third straight win. Granger had shot 35 percent in his previous four games, but went 12 for 24 against Golden State and looked more like the ultra-confident All-Star who emerged last season. "I just tried to switch it up," he said. "Sometimes, if I hoist a few threes and miss them at the beginning of the game, I kind of start off bad. I started trying to take it to the goal first. I got a layup, hit a few mid-range jump shots. I tried to stay away from a whole lot of 3-pointers. It was effective." |
Analysis: Granger is averaging 23 points and seven boards over his last five games. That comes with 2.4 steals, 1.2 blocks and 2.4 assists. Granger is doing more across the board this season and if he can start getting double-digit rebound nights with some regularity he'd be an insane Fantasy option. As it is, he's already a No. 1 option. |
|
Randolph has nice double-double
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Anthony Randolph, PF GS |
|
| News: Golden State PF Anthony Randolph shot 8 for 20 on Wednesday night at Indiana. He scored 17 points and ripped down 13 rebounds. He added two blocks. |
Analysis: Randolph shot poorly on Wednesday but the double-double was huge. It was his second double-double in four games. He's been up and down at times already this season but seems to be emerging as a viable Fantasy forward for deeper leagues. |
|
Rush plays through ankle injury
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Brandon Rush, SG IND |
|
| News: Indiana SF Brandon Rush played despite an ankle injury on Wednesday against the Warriors. Rush played 34 minutes as a starter and scored 11 points on 4 of 10 shooting with two threes. He added seven rebounds, two blocks and a steal. |
Analysis: Rush is averaging just seven points per game over his last five contests and that comes with 4.4 rebounds and 1.2 blocks. Rush has had to deal with the unexpected emergence of Dahntay Jones, which has limited his production in the early going. He really only has lower-end Fantasy appeal at this time. |
|
Bargnani continues playing at high level
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Andrea Bargnani, PF TOR |
|
| News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 16 points on Wednesday in a win over the Bulls. He shot 5 for 15 from the field with a three. He added two steals, six rebounds and a block. |
Analysis: Bargnani has now hit 10 threes in his last five games and is averaging 18.2 points, 7.2 rebounds and 1.2 blocks over that span. He's playing like a No. 1 Fantasy center and adds the ability to hit the three. |
|
Salmons struggles with shot
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| John Salmons, SF CHI |
|
| News: Bulls SF John Salmons was awful on Wednesday night in a loss at Toronto. Salmons shot just 1 for 11 from the field for five points in the game in 33 minutes in the starting lineup. He added five rebounds and two steals. |
Analysis: Salmons is averaging just under 13 points per game in his last five contests with 4.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists. He's also bringing 2.0 steals and 1.2 blocks. He contributes in almost all statistical categories and that makes him a great Rotisserie weapon. Still, until his scoring comes around he's just a No. 3 or 4 option in most leagues. |
|
Davis let go by Washington Wizards
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Paul Davis, C WAS |
|
| News: The Wizards signed Earl Boykins to a non-guaranteed contract Wednesday. To make room on the roster, Paul Davis was released. |
Analysis: Davis was never a major part of the team's plans and Fantasy owners should not consider owning him in any Fantasy league. |
|
Carter unexpectedly back Tuesday
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Vince Carter, SG ORL |
|
| News: Magic SG Vince Carter's tender left ankle was aching so much at the morning shootaround he couldn't participate, and Orlando coach Stan Van Gundy ruled him out of Tuesday night's game at Charlotte. Then a wet walk back to the hotel in the middle of the remnants of Hurricane Ida changed everything. Suddenly, Carter's ankle loosened up enough that he decided to test it in pregame warmups. He was cleared to play and came off the bench, finishing with 15 points, four rebounds and two assists in 25 minutes. |
Analysis: Tuesday's game marked only the eighth time in 781 career games that Carter didn't start -- but it was his choice. "I got here and I was doing the [scouting] board and Vince came in and said he was going to give it a shot," Van Gundy said. "I was totally surprised." Carter expects to return to the starting lineup Wednesday against the Cavaliers, so apparently he didn't rush back this time. We still don't know exactly how the move to Orlando will affect his numbers, but you can bet he'll get enough points, rebounds and assists to function as a No. 2 Fantasy guard. Get him back active in daily leagues. |
|
Evans approaches his first TPL-DBL
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Tyreke Evans, PG SAC |
|
| News: Kings rookie G Tyreke Evans continued to dominate with Kevin Martin out of the lineup Tuesday against the Thunder, coming close to his first ever triple-double. He finished with 20 points, eight rebounds and a career-high eight assists in 34 minutes. He did struggle with his shot, however, hitting only 5 of 16. |
Analysis: Evans is averaging 25.0 points, 6.3 rebounds and 5.7 assists in three games since Martin went down with a broken wrist and looks like he's ready to take over as the star of the Kings even with his limited experience. He's now a must-start guard in Fantasy even if he can't maintain quite this pace. |
|
Green rebounds to score 19 points
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Jeff Green, SF OKC |
|
| News: Thunder PF Jeff Green, who had a total of 15 points over his previous two games, bounced back with 19 at Sacramento on Tuesday. He also had five rebounds, three steals and two blocks in 36 minutes. |
Analysis: Green is a good enough scorer to average more than 15 points per game, but he'll have some occasional duds when Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook blow up to do most of the team's scoring. Since you can count on Green for a few rebounds and even some 3-pointers, he's worth starting as a No. 2 forward in Fantasy. |
|
Lowry racking up assists off bench
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Kyle Lowry, SG HOU |
|
| News: Rockets G Kyle Lowry made a significant contribution off the bench Tuesday at Dallas, equaling his season high with 12 points in 26 minutes. He also had four rebounds and five assists and is now averaging 5.3 assists over his last four games. |
Analysis: You can't expect big numbers or even double-digit scoring from Lowry, but he's good for a handful of assists off the bench every game. If you need help in that category in a Rotisserie league, he might come in handy at some point this season. Keep an eye on him. |
|
Krstic plays despite injured pinkie
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Nenad Krstic, C OKC |
|
| News: Thunder C Nenad Krstic, who dislocated his pinkie Sunday, returned to the starting lineup Tuesday at Sacramento. He finished with 12 points and eight rebounds in 31 minutes, his best combination of points and rebounds since he had 20 and seven in the season opener. |
Analysis: The Thunder don't usually rely on Krstic for much offense, and he entered the game averaging less than 10 points and five rebounds. He's at best a No. 3 center in Fantasy. |
|
Q. Ross returns, but as a reserve
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Quinton Ross, SF DAL |
|
| News: Mavericks SG Quinton Ross, who missed two games with a bruised lower back, returned to the lineup Tuesday against the Rockets. He had to come off the bench, though, now that Josh Howard has returned from his ankle injury. He went scoreless in 13 minutes of action. |
Analysis: Ross had been serving as a placeholder in the starting lineup for Josh Howard, but Howard made his return to the lineup Saturday. Coming off the bench, Ross will contribute even fewer stats than before. Leave him on waivers in Fantasy. |
|
Deng back over 20 points Tuesday
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Luol Deng, SF CHI |
|
| News: Bulls SF Luol Deng continued to play the role of scorer Tuesday against the Nuggets, finishing with 21 points to break 20 for the first time in three games. He's averaging 17.3 for the season. He also has six rebounds, five assists and two blocks. |
Analysis: Deng seems to have gotten back on track after missing much of last season with a stress fracture in his right leg. He should average 6-7 rebounds per game to go along with his consistent scoring. Keep him active as a No. 2 or 3 forward in Fantasy. |
|
Martin returns with double-double
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Kenyon Martin, PF DEN |
|
| News: Nuggets PF Kenyon Martin, who missed Saturday's game with a bruised left fibula, returned to the lineup Tuesday at Chicago and had 15 points and 10 rebounds in 35 minutes. It was his third double-double of the season. |
Analysis: Martin can put up these numbers from time to time, but he's one of the lesser stat contributors in the Nuggets' starting lineup and is too inconsistent to use as more than a No. 4 forward in Fantasy. |
|
Thomas working on his conditioning
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Tyrus Thomas, PF CHI |
|
| News: Bulls coach Vinny Del Negro said "everything has gone well" with F Tyrus Thomas, who is out for at least a month with a broken left forearm. "It's just a matter of getting him on some cardio program so he can stay in the best condition as you can in this situation," Del Negro said. "But it's going to be awhile." |
Analysis: Thomas was starting for the Bulls, but he was making a minimal contribution in Fantasy with the team trying to incorporate several other big men into the rotation. He has upside as a rebounder and shot blocker, but he likely won't serve as more than a No. 4 forward in Fantasy when he returns. |
|
Blatche puts up numbers as starter
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Andray Blatche, SF WAS |
|
| News: Wizards F/C Andray Blatche returned to the starting lineup Tuesday at Miami and put up his first double-double of the season, finishing with 13 points and 10 rebounds. He also had five assists in 39 minutes of play. |
Analysis: Blatche has gotten back on track in two games since scoring one point Friday at Indiana, averaging 16.5 points and 7.5 rebounds. The Wizards can't seem to decide how to use him, which can lead to some spotty production at times, but when he gets minutes, he's an excellent scorer, rebounder and shot blocker. Treat him as a low-end No. 2 center in Fantasy. |
|
Arenas able to play, but struggles
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| Gilbert Arenas, PG WAS |
|
| News: Wizards PG Gilbert Arenas, playing despite soreness in his left calf, had a night to forget Tuesday at Miami. He led the Wizards with 21 points, but he had a career-high 12 turnovers -- seven of the giveaways coming in a six-minute span in the third quarter. "It's the same thing every game," Arenas said. "We go into that third quarter where we can't score, we can't pass, we can't catch, we can't think." He also had eight assists, five rebounds and three steals. |
Analysis: Other than the turnovers, Arenas played well, so he looks safe to start in Fantasy once again. He has had a rebound season after missing much of the last two with knee injuries, entering the game averaging 24.4 points and 5.6 assists. Provided he stays healthy, he's a No. 1 Fantasy guard. |
|
Augustin doing little off bench
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| D.J. Augustin, PG CHA |
|
| News: Bobcats G D.J. Augustin, who went scoreless in 11 minutes off the bench Saturday at Chicago, had an equally discouraging performance Tuesday against the Magic. He had four points and one assist in 17 minutes, shooting 2 for 6 from the field. |
Analysis: Before this rough patch, Augustin scored in double figures in four straight games. As a starter, he'd deserve a roster spot in all Fantasy leagues, but as a reserve, his playing time is too inconsistent for you to trust him. Leave him for deeper leagues. |
|
Redick suffers from Carter's return
|
Updated 11/11/2009 |
| J.J. Redick, SG ORL |
|
| News: Magic SG J.J. Redick got another start Tuesday at Charlotte, but he played only 23 minutes as Vince Carter returned from the ankle injury that sidelined him for four games, including three straight. Redick finished with eight points and three assists. |
Analysis: Redick had averaged 14.2 points, 3.0 rebounds and 3.0 assists as a starter, so he had some low-end appeal in Fantasy leagues. Now with Carter back and expected to return to the starting lineup, Redick will again have to settle for erratic minutes off the bench. He doesn't figure to help your Fantasy team unless you have a desperate need for 3-pointers. |
|
Hayes still a couple weeks away
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Jarvis Hayes, SF NJ |
|
| News: Nets SG Jarvis Hayes, who has missed six straight games with a hamstring injury, is still a couple weeks away from returning, according to The Associated Press. |
Analysis: Hayes can score when he gets enough playing time, but he doesn't figure to get that playing time with the Nets. Leave him on waivers in Fantasy. |
|
Battie might return by next week
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Tony Battie, PF NJ |
|
| News: Nets PF Tony Battie had his right knee re-examined recently and might be back next week, according to The Associated Press. He has missed the team's first seven games with the injury. |
Analysis: Battie will play sparingly off the bench once he recovers. He doesn't figure to make any impact in Fantasy. |
|
Yi out at least three more weeks
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Yi Jianlian, SF NJ |
|
| News: Nets PF Yi Jianlian will miss another 3-4 weeks after spraining his right knee in early November, according to The Associated Press. |
Analysis: Yi was starting for the Nets and averaging 9.8 points and 7.5 rebounds at the time of his injury. He has yet to live up to his potential but has his best chance yet on a rebuilding team. He'll need to get healthy first, though. He's worth using as a low-end forward in mixed leagues when healthy. |
|
Telfair chipping in some assists
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Sebastian Telfair, PG LAC |
|
| News: Clippers PG Sebastian Telfair had eight points and four assists in 22 minutes off the bench Thursday against the Hornets. He's averaging 3.8 assists per game despite playing only 18.5 minutes per game. |
Analysis: If you need cheap assists and not much else, you might want to give Telfair a look in Fantasy. His numbers are pretty low all-around, though, so you should probably save him for deeper leagues. |
|
Thornton not doing much scoring
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Al Thornton, SF LAC |
|
| News: Clippers SF Al Thornton had only eight points, one rebound and one assist in 32 minutes against the Hornets on Monday. He has only once scored in double figures this season, averaging 7.4 points per game. |
Analysis: Thornton averaged 16.8 points per game last season, but the Clippers clearly have other scoring options right now and don't need to lean on him as much. Unless his performance improves dramatically in the next few days, he's a candidate to cut in all Fantasy leagues. |
|
Pavlovic comes through off bench
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Sasha Pavlovic, SG MIN |
|
| News: Timberwolves SG Sasha Pavlovic, who had yet to score in double figures this season, dropped 17 in 30 minutes off the bench Monday at Golden State. He also had six rebounds and three assists, hitting three 3-pointers. |
Analysis: Pavlovic usually doesn't get enough minutes to make a significant contribution in Fantasy, but on the wide-open Timberwolves, this kind of performance could earn him a bigger role in the rotation. You shouldn't bother with him after just one big game, but keep an eye on him. |
|
Banks healthy enough to play now
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Marcus Banks, PG TOR |
|
| News: Raptors reserve PG Marcus Banks, who missed the first five games of the season with the flu, made his debut Saturday at Dallas and had four points and two assists in five minutes. He didn't play in Monday's game at San Antonio, however. |
Analysis: Banks is one of the last men off the bench and won't get enough time to make a contribution in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers. |
|
Calderon tops 2,000 career assists
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Jose Calderon, PG TOR |
|
| News: Raptors G Jose Calderon nearly recorded his first double-double of the season Monday at San Antonio, finishing with 13 points and nine assists. He eclipsed the 2,000-assist mark in his 298th NBA game. He is Toronto's all-time assist leader. |
Analysis: Calderon isn't the most prolific scorer and will probably average right around a dozen points per game, but he's one of the most consistent assists men in the NBA and a must-start in Fantasy as a result. |
|
Bonner drops 18 with extended time
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Matt Bonner, PF SA |
|
| News: Spurs C Matt Bonner scored a season-high 18 points in 34 minutes against the Raptors on Monday, taking advantage of extra playing time with Tim Duncan and Tony Parker sidelined by ankle injuries. He also had four points and two assists and shot 4 of 8 from 3-point range. Bonner is a 3-point specialist whose role is to spread the floor, but just before halftime he stormed down the paint for a rare one-handed dunk that appeared to leave Duncan in saucer-eyed disbelief from the bench. |
Analysis: Bonner gets to start from time to time, but the Spurs' stars rarely leave him with many scoring opportunities. He's a big man who can shoot from long range, but since he rarely gets the opportunity, he should remain on waivers in Fantasy. |
|
Chandler gets back on track Monday
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Wilson Chandler, SF NY |
|
| News: Knicks SF Wilson Chandler, who scored three points and shot 1 for 10 in his last game Saturday, got back on track with his first double-double of the season Monday against the Jazz. He finished with 17 points and a season-high 10 rebounds, shooting 8 for 15 from the field. |
Analysis: Chandler broke out with 14.4 points and 5.4 rebounds last season, but he has gotten off to a slow start this season. He showed his potential with this bounce-back performance and is still worth starting as a No. 3 Fantasy forward, especially if you need 3-pointers. |
|
Kirilenko at his best against zone
|
Updated 11/10/2009 |
| Andrei Kirilenko, SF UTA |
|
| News: Jazz SF Andrei Kirilenko scored a season-high 23 points at New York on Monday, thriving against the Knicks' zone defense. He also had six rebounds and six assists and hit five 3-pointers. "I love to play against zones," Kirilenko said. "Defensively, guys, they don't really pay attention. They don't play against you particularly, they play against a spot." |
Analysis: Despite his big performance Monday, Kirilenko is still averaging only 13.7 points per game. He still contributes across-the-board production, but his production isn't as much as it used to be. Think of him as a No. 4 forward in Fantasy. |
|
Martin has surgery on broken wrist
|
Updated 11/9/2009 |
| Kevin Martin, SG SAC |
|
| News: Kings leading scorer Kevin Martin underwent surgery on his injured left wrist. The team says Martin had the procedure to repair a hairline fracture in his left wrist on Monday at the UC Davis Medical Center. Martin will be released from the hospital later in the day. Martin is expected to miss at least eight weeks with the injury. He is averaging 30.6 points per game for the Kings. |
Analysis: Martin ranks among the league leaders in scoring every year, but he can't stay healthy. Still, his upside makes him worth stashing for the next two months. |
|
Nash going nuts with assists
|
Updated 11/9/2009 |
| Steve Nash, PG PHO |
|
| News: Suns PG Steve Nash is going a bit crazy with the assists lately. Nash dished out 20 dimes on Monday in a win over the 76ers. He shot 6 of 9 from the field with a three to score 21 points, though he did turn the ball over seven times. |
Analysis: This is the second time this season in eight games that Nash has 20 assists and he's had double digits in five of the games, including the last three straight. That puts Nash's average at almost 13 per game. Add the fact that he averages over 18 points per game, too, and you have a No. 1 Fantasy PG. |
|
Holiday almost in double figures
|
Updated 11/9/2009 |
| Jrue Holiday, PG PHI |
|
| News: Philadelphia rookie PG Jrue Holiday scored eight points on Monday in a loss to the Suns. Holiday shot 3 of 5 from the field and grabbed three rebounds with two steals over 15 minutes on the court. |
Analysis: The rookie is only seeing just under 12 minutes per game in his two games played this season. He is putting up minimal numbers over that time but definitely shows potential. Until that turns into Fantasy production, however, leave him on waivers. |
|
James suffers broken bone in hand
|
Updated 11/9/2009 |
| Mike James, PG WAS |
|
| News: Washington Wizards backup guard Mike James is expected to miss up to five weeks with a broken bone in his left hand. The injury was diagnosed Monday, two days after James was hurt in practice. He did not play in Washington's 102-90 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Sunday. |
Analysis: James has played in only one game this season for the Wizards. He is not expected to be a major part of the team's rotation this season and is a player to be avoided. |
|
Davis to see a quick boost?
|
Updated 11/9/2009 |
| Ricky Davis, SG LAC |
|
| News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Eric Gordon is suffering from a sore left groin, making him doubtful for Monday night's game against the New Orleans Hornets. Gordon didn't suffer a specific acute injury but experienced discomfort and soreness during the fourth quarter of Saturday night's victory over Memphis. If Gordon can't play, the Clippers could move Rasual Butler from small forward to shooting guard. Other potential fill-ins include swingman Ricky Davis and guard Kareem Rush. |
Analysis: The Clippers didn't have a full-scale practice Sunday, when they mostly watched game film. The report adds Gordon was rechecked in the morning and the decision was made to rest him. He is considered day to day, but Fantasy owners now have to consider him at least a mild injury risk for the team's upcoming four-game week. It sounds like three games is a best-case scenario for Gordon in Fantasy Week 3 (Nov. 9-15). Butler could be worth taking a flier on in larger leagues this week. Davis and Rush are not recommended fill ins. |
|
Butler to fill in for Gordon?
|
Updated 11/9/2009 |
| Rasual Butler, SG LAC |
|
| News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Eric Gordon is suffering from a sore left groin, making him doubtful for Monday night's game against the New Orleans Hornets. Gordon didn't suffer a specific acute injury but experienced discomfort and soreness during the fourth quarter of Saturday night's victory over Memphis. If Gordon can't play, the Clippers could move Rasual Butler from small forward to shooting guard. Other potential fill-ins include swingman Ricky Davis and guard Kareem Rush. |
Analysis: The Clippers didn't have a full-scale practice Sunday, when they mostly watched game film. The report adds Gordon was rechecked in the morning and the decision was made to rest him. He is considered day to day, but Fantasy owners now have to consider him at least a mild injury risk for the team's upcoming four-game week. It sounds like three games is a best-case scenario for Gordon in Fantasy Week 3 (Nov. 9-15). Butler could be worth taking a flier on in larger leagues this week. Davis and Rush are not recommended fill ins. |
|
Jerebko with chance to start
|
Updated 11/8/2009 |
| Jonas Jerebko, SF DET |
|
| News: Tayshaun Prince (back) missed his fourth straight game Sunday, while Richard Hamilton (ankle) was out for the sixth time in a row. Pistons coach John Kuester does not expect either to return within the next week. Ben Gordon and Jonas Jerebko have been starting in their place. |
Analysis: Gordon should be started in all Fantasy leagues regardless of whether or not he comes off the bench as he sees starter's minutes and shot attempts off the bench. The absence of Hamilton, however, likely means more minutes and shot attempts than normal. Jerebko had 10 points and 5 rebounds Sunday against Philadelphia and could be worth a low-end flier in deep leagues. |
|
James wants to play this year
|
Updated 11/8/2009 |
| Jerome James, PF CHI |
|
| News: The Sports Xchange reports that Bulls C Jerome James (torn right Achilles) hasn't played since early last season when he was with the Knicks. No one is counting any contributions from him, but he's vowed to get healthy and play sometime this season. It will probably be at least late November before he's ready to practice. |
Analysis: James is not a relevant Fantasy option and should not be owned in any format at least until he returns to action. |
|
Alexander may still contribute this year
|
Updated 11/8/2009 |
| Joe Alexander, SF MIL |
|
| News: According to The Sports Xchange, The Bucks didn't pick up the third-year option on Joe Alexander's contract, but he could still be a contributor to the team this season. At least that's the opinion of Bucks coach Scott Skiles. Skiles said that once Alexander is fully recovered from a hamstring injury -- he is expected to be sidelined until late December -- he would be receptive to using the 6-foot-8 combo forward. "It would depend on how we're doing," Skiles said. "It would depend on our other injury situation. It would depend on how Joe is playing. "If Joe comes back and gets healthy and plays well in practice and it's a situation where we feel like we need him, absolutely, I'd put him in for sure." |
Analysis: Skiles seldom played Alexander last season after the Bucks made the latter the eighth overall pick in the NBA draft. But Alexander played well in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas and then at Tim Grgrich's camp. There was speculation Alexander would vie for a starting spot this season, but then he partially tore his hamstring just before the start of training camp. He hasn't played since. Skiles said he believes Alexander still has the potential to be a good pro player. "Unfortunately for Joe, we haven't seen enough of him to where we were ready to commit to next year (on his contract)," Skiles said. "There's plenty of season left, there's next summer. There's nothing written in stone. We still like Joe." Keep Alexander reserved in all formats and only hang on to him in long-term keeper formats and extremely deep leagues. |
|
Barbosa returns to floor for Suns
|
Updated 11/8/2009 |
| Leandro Barbosa, PG PHO |
|
| News: Phoenix G Leandro Barbosa returned to action Sunday against Washington after missing three games with a sore right wrist. He had 9 points and 4 assists in 18 minutes off the bench. |
Analysis: Barbosa has been dealing with a real sore wrist which could affect his shooting stroke. He shot 4 of 7 from the field Sunday and appeared to be fine in that regard. Fantasy owners should consider him a bit of a sleeper in Week 3 (Nov. 9-15) as the Suns have a favorable four-game scoring period. It appears the wrist he will be a safe play. |
|
Bell filling in for injured Redd
|
Updated 11/8/2009 |
| Charlie Bell, SG MIL |
|
| News: Bucks G Charlie Bell had 5 points with 2 rebounds and an assist in 21 minutes Saturday against the Knicks. He started in place of injured Michael Redd. |
Analysis: Bell did not have a very productive game, but Fantasy owners in deeper leagues could still look to Bell for some cheap help in three, steals and some sporadic production elsewhere across the board while Redd is out. |
|
Harrington hits a rare speed bump
|
Updated 11/8/2009 |
| Al Harrington, PF NY |
|
| News: Knicks F Al Harrington had a rare bad shooting night Saturday at Milwaukee, going 1 for 7 from the field and being held to 5 points. He has scored just 19 combined points in his last two games with 8 rebounds and 3 assists. |
Analysis: Harrington has been underwhelming the last two games, but remains a player to keep active in all formats. He is averaging 19.9 points and 5.3 rebounds with over a steal and a three-pointer per game. |
|
Barea hands out 12 assists
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Jose Juan Barea, PG DAL |
|
| News: Dallas PG Jose Juan Barea had a surprisingly strong performance handing out dimes on Saturday in a 129-101 win over the Raptors. He scored only four points but was credited with 12 assists in 24 minutes of action. He also had three rebounds in the game. |
Analysis: Barea has averaged 8.2 points and 4.2 assists coming off the bench over his previous five games. He will have a breakout performance now and again like he had on Saturday, but remains just a low-end Fantasy option overall. |
|
Hinrich struggles with shooting percentage
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Kirk Hinrich, PG CHI |
|
| News: Bulls G Kirk Hinrich shot for a low percentage on Saturday in a win over the Bobcats. He went 3 for 10 from the field, adding seven assists and four rebounds. Hinrich was 2 for 4 from downtown, turning the ball over four times in 33 minutes of action. |
Analysis: Hinrich has failed to reach double digits in scoring in each of his last four games, averaging just 7.8 points per game over his last five contests. He is 16 for 47 from the field during that span as well. Consider him a No. 4 Fantasy option at best at this point in the season. |
|
Felton gets double-double vs. Bulls
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Raymond Felton, PG CHA |
|
| News: Charlotte G Raymond Felton recorded a double-double on Saturday against the Bulls in a 93-90 loss. He went 5 for 17 from the field, scoring 14 points. He also added 10 assists, two rebounds and two steals. |
Analysis: Felton had failed to reach double digits in scoring in each of his previous two games, playing only 24 minutes on Friday against Atlanta. He has not been too impressive to open up the season but hopefully Saturday's double-double will help turn things around. He remains a borderline No. 2 Fantasy option. |
|
Four thefts but few points for 'Sheed
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Rasheed Wallace, PF BOS |
|
| News: Boston C Rasheed Wallace came away with four steals on Saturday in a win over the Nets but managed to score only eight points on 3 for 10 shooting. It was the third straight game that Wallace has failed to reach double digits in scoring. |
Analysis: Wallace is 0 for 10 from downtown in each of his past two games and has averaged eight points over the past three games. He is no longer a standout player in Fantasy as he now comes off the bench for the Celtics and is not one of the go-to scorers. He can be used as a No. 2 Fantasy center but nothing more. |
|
Boone starts, gets 12 rebounds
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Josh Boone, PF NJ |
|
| News: Nets C Josh Boone got a chance to start on Saturday against the Celtics and made the most of it on the glass. He pulled down 12 rebounds in the game, adding eight points and an assist. |
Analysis: Boone is getting a chance to start with the Nets as the team has been decimated by injuries to open up the year. He is worth taking a look at in deeper formats when starting, but is typically not worth using when coming off the bench. |
|
Crawford leads Hawks in scoring
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Jamal Crawford, SG ATL |
|
| News: Atlanta PG Jamal Crawford was the team's leading scorer on Saturday against Denver, dropping 25 points on 8 for 15 shooting. It is the third time in his past four games that he has exceeded 20 points coming off the bench. He also led the team in minutes played with 38. |
Analysis: Crawford is off to a solid start in Atlanta, averaging 17 points and nearly three assists per game as a bench player. He had a poor first game with the team, but has really turned things around since. He remains a solid No. 4 Fantasy option with the Hawks. |
|
Evans reaches double digits again
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Maurice Evans, SF ATL |
|
| News: For the second straight game, Atlanta G Maurice Evans was able to reach double digits in scoring, putting up 12 points off the bench against the Nuggets. He added six rebounds and an assist to his stat line as well. |
Analysis: Evans is a decent scorer off the bench, but the Hawks have an even better one in Jamal Crawford who is a much more consistent contributor. He should remain out in the majority of Fantasy formats. |
|
Billups bounces back from stinker
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Chauncey Billups, PG DEN |
|
| News: Denver PG Chauncey Billups rebounded from a poor performance at Miami on Friday with a 27-point game on Saturday at Atlanta. He went 2 for 7 from the field on Friday against the Heat but was 10 for 22 against the Hawks, adding seven assists, two steals and three rebounds. |
Analysis: Billups has averaged 18.2 points per game over his past five games, adding 5.6 assists and 2.6 rebounds. He will typically reach at least 20 points per game and add about five rebounds. Think of him as a must-start Fantasy option in all formats. |
|
Posey drops single point
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| James Posey, SF NO |
|
| News: New Orleans SF James Posey scored one point on Friday in a loss to Toronto. Posey played 16 minutes and did not attempt a shot from the field. He added one assist. |
Analysis: Posey didn't do much of anything on Friday. He's averaging 17 minutes per game this season but just 1.5 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.0 assists to go with it. Leave him on waivers in all but the deepest of Fantasy leagues. |
|
Arroyo playing limited minutes
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Carlos Arroyo, PG MIA |
|
| News: Miami PG Carlos Arroyo continued to see around 14-15 minutes of action per night for the Heat as they beat Denver on Friday. Arroyo played 14:15 in the game and scored four points on 2 of 3 shooting. He added an assist. |
Analysis: Arroyo is averaging just 4.2 points, 1.0 rebounds and 1.8 assists per game over 14 minutes a night this season for Miami. He has low-end Fantasy appeal, at best, until he sees greater minutes. |
|
Garnett has season-high 26 points
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Kevin Garnett, PF BOS |
|
| News: Boston PF Kevin Garnett had a season-high 26 points for Boston - the most he's scored since missing the end of the 2008-09 season and the playoffs with strained ligaments in his right knee - on Friday night in a loss to the Suns. Garnett shot 13 of 20 from the field and added eight rebounds, four assists and two steals. |
Analysis: Garnett had a previous season high of 16 points but exploded for a game that reminded us of the KG of old. Garnett might now average over 20 points per game this season, however, and owners shouldn't expect to see this type of production consistently. |
|
Richardson's six 3's lead to 34 points
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Jason Richardson, SG PHO |
|
| News: Phoenix SG Jason Richardson has been both bad and good since returning to the starting lineup against the T-Wolves four games ago. Richardson was very good on Friday night in a win at Boston. Richardson scored a game-high 34 points on 10 of 16 shooting with six threes. He added 10 rebounds, two assists and a steal. |
Analysis: Richardson is averaging 17.8 points per game over his first four contests this season. He has one 0-point effort but has been solid otherwise. He's made 12 threes in his four games and looks like he'll be a solid source of points, threes and even rebounds and steals this season. Richardson is a solid option as a No. 2 guard. |
|
Daye scores in double figures
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Austin Daye, SF DET |
|
| News: Detroit rookie small forward Austin Daye scored a career-high 11 points on Friday in only his fourth game of action on the year. Daye played 18 minutes, also a season high, in a loss at Orlando on Friday. He shot 5 of 7 from the field and a hit a three. He added five rebounds, a steal and a block. |
Analysis: The rookie has shot 8 for 15 over his first three games of solid action. He is not yet a Fantasy-viable option but he's showed he can contribute when given time. |
|
Kapono hits 4 threes in win
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Jason Kapono, SF PHI |
|
| News: Philadelphia SF Jason Kapono scored 14 points in a win over the Nets on Friday. Kapono played 20 minutes off the bench and shot 5 of 7 from the field with four threes. He added two assists and a steal. |
Analysis: Kapono is nearly averaging two threes per game this season for the Sixers in 20 minutes per game off the bench. He will hit a few threes and be in double figures in a best-case scenario. If you use him for those things in deeper Fantasy leagues, you shouldn't go wrong. |
|
Hassell starts, registers DBL-DBL
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Trenton Hassell, SF NJ |
|
| News: Nets SF Trenton Hassell scored 17 points and ripped down 12 rebounds on Friday night in his first start of the season at Philadelphia. Hassell played 46 minutes and had only seen eight minutes action prior this season. Hassell shot 8 of 13. |
Analysis: Hassell hadn’t scored in eight minutes all season before his double-double against the Sixers. Until this becomes consistent, he has no Fantasy value. |
|
Pachulia seeing 14 minutes per game
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Zaza Pachulia, C ATL |
|
| News: Atlanta C Zaza Pachulia scored eight points on 4 of 9 shooting on Friday in a loss at Charlotte. Pachulia grabbed four rebounds and blocked a shot. |
Analysis: The Hawks backup C has averaged 14 minutes per game this season after six contests and is averaging 6.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and fewer than a block per game. He really isn't worth your time off the bench except in the absolute deepest Fantasy leagues. |
|
Teague sees 20 minutes on the court
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Jeff Teague, PG ATL |
|
| News: Atlanta PG Jeff Teague scored four points on 2 of 4 shooting on Friday in a loss at Charlotte. Teague, a rookie out of Wake Forest, played 20 minutes in his most amount of action on the year. He added three assists and two steals. |
Analysis: Teague scored a career-high 12 points in 16 minutes on 5 of 7 shooting with a three back on Nov. 1 in a loss at the Lakers. Otherwise, he's done relatively little for the Hawks as a rookie. He really doesn't need to be owned in Fantasy play at this time. |
|
Przybilla grabs 13 rebounds
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Joel Przybilla, C POR |
|
| News: Portland C Joel Przybilla saw 18 minutes of playing time on Friday in a win over the Spurs. He scored four points on 1 of 4 shooting but grabbed a season-high 13 rebounds. |
Analysis: Przybilla grabbed 10 boards in 16 minutes in the season opener and has at least five rebounds in every game this season despite minimal playing time. He's also averaging over a block per game. He always threatens to gain Fantasy value when Greg Oden finds himself injured so he's worth keeping an eye on off waivers. Otherwise, he has very little current Fantasy value. |
|
McDyess doing little for Spurs
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Antonio McDyess, PF SA |
|
| News: Spurs PF Antonio McDyess scored eight points on 4 of 6 shooting in 12 minutes against Portland on Friday night. McDyess added three rebounds. |
Analysis: The Spurs' veteran power forward is averaging six points and 3.2 rebounds per game this season over 17 minutes a contest. He could pick up extra minutes in the future and become viable for Fantasy use in deeper leagues but for now he's not really worth using in any formats. |
|
Mbenga grabs 13 rebounds as starter
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| D.J. Mbenga, C LAL |
|
| News: Lakers C DJ Mbenga had 13 rebounds but little offensive success while starting for the first time in his three seasons with the Lakers on Friday night in a win over the Grizzlies. Mbenga scored five points on 2 of 7 shooting in 30 minutes on the floor. He blocked four shots. |
Analysis: Mbenga got the start on Friday with both Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol out with injury. He had not played more than 10 minutes in a game this season before Friday. It is clear that with playing time Mbenga will get plenty of blocks and boards but the scoring is a work in progress. He has low-end Fantasy appeal until he sees consistent playing time. |
|
Haywood rips down 19 boards
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Brendan Haywood, C WAS |
|
| News: Washington C Brendan Haywood did not pick up a double-double for the second straight game on Friday at Indiana. Instead, Haywood scored nine points on 4 of 9 shooting and ripped down 19 big rebounds. He also blocked four shots. |
Analysis: Nobody ever claimed that Haywood was the most agile scorer in the world. Still, on the season in six games he's averaging 11.5 points and 10.8 rebounds per game and he has 10 blocks in his last five games. Haywood is playing well and worth using as a No. 2 Fantasy center, at least, in all leagues. |
|
Young starts, Foye impresses
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Nick Young, SG WAS |
|
| News: Washington SG Nick Young earned his first start of the season on Friday night in a loss at Indiana. Young made his debut in the starting lineup in place of the injured Mike Miller. Many had thought it would be Randy Foye to start but Foye came off the bench as Young scores three points on 1 of 4 shooting over 15 minutes on the night. Young nailed one three and grabbed two boards with a block. Foye came off the bench for an extended 34 minutes and shot 6 of 14 from the field with two threes. He scored 16 points with four rebounds and two assists. |
Analysis: Young got the starting nod on Friday but it is clear who the better option was for Fantasy owners. Foye was given an increase of minutes and scored in double figures for the first time in three games because of it. Foye is averaging 12.3 points, 2.5 boards and 3.0 assists per game on the season and that will likely rise over the coming weeks with Miller out. Young is not worth adding off waivers in most leagues but if Foye is available, he definitely is worth it. |
|
Butler doubles up in loss
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Caron Butler, SF WAS |
|
| News: Washington SF Caron Butler scored a season-high 24 points on Friday night in a loss at Indiana. The Wizards have now lost three straight with Butler in the lineup. Butler led the tam in scoring though and shot 8 of 21 from the field with a three. He added 12 rebounds for his second straight double-double. |
Analysis: Butler missed a game with a bruised kneecap and since he's returned he's averaged 20 points and 9.3 boards per contest in three games, all Washington losses. Fantasy owners don't care about how the Wizards perform as long as Butler is playing this way. He's worth using in all Fantasy leagues. |
|
Graham returns from toe injury
|
Updated 11/7/2009 |
| Joey Graham, SF DEN |
|
| News: Denver SF Joey Graham was able to play on Friday against the Heat after missing time with a toe injury. He scored four points in the game on 2 for 2 shooting. |
Analysis: Graham normally gets a few minutes off the bench, but not enough to make an impact in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers in all leagues even though he has returned. |
|
Gibson getting a big Fantasy boost
|
Updated 11/6/2009 |
| Taj Gibson, PF CHI |
|
| News: The Chicago Bulls announced Friday that Bulls forward Tyrus Thomas suffered a fractured radius of his left forearm during a weight training session Friday morning at practice. X-rays confirmed the injury and he will undergo surgery Saturday. Thomas is expected to be out four to six weeks. His absence should create more minutes for Taj Gibson at power forward as well as more minutes for Joakim Noah and Brad Miller. |
Analysis: In four games (three starts) this season, Thomas averaged 8.3 ppg, 5.3 rpg and 1.75 bpg in 21.0 mpg. Fantasy owners will have no choice but to stash him away where possible as he'll be out until possibly mid-to-late December. Gibson has played well in the preseason and early on in the regular season and is a great addition off the waiver wire. Miller and Noah should see subtle increases in their production as well. |
|
Pietrus to remain a starter?
|
Updated 11/6/2009 |
| Mickael Pietrus, SF ORL |
|
| News: The Orlando Sentinel reports that Magic coach Stan Van Gundy said Thursday that he will start suspended forward Rashard Lewis the very game he becomes eligible. Lewis, suspended by the league for the first 10 games of the season for taking a banned supplement, can play on Nov. 16 against the Charlotte Bobcats at home. "I'm starting him the first game --- for who, I don't know," Van Gundy said. "It's like when we got Rafer (Alston) at midseason last year. When you know a guy is going to be there long term, you don't mess around." Lewis would replace either Mickael Pietrus or Ryan Anderson. |
Analysis: Van Gundy said last week that Lewis would start at power forward despite the fact the team had planned on having Lewis move back to his more natural power forward position. That would leave Mickael Pietrus as a starter and would push Ryan Anderson -- despite his strong recent play -- to the bench. Both player will see a drop in production, regardless, once Lewis returns. |
|
Moore could fill in for Biedrins
|
Updated 11/6/2009 |
| Mikki Moore, PF GS |
|
| News: The Oakland Tribune reports that Andris Biedrins is questionable for Friday's game against the L.A. Clippers due to an ailing back. "It's a little sore," Biedrins said Thursday. "Hopefully I will play, but we'll see (today)." If Biedrins cannot play, Mikki Moore is expected to be called upon as the starting center. |
Analysis: Biedrins hurt his back with 2:29 left in Wednesday's game against Memphis. He was bumped under the hoops and had to twist his body to score. He wrenched his back and asked to be pulled from the game. The report added that being 100 percent by today is not realistic, Biedrins said. But because the Warriors are short-handed in the frontcourt, Biedrins said he won't wait until he is fully healthy to play. Moore is not a recommended fill-in outside of extremely deep leagues in a pinch. |
|
SG Finley not playing many minutes
|
Updated 11/6/2009 |
| Michael Finley, SG SA |
|
| News: Spurs G/F Michael Finley continued to start Thursday at Utah, but he played only 17 minutes and scored six points. He's averaging just 7.3 points in 20.3 minutes over his first four games. |
Analysis: Finley technically starts for the Spurs, but Manu Ginobili is the team's true shooting guard. Finley is an excellent 3-point shooter in the few minutes he does get, but you can leave him for deeper Rotisserie leagues. |
|
Mason doing little off the bench
|
Updated 11/6/2009 |
| Roger Mason Jr., SG SA |
|
| News: Spurs SG Roger Mason Jr. scored seven points in 18 minutes off the bench Thursday at Utah. He's averaging just 6.0 points and 20.8 minutes in four games. |
Analysis: Mason played a significant role last season with Manu Ginobili injured, but he's clearly just a reserve now. With minutes, he can make a difference in Fantasy, but he doesn't have the minutes right now. |
|
Parker making modest contribution
|
Updated 11/6/2009 |
| Anthony Parker, SG CLE |
|
| News: Cavaliers SG Anthony Parker got back in double figures Thursday against the Bulls, finishing with 11 points on 4 of 9 shooting, including 3 of 3 from 3-point range. He also had four rebounds and three assists. Through his first six games, he's averaging 9.5 points, 2.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists. |
Analysis: Considering Parker plays alongside LeBron James, Shaquille O'Neal and Mo Williams, he's holding his own statistically and actually proving somewhat useful in Fantasy, especially if you need 3-pointers. He's the type of player who will be on and off waivers all year, though. |
|
Kings apparently done with Mason
|
Updated 11/5/2009 |
| Desmond Mason, SG SAC |
|
| News: The Kings placed swingman Desmond Mason on waivers Thursday. Mason is averaging 2.6 points and 2.6 rebounds per game this season. |
Analysis: Mason opened the season in the starting lineup, but he was just a token starter, allowing the Kings to save some of their better options for later in the game. Mason will play a minor role no matter where he ends up. Don't bother with him in Fantasy. |
|
Beaubois starts, doesn't play much
|
Updated 11/5/2009 |
| Rodrigue Beaubois, PG DAL |
|
| News: Mavericks rookie G Rodrigue Beaubois got his first NBA start for the injured Quinton Ross (bruised lower back) Wednesday at New Orleans and scored the Mavericks' first nine points. He did not score again, however, playing only 14 minutes. |
Analysis: Beaubois has some scoring potential, but the Mavericks already have an excellent scorer off the bench in Jason Terry. Even with Ross out, Beaubois probably won't get the time he needs to make an impact in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers. |
|
Brown drops 18 in overtime contest
|
Updated 11/5/2009 |
| Bobby Brown, PG NO |
|
| News: Hornets reserve PG Bobby Brown scored a season-high 18 points in an overtime game against the Mavericks on Wednesday. He played 30 minutes, shooting 8 for 15 from the field, including 2 for 4 from 3-point range. |
Analysis: Brown had yet to score in double figures before Wednesday's game, so he's just a modest contributor off the bench. He should remain on waivers in virtually all Fantasy formats. |
|
Lee goes 20 and 19 vs. Pacers
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| David Lee, PF NY |
|
| News: Knicks PF David Lee registered his second double-double of the season on Wednesday night in a loss to the Pacers. Lee scored 20 points on 9 of 17 shooting and ripped down a season-high 19 rebounds. He added four assists, two steals and two blocked shots. |
Analysis: Lee has two double-doubles in five games this season and both of them were monster nights with 18 and 19 rebounds, respectively. This is what you can expect from Lee, who remains a No. 1 Fantasy PF. |
|
Wright has first double-digit scoring game
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Antoine Wright, SF TOR |
|
| News: Toronto SG Antoine Wright registered double figures in scoring for the first time this season on Wednesday night in a win over the Pistons. Wright scored 12 points over 17 minutes on the court. He shot 3 of 6 from the field and hit two threes. He added five boards and a blocked shot. |
Analysis: Wright entered the game averaging 4.7 points, 2.7 boards and 2.3 assists over 22 minutes per night. That isn't enough to warrant use in most Fantasy leagues. Leave him on waivers for now. |
|
Dragic scores 15 over 30 minutes
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Goran Dragic, PG PHO |
|
| News: Suns PG Goran Dragic saw 30 minutes on the court on Wednesday in a loss to Orlando. He scored 15 points in the game on 5 of 10 shooting and hit two threes. He added four rebounds and six assists. |
Analysis: Dragic out-assisted Steve Nash on Wednesday. He has at least three assists in all but one game played this season thus far and Wednesday was the first time he saw more than 13 minutes on the court. This increase in playing time could mean bigger and better things going forward for Dragic but until we see proof of that, continue using him only as a reserve in the deepest of Fantasy leagues. |
|
Udoka signed by Trail Blazers
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Ime Udoka, SF SAC |
|
| News: The Sacramento Kings have signed swingman Ime Udoka to a contract. The team did not release terms of the deal announced Wednesday. Udoka spent the preseason with Portland before being waived last month. |
Analysis: Udoka is averaging 6.0 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.0 assists per game in his five-year career. He has played 227 games for the Los Angeles Lakers, New York, Portland and San Antonio. We don't consider him a viable Fantasy option. |
|
Webster chips in as a starter
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Martell Webster, SG POR |
|
| News: Trail Blazers F Martell Webster once again started at small forward Tuesday against Atlanta. He managed 8 points with just 1 rebound and no assists in 27 minutes. |
Analysis: Webster has been around 10 points in four of his first five games. He won't put up jaw-dropping numbers, but could be viewed as a serviceable stopgap in deeper leagues due to his starting role. |
|
Williams slowed by Celtics
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Lou Williams, SG PHI |
|
| News: Sixers G Lou Williams had 7 points, 5 assists and 3 rebounds in Tuesday's game against Boston. It was the first game in which he was held under 16 points. |
Analysis: Williams got off to a great start in Week 1, but met much tougher opposition against Boston. Despite this slow game, we still like Williams as a breakout candidate at guard this year. |
|
Dalembert just about average
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Samuel Dalembert, C PHI |
|
| News: Sixers C Samuel Dalembert had 8 points and 8 rebounds in Tuesday's game against Boston. He is averaging 8.0 points and 6.5 rebounds in his first four games. He is also averaging 1.5 blocks. |
Analysis: This is more or less what Fantasy owners should be expecting from Dalembert. He isn't and has never been much of an offensive presence, but he can turn in decent rebounding numbers and is a good shot blocker. View him as a No. 3 center in Fantasy. |
|
Williams decent off Celtics bench
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Shelden Williams, PF BOS |
|
| News: Celtics F Shelden Williams had 11 points and 7 rebounds in 23 minutes off the bench Tuesday at Philadelphia. Williams is averaging 7.8 points and 6.6 rebounds through five games. |
Analysis: Williams has been getting good minutes off the bench early, but mostly due to the fact the Celtics have been in several blowouts. He should continue to see similar production while Glen Davis is sidelined the first month of the season. |
|
Allen hits rare speed bump
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Ray Allen, SG BOS |
|
| News: Celtics G Ray Allen had just 5 points with 2 assists and 1 rebound in Tuesday's game at Philadelphia. He shot just 2 for 8 from the field. It was the first game where he was held under 16 points through his first five. |
Analysis: Allen was never a factor in a game where the Celtics ran away and hid from the Sixers. The C's have had a few blowouts early on this year and have rested their big players in the second half. Despite this rare clunker, Allen remains a strong Fantasy play. |
|
Perkins just average early on
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Kendrick Perkins, C BOS |
|
| News: Celtics C Kendrick Perkins had just 3 points with 6 rebounds and 2 assists in Tuesday's game at Philadelphia. He has averaged 8.4 points and 5.0 rebounds through five games. |
Analysis: Perkins has scored in double figures just once this season, but he has scored at least 9 points in four of five games. He's the type of player who can be used in cumulative leagues when facing four-game weeks or in average-based play based upon very favorable matchups. |
|
Collison not a factor early on
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Nick Collison, C OKC |
|
| News: Thunder C Nick Collison did not score a point for the second straight game Tuesday against the Lakers. He has scored just 10 points with 14 combined rebounds in four games. |
Analysis: Collison is getting just around 16 minutes per game early on this season and is not a factor at all in the offense. The presence of Nenad Krstic and Etan Thomas could be more of a negative factor than anticipated and Collison is a player you could consider cutting if you need to make a move. Expect him to be on and off rosters all season. |
|
Thomas gets a chance to perform
|
Updated 11/4/2009 |
| Etan Thomas, C OKC |
|
| News: Thunder C Nenad Krstic had just 6 points and 1 rebound in Tuesday's overtime game against the Lakers. He played only 18 minutes. Etan Thomas played 35 minutes off the bench in his place and managed 9 points with 11 rebounds and 3 blocks. Krstic scored 20 and 14 points in the first two games of the season, but has managed just 6 points in the two next games. |
Analysis: Krstic got off to a quick start, but has tailed off. This is likely going to be a trend this season with Thomas and Krstic alternating good nights with bad nights. Each player should be considered as a No. 3 center to be used while going well and facing favorable matchups. Right now, it's Thomas, but it could be Krstic again soon. |
|
Scalabrine gets first game action
|
Updated 11/3/2009 |
| Brian Scalabrine, PF BOS |
|
| News: Celtics PF Brian Scalabrine, sidelined by an ankle injury all season, finally got some time on the court Tuesday at Philadelphia. He scored five points in five minutes. |
Analysis: Scalabrine can hit a three, but he rarely gets minutes for the Celtics. Leave him on waivers in Fantasy. |
|
Foster out for two weeks
|
Updated 11/3/2009 |
| Jeff Foster, C IND |
|
| News: The Indianapolis Star reports Pacers center Jeff Foster is expected to miss the next two weeks because of a high right ankle sprain, which he suffered in the first half of last Friday's loss to the Miami Heat. |
Analysis: Keep an eye on Foster's injury and hope he can return soon. When healthy, Foster is a low-end Fantasy center. |
|
Hawes gets double-double
|
Updated 11/3/2009 |
| Spencer Hawes, C SAC |
|
| News: Kings center Spencer Hawes had his best game of the season Monday against Memphis with 21 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists and two blocks. He played a season-high 44 minutes even though he continues to come off the bench. |
Analysis: Maybe this is a sign that Hawes is starting to come around with back-to-back double-doubles. Hopefully he will continue to see these kind of minutes because these are stats he's capable of posting. Continue to start Hawes as a No. 2 Fantasy center and hope for more outings like this. |
|
Morrison now playing for contract
|
Updated 11/2/2009 |
| Adam Morrison, SF LAL |
|
| News: The Los Angeles Times reports that the Lakers did not give contract extensions to Jordan Farmar or Adam Morrison, making them both restricted free agents in July. The Lakers had until today to reach an agreement with each player. |
Analysis: Farmar might get some interest from other teams, but Morrison will need to show something this season after averaging only 3.9 points a game since suffering a torn knee ligament in October 2008. He has no Fantasy appeal. |
|
Magloire returns from suspension
|
Updated 11/2/2009 |
| Jamaal Magloire, C MIA |
|
| News: Heat C Jamaal Magloire was activated for the first time this season Sunday against Chicago following his 2-game suspension for a preseason altercation. He did not play. |
Analysis: Magloire is not expected to see significant playing time on a regular basis this year. Leave him on the waiver wire in all formats. |
|
Miles waits for reevaluation
|
Updated 10/31/2009 |
| C.J. Miles, SG UTA |
|
| News: The Deseret News reports that C.J. Miles will continue to rehab in Utah until being reevaluated on his recent surgery when the team travels to New York on Nov. 9. |
Analysis: Miles averaged a career-high 9.1 points last season and does not have much Fantasy value to begin with, so Fantasy owners should not worry about him while he is injured. |
|
Korver waits for reevaluation
|
Updated 10/31/2009 |
| Kyle Korver, SF UTA |
|
| News: The Deseret News reports that Kyle Korver will continue to rehab in Utah until being reevaluated on his recent surgery when the team travels to New York on Nov. 9. |
Analysis: Korver played in just one preseason game because the knee was bothering him. He averaged nine points and 3.3 rebounds in 78 games for the Jazz last season. He has some low-end scoring ability in Fantasy, but you have to figure he'll miss a few weeks following surgery. You can leave him on waivers. |
|
Carroll looks good as rookie
|
Updated 10/31/2009 |
| DeMarre Carroll, SF MEM |
|
| News: Memphis rookie PF DeMarre Carroll, drafted No. 27 overall out of Missouri, played well over 32 minutes in the Grizzlies' win over Toronto on Friday. Carroll shot 3 of 8 from the field for 12 points and added seven rebounds and three steals. |
Analysis: Carroll only managed two points in his NBA debut on 0 for 5 shooting with four boards over 20 minutes. This was definitely a big improvement. Carroll could become a viable Fantasy option down the road with continued playing time. He is officially on sleeper watch. |
|
No suspension for Big Baby
|
Updated 10/31/2009 |
| Glen Davis, PF BOS |
|
| News: The Boston Globe reports that Celtics president Danny Ainge announced Friday that rather than suspend Glen Davis for an early-morning fight with a childhood friend Monday that left Davis with a broken right thumb, he would rather levy a fine and allow Davis to remain with the team while he recuperates. |
Analysis: Davis will not be suspended, but the injury is still expected to keep him out until December. Fantasy owners should leave him on waivers until his return is closer. |
|
Jazz pick up option on Koufos
|
Updated 10/31/2009 |
| Kosta Koufos, C UTA |
|
| News: The Jazz exercised their third-year option on center Kosta Koufos, their 2008 first-round draft pick. |
Analysis: Koufos is not yet a relevant Fantasy player and can continue to be ignored in nearly all Fantasy formats. |
|
Milicic makes appearance vs. Charlotte
|
Updated 10/31/2009 |
| Darko Milicic, PF NY |
|
| News: Knicks C Darko Milicic was able to play on Friday against the Bobcast but was only one the floor for four minutes, going 0 for 2 from the field. He had two rebounds in the game. Milicic had been questionable coming into the game after injuring his knee on Wednesday. |
Analysis: Darko is a sleeper this season for the Knicks but there is really no reason to believe he'll play well. Leave him alone in Fantasy in all but the deepest of leagues until he proves himself. |
|
Crittenton has surgery on foot
|
Updated 10/31/2009 |
| Javaris Crittenton, PG WAS |
|
| News: Team spokesman Brian Sereno confirmed Wizards G Javaris Crittenton had exploratory surgery on his left foot on Oct. 23. Crittenton is expected to miss another month with the strained tendon in the foot. |
Analysis: Crittenton should not be owned in any Fantasy format at this time and won't likely be worth owning when he does return. |
|
Lopez, Dudley have options picked up
|
Updated 10/30/2009 |
| Alando Tucker, SF PHO |
|
| News: The Suns exercised their options on the contracts of forward Jared Dudley and center Robin Lopez for the 2010-11 season, but declined the option on the contract of swingman Alando Tucker. |
Analysis: Dudley is entering his first full season with the Suns after being acquired in a multiplayer trade with Charlotte on Dec. 10. Lopez was Phoenix's first-round pick in the 2008 draft. He is recovering from a broken bone in his left foot. Tucker was a first-round draft pick of Phoenix in 2007 and has played in just 36 games, including 30 last season. The moves were announced Friday. None of these three players are relevant Fantasy options and can continue to be ignored in nearly all formats. |
|
Gordon getting chance to start
|
Updated 10/30/2009 |
| Chucky Atkins, PG DET |
|
| News: Pistons guard Richard Hamilton will miss at least two games because of a sprained right ankle. Ben Gordon started in Hamilton's spot Friday night against the Thunder and Chucky Atkins was activated to add depth. Hamilton also will not play Saturday night at Milwaukee. He was injured late in Wednesday night's season-opening win at Memphis. Postgame X-rays on the ankle were negative. |
Analysis: Gordon won't likely see a big increase in production now that he's starting as he was expected to play plenty of minutes off the bench to begin with. He is a high-end Fantasy scorer but does little else to help in Fantasy formats. Atkins is not a relevant Fantasy player. |
|
Wizards pick up option on McGee
|
Updated 10/30/2009 |
| JaVale McGee, C WAS |
|
| News: The Washington Wizards have exercised their contract options on guard Nick Young and center JaVale McGee for the 2010-11 season. |
Analysis: McGee was the 18th overall pick in last year's draft and averaged 6.5 points and 3.9 rebounds as a rookie. He has some measure of appeal in deeper leagues as a possible No. 2 center, but his role would have to change now with Brendan Haywood healthy. |
|
Pargo active for season opener
|
Updated 10/30/2009 |
| Jannero Pargo, PG CHI |
|
| News: Bulls G Jannero Pargo played in the team's season opener against the Spurs but failed to score, playing only seven minutes off the bench. He had been dealing with a back injury coming into the game. |
Analysis: Pargo is not expected to be too productive with the Bulls this season and is not worth owning outside of the deepest of Fantasy formats. |
|
Bobcats pick up Ajinca's option
|
Updated 10/30/2009 |
| Alexis Ajinca, C CHA |
|
| News: The Bobcats are picking up the third-year, $1.22 million option on the contract of center Alexis Ajinca for the 2010-11 season. The move announced Thursday comes two days before the deadline. The Bobcats wavered on Ajinca's future as he has failed to fit into Charlotte's rotation. |
Analysis: A native of France, the 7-foot Ajinca was the 20th pick in the 2008 draft. He played in only 31 games last season and averaged 2.3 points. Bobcats coach Larry Brown then criticized his play and effort when he watched him try out for the French national team last summer. Ajinca had four points in 10 minutes of Charlotte's 92-59 season-opening loss to Boston on Wednesday. He is not worth owning in Fantasy. |
|
Williams' option declined by Nets
|
Updated 10/30/2009 |
| Sean Williams, PF NJ |
|
| News: The Nets have exercised contract options on starters Courtney Lee, Brook Lopez and Yi Jianlian for the 2010-11 seasons. The Nets on Thursday also declined to exercise the fourth-year contract option on forward Sean Williams, the team's first-round draft pick in 2007 and the 17th pick overall. The options that the Nets picked up on Lopez and Lee were for their third seasons. Lopez will earn $2.41 million, while Lee will get $1.34 million. The option on Yi is for his fourth season and it will earn him just over $4 million. Williams would have earned $2.5 million had the team pick up his fourth-year option. |
Analysis: Williams is not a relevant Fantasy player and should not be owned in any Fantasy format. |
|
Wilkins makes most of starting job
|
Updated 10/29/2009 |
| Damien Wilkins, SG MIN |
|
| News: Timberwolves SG/SF Damien Wilkins, getting to start the season opener against the Nets, had 10 points, 12 rebounds, four steals and two assists in 26 minutes. He shot 4 for 10 from the field. |
Analysis: In the past, Wilkins has offered worthwhile Fantasy numbers when given minutes, and the same held true in the season opener. He's not a long-term solution for the Timberwolves, so he might not get minutes for long, but keep an eye on him while he does. |
|
Casspi scores 15 points off bench
|
Updated 10/29/2009 |
| Omri Casspi, SF SAC |
|
| News: Kings rookie SF Omri Casspi, the first Israeli to play in the NBA, had a nice debut at Oklahoma City on Wednesday. He scored 15 points in 19 minutes, shooting 5 for 7. He also had three rebounds, one block and one steal. |
Analysis: Casspi likely won't open the season with a starting spot, but you can bet he'll have a role in the rotation, especially with the injury to Francisco Garcia. How much he'll play depends on how quickly he adjusts to the NBA, but he's worth watching in Fantasy even if he's not worth owning yet. |
|
S. May starts, but does nothing
|
Updated 10/29/2009 |
| Sean May, PF SAC |
|
| News: Kings PF Sean May, a surprise starter to begin the season, did virtually nothing in 18 minutes Wednesday at Oklahoma City. He had six points, one assist, one steal and one block. |
Analysis: May might continue to start, but he doesn't play for long before Spencer Hawes replaces him. The Kings don't expect him to make a significant contribution, and neither should you. |
|
Thunder coach likes Bowen's defense
|
Updated 10/29/2009 |
| Ryan Bowen, SF OKC |
|
| News: After receiving an invitation to training camp, veteran F Ryan Bowen made the Thunder's roster as the 15th man in part because of his defense against Kevin Durant every day in practice. "I like the fact that he goes out every day treating practices like it's Game 7. I think we need that type of mentality on our team," coach Scott Brooks said. "I told him right up front he's not going to get a lot of playing time, but his job is to really push our guys." |
Analysis: The 6-foot-9 Bowen is entering his 10th season after five seasons with Denver and two apiece with Houston and New Orleans. He has no Fantasy appeal. |
|
Graham terrible in his first start
|
Updated 10/28/2009 |
| Stephen Graham, SF CHA |
|
| News: Bobcats SG Stephen Graham, getting to start the season opener with Raja Bell sidelined by a torn ligament in his left wrist, did more harm than good Wednesday at Boston. He shot 2 for 11 in 29 minutes, finishing with five points and four rebounds. |
Analysis: Graham is usually just a role player off the bench and might end up playing fewer minutes than sixth man D.J. Augustin, especially if he continues to struggle. He has a decent chance to score in double figures now and then with Bell sidelined, but you'd have to be pretty desperate to use him as a stopgap. |
|
Ellington solid in NBA debut
|
Updated 10/28/2009 |
| Wayne Ellington, SG MIN |
|
| News: An illness couldn't keep Minnesota rookie SG Wayne Ellington out of the season opener. He played against the Nets and scored eight points in 23 minutes off the bench. He shot 4 of 8 and added six rebounds and two assists. |
Analysis: Ellington played quite well in his NBA debut for the T-Wolves. Still, his production was too limited for him to be viable in anything but the deepest of Fantasy leagues. |
|
Brown does little in 25 minutes
|
Updated 10/28/2009 |
| Kwame Brown, C DET |
|
| News: Detroit C Kwame Brown saw 25 minutes off the bench in Wednesday night's season opener against the Grizzlies. Brown scored four points on 2 of 3 shooting. He grabbed four boards as well. |
Analysis: Brown might get to start for the Pistons in the future but isn't at the moment. He's been nothing but a bust his entire career and will be at best a cheap source of rebounds in Fantasy play this year. |
|
Green plays just 8 minutes
|
Updated 10/28/2009 |
| Willie Green, SG PHI |
|
| News: 76ers backup guard Willie Green played just eight minutes in the opener Wednesday against the Magic. Green scored two points on 1 of 3 shooting. He added an assist and steal. |
Analysis: Green needs to get more minutes before he has any Fantasy value. Leave him on waivers in most leagues at this time. |
|
Magic waive forward Johnson
|
Updated 10/28/2009 |
| Linton Johnson, PF ORL |
|
| News: The Orlando Magic are taking a smaller lineup into opening night this season after waiving reserve forward Linton Johnson III. The move Wednesday trimmed Orlando's roster to 13 players, hours before the team opened the regular season against Philadelphia. |
Analysis: Johnson needs to find a team first and playing time next before he becomes any kind of Fantasy option. Leave him on waivers in all leagues. |
|
Andersen scores 11 in 19 minutes
|
Updated 10/28/2009 |
| David Andersen, C HOU |
|
| News: Rockets C David Andersen, a rookie out of Australia, showed his offensive ability in the season opener Tuesday at Portland with 11 points in 19 minutes off the bench. |
Analysis: With Yao Ming sidelined for the year with a foot injury, Andersen could prove enough of a scorer to get significant minutes at center, which would make him a sleeper in Fantasy. He needs more than just one encouraging game to deserve a waiver claim, though. |
|
P. Mills sidelined until January?
|
Updated 10/28/2009 |
| Patrick Mills, PG POR |
|
| News: Trail Blazers rookie PG Patrick Mills doesn't have an estimate for when he'll return from surgery to repair a broken bone in his right foot in July, but the Oregonian reports he might not return until January. |
Analysis: We'll go with that estimate for now, but you shouldn't be counting down the days with bated breath. Mills has some upside, but he'll play a small role when he returns and won't make an impact in Fantasy. Leave him on waivers. |
|
Batum to miss at least three months
|
Updated 10/28/2009 |
| Nicolas Batum, SF POR |
|
| News: Trail Blazers forward Nicolas Batum, scheduled to have surgery to repair torn cartilage in his right shoulder Friday, will miss at least three months. |
Analysis: Batum appeared in 79 games as a rookie last season, starting 76. He averaged 5.4 points and 2.8 rebounds while earning praise for his defensive ability. He's out until late January, but even when he returns, he doesn't offer enough statistically to have much Fantasy appeal. |
|
Humphries hardly plays in opener
|
Updated 10/28/2009 |
| Kris Humphries, PF DAL |
|
| News: Mavericks PF Kris Humphries, who averaged 13.3 points and 7.3 rebounds in seven preseason games, played only five minutes off the bench in the season opener Tuesday against the Wizards. He finished with one assist. |
Analysis: Typical Humphries. He makes a splash in the preseason and then disappears during the regular season. The Mavericks already have one big man off the bench in Drew Gooden, so you can't expect Humphries to get much playing time. Leave him on waivers. |
|
Griffin's injury a painful lesson
|
Updated 10/27/2009 |
| Blake Griffin, PF LAC |
|
| News: Clippers PF Blake Griffin wore shorts and no knee protection while watching the Clippers' morning shootaround Tuesday, a day after he learned he'll miss at least six weeks with a stress fracture in his left kneecap. He will undergo bone stimulation and special blood treatments that will limit his activities for at least a month, and he plans to swim for exercise. Coach Mike Dunleavy believes the process will be frustrating, but hopefully instructive for a power forward whose relentless work ethic sometimes leads him to rush his recovery time and even play through pain unnecessarily. "He needs to be more honest with his body and with our medical personnel," Dunleavy said. "There are times when he's telling us he's fine, he's good, and he's feeling some pain. ... He understands better the potential consequences now. Give us the information, and we'll decipher it and figure out what you should play through, but I think he understands now." |
Analysis: Griffin was hurt during a preseason game last Friday, wincing in pain as he came down from a dunk late in the third quarter. He claimed as recently as Monday afternoon that he would play through the discomfort, but an MRI revealed the stress fracture Monday. "He could play on it, but it won't get better," Dunleavy said. "Once that became apparent, there was no question: Let's shut it down. Him playing at a lesser level isn't going to do us much good." Griffin had a preseason big enough to ensure he'd make a significant Fantasy contribution right away, averaging 13.8 points and 7.8 rebounds. Now, he's out until at least mid-December, and with the rehabilitation time he'll surely need, he might not make a Fantasy contribution until January. He's worth stashing since he has the potential to become an elite scorer and rebounder even as a rookie, but you'll have to make other arrangements for the first two months of the season. |
|
Henderson a bench player at first
|
Updated 10/27/2009 |
| Gerald Henderson, SG CHA |
|
| News: The Bobcats' Stephen Graham will start at shooting guard in the season opener Wednesday at Boston with Raja Bell sidelined with a torn ligament in his left wrist. Bell is hoping to put off surgery and return in a week. Coach Larry Brown opted for Graham ahead of rookie Gerald Henderson. "I'm not afraid to play Gerald Henderson, but I don't want his first NBA game chasing Paul Pierce and Ray Allen around right off the bat," Brown said. |
Analysis: Henderson was a star at Duke and the 12th overall pick in the NBA draft. If Bell can't play through the injury, Henderson might eventually get a look as the team's starting shooting guard, but keep in mind he also has to contend with sixth man D.J. Augustin for minutes. Leave him for deeper leagues. |
|
Carl on the bubble with Cavs
|
Updated 10/27/2009 |
| Coby Karl, PG CLE |
|
| News: The Minnesota Timberwolves have waived veteran guard Antonio Daniels. He was acquired from New Orleans in September in a cost-saving move. To make room on the roster, the Cavs would release either Jawad Williams or Coby Karl, who have non-guaranteed contracts. |
Analysis: The Timberwolves gave permission to Daniels to seek a trade and did not play him in the preseason. Since no deal could be completed, the young and rebuilding Wolves waived the 12-year veteran. He is not worth owning in Fantasy leagues. Williams and Karl are clearly not worth owning in Fantasy. |
|
Williams on the bubble with Cavs
|
Updated 10/27/2009 |
| Jawad Williams, SF CLE |
|
| News: The Minnesota Timberwolves have waived veteran guard Antonio Daniels. He was acquired from New Orleans in September in a cost-saving move. To make room on the roster, the Cavs would release either Jawad Williams or Coby Karl, who have non-guaranteed contracts. |
Analysis: The Timberwolves gave permission to Daniels to seek a trade and did not play him in the preseason. Since no deal could be completed, the young and rebuilding Wolves waived the 12-year veteran. He is not worth owning in Fantasy leagues. Williams and Karl are clearly not worth owning in Fantasy. |
|
Daniels could sign with Cavaliers
|
Updated 10/27/2009 |
| Antonio Daniels, PG MIN |
|
| News: The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that the Cavaliers are close to signing free agent guard Antonio Daniels. Daniels was waived last week by Minnesota. |
Analysis: The Cavaliers could add Daniels to provide depth off the bench, but the 14-year veteran is not expected to play a significant role with the team and he should be left on waivers in all Fantasy formats. |
|
Jordan to see a boost in minutes?
|
Updated 10/27/2009 |
| DeAndre Jordan, C LAC |
|
| News: Clippers PF Blake Griffin has a broken left kneecap that could sideline the No. 1 overall draft pick for six weeks. The Clippers confirmed Griffin's stress fracture late Monday night. Griffin won't be in the Clippers' lineup when they face the Lakers in their opener Tuesday night, and the former Oklahoma star could be out much longer. Expect Chris Kaman to see more touches in the meantime. DeAndre Jordan and Craig Smith should see a boost in playing time. |
Analysis: It looked like Smith and Jordan would be a non-factor in Fantasy this season, but they could become worthy of a waiver wire pickup in larger formats if they get off to a good start. Griffin won't be back until at least the end of December, so there is time to get some use out of Jordan and/or Smith. Keep an eye on their progress. |
|
Collins picked up by Trail Blazers
|
Updated 10/26/2009 |
| Jarron Collins, C PHO |
|
| News: The Phoenix Suns on Monday were awarded the rights to center Jarron Collins, who was waived last week by the Portland Trail Blazers. The 6-foot-11 Collins is an eight-year NBA veteran who played for the Utah Jazz. |
Analysis: Collins has career averages of 4.3 points and 3.1 rebounds in 480 games. He is not a player who is expected to have any Fantasy appeal this season. |
|
Wright's option picked up by Hornets
|
Updated 10/26/2009 |
| Julian Wright, SF NO |
|
| News: The New Orleans Hornets have picked up swingman Julian Wright's option for the 2010-11 season. Wright, who is 6 feet 8, 225 pounds, is a former first-round draft choice entering his third NBA season and is expected to be in the starting lineup when the Hornets open the regular season at San Antonio on Wednesday night. |
Analysis: Picked 13th overall in 2007, the Kansas standout averaged 4.4 points and 2.8 rebounds in 14.3 minutes last season in 58 games, including 19 starts. Wright averaged 7.1 points and 4.6 rebounds per game in 17 games as a starting forward last season. He should be in line for an increase in production and Fantasy owners should view him as a player to target as a reserve with upside. |
|
Thunder exercise option on White
|
Updated 10/23/2009 |
| D.J. White, PF OKC |
|
| News: The Oklahoma City Thunder have exercised fourth-year contract options on Kevin Durant and Jeff Green. Thunder general manager Sam Presti said on Friday that the team also exercised third-year options on guard Russell Westbrook and forward D.J. White. |
Analysis: The franchise drafted Durant and Green in 2007 and Westbrook and White in 2008. NBA rookies get two-year contracts with teams having the option to pick up a third and fourth season. With the team exercising its option on the players, all four are now under contract with the Thunder through the 2010-11 season. White is not a player who will be in line for regular playing time this season and is a player that should remain on the waiver wire. |
|
Barry waived by Houston Rockets
|
Updated 10/23/2009 |
| Brent Barry, SG HOU |
|
| News: The Houston Rockets have waived guard Brent Barry, a move that trims their roster to the required 15 players. |
Analysis: The 6-foot-7 Barry signed as a free agent with the Rockets before last season and averaged 3.7 points and 1.4 assists in 56 games. He was not expected to have any Fantasy appeal. |
|
Arthur to miss up to four months
|
Updated 10/23/2009 |
| Darrell Arthur, PF MEM |
|
| News: Grizzlies PF Darrell Arthur will miss up to four months following surgery to repair a pectoral strain. He underwent the surgery Friday. Arthur appeared in three preseason games after missing the first week of training camp. |
Analysis: Even when healthy, Arthur was likely headed for a bench role this season as the Grizzlies don't have much room for him in their starting lineup after the addition of Zach Randolph. Now, he won't be a factor in Fantasy for at least the first half of the season and it's already looking like a lost year for the young forward. |
|
Harris let go by Oklahoma City
|
Updated 10/23/2009 |
| Mike Harris, SF OKC |
|
| News: The Oklahoma City Thunder have waived forward Mike Harris, trimming the roster to 15 players before the start of the regular season. Thunder General Manager Sam Presti announced the move Friday. |
Analysis: Harris played in two preseason games for Oklahoma City, averaging 2.5 points and 2.5 rebounds. Harris' departure means veteran forward Ryan Bowen essentially won a four-man competition for Oklahoma City's vacant roster spot. Harris has no Fantasy appeal. |
|
Jackson decides to call it a career
|
Updated 10/23/2009 |
| Bobby Jackson, PG SAC |
|
| News: The Sacramento Bee reports that Bobby Jackson has decided to retire at age 36. Jackson averaged 7.5 points and 2.0 assists in 71 games last season. |
Analysis: Jackson averaged 9.7 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.6 assists throughout his career, the prime of which was between 2001-2006. He is not a player that was going to be owned in Fantasy leagues this season anyway. |
|
Songaila puts up impressive numbers
|
Updated 10/23/2009 |
| Darius Songaila, PF NO |
|
| News: Hornets C Darius Songaila made the most of his start in Thursday's preseason game at Golden State. He played only 22 minutes, but he finished with 16 points, eight rebounds and seven assists. |
Analysis: Songaila has his moments when he actually gets playing time, but with Emeka Okafor and David West ahead of him in New Orleans, he won't get much. Don't bother drafting him in Fantasy. |
|
Wilcox gets decent numbers in start
|
Updated 10/23/2009 |
| Chris Wilcox, PF DET |
|
| News: Pistons C Chris Wilcox got a start Thursday in a preseason game against the Timberwolves with Kwame Brown out with a hand injury. He had 10 points and seven rebounds in 24 minutes. |
Analysis: Wilcox has more statistical upside than Brown, so the hope here is he eventually overtakes him for the starting role. He's not worth drafting in Fantasy, but if he starts logging plenty of minutes, he's enough of a double-double threat to deserve a look off the waiver wire. |
|
Watkins among the Cavaliers' cuts
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Darryl Watkins, C CLE |
|
| News: The Cavaliers have trimmed their roster to 15, waiving guards Andre Barrett and Russell Robinson and center Darryl Watkins on Thursday. |
Analysis: Watkins played in China last season and has only played nine games in the NBA. Even if he signs elsewhere, he won't get enough playing time to make an impact in Fantasy. |
|
Cavaliers part ways with Robinson
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Russell Robinson, G CLE |
|
| News: The Cavaliers have trimmed their roster to 15, waiving guards Andre Barrett and Russell Robinson and center Darryl Watkins on Thursday. |
Analysis: Robinson, a member of Kansas' NCAA championship team in 2008, made one preseason start and played in five games overall, averaging 6.4 points and 2.4 assists in 20 minutes. Even if he signs elsewhere, he won't get enough playing time to make an impact in Fantasy. |
|
Barrett one of Cavs' latest cuts
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Andre Barrett, SG CLE |
|
| News: The Cavaliers have trimmed their roster to 15, waiving guards Andre Barrett and Russell Robinson and center Darryl Watkins on Thursday. |
Analysis: Barrett played in four preseason games and averaged 5.8 points and 4.3 assists in 17.5 minutes. He played in the Spanish League last season for FC Barcelona. Even if he signs elsewhere, he won't get enough playing time to make an impact in Fantasy. |
|
Sweetney released by Boston Celtics
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Michael Sweetney, PF BOS |
|
| News: The Boston Celtics have waived forward Mike Sweetney. Sweetney was out of the NBA last season after spending his first two seasons with the New York Knicks and the next two with the Chicago Bulls. |
Analysis: The release on Thursday of Sweetney, the ninth pick of the 2004 NBA draft out of Georgetown, was expected with the Celtics having a deep roster. He has no Fantasy appeal. |
|
Sixers picks up option on Smith
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Jason Smith, PF PHI |
|
| News: The Philadelphia 76ers have picked up contract options on three players, including starting small forward Thaddeus Young. Sixers president Ed Stefanski says the team exercised options for Young and power forwards Marreese Speights and Jason Smith on Thursday. All three are under contract through the 2010-11 season. |
Analysis: Smith, a 7-footer acquired in a draft-night trade in 2007, averaged 4.5 points and 3.0 rebounds in his first season before missing last year with a torn ACL. We do not recommend owning Smith in any leagues. |
|
Harris let go by Utah Jazz
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Paul Harris, G UTA |
|
| News: The Utah Jazz have waived forward Ronald Dupree and guard Paul Harris. The cuts Thursday trimmed Utah's roster to 14, including three who are out with injuries. |
Analysis: Harris was an undrafted free agent out of Syracuse who did not play in the preseason because of a sprained right ankle which he injured before training camp. He has no real Fantasy appeal. |
|
Dupree let go by Utah Jazz
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Ronald Dupree, SF UTA |
|
| News: The Utah Jazz have waived forward Ronald Dupree and guard Paul Harris. The cuts Thursday trimmed Utah's roster to 14, including three who are out with injuries. |
Analysis: Dupree has played in 154 regular season NBA games with Chicago, Detroit, Minnesota and Seattle. He played in seven preseason games for the Jazz, averaging 3.4 points and 1.6 rebounds. He has no real Fantasy appeal. |
|
Hunter waived by New York
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Chris Hunter, PF NY |
|
| News: The New York Knicks have waived guard Joe Crawford and forward Chris Hunter, leaving the roster at 14. The Knicks actually have only 13 active players, since Cuttino Mobley still occupies a roster spot even though he retired last season because of a heart condition. |
Analysis: Crawford played two games last season with the Knicks, averaging 4.5 points and 2.0 rebounds. Hunter also signed with New York late last season but never appeared in a game. Neither player has any real Fantasy value. |
|
Crawford waived by New York
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Joe Crawford, SG NY |
|
| News: The New York Knicks have waived guard Joe Crawford and forward Chris Hunter, leaving the roster at 14. The Knicks actually have only 13 active players, since Cuttino Mobley still occupies a roster spot even though he retired last season because of a heart condition. |
Analysis: Crawford played two games last season with the Knicks, averaging 4.5 points and 2.0 rebounds. Hunter also signed with New York late last season but never appeared in a game. Neither player has any real Fantasy value. |
|
Davis waived by New Jersey
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Bennett Davis, F NJ |
|
| News: The New Jersey Nets have waived guard Will Blalock and forwards Bennett Davis and Brian Hamilton. Nets president Rod Thorn announced the moves Thursday. The team's roster now stands at the NBA limit of 15 players. |
Analysis: Blalock, Davis and Hamilton each signed as free agents in late September. These players are not expected to have any real Fantasy appeal this season. |
|
Hamilton waived by New Jersey
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Brian Hamilton, SF NJ |
|
| News: The New Jersey Nets have waived guard Will Blalock and forwards Bennet Davis and Brian Hamilton. Nets president Rod Thorn announced the moves Thursday. The team's roster now stands at the NBA limit of 15 players. |
Analysis: Blalock, Davis and Hamilton each signed as free agents in late September. These players are not expected to have any real Fantasy appeal this season. |
|
Blalock waived by New Jersey
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Will Blalock, SG NJ |
|
| News: The New Jersey Nets have waived guard Will Blalock and forwards Bennet Davis and Brian Hamilton. Nets president Rod Thorn announced the moves Thursday. The team's roster now stands at the NBA limit of 15 players. |
Analysis: Blalock, Davis and Hamilton each signed as free agents in late September. These players are not expected to have any real Fantasy appeal this season. |
|
Voskuhl waived by Mavericks
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Jake Voskuhl, C DAL |
|
| News: The Dallas Mavericks have waived Jake Voskuhl. The Mavs signed the journeyman free-agent center Sept. 28 and announced his release Thursday. |
Analysis: Voskuhl has played for five teams since entering the NBA out of Connecticut in 2000: Chicago, Phoenix, Charlotte, Milwaukee and Toronto. Over his nine-year career, the 6-foot-11, 255-pound Voskuhl averages 4.0 points and 3.4 rebounds. He has no real Fantasy appeal at this stage in his career. |
|
Ruffin let go by Oklahoma City
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Michael Ruffin, PF OKC |
|
| News: Veteran forward Michael Ruffin has been waived by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Thunder General Manager Sam Presti announced the move Thursday, hours before Oklahoma City's final preseason game against the Sacramento Kings. |
Analysis: Ruffin is a former Tulsa standout who appeared in only one preseason game for the Thunder. He is not expected to have any Fantasy value even if he lands with another team. |
|
Three Hawks taken off roster
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Mario West, SG ATL |
|
| News: The Hawks have 13 players on their roster after waiving guard Mario West and centers Garret Siler and Courtney Sims. |
Analysis: West, from Georgia Tech, played the last two seasons with the Hawks. West averaged 2.2 points in five preseason games. Siler, from Augusta State, appeared in two preseason games. Sims, from Michigan, was chosen MVP of the NBA Development League last season. He averaged 6.4 points in three preseason games. None of these players should be owned in any Fantasy format. |
|
Baston waived by the Pistons
|
Updated 10/22/2009 |
| Maceo Baston, C DET |
|
| News: The Pistons have waived Maceo Baston, reducing their roster to 15 players. |
Analysis: The 33-year-old forward averaged 0.5 points, 0.5 rebounds and 3.5 minutes in five preseason games. Baston played in 27 games with the Pacers last season and averaged 2.5 points and 1.9 rebounds in eight minutes. He should not be taken in any Fantasy format on Draft Day. |
|
Powell let go by Phoenix Suns
|
Updated 10/21/2009 |
| Carlos Powell, SF PHO |
|
| News: The Phoenix Suns lowered their preseason roster to 13 players Wednesday by waiving guard Dan Dickau and forward Carlos Powell. |
Analysis: Dickau and Powell each appeared in five preseason games for the Suns. Dickau averaged 2.8 points and 1.4 assists. Powell averaged 6.2 points and 2.2 rebounds. Neither player is worth owning in Fantasy. |
|
Dickau let go by Phoenix Suns
|
Updated 10/21/2009 |
| Dan Dickau, PG PHO |
|
| News: The Phoenix Suns lowered their preseason roster to 13 players Wednesday by waiving guard Dan Dickau and forward Carlos Powell. |
Analysis: Dickau and Powell each appeared in five preseason games for the Suns. Dickau averaged 2.8 points and 1.4 assists. Powell averaged 6.2 points and 2.2 rebounds. Neither player is worth owning in Fantasy. |
|
Kelley waived by Thunder
|
Updated 10/21/2009 |
| Tre Kelley, PG OKC |
|
| News: The Oklahoma City Thunder has waived guard Tre Kelley, cutting the team's roster to 17 players with one preseason game remaining. Oklahoma City General Manager Sam Presti announced the roster move Wednesday. |
Analysis: Kelley had played in three preseason games for the Thunder, averaging 1.3 points and 1.0 assist per game in about seven minutes per contest. He has no Fantasy appeal. |
|
Johnson let go by Utah Jazz
|
Updated 10/21/2009 |
| Alexander Johnson, SF UTA |
|
| News: The Utah Jazz have cut second-round draft pick Goran Suton and two other players. Suton, Spencer Nelson and Alexander Johnson learned they were cut Wednesday, one week before the season opener at Denver. |
Analysis: Johnson has played for Memphis and Miami in the NBA and spent last season in Germany. He has no Fantasy appeal. |
|
Nelson let go by Utah Jazz
|
Updated 10/21/2009 |
| Spencer Nelson, F UTA |
|
| News: The Utah Jazz have cut second-round draft pick Goran Suton and two other players. Suton, Spencer Nelson and Alexander Johnson learned they were cut Wednesday, one week before the season opener at Denver. |
Analysis: Nelson, a former star at Utah State, played in Greece last season. He has no Fantasy appeal. |
|
Suton let go by Utah Jazz
|
Updated 10/21/2009 |
| Goran Suton, C UTA |
|
| News: The Utah Jazz have cut second-round draft pick Goran Suton and two other players. Suton, Spencer Nelson and Alexander Johnson learned they were cut Wednesday, one week before the season opener at Denver. |
Analysis: The Jazz took Suton, who helped lead Michigan State to the NCAA title game last spring, with the No. 50 pick in June, but had too many centers and forwards to keep him. He has no Fantasy appeal. |
|
Temple waived by Houston Rockets
|
Updated 10/21/2009 |
| Garrett Temple, G HOU |
|
| News: The Houston Rockets waived guards Romel Beck and Garrett Temple on Wednesday, reducing the roster to 17. Teams must trim their rosters to 15 players by Monday. |
Analysis: Temple averaged 2.5 points in four games with Houston this preseason. He played four seasons at LSU before signing with Houston as an undrafted free agent. He has no real Fantasy appeal at this time. |
|
Beck waived by Houston Rockets
|
Updated 10/21/2009 |
| Romel Beck, G HOU |
|
| News: The Houston Rockets waived guards Romel Beck and Garrett Temple on Wednesday, reducing the roster to 17. Teams must trim their rosters to 15 players by Monday. |
Analysis: Beck averaged 4.5 points and 1.0 rebounds in two games with the Rockets in the preseason. He averaged 16 points and three assists in the developmental league last season. He played with San Antonio in the summer league before signing a non-guaranteed contract with Houston, but has no real Fantasy value at this time. |
|
Foyle undergoes knee surgery
|
Updated 10/21/2009 |
| Adonal Foyle, C ORL |
|
| News: Orlando Magic reserve center Adonal Foyle has undergone arthroscopic surgery on his right knee. The Magic made the announcement Wednesday. The team said there's no timetable for Foyle's return, which will depend on how his knee responds to treatment. |
Analysis: Foyle hasn't played in the preseason and has only participated in a few practices because of knee soreness. He was not expected to have much Fantasy appeal this season. |
|
Green back in action vs. Mavs
|
Updated 10/20/2009 |
| Daniel Green, SF CLE |
|
| News: Cleveland SG Danny Green was back in action in the preseason Tuesday against the Mavericks. He shot 1 of 4 from the field and scored two points off the bench in just under 16 minutes. He added four boards and three dimes. |
Analysis: Green averaged a career-best 13.1 points and 4.7 rebounds in 38 games while helping the Tar Heels win the NCAA title last season. He won't play a major role off the bench this year, though, so avoid him in Fantasy. |
|
Mavs flip Jawai to T-Wolves
|
Updated 10/20/2009 |
| Nathan Jawai, PF MIN |
|
| News: The Minnesota Timberwolves have acquired forward Nathan Jawai from the Dallas Mavericks. The Timberwolves also received cash from the Mavericks for a conditional second-round draft pick in 2012. The deal was announced Tuesday. The 6-foot-10 Jawai is a native of Australia who was drafted by the Indiana Pacers in the second round last year. He was subsequently sent to the Toronto Raptors as part of the Jermaine O'Neal trade, appearing in just six games. The conditional draft pick is protected through the 55th overall slot. President of basketball operations David Kahn says the team was considering the Jawai trade before power forward Kevin Love broke his hand. |
Analysis: Jawai missed much of his rookie season with a heart ailment and is a major construction project. Until he sees the floor for consistent minutes and produces, leave him on waivers in all leagues. |
|
Hawks cut guards Dixon, Wilks
|
Updated 10/20/2009 |
| Juan Dixon, SG ATL |
|
| News: The Atlanta Hawks have trimmed their roster to 16 players by releasing guards Juan Dixon and Mike Wilks. Dixon averaged 9.0 points in three preseason games. Wilks scored two points in three games. The Hawks have a backcourt surplus. Mike Bibby, Joe Johnson and backups Mo Evans and Mario West return from last season. The team acquired Jamal Crawford in the offseason and drafted Jeff Teague. |
Analysis: Dixon will have to find a new team to vye for playing time with. He should not be drafted in any Fantasy leagues. He has the ability to score but does little else and his size makes him a defensive liability at times. Wilks has been even less of a success in the NBA and also does not need to be owned in Fantasy play. |
|
Marbury to take off 2009-10 season
|
Updated 10/19/2009 |
| Stephon Marbury, PG BOS |
|
| News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Stephon Marbury has announced he will not play this season, but says he plans to return to the NBA for the 2010-11 season. |
Analysis: This news shouldn't come as a shock to anybody. It's like Marbury had teams knocking on his door to come play for him. His career, from a purely Fantasy hoops standpoint, has been over for quite some time. |
|
Cavaliers waivers Kurz and Nevill
|
Updated 10/20/2009 |
| Rob Kurz, PF CLE |
|
| News: The Cavaliers made their first roster cuts of the preseason Monday, waiving forward Rob Kurz and center Luke Nevill. |
Analysis: Kurz and Nevill wouldn't have had big enough roles to make an impact in Fantasy even if they made the team. Leave both on waivers. |
|
Roberts released by Indiana Pacers
|
Updated 10/19/2009 |
| Lawrence Roberts, PF IND |
|
| News: The Indianapolis Star reports that the Indiana Pacers released Rod Benson, Demetris Nichols and Lawrence Roberts Monday to bring their roster down to the league maximum of 15 players. |
Analysis: None of the players listed were expected to have any real Fantasy value this season. Leave them on the waiver wire in all leagues. |
|
Nichols released by Indiana Pacers
|
Updated 10/19/2009 |
| Demetris Nichols, SF IND |
|
| News: The Indianapolis Star reports that the Indiana Pacers released Rod Benson, Demetris Nichols and Lawrence Roberts Monday to bring their roster down to the league maximum of 15 players. |
Analysis: None of the players listed were expected to have any real Fantasy value this season. Leave them on the waiver wire in all leagues. |
|
Benson released by Indiana Pacers
|
Updated 10/19/2009 |
| Rod Benson, PF IND |
|
| News: The Indianapolis Star reports that the Indiana Pacers released Rod Benson, Demetris Nichols and Lawrence Roberts Monday to bring their roster down to the league maximum of 15 players. |
Analysis: None of the players listed were expected to have any real Fantasy value this season. Leave them on the waiver wire in all leagues. |
|
Jackson returns for Cavaliers
|
Updated 10/17/2009 |
| Darnell Jackson, PF CLE |
|
| News: Cavaliers F Darnell Jackson (flu) returned to action for Friday's preseason game against San Antonio. He started and played 23 minutes. |
Analysis: Jackson scored just four points with a rebound and is not a player we consider to have much upside. He should not be owned in any Fantasy leagues. |
|
Pendergraph out until late November
|
Updated 10/15/2009 |
| Jeff Pendergraph, PF POR |
|
| News: Blazers rookie PF Jeff Pendergraph, who had hip surgery in mid-September, won't return in late November, according to the Arizona Republic. |
Analysis: This isn't a big surprise. Pendergraph doesn't figure to play a big role off the bench even when he does return, so don't bother with him in Fantasy. |
|
Warriors stick with injured Wright
|
Updated 10/14/2009 |
| Brandan Wright, SF GS |
|
| News: The Warriors have exercised the fourth-year contract option on SF Brandan Wright, which keeps him under contract through the 2010-11 season. Wright recently had surgery to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder and will miss 4-6 months, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. |
Analysis: Wright is out until at least February and could potentially miss the entire season. He appeared in 39 games last year, including 23 starts, and averaged 8.3 points and 4.0 rebounds. He had a chance to earn a bigger role for the Warriors this season, but considering all the time he'll miss now, you can't expect him to make much of an impact in Fantasy. He should go undrafted. |
|
Jeffries gets stitches over eye
|
Updated 10/14/2009 |
| Jared Jeffries, PF NY |
|
| News: Knicks C Jared Jeffries got hit by an Elton Brand elbow above the right eye in an exhibition game Tuesday and went to the locker room to get stitches. He returned to start the second half. He finished with seven points and six rebounds in 24 minutes. |
Analysis: Jeffries has a chance to grab some rebounds off the bench, but he won't play a big enough role to have any real Fantasy value. Ignore him on Draft Day. |
|
PG Ivey gets back in on the action
|
Updated 10/14/2009 |
| Royal Ivey, PG PHI |
|
| News: Sixers PG Royal Ivey, who had been out with a hamstring injury, returned to the lineup Tuesday at New York. He had two points, three rebounds and two assists in 19 minutes. |
Analysis: Ivey will be one of the last men off the bench for the 76ers this year. Don't bother drafting him in Fantasy. |
|
Sixers part ways with PG Singletary
|
Updated 10/14/2009 |
| Sean Singletary, PG PHI |
|
| News: The 76ers waived PG Sean Singletary on Monday. |
Analysis: As a rookie last year, Singletary spent much of his time in the developmental league. Even if he signs with another team, he won't get enough playing time to matter in Fantasy. |
|
76ers, Swift go their separate ways
|
Updated 10/14/2009 |
| Stromile Swift, PF PHI |
|
| News: The 76ers waived PF Stromile Swift on Monday. |
Analysis: Even if Swift latches on elsewhere, he'll be one of the last guys off the bench. Ignore him in Fantasy. |
|
San Antonio parts ways with Jones
|
Updated 10/13/2009 |
| Dwayne Jones, C SA |
|
| News: The Spurs waived C Dwayne Jones in their first cut of training camp Tuesday. The 6-foot-11 journeyman, released on Tuesday, averaged 1.7 points and 1.7 rebounds in three preseason games. Jones was trying to make his fourth NBA team after coming into the league in 2005 with Boston. |
Analysis: Jones might latch on with another team, but even if he does, he'll be one of the last guys off the bench. He should go undrafted in Fantasy. |
|
S. Young impresses off bench Monday
|
Updated 10/13/2009 |
| Sam Young, SF MEM |
|
| News: Grizzlies rookie SF Sam Young scored 22 points off the bench in a preseason game against the Magic on Monday. He played 37 minutes, shooting 8 for 13 from the field and 2 for 5 from 3-point range. He also had a 22-point game Wednesday. |
Analysis: Young averaged a team-high 13.6 points and 4.2 rebounds on 51.9 percent shooting in 25.0 minutes in the 2009 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. He might benefit from the hamstring injury to Allen Iverson, but Iverson doesn't expect to miss much of the regular season, if any. Young probably won't get enough minutes to matter in Fantasy this season. |
|
Garcia out until at least mid-February
|
Updated 10/11/2009 |
| Francisco Garcia, SF SAC |
|
| News: Sacramento Kings SG Francisco Garcia will miss at least four months after undergoing surgery on his injured forearm and wrist. Garcia had surgery Saturday at UC Davis Medical Center to repair a broken bone in his right forearm and ligament damage to his wrist. The team says he will be in a cast for eight weeks and will miss at least four months. |
Analysis: The fifth-year Garcia averaged 12.7 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 65 games (36 starts) for Sacramento last season. A healthy Garcia would have entered this season as a solid Fantasy option for deeper leagues worth a mid-round draft pick, but this injury obviously knocks his value down quite a bit. |
|
Weaver struggles shooting Sat.
|
Updated 10/10/2009 |
| Kyle Weaver, SG OKC |
|
| News: Oklahoma City SG Kyle Weaver scored four points on 1 of 7 shooting on Saturday in a preseason game against the Hornets. Weaver is returning from thumb surgery. |
Analysis: Weaver is not a major part of the Thunder's plans this season and his Fantasy value is therefore limited. Last season, he averaged 5.3 points and 2.3 rebounds as a rookie. Don't look to draft him in Fantasy leagues. |
|
Stevenson returns to action Friday
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Updated 10/10/2009 |
| DeShawn Stevenson, SG WAS |
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| News: Washington SG DeShawn Stevenson has successfully returned after surgery last season to repair a herniated disk in his back. Stevenson was able to play in the Wizards' preseason loss to Dallas on Friday night. He scored five points on 1 of 2 shooting with four assists and a three-pointer. |
Analysis: Last season was a painful one for Stevenson, bothered by back pain for much of the year. Through that, he averaged 6.6 points and 3.1 assists in 32 games, while shooting only 31.2 percent on field goals. Stevenson will play less of a role this season with Gilbert Arenas back and that makes him just a Fantasy stopgap option in case Arenas re-injures himself. |
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Rookie Johnson makes good impression
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Updated 10/7/2009 |
| James Johnson, PF CHI |
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| News: Rookie James Johnson sank a fade-away jump shot from the baseline at the buzzer Tuesday to give the Chicago Bulls a 102-101 win over the Utah Jazz in an NBA preseason game. Johnson, who finished with 18 points, got the rebound after teammate Derrick Byars missed a 3-point attempt from the top of the key. "Just shoot it, that was the only instinct," Johnson said. "I knew we didn't have much time on the clock. I just tried to let it go as fast as I can before the clock ran out." |
Analysis: Bulls coach Vinny Del Negro said he gave Johnson advice before the game, his second NBA contest. "I just said be aggressive," Del Negro said. "Go and have fun." Johnson will have to earn his minutes as a backup during his rookie season and is not expected to be much of a Fantasy option, but things like this are worth keeping in the back of your mind in case he gets a chance at playing time. |
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Dunleavy misses start of preseason
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Updated 10/1/2009 |
| Mike Dunleavy, SG IND |
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| News: The Pacers are expected to play without starter Mike Dunleavy (knee), first-round draft pick Tyler Hansbrough (shin), backup guard Travis Diener (toe) and free agent guard Earl Watson (personal reasons) when they host Chicago in their preseason opener Friday night. Starting forward Troy Murphy is listed as questionable with a sprained left ankle. |
Analysis: Dunleavy is not expected to return until some point in January, though he has hinted that he is ahead of schedule in his recovery. Dunleavy still faces a long road to regaining his viability as a Fantasy option, but he's worth taking a flier on in the late rounds, however, in the hopes that he can be back some time in December. |
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Yao optimistic, but out for 2009-10
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Updated 9/30/2009 |
| Yao Ming, C HOU |
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| News: Encouraged by progress in his recovery from major foot surgery, Yao Ming told Houston television station KRIV he will return to action - just not this season. "The (X-ray) picture looks good. The bones heal well," he said. He also said, however, that there is no chance that he will play in the 2009-10 NBA season. "The answer is no. You don't want to rush it, because they want it to totally heal this time. I have been in this situation enough," he said. |
Analysis: The 7-foot-6 center underwent surgery in May to repair a hairline fracture in his left foot suffered late in a May 8 playoff game against the Los Angeles Lakers. The injury had raised questions, especially in his native China, about Yao's playing future. Yao said he expects his career will take on new life. "I am able to play again," he said. "Obviously, I want to play basketball. This is my life right there," he said. "But for long term, believe me for long term, I need to slow down." Yao had the hard cast removed from his left leg, and his leg and foot were placed in an orthopedic boot. He said he works out three times a week, but the boot on his leg limits what he can do. Fantasy owners should stay away from him this season in all leagues now that it has been determined for sure that he will not try to come back at any point. |
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Peterson to fight for minutes
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Updated 9/30/2009 |
| Morris Peterson, SG NO |
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| News: Hornets coach Byron Scott intends to give 2007 first-round draft choice Julian Wright a chance to start at small forward this season, while Morris Peterson and rookie Marcus Thornton, a star on LSU's 2009 Southeastern Conference championship team, will compete for playing time at shooting guard. "Peja [Stojakovic] and I have already talked about him coming off the bench," Scott said after the Hornets' first practice of training camp. "It's a position he's accepted. His main thing is he wants to win and do whatever he can to make this team better. So right now, Julian is the starting (small forward), and like I told him, it's his position to lose." |
Analysis: Wright averaged 7.1 points and 4.6 rebounds per game in 17 games as a starting forward last season, mostly filling in for Stojakovic due to injuries. He has some upside as a young player who can rebound, but is more of a late-round sleeper pick in Fantasy. Peterson and Thornton are not expected to have much Fantasy appeal this season. |
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Gray suffers stress fracture in leg
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Updated 9/30/2009 |
| Aaron Gray, C CHI |
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| News: The Chicago Bulls have confirmed that third-year center Aaron Gray has sustained a leg injury and is likely to be out for 6 to 8 weeks. The Bulls said Tuesday that Gray had developed lower leg pain over the previous two days. He was examined by team physician Dr. Brian Cole of Midwest Orthopedics at Rush University Medical Center, who determined that he had a stress fracture of his left fibula. The diagnosis was confirmed by MRI. |
Analysis: The injury will keep him out until at least November at this stage and it is possible he could miss the entire first month of the season. Gray plays a backup role, however, and does not have much Fantasy appeal. |
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Taylor added to camp roster
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Updated 9/30/2009 |
| Mike Taylor, PG LAC |
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| News: The Grizzlies signed Thomas Gardner, Leon Rodgers and Mike Taylor to finalize their training camp roster. |
Analysis: All three players are long shots to make the regular season roster and should not be considered viable Fantasy options. |
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Gardner added to camp roster
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Updated 9/30/2009 |
| Thomas Gardner, SG ATL |
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| News: The Grizzlies signed Thomas Gardner, Leon Rodgers and Mike Taylor to finalize their training camp roster. |
Analysis: All three players are long shots to make the regular season roster and should not be considered viable Fantasy options. |
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Jaric free to talk to other teams
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Updated 9/30/2009 |
| Marko Jaric, SF MEM |
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| News: The Grizzlies announced they agreed to let guard Marko Jaric not join them for training camp and have given his agent permission to talk with other teams. |
Analysis: Jaric was not expected to see much playing time this season with Memphis, but we don't see him getting much playing time elsewhere either. Fantasy owners should not be looking to draft Jaric in Fantasy leagues. |
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Blount looking for new team
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Updated 9/30/2009 |
| Mark Blount, C MIN |
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| News: Mark Blount will not join the Minnesota Timberwolves, who have given his agent permission to seek a new team for the veteran center. Blount will not report to training camp or participate in the preseason, the Timberwolves announced. |
Analysis: The team said the decision was mutual. Blount will stay at his Miami home while agent Mark Bartelstein tries to find a team where his client can get more playing time. The 7-foot Blount was acquired in a trade with the Heat last month for guard Quentin Richardson, but the move was merely for salary cap purposes. We do not anticipate him having a prominent role this season and consider him waiver wire fodder in Fantasy leagues. |
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Harpring to miss start of season
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Updated 9/30/2009 |
| Matt Harpring, SF UTA |
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| News: Veteran forward Matt Harpring will not take part in the team's training camp or preseason and will miss the start of the regular NBA season. Utah Jazz general manager Kevin O'Connor made the announcement Wednesday that Harpring can't play for now and that his status will be re-evaluated in six weeks. |
Analysis: Harpring has been plagued by knee injuries and an ankle problem. Last year he developed a strep infection after a June surgery to remove a bone spur in his right ankle. Harpring has said he's unsure whether he'll be able to play again. Clearly, he is a player to be avoided in all Fantasy leagues. |
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Howard, Landry signed by Knicks
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Updated 9/25/2009 |
| Ron Howard, SF MIL |
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| News: The Knicks have signed Ron Howard and Marcus Landry, bringing their training camp roster to 20. |
Analysis: Neither of these players are relevant in Fantasy play. |
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Bogans added to Spurs roster
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Updated 9/23/2009 |
| Keith Bogans, SG SA |
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| News: Guard Keith Bogans is the latest newcomer to the San Antonio Spurs. Bogans' agent, Michael Harrison, says he is set to sign a guaranteed one-year deal with the Spurs before training camp starts next week. San Antonio will be Bogan's fifth team in seven seasons. |
Analysis: The 29-year-old Bogans averaged 5.6 points playing for Orlando and Milwaukee last season. His biggest asset to the Spurs will be on defense after the Spurs traded away Bruce Bowen this summer. Don't expect him to have any Fantasy appeal. |
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White traded to Denver Nuggets
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Updated 9/23/2009 |
| James White, SG HOU |
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| News: The Denver Nuggets have acquired swingman James White from the Houston Rockets in exchange for the draft rights to forward Axel Hervelle, a 2005 pick who has yet to play in the NBA. |
Analysis: White has an average of 5.7 points and 2.0 rebounds in 10 career games with San Antonio and Houston. He is not expected to have any Fantasy appeal this season. |
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Sun Yue signed by New York Knicks
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Updated 9/21/2009 |
| Yue Sun, PG NY |
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| News: The New York Knicks have signed free agent guard Sun Yue. Team president Donnie Walsh announced the deal without disclosing terms. |
Analysis: The 6-foot-9, 205-pound Sun averaged 0.6 points, 0.2 assists and 2.8 minutes as a rookie last season. He also played in the NBA Development League last season, averaging 9.8 points, 3.7 assists and 3.3 rebounds for the Los Angeles D-Fenders. He is not a recommended Fantasy option. |
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Howard signs one-year deal with Blazers
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Updated 9/18/2009 |
| Juwan Howard, PF POR |
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| News: Veteran forward Juwan Howard signed a one-year contract with the Portland Trail Blazers, the team announced Thursday. Terms were not disclosed. "Juwan Howard will add a wealth of experience and veteran savvy to our young, talented roster," Blazers general manager Kevin Pritchard said in a statement. "We look forward to Juwan's contributions on the court and in the locker room." |
Analysis: Howard a 15-year veteran, averaged 4.1 points in 42 games with Denver and Charlotte last season. He is not expected to have much Fantasy appeal. |
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Buckner let go by Mavericks
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Updated 9/16/2009 |
| Greg Buckner, SG DAL |
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| News: The Dallas Mavericks are keeping forward James Singleton and getting rid of guard Greg Buckner. "We are excited to bring James back into the fold for next season," said Donnie Nelson, the team's president of basketball operations. "His tireless work ethic and locker-room presence were a large part of our success last year." |
Analysis: Buckner's departure was no surprise. A 1998 draftee who already has had two stints with the Mavs, Bucker arrived as part of the four-team trade that brought Shawn Marion to Dallas in July. The Mavericks were hoping to use his buyout-friendly contract (due only $1 million on a $4 million deal) as part of a trade, but let him go so he can have time to get invited to another team's training camp. He should not be owned in any Fantasy leagues at this time. |
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Singleton to remain in Dallas
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Updated 9/16/2009 |
| James Singleton, PF DAL |
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| News: The Dallas Mavericks are keeping forward James Singleton and getting rid of guard Greg Buckner. "We are excited to bring James back into the fold for next season," said Donnie Nelson, the team's president of basketball operations. "His tireless work ethic and locker-room presence were a large part of our success last year." |
Analysis: Singleton, a restricted free agent, looked around but decided to stick with Dallas since he already has a year invested with coach Rick Carlisle and his system. The 6-foot-8 Singleton showed his versatility by playing every position but point guard last season. He also averaged 5.1 points and four rebounds per game, with six starts. He is not expected to play a significant enough role to be used in Fantasy, however. |
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Bowen calls it quits after 12 years
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Updated 9/16/2009 |
| Bruce Bowen, SF MIL |
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| News: Bruce Bowen retired after 12 seasons after being waived this summer by Milwaukee, where the Spurs dealt him in a veteran dump-off for swingman Richard Jefferson - a decision Bowen said he understood. "You need to do things to better the business, and the Spurs definitely got better in the players they received, so I'm looking forward to continuously supporting the Spurs, but from more of a distance now," he said. |
Analysis: Bowen said he had been weighing retirement for the last five years. Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili get most of the glory for bringing three NBA championships to San Antonio this decade. But Bowen gladly did the dirty work, relishing his role as the pesky, lockdown defender who covered the other team's best player. However, his numbers rarely translated into much from a Fantasy standpoint. |
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Collins comes to Atlanta Hawks
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Updated 9/16/2009 |
| Jason Collins, C ATL |
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| News: The Atlanta Hawks added more depth and size to their frontcourt by signing center Jason Collins, who spent last season with Minnesota. |
Analysis: Hawks general manager Rick Sund said the 7-foot Collins, an eight-year veteran, will add size "and a good interior defensive presence," to the Hawks. Fantasy owner should not expect him to offer much of anything, however, as the defensive specialist has never produced much statistically. |
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Rubio backs out of NBA deal
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Updated 9/1/2009 |
| Ricky Rubio, PG MIN |
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| News: Timberwolves president David Kahn says Spanish point guard Ricky Rubio backed out of a deal to play in Minnesota this season. Kahn says the Wolves negotiated a deal on Saturday night with Rubio's Spanish pro team and agent Dan Fegan to bring the 18-year-old to Minnesota this fall. But Rubio informed Kahn on Monday night that he would prefer to stay in his homeland for two more years to better prepare himself for the NBA. Kahn says DKV Joventut has agreed to trade Rubio to Regal FC Barcelona, where he will play until 2011. |
Analysis: The Timberwolves selected Rubio with the fifth pick in the June draft. Kahn was aware that Rubio was under contract with DKV Joventut for the next two years and said he would be fine waiting for a season, or even two, before the prodigy comes to Minnesota. Now, that is exactly what will happen and the Timberwolves (as well as Fantasy owners) will have to put Rubio on the back burner for the next couple of seasons. This is great news for rookie Jonny Flynn, who will go into the season with a chance for a much more expanded role. Rubio is someone who will only be worth owning in long-term, deeper dynasty formats. |
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Marks back with New Orleans
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Updated 9/1/2009 |
| Sean Marks, C NO |
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| News: The New Orleans Hornets signed free-agent Sean Marks, bringing the reserve center back for a second-straight season. The 6-foot-10, 250-pound New Zealand native was the first from his country to sign with an NBA team after playing in college for Cal-Berkeley in the late 1990s. He spent his first eight NBA seasons with four teams: Miami, Phoenix, San Antonio and Toronto. |
Analysis: Marks, a nine-year veteran, saw action in 60 games for New Orleans in 2008-09, averaging 3.2 points and 3.1 rebounds in 14.1 minutes. He is not expected to have any Fantasy value this season. |
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Petro re-ups with Nuggets
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Updated 9/1/2009 |
| Johan Petro, C DEN |
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| News: Reserve center Johan Petro has resigned with the Denver Nuggets. Petro has career averages of 5.4 points and 4.3 rebounds in 270 games with the Nuggets and Oklahoma City/Seattle franchise. |
Analysis: Petro appeared in 27 games for Denver last season, starting 10 times and averaging 2.2 points and 2.3 rebounds. He also appeared in 10 playoff of the Nuggets' playoff games as they reached the Western Conference finals. He is not expected to have much Fantasy value. |
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Smith signs with Atlanta Hawks
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Updated 9/1/2009 |
| Joe Smith, PF ATL |
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| News: The Atlanta Hawks signed free agent forward Joe Smith this past week. Smith is a 14-year veteran who was the NBA's No. 1 overall draft pick in 1995. The Hawks are his 10th NBA home. |
Analysis: The team added Smith to address the team's lack of inside depth. The 6-foot-10, 225-pound Smith will join center Zaza Pachulia as the top inside backups behind starters Al Horford and Josh Smith for the Hawks. He is not expected to have much Fantasy value. |
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Cunningham signs rookie deal
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Updated 8/24/2009 |
| Dante Cunningham, SF POR |
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| News: The Portland Trail Blazers signed draft pick Dante Cunningham to a multiyear contract. The 6-foot-8 power forward was the 33rd overall pick in the June draft out of Villanova. "This is a dream come true and I can't wait to get to work with my teammates," Cunningham said in a statement. "I'm looking forward to moving to Portland and helping this team in any way that I can." |
Analysis: Cunningham averaged 16.1 points and 7.5 rebounds last season as a senior and was named the Big East's most improved player. In the NBA's summer league, Cunningham averaged 18.3 points and 5.8 rebounds for the Blazers. He won't get anywhere close to the playing time he saw this summer as a rookie, however, and is only a player to monitor for now. |
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Madsen waived by L.A. Clippers
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Updated 8/24/2009 |
| Mark Madsen, PF LAC |
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| News: The Los Angeles Clippers waived forward Mark Madsen. Madsen was acquired from the Minnesota Timberwolves on July 22 along with Sebastian Telfair and Craig Smith in exchange for Quentin Richardson. |
Analysis: Madsen is not the player he was in college at Stanford and will not be a big part of any team's plans this season. He should not be owned in any Fantasy league. |
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Balkman arrested on DUI charge
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Updated 8/24/2009 |
| Renaldo Balkman, PF DEN |
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| News: Nuggets reserve forward Renaldo Balkman was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence in Florida. Balkman, 25, was arrested by Temple Terrace, Fla., officers at 4 a.m. Saturday after he refused a blood-alcohol test, according to a police report on the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Web site. |
Analysis: Balkman averaged 5.0 points and 3.8 rebounds last season, his first with the Nuggets. It is currently unlcear how much of an effect the arrest will have on his upcoming season this fall -- if at all. Fantasy owners won't be targeting him in most drafts anyway. |
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'Other' Griffin signs rookie contract
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Updated 8/18/2009 |
| Taylor Griffin, PF PHO |
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| News: The Phoenix Suns have signed second-round pick Taylor Griffin to a contract. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. |
Analysis: Griffin, the older brother of first overall pick Blake Griffin, averaged 9.6 points and 5.8 rebounds as a senior at Oklahoma. The forward averaged 6.2 points, 3 rebounds and one steal in five games for the Suns in the Las Vegas Summer League. Don't expect anything from a Fantasy standpoint. |
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Weems on his way to Toronto?
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Updated 8/18/2009 |
| Sonny Weems, SG TOR |
|
| News: The Toronto Raptors have agreed to send swingman Carlos Delfino to Milwaukee in exchange for power forward Amir Johnson as part of a four-player trade, a person with direct knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press on Monday. The deal would also send guard Roko Ukic to Milwaukee in exchange for Bucks guard Sonny Weems. The person spoke to AP on condition of anonymity because the deal has not been completed. |
Analysis: Johnson became more expendable when the Bucks signed Hakim Warrick, a move that came after Memphis rescinded its qualifying offer to the restricted free agent. Even in Toronto, however, his value is not expected to be very high from a Fantasy standpoint. He will be a role player and won't get enough minutes to matter. Ukic and Weem also won't be worth considering in most Fantasy leagues this fall. |
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Ukic on his way to Milwaukee?
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Updated 8/18/2009 |
| Roko Ukic, SG MIL |
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| News: The Toronto Raptors have agreed to send swingman Carlos Delfino to Milwaukee in exchange for power forward Amir Johnson as part of a four-player trade, a person with direct knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press on Monday. The deal would also send guard Roko Ukic to Milwaukee in exchange for Bucks guard Sonny Weems. The person spoke to AP on condition of anonymity because the deal has not been completed. |
Analysis: Johnson became more expendable when the Bucks signed Hakim Warrick, a move that came after Memphis rescinded its qualifying offer to the restricted free agent. Even in Toronto, however, his value is not expected to be very high from a Fantasy standpoint. He will be a role player and won't get enough minutes to matter. Ukic and Weem also won't be worth considering in most Fantasy leagues this fall. |
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Johnson on his way to Toronto?
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Updated 8/18/2009 |
| Amir Johnson, SF TOR |
|
| News: The Toronto Raptors have agreed to send swingman Carlos Delfino to Milwaukee in exchange for power forward Amir Johnson as part of a four-player trade, a person with direct knowledge of the deal told The Associated Press on Monday. The deal would also send guard Roko Ukic to Milwaukee in exchange for Bucks guard Sonny Weems. The person spoke to AP on condition of anonymity because the deal has not been completed. |
Analysis: Johnson became more expendable when the Bucks signed Hakim Warrick, a move that came after Memphis rescinded its qualifying offer to the restricted free agent. Even in Toronto, however, his value is not expected to be very high from a Fantasy standpoint. He will be a role player and won't get enough minutes to matter. |
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Brezec returns to NBA from Europe
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Updated 8/17/2009 |
| Primoz Brezec, C PHI |
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| News: The Philadelphia 76ers have signed center Primoz Brezec, who played in Europe last season. Terms of the deal weren't immediately disclosed by the Sixers. Brezec played for Lottomatica Virtus Roma of the Italian League last season. |
Analysis: The 7-foot-1 Brezec has played in 321 games with 214 starts in seven NBA seasons with Indiana, Charlotte, Detroit and Toronto. He has averaged 7.6 points and 4.1 rebounds. Expect him to have minimal Fantasy appeal this season. |
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Wafer joins Greek team Olympiakos
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Updated 8/14/2009 |
| Von Wafer, SG HOU |
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| News: Free agent guard Von Wafer has signed a two-year, $10 million deal to play for Olympiakos, the same Greek team that landed Linus Kleiza from the Nuggets earlier this week. The 6-foot-5 shooting guard will leave for Greece on Friday, said Giovanni Funiciello, who is Wafer's international agent. |
Analysis: The contract will allow Wafer to opt out after one season, but only to sign with an NBA team. Wafer, 24, averaged 9.7 points and shot 39 percent from 3-point range for the Rockets in 2008-09. He made about $800,000 in his only season in Houston. He no longer has any Fantasy value. |
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Powe happy to be with Cavaliers
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Updated 8/14/2009 |
| Leon Powe, PF CLE |
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| News: Leon Powe signed a two-year deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers this week, even though he isn't expected back on the court until sometime around the All-Star break. The Cavaliers are paying Powe the league minimum for a three-year veteran. |
Analysis: The Celtics let the 6-foot-8 forward leave following a third surgery on his left knee, this time to repair a torn ACL suffered in the playoffs. Powe is strengthening the knee in Los Angeles and should begin running in about a month. He is expected in Cleveland in two weeks to continue his rehab. He averaged 7.7 points and 4.9 rebounds in 70 games last season. He won't be worth drafting in leagues and isn't worth stashing in any leagues. He'll be a role player in Cleveland. |
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Kleiza chooses to play in Europe
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Updated 8/10/2009 |
| Linas Kleiza, SF DEN |
|
| News: Restricted free agent forward Linas Kleiza of the Denver Nuggets is taking his game to Europe. Nuggets executive Mark Warkentien says Kleiza has chosen to play for Olympiakos, agreeing to a two-year deal worth more than $12 million. |
Analysis: Kleiza was extended a qualifying offer by the Nuggets in June, making the backup player a restricted free agent and guaranteeing him a $2.7 million salary this season. The Nuggets retain Kleiza's NBA rights, but he'll have no Fantasy appeal while playing overseas. |
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Hunter traded to Memhpis
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Updated 8/9/2009 |
| Steven Hunter, PF MEM |
|
| News: The Nuggets swapped Steven Hunter, a protected 2010 first-round pick and cash to the Grizzlies in exchange for a future conditional second rounder, Grizzlies general manager Chris Wallace said Friday. The trade could give Memphis three first-round selections in the 2010 draft. The Grizzlies already are owed the Lakers' 2010 pick to complete the February 2008 trade that sent Pau Gasol to Los Angeles. Memphis drafted No. 2 overall in June when the Grizzlies had three picks within the first 32 spots. "We are a team which emphasizes the draft, and next year's draft is projected to be strong," Wallace said in a statement. "This draft pick from Denver provides us with increased options for the future." With Hunter, the Grizzlies have an NBA-high four players who are 7-foot or taller. Memphis drafted 7-3 Hasheem Thabeet with the No. 2 pick overall in June, adding him to 7-1 Marc Gasol and Hamed Haddadi. |
Analysis: The 7-foot Hunter is a seven-year pro out of DePaul, who sat out last season after having arthroscopic surgery on his right knee Nov. 14, 2008. He last played in the 2007-08 season with Denver, appearing in 19 games and averaging 6.3 minutes and 2.3 points. The 15th pick in the 2001 draft by Orlando, Hunter is averaging 4.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and a block with 15.4 minutes in his career. He has played in 379 games with 130 starts with the Nuggets, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Orlando. Hunter's best season was with Philadelphia in 2006-07 when he averaged 6.5 points and 4.8 rebounds starting 41 games. The Sixers traded him to Denver in September 2007. He can be ignored on Draft Day. |
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Taylor signs rookie contract
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Updated 8/6/2009 |
| Jermaine Taylor, SG HOU |
|
| News: The Houston Rockets signed rookie guard Jermaine Taylor to a multiyear contract on Wednesday. The 6-foot-4 Taylor was drafted by Washington in the second round and Houston acquired his rights in exchange for cash. Taylor was the 32nd overall pick. |
Analysis: Taylor scored 1,979 points at Central Florida and made a school-record 251 3-pointers. He finished his four-year career as Conference USA's fourth-leading scorer. Taylor averaged 11 points and 2.3 assists in four games with the Rockets' summer league team. Expect him to have to earn his minutes as a rookie, however. He'll just be a player to monitor and won't be a draft target in Fantasy entering the season. |
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Stoudamire waived by Milwaukee
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Updated 8/4/2009 |
| Salim Stoudamire, SG MIL |
|
| News: The Bucks have waived guard Salim Stoudamire. Stoudamire did not play in any games in 2008-09. |
Analysis: Stoudamire has not played in an NBA game since 2007-08 when he appeared in just 35 games. He showed some promise as a rookie, but is no longer a player to consider in Fantasy. |
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Nesterovic back with Raptors
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Updated 8/4/2009 |
| Rasho Nesterovic, C TOR |
|
| News: The Toronto Raptors have added center Rasho Nesterovic to their roster. Nesterovic signed a one-year, $2 million deal. |
Analysis: Nesterovic rejoins the Raptors after spending a season in Indiana. The 7-footer averaged 6.9 points and 4.6 rebounds while playing 151 games for Toronto from 2006 to 2008. He might have slightly improved numbers back in Toronto but will still be just a low-end Fantasy option this season. |
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Jones signed by Indiana Pacers
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Updated 8/4/2009 |
| Solomon Jones, PF IND |
|
| News: The Indiana Pacers have signed free-agent forward Solomon Jones to a multiyear contract. He spent the past three seasons with Atlanta. |
Analysis: Pacers president Larry Bird says Jones can help the team's interior defense. Jones averaged 3.0 points and 2.3 rebounds last season and shot 60 percent. His Fantasy appeal is minimal. |
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Nelson waived by Chicago Bulls
|
Updated 8/4/2009 |
| DeMarcus Nelson, SG CHI |
|
| News: The Chicago Bulls have waived forward Linton Johnson III and guard DeMarcus Nelson. |
Analysis: A former Duke star, Nelson was the Golden State Warriors' starting point guard on opening night, but he quickly fell out of favor with coach Don Nelson and played in just 13 games before being waived. He signed with the Bulls on April 4 but didn't play for them. He has no Fantasy appeal. |
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Sharpe traded to Milwaukee Bucks
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Updated 8/4/2009 |
| Walter Sharpe, PF DEN |
|
| News: The Denver Nuggets acquired Malik Allen from the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for Walter Sharpe and Sonny Weems. |
Analysis: Sharpe came to the Nuggets in a July 13 trade after spending his rookie season in Detroit, where he appeared in eight games and averaged 1 point. He has no Fantasy value. |
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Allen traded to Denver Nuggets
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Updated 8/4/2009 |
| Malik Allen, PF DEN |
|
| News: The Denver Nuggets acquired Malik Allen from the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for Walter Sharpe and Sonny Weems. |
Analysis: Allen played in 49 games for Milwaukee last season, averaging 3.2 points and 2.1 rebounds. He will not be worth owning in Fantasy leagues this upcoming season. |
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Pruitt gets waived by Celtics
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Updated 8/4/2009 |
| Gabe Pruitt, PG BOS |
|
| News: The Boston Celtics are requesting waivers on guard Gabe Pruitt. Pruitt, a second-year player, was chosen by the Celtics with the 32nd pick in the 2007 draft. |
Analysis: The 6-foot-4, 170-pound guard averaged 2 points per game in 62 games. He last played for the Celtics during this year's Orlando Summer League, posting an average of 10.6 points, 4.8 assists and 1.6 steals per game. He is not expected to have much Fantasy appeal this fall. |
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Ollie signs with Timberwolves
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Updated 8/4/2009 |
| Kevin Ollie, PG OKC |
|
| News: The Oklahoma City Thunder signed free agent guard Kevin Ollie. The 36-year-old Ollie has appeared in 637 games over 12 seasons spread over 11 different teams. He has averaged 3.8 points, 2.3 assists and 1.6 rebounds. |
Analysis: Last season, Ollie averaged 4.0 points, 2.3 assists and 1.5 rebounds in 50 games, including 21 starts, with the Timberwolves. General manager Sam Presti says Ollie brings experience, leadership and professionalism to the team as it develops its roster on and off the floor. What he does not bring is much Fantasy value for now. |
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Cavaliers waive backup Kinsey
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Updated 7/29/2009 |
| Tarence Kinsey, SF CLE |
|
| News: The Cleveland Cavaliers have waived reserve guard Tarence Kinsey. Kinsey made three starts last season for the Cavs and appeared in 50 games, averaging 2 points and 5.5 minutes per game. He played in nine playoff games. |
Analysis: Following the season, Kinsey was charged with drunken driving in Tampa, Fla. He joined the Cavs as a free agent last August. He recently played on Cleveland's summer league team and averaged 12.8 points and 4.4 rebounds in five games. Don't expect him to be much of a Fantasy factor wherever he winds up. |
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Calathes to remain overseas
|
Updated 7/28/2009 |
| Nick Calathes, G DAL |
|
| News: According to the Dallas Morning News, Nick Calathes will not likely be a part of the Mavericks roster in 2009-10. The Mavericks acquired his right in a draft day trade. |
Analysis: Calathes is a 20-year-old with play-making ability and good court vision. He will continue to play in Europe for the next year or so, however, and has no appeal in Fantasy. |
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Ratliff officially signs with Spurs
|
Updated 7/27/2009 |
| Theo Ratliff, C SA |
|
| News: The San Antonio Spurs have signed center Theo Ratliff. Terms of the deal announced Saturday were not disclosed. |
Analysis: The 6-foot-10 Ratliff spent last season with the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 1.9 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.02 blocks in 12.6 minutes while appearing in 46 games. Expect more of the same from him this fall, making him useless in most Fantasy leagues. |
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Eyenga chooses to play in Spain
|
Updated 7/23/2009 |
| Christian Eyenga, G CLE |
|
| News: Christian Eyenga, a raw shooting guard drafted in the first round by the Cleveland Cavaliers, will stay with his Spanish club rather than play with Cavs next season. "I think the best option for me this season was to play here, and we'll see what happens in the future," said the Congo native, who spent last season with Prat Joventut. |
Analysis: The 20-year-old Eyenga thanked Cleveland for drafting him with the 30th overall pick, but said Thursday he doesn't feel ready for the NBA. The 6-foot-5 Eyenga chose to sign a three-year contract extension with DKV Joventut. Terms of the deal were not available. Eyenga plans to play at least one more season in Europe. Cleveland was impressed by his performance during the recent summer league in Las Vegas, where he averaged 8.8 points and 47 percent shooting in five games. He scored 17 points in a loss to Washington on July 14. He will obviously not be worth drafting in Fantasy leagues. |
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McRoberts signed by Indiana Pacers
|
Updated 7/23/2009 |
| Josh McRoberts, PF IND |
|
| News: The Indiana Pacers have resigned free agent forward Josh McRoberts. Terms of the multiyear contract were not disclosed Wednesday. The Pacers made a qualifying offer to the 6-foot-10 McRoberts last month, making him a restricted free agent. |
Analysis: The athletic post player averaged 2.4 points and 2.2 rebounds last season. He had career highs of 12 points and nine rebounds on April 8 against Toronto. Clearly, his appeal in Fantasy leagues is limited as he is just a minor role player. |
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Anthony re-signs with Heat
|
Updated 7/22/2009 |
| Joel Anthony, C MIA |
|
| News: Reserve Jamaal Magloire has re-signed with the Miami Heat, giving the team four centers under contract. Restricted free-agent center Joel Anthony re-signed Monday. The Heat also have starter Jermaine O'Neal and seldom-used Mark Blount. The Heat announced Wednesday they had reached an agreement with Magloire, an unrestricted free agent. |
Analysis: Anthony, out of UNLV, appeared in 65 games for the Heat last season averaging 2.2 points, three rebounds and 1.4 blocks. He has no real Fantasy appeal outside of being a decent shot blocker. Don't worry about drafting him in any league. |
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Roberson waived by Chicago Bulls
|
Updated 7/20/2009 |
| Anthony Roberson, SF CHI |
|
| News: The Chicago Bulls waived backup guard Anthony Roberson on Monday. Acquired from the New York Knicks in February, Roberson appeared in just six games with the Bulls and averaged 2.0 points. |
Analysis: Roberson has averaged 4.1 points in three seasons, including stops with Memphis and Golden State. He is not worth owning in most Fantasy formats. |
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Walker arrested on gambling charges
|
Updated 7/17/2009 |
| Antoine Walker, SF MEM |
|
| News: Former NBA all-star Antoine Walker was arrested on criminal charges stemming from $822,500 in gambling debts in Las Vegas. Douglas County sheriff's Sgt. Jim Halsey says Walker was arrested Thursday at a Harrah's Tahoe cabaret bar on Lake Tahoe's south shore. Deputies were notified of his presence by an employee who had seen a television report about an arrest warrant issued for Walker two days before. He was released from jail after posting $135,000 cash bail. |
Analysis: Walker is accused of three felony counts of writing bad checks. Clark County prosecutors say he failed to make good on 10 checks totaling $1 million to Caesars Palace, Planet Hollywood and the Red Rock Resort. Walker last played for the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2008. His chances of returning to the NBA appear slim at best at this time. |
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Bulls announce deal with Hunter
|
Updated 7/15/2009 |
| Lindsey Hunter, SG CHI |
|
| News: Veteran guard Lindsey Hunter has re-signed with the Chicago Bulls and will return for a 17th NBA season. The team announced the move Wednesday. |
Analysis: Hunter signed with the Bulls last November and averaged 2.6 points and 1.3 assists in 28 games. More important was the leadership and mentoring he provided, particularly to eventual Rookie of the Year Derrick Rose. He has no real Fantasy appeal. |
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M. Haislip returns to the NBA
|
Updated 7/14/2009 |
| Marcus Haislip, PF SA |
|
| News: The San Antonio Spurs have signed former first-round pick Marcus Haislip. The 6-10 forward spent the past two seasons in Spain after being drafted 13th overall by Milwaukee in 2002. The former Tennessee star also played for Indiana in 2004-05 before going overseas to improve his game. |
Analysis: Haislip could provide needed size and depth to the Spurs frontcourt after San Antonio lost Fabricio Oberto and Kurt Thomas last month in a trade for swingman Richard Jefferson. He won't be playing enough minutes, however, to be considered useful in Fantasy. |
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Williams showing skills in Vegas
|
Updated 7/13/2009 |
| Marcus Williams, PG MEM |
|
| News: Marcus Williams dished out 17 assists in his first Las Vegas Summer League game playing for the Memphis Grizzlies squad. He scored seven points in 29 minutes. |
Analysis: One performance does not make a comeback, but Williams is trying to prove he can be a useful point guard at the NBA level after being tossed aside by New Jersey and Golden State the last couple of seasons. He's not going to be a player worth drafting in Fantasy, but is worth monitoring. |
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J. Hill signs with the Knicks
|
Updated 7/11/2009 |
| Jordan Hill, PF NY |
|
| News: First-round draft pick Jordan Hill has signed with the Knicks. The Knicks announced Saturday that they had signed the forward from Arizona. Hill was the eighth overall pick in the draft. He would earn about $4.3 million over two years under the rookie salary scale. |
Analysis: The 6-foot-10, 235-pound Hill averaged 18.3 points and 11.0 rebounds in his junior year with the Wildcats. He is expected to play for the Knicks' summer league team in Las Vegas starting Tuesday. He could get significant minutes as a rookie in Mike D'Antoni's system, so consider him a deep sleeper on Draft Day. |
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Thunder sign Harden, other rookies
|
Updated 7/11/2009 |
| Serge Ibaka, PF OKC |
|
| News: The Thunder have signed guard James Harden, center Byron Mullens and forward Serge Ibaka. Terms of the deals were not disclosed Saturday. |
Analysis: Harden, the third overall pick in the draft, was a first-team All-American and the Pac-10 player of the year after averaging 20.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 4.2 assists during his sophomore season at Arizona State. He can earn about $4 million as a rookie. He'll be worth taking a stab at in the later rounds as a sleeper who could be ready to produce in a significant way in the 2009-2010 season. Mullens was the sixth man of the year in the Big Ten. Ibaka spent this past season playing professionally with Ricoh Manresa of the Spanish ACB League. Mullens and Ibaka won't likely be worth taking on Draft Day. |
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Stackhouse released day after trade
|
Updated 7/10/2009 |
| Jerry Stackhouse, SG DAL |
|
| News: The Memphis Grizzlies waived Jerry Stackhouse, just a day after acquiring the NBA veteran in a four-team, eight-player trade. General Manager and Vice President of Basketball Operations Chris Wallace announced the move Friday after Thursday's blockbuster deal involving the Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, Toronto Raptors and Orlando Magic. |
Analysis: Stackhouse was included in the deal simply to make the money work. The Grizzlies clearly didn't have plans Stackhouse, who would likely only latch on somewhere as a role player at this stage in his career. Fantasy owners shouldn't be too worried about the veteran. |
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Hairston brought back by Spurs
|
Updated 7/8/2009 |
| Malik Hairston, SG SA |
|
| News: The Spurs re-signed swingman Malik Hairston on Thursday, the first day NBA teams could sign free agents. |
Analysis: Hairston played 15 games with the Spurs last season and spent much of the year in the NBA development league. He will have no real Fantasy value going into the season. |
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Meeks signs rookie contract
|
Updated 7/8/2009 |
| Jodie Meeks, SG MIL |
|
| News: The Milwaukee Bucks have signed second-round pick Jodie Meeks to a three-year contract. The 41st overall selection in the draft will participate in the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, beginning Friday. |
Analysis: Meeks is a 6-foot-4 guard who played three years at Kentucky and averaged 15.4 points in 81 games with the Wildcats. He made his mark last season, scoring a team-record 54 points against Tennessee and finishing the year as the Southeastern Conference's leading scorer. he 21-year-old Meeks will likely back up guard Michael Redd, however, and will be more of a late-round flier pick in Fantasy leagues or a decent long-term option in keeper formats. |
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Brown re-signed by L.A. Lakers
|
Updated 7/8/2009 |
| Shannon Brown, PG LAL |
|
| News: The Los Angeles Lakers re-signed free agent reserve guard Shannon Brown. The team announced the deal early Wednesday, but terms were not released. |
Analysis: The Lakers acquired Brown in February as part of a trade with the Charlotte Bobcats. He played in 18 regular season games for the Lakers and averaged 3.2 points and 1.1 rebounds in 7.6 minutes. Do not expect him to be a Fantasy factor in 2009-10. |
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Acker becomes a free agent
|
Updated 6/30/2009 |
| Alex Acker, SG LAC |
|
| News: The Los Angeles Clippers announced Tuesday that guard Ricky Davis has exercised his contract option for the 2009-10 season and forward Brian Skinner has decided not to exercise his option for the upcoming season, which makes him an unrestricted free agent. The Clippers also decided not to exercise their team option on guard Alex Acker. |
Analysis: Acker played in seven games for Detroit last season, averaging 1.3 points in 2.9 minutes. The 6-foot-5 guard was drafted by the Pistons out of Pepperdine in the second round in 2005. He appeared in just five games during his rookie season. He has no Fantasy value at this time and a move to another team won't do anything to change that. |
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Skinner becomes unrestricted FA
|
Updated 6/30/2009 |
| Brian Skinner, PF LAC |
|
| News: The Los Angeles Clippers announced Tuesday that guard Ricky Davis has exercised his contract option for the 2009-10 season and forward Brian Skinner has decided not to exercise his option for the upcoming season, which makes him an unrestricted free agent. The Clippers also decided not to exercise their team option on guard Alex Acker. |
Analysis: This is a good move for Skinner, who would have been buried in the depth chart with the Clippers selecting Blake Griffin No. 1 overall. Griffin could wind up playing a significant role of someones bench, but will be worth no more than a late-round pick in the deepest of leagues -- if that. Expect him to be waiver wire fodder for the most part. |
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Dozier 'Mr. Irrelevant' of NBA
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Robert Dozier, F MIA |
|
| News: The Miami Heat selected Robert Dozier with the 60th and final pick of the NBA Draft. Dozier averaged 12.9 points and 7.5 rebounds per game as a senior for Memphis. |
Analysis: Dozier is a decent rebounder and shot blocker, but is not expected to see enough minutes if he makes the Heat roster this season. He is not going to be worth drafting in any Fantasy league. |
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Elonu selected by champion Lakers
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Chinemelu Elonu, C LAL |
|
| News: The Lakers selected center Chinemelu Elonu with the 59th pick in the NBA Draft. He averaged 10.1 points and 7.4 rebounds last season for Texas A&M. |
Analysis: Elonu is not a player who figures to have a prominent role on a stacked team like the Lakers as a rookie. He is not going to be worth drafting in any Fantasy league. |
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Hudson selected by Celtics
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Lester Hudson, SG BOS |
|
| News: The Celtics selected guard Lester Hudson with the 58th pick in the NBA Draft. Hudson ranked second in the nation in scoring at 27.5 points per game as a senior for Tennessee-Martin. |
Analysis: Hudson won't be in line for much playing time for the Celtics and is merely a long-term project pick by Boston. Fantasy owners should not consider drafting him in anything but the deepest of long-term dynasty leagues. |
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Preldzic selected by Phoenix Suns
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Emir Preldzic, F CLE |
|
| News: The Suns selected guard Emir Preldzic with the 57th pick in the NBA Draft. Preldzic averaged 8.8 points and 2.2 rebounds last season for Fnerbache Ulker Istanbul of the Turkish League. |
Analysis: Predzlic is a long-term project who is not expected to be a factor in the NBA for several years. Fantasy owners should leave him undrafted in all formats. |
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Nivins selected by Dallas Mavericks
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Ahmad Nivins, F DAL |
|
| News: The Mavericks selected forward Ahmad Nivins with the 56th pick in the NBA Draft. He averaged 19.2 points and 11.8 rebounds as a senior for St. Joseph's. |
Analysis: Nivins was a double-double machine in college and could be an interesting long-term player for keeper leagues in Fantasy. However, he is not going to be playing a significant role as a rookie and is not worth drafting in most Fantasy leagues. |
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Vaden selected by Oklahoma City
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Robert Vaden, G OKC |
|
| News: The Bobcats traded the 54th pick in the NBA Draft to the Thunder. Oklahoma City used the pick to select guard Robert Vaden. |
Analysis: Vaden averaged 17.6 points per game for UAB last season and is an outstanding three-point shooter. Fantasy owners, however, should not target him in Fantasy leagues as he'll play a limited role as a rookie. |
|
De Colo selected by Spurs
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Nando De Colo, G SA |
|
| News: The Spurs selected guard Nando De Colo with the 53rd overall pick in the NBA Draft. De Colo averaged 13.1 points and 3.5 assists last season for Cholet Basket of the French League. |
Analysis: De Colo will join fellow Frenchman Tony Parker with the Spurs, but he won't be nearly as high profile a player as him. He should not be targeted in keeper formats, but may be an interesting long-term keeper league option. |
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Price selected by Indiana Pacers
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| A.J. Price, PG IND |
|
| News: The Pacers selected guard A.J. Price with the 52nd pick in the NBA Draft. Price averaged 14.7 points and 4.7 assists as a senior for UConn last season. |
Analysis: Price will enter the league as a backup who will have to earn his playing time behind several established veterans in Indiana. He is not a player worth drafting in most seasonal Fantasy leagues. View him as a long-term flier in deeper keeper formats. |
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McClinton taken by San Antonio
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Jack McClinton, G SA |
|
| News: The Spurs selected University of Miami guard Jack McClinton with the 51st pick in the NBA Draft. He averaged 19.3 points points per game as a senior. |
Analysis: McClinton played five games against No. 1 ranked opponents as a senior and averaged 29.8 points with 5.2 threes in those games. He is an excellent shooter who may carve out a niche as a rookie, but is unlikely to be a significant Fantasy contributor outside of deeper category-based leagues for possible help in threes. |
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Gladyr drafted by Hawks
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Sergiy Gladyr, G ATL |
|
| News: The Hawks selected Sergiy Gladyr with the 49th pick in the NBA Draft. He is 19 years old and averaged 15.4 points for MBC Mykolaiv of Ukraine last season. |
Analysis: Gladyr is a 6-5 guard who won't be a factor in the upcoming season. He can go undrafted in all Fantasy leagues. |
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Norel selected by Minnesota
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Henk Norel, F MIN |
|
| News: The Timberwolves selected forwrad Henk Norel with the 47th pick in the NBA Draft. He averaged 6.8 points and 3.0 rebounds in the Spanish ACB League for DKV Joventut. |
Analysis: Norel averaged just 12 minutes per game in Spain. Fantasy owners should not consider him a Fantasy option at this stage. He will not be a factor in the upcoming season. |
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Beverley taken by Miami Heat
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Patrick Beverley, G MIA |
|
| News: The Lakers traded the 42nd pick in the NBA draft to the Heat. Miami used the pick to select guard Patrick Beverley. |
Analysis: Beverley played overseason in Ukraine last season, averaging 16.7 points with 7.0 rebounds per game in 46 contests. He also averaged 3.6 assists. Beverley played for Arkansas in college and is a solid scorer and shooter from beyond the arc. He is not expected to play a big enough role to matter in Fantasy leagues entering the season, however. |
|
Brown selected by Bobcats
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Derrick Brown, SF CHA |
|
| News: The Bobcats selected Derrick Brown with the 40th pick in the NBA Draft. He averaged 13.7 points and 6.1 rebounds as a junior last season for Xavier. |
Analysis: Brown is not expected to get a lot of playing time as a rookie and is not a player to consider even in long-term keeper leagues at this point. He appears destined to be a role player at the NBA level. |
|
Brockman selected by Portland
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Jon Brockman, PF SAC |
|
| News: The Portland Trail Blazers traded the 38th pick in the NBA Draft to the Sacramento Kings. With that pick, the Kings selected forward Jon Brockman. |
Analysis: Brockman was a first-team All-Pac-10 player as a senior for Washington. At 6-7, 255 pounds, he averaged 14.9 points and 11.5 rebounds. He is not likely to play significant minutes as a rookie, however, and will not be worth selecting in Fantasy drafts. |
|
Summers selected by Pistons
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| DaJuan Summers, SF DET |
|
| News: The Pistons selected forward DaJuan Summers with the 35th pick in the NBA Draft. He averaged 13.6 points and 4.1 rebounds as a junior for Georgetown last season. |
Analysis: Summers has decent long-term potential, but he is not expected to get a lot of playing time as a rookie for Detroit. He won't be worth drafting in most Fantasy leagues. |
|
Llull taken by Houston Rockets
|
Updated 6/27/2009 |
| Sergio Llull, G HOU |
|
| News: The Nuggets traded the 34th pick in the NBA draft to the Houston Rockets. The Rockets used that pick to selected Sergio Llull, who averaged 8.6 points per game for Real Madrid of Spain last season. |
Analysis: Llull is not expected to be a factor in the upcoming NBA season and is not someone who will be drafted in Fantasy leagues. He is a long-term project. |
|
Claver selected by Trail Blazers
|
Updated 6/26/2009 |
| Victor Claver, SF POR |
|
| News: The Trail Blazers selected Spanish forward Victor Claver with the 22nd pick in Thursday's NBA Draft. Claver averaged 13.1 points and 5.4 rebounds last season for Pamesa Valencia of the Spanish ACB League. |
Analysis: Claver is considered to be a long-term project and may not get any real playing time as a rookie. Fantasy owners should not consider him a viable option at this stage. |
|
Rodriguez traded to Sacramento Kings
|
Updated 6/26/2009 |
| Sergio Rodriguez, PG SAC |
|
| News: The Blazers traded point guard Sergio Rodriguez to the Kings on draft night as part of a three-player deal that included draft picks. Rodriguez averaged 4.5 points and 3.6 assists in 80 games last season for the Blazers. |
Analysis: Rodriguez averaged just 15.3 minutes off the bench a year ago, but should see significantly more playing time this season for a Kings team in desperate need of guard depth. He has some mild sleeper value and could be worth a late-round pick in Fantasy drafts. |
|
Claxton officially dealt to Warriors
|
Updated 6/25/2009 |
| Speedy Claxton, PG GS |
|
| News: The Hawks acquired guard Jamal Crawford from the Golden State Warriors on Thursday for guards Acie Law and Speedy Claxton, hours before the NBA draft. The deal was completed after Crawford signed paperwork indicating he won't opt out of his contract and become a free agent. He is due to make nearly $20 million the next two years. |
Analysis: Claxton and Law played sparingly in Atlanta, the trade mainly providing the Warriors some additional room under the salary cap. Neither player is going to be in line for major playing time this upcoming season and Fantasy owners should not target either outside of the deepest of Fantasy leagues. |
|
Thomas dealt to Milwaukee
|
Updated 6/24/2009 |
| Kurt Thomas, PF MIL |
|
| News: Milwaukee sent swingman Richard Jefferson to San Antonio on Tuesday for Bruce Bowen, Kurt Thomas and Fabricio Oberto, taking three aging bench players with expiring contracts to unload Jefferson and the $29.2 million owed in the final two years of his contract. "His age helps us transition our team into a new era," Spurs general manager R.C. Buford said. |
Analysis: Bowen, Thomas and Oberto are a part of the deal only because they all have contracts that expire after next season. The move was purely financial for the Bucks and Fantasy owners should not expect any of the three to start for Milwaukee next season. Bowen could see the most playing time of the three, but he is a defensive specialist who is not worth starting in Fantasy leagues. We don't recommend drafting any of these players in Fantasy. |
|
Horry doesn't want to play
|
Updated 6/5/2009 |
| Robert Horry, PF SA |
|
| News: Robert Horry, known for his tendency to hit big shots in key situations, says he's not looking to play anymore. He'd rather coach or continue working as a broadcaster. "I'm more interested in those gigs. I just started putting my name out there," said Horry, who was at Staples Center for Game 1 of the Lakers-Magic series. So where would he like to end up? "I think I have a respect around the league where guys will respect the knowledge I have. I'm a crossroads guy and I have knowledge from both big time eras." Teams can certainly grab hints about what it takes to make clutch shots from Horry, who won NBA titles while playing for both the Lakers and Spurs. |
Analysis: Horry didn't play a game in 2008-2009 and won't likely be playing any in the upcoming season. Thus, he is clearly not worth owning in Fantasy. |
|
Allen has ankle surgery
|
Updated 6/3/2009 |
| Tony Allen, SG BOS |
|
| News: Boston Celtics guard Tony Allen has had surgery on his right ankle and leg. The team says he's expected to recover from the surgery, performed Wednesday, in time for training camp this fall. |
Analysis: Allen averaged 7.8 points last season, when he missed 34 of the last 47 regular season games with the ankle injury. He has minimal Fantasy value and should not be drafted in any leagues even when healthy. |
|
Jones may not have surgery
|
Updated 6/2/2009 |
| James Jones, SF MIA |
|
| News: The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports that Heat forward James Jones remains uncertain about the approach he will take with the right wrist that kept him out for the first half of the season. Jones said during the playoffs he planned to have another surgery on the wrist to regain 100 percent range of motion. Jones, however, said Monday that such range of motion could trigger the same pain that led to last October's surgery for a ruptured tendon. Instead, Jones said he might play next season with the wrist at 80 percent. "To get my range back," he said, "I would have to have the surgery. But regaining that type of range was the issue from the beginning, is what caused me to have the deteriorating tendon." |
Analysis: Although Jones started all seven playoff games at small forward, he only started once during the regular season. Heat President Pat Riley declared the position open at the end of the season, with Dorell Wright and Yakhouba Diawara also under contract at the position, and 2008 first-round pick Michael Beasley a candidate to move there from power forward. "It's one of those things where things change from day to day," Jones said. Coming into the season, Jones has minimal Fantasy value and should not be drafted in any leagues, especially if his wrist is not 100 percent. |
|
Cassell retires, to be asst. coach
|
Updated 5/22/2009 |
| Sam Cassell, PG SAC |
|
| News: Sam Cassell, who won three NBA titles in a 15-season career, announced his retirement as a player Thursday and immediately joined the coaching staff of the Washington Wizards. Cassell and Randy Wittman, the former head coach of Cleveland and Minnesota, were hired as assistants to new Wizards coach Flip Saunders. "After 15 seasons playing in this league, I have accomplished all that I have dreamed of as a player," Cassell said. "Now the time has come for to me to take my love for the game to the coaching ranks and pass on what I've learned. This team is loaded with talent, and it's a great way for me to start my coaching career." |
Analysis: Cassell played in 993 regular season games for eight teams, averaging 15.7 points and 6.0 assists. He won championships with the Houston Rockets in 1994 and 1995 and the B | |
