News: The Toronto Star reports that injured Raptors center Andrea Bargnani (elbow), who is out for the season, might not return to Toronto next season. The report says "Bargnani needs a change in scenery and while the Raptors have a small sample in judging how Bargnani fits into the team’s new personality, a divorce is what’s best for both parties, a fresh start that will now get played out this summer." General manager and team president Bryan Colangelo, who used the first overall pick in the 2006 draft to select Bargnani, was non-committal on Bargnani coming back. “Dating back to all the conversations leading up to the trade deadline, nothing has changed," he said. "He’s a part of the team and until he’s not part of the team we’re going to view him as a piece who is a talented player. Again, somewhat of an enigma. And we’ll try to get the most out of.”
Analysis: Fantasy owners should keep an eye on what happens with Bargnani this offseason to see where he ends up. If he returns at 100 percent as expected next season he should be able to play at a high level no matter what team he plays for. He will once again be a solid mid-round selection in the majority of leagues.
News: The Raptors announced Wednesday that center Andrea Bargnani is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the 2012-13 season with an avulsion sprain of the right elbow. This injury is not related to his previous right elbow injury that sidelined him for 26 games (Dec. 12 – Feb. 3). Bargnani left at the 3:08 mark in the first quarter March 8 against the Lakers and did not return. He appeared in 14 of 15 games prior to this injury, including four straight starts (March 2-8).
Analysis: Bargnani had a down year because of the injury and was averaging just 12.7 points per game, his lowest output in five seasons, and shooting just 40 percent from the field and 31 percent from three-point range. It's safe to release him in all leagues. Hopefully he will return next year at 100 percent. When healthy and active, Bargnani is a quality Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani did not make the trip with the team and has been ruled out of Wednesday contest at Boston as he continues to deal with a strained right elbow, according to the team's official website. Bargnani has missed the last two games with the injury.
Analysis: Bargnani sustained the injury Friday and has not been back since. It appears as if he may in danger of missing some time in Week 20 (March 11-17), so we'll continue to keep an eye on his progress moving forward. The Raptors return home on Friday, which may give him a chance to return to action. Bargnani was averaging just 13 points and 3.7 rebounds on the year before getting hurt and should be viewed as a viable starting option in most formats, when healthy.
News: TSN 1050 radio in Toronto reports Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was ruled out of Sunday's contest against the Cavaliers due to a strained right elbow. Bargnani sustained the injury Friday against the Lakers and is scheduled to have an MRI Monday.
Analysis: Bargnani has not been able to catch a break this season as he is scheduled to be further evaluated Monday. We'll continue to keep an eye on his status moving forward, as he may miss some time in Week 20 (March 11-17). Bargnani was averaging just 13 points and 3.7 rebounds on the year before getting hurt and should be viewed as a viable starting option in most formats, when healthy.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was forced to leave Friday's contest against the Lakers with a strained right elbow. Bargnani, who first hurt his elbow back in December, re-aggravated the injury in the first quarter. He was immediately taken out of the game and was ruled out for the remainder of the contest. Bargnani finished with two points and two rebounds prior to leaving the contest and he will be re-evaluated sometime on Saturday.
Analysis: Bargnani and his Fantasy owners just can't seem to catch a break as this is the same elbow that forced him to miss 27 games already this season. Obviously, more will be known once he checked out by team doctors, so owners should continue to check back for the latest details. It has been one thing after another for 27-year-old this season, who entered Friday's tilt averaging just 13 points and 3.7 rebounds on the year. Bargnani can be considered a viable start in most formats when he is healthy and in the starting lineup.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was finally able to put the ball in the basket with some frequency during Monday's tilt against the Warriors. Bargnani, who earned his second straight start at power forward, finished with 26 points in the 125-118 defeat -- his highest scoring total since mid-November. He knocked down 8 of his 18 field-goal attempts, including 5 of 7 from downtown, and also added seven rebounds and one block to his stat line, while logging 36 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Bargnani almost didn't play in this one as he missed the team's morning shootaround after having a bad reaction to some medication he was taking. However, the 27-year-old was able to play through his ailment and finally knock down some shots against the Warriors. It appears as if coach Larry Drew is considering leaving Bargnani in the starting lineup moving forward, which would be a welcome sight for Fantasy owners considering his huge difference in splits as a starter and reserve. In fact, the sixth-year man is averaging 16.3 points when he starts compared to just 5.1 points when he comes off the bench. Owners should keep a close eye on Toronto's starting lineup over the next few days. If Bargnani continues to be in it, he would be worth getting active heading into Week 20 (March 11-17).
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was cleared to play in Monday's contest against the Warriors. Barganani was being considered questionable entering the tilt after missing the team's morning shootaround due to an illness.
Analysis: Bargnani has returned to the starting lineup but has gone just 7 for 21 from the field over his last two games with limited rebounding. If he's not hitting his shots, his value tanks considering he only grabs under four rebounds per game with fewer than a block per contest. When healthy, Bargnani is just a lower-end option in most Fantasy formats.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani missed shootaround on Monday prior to the game against the Warriors, reports the team's media relations staff. Bargnani is considered a game-time decision to play against Golden State as he suffered a bad reaction to medication he's taking.
Analysis: Bargnani has returned to the starting lineup but has gone just 7 for 21 from the field over his last two games with limited rebounding. If he's not hitting his shots, his value tanks considering he only grabs under four rebounds per game with fewer than a block per contest. When healthy, Bargnani is just a lower-end option in most Fantasy formats.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was finally able to put the ball in the basket during Monday's contest against the Wizards. Bargnani, who had been shutout in each of his last two games, finished with eight points in the 90-84 defeat. He was able to knock down four of his 11 field-goal attempts and also added three rebounds and one block to his stat line, while logging 21 minutes off the bench.
Analysis: The Raptors decided to hold onto Bargnani once again at this year's trade deadline, which could not have sat well with most Fantasy owners. The 27-year-old has been moved to the back end of coach Dwane Casey's rotation as he has been used exclusively off the bench since returning from an elbow injury and is averaging just 6.3 points and 1.9 rebounds, while seeing around 20 minutes per game over his last eight tilts. Unless the 7-footer starts to see a major spike in playing time and production, he should only be active in deeper formats.
News: Raptors general manager Bryan Colangelo downplayed the notion that forward Andrea Bargnani would be traded prior to the Feb. 21 deadline, according to USA Today. While Colangelo acknowledged the team was listening to offers for the 27-year-old, he added Bargnani's injury may have slowed things down a bit. "There just may not have been enough runway prior to the deadline to get something," Colangelo told the paper.
Analysis: Colangelo also called the situation "fluid," so there still is a chance Bargnani may be moved. However, the Raptors general manager did offer a glimpse of how Bargnani will be used if he does end up staying with the team. Colangelo said Bargnani will be viewed as the club's No. 3 scoring option behind Rudy Gay and DeMar DeRozan. He will likely also continue to come off the bench, which hasn't exactly worked out that great for Fantasy owners thus far. In fact, the 7-footer has averaged just 8.3 points and 1.5 rebounds during his first four games as a reserve. Continue to monitor how things play out leading up to Thursday's trade deadline. In the meantime, Barngani will have low-end Fantasy appeal in most formats in his current role with the Raptors.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani was able to get back on the court for Tuesday's game against Denver after battling an illness. Bargnani, who was considered a game-time decision for the contest after sitting out Sunday's game against New Orleans with flu-like symptoms, finished with four points and one rebound, while logging 18 minutes off the bench.
Analysis: Bargnani will continue to play off the bench for the foreseeable future as the Raptors are comfortable with Amir Johnson on the block. The 27-year-old Bargnani drained at least 50 percent of his attempts in each outing to finish with double-digits as he works back into game shape. Bargnani's rebounding totals still leave plenty to be desired for a 7-footer, but he is viewed as a viable option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani (illness) missed practice Monday and remains questionable for Tuesday's contest against Denver, the team's radio analyst reports. Bargnani missed Sunday's game against New Orleans with flu-like symptoms and is listed as day to day.
Analysis: Bargnani has played in just two games since his return from a torn ligament in his right elbow before landing on the bench again. He drained at least 50 percent of his attempts (12 for 20 total) in each outing to finish with double-digits as he works back into game shape. Bargnani's rebounding totals still leave plenty to be desired for a 7-footer, but he is viewed as a viable option in deeper Fantasy formats when healthy.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was held out of Sunday's contest against the Hornets due to flu-like symptoms. Bargnani is listed as day to day.
Analysis: Bargnani came back from missing time due to a torn ligament in his right elbow and scored 27 points combined over his last two games. It seems as if he is starting to find his rhythm and should be back in action at some point during Week 16 (Feb. 11-17). We'll continue to keep an eye on his status moving forward. Fantasy owners should view the 27-year-old as a low-end Fantasy start, when healthy.
News: ESPN.com reported Thursday that the Bulls and Raptors have begun discussions on a trade that would swap a pair of big contracts, in center Andrea Bargnani and forward Carlos Boozer. According to the report, the Bulls and Raptors have just begun having exploratory discussions about a possible deal, and would likely need to move other, smaller contracts in order to make the deal work under the salary cap.
Analysis: Bargnani has been on the outs in Toronto for some time now, so this rumor comes as no surprise. The team acquired Rudy Gay to be its franchise centerpiece two weeks ago, and that seemed to put the writing on the wall for his departure. It looks like wheels are starting to turn on a trade, and it only seems to be a question of when the deal might go down. He is averaging just 15.9 points per game, his lowest total since 2008-09, while grabbing a paltry 4.3 rebounds per game. Bargnani would not be a centerpiece in the Bulls’ offense, but he would likely play a bigger role there, on a team that badly needs offense. He has been a terrific scorer in the past, but is likely to be relegated to a secondary role as long as he stays in Toronto. A trade would be in Bargnani’s best interests, but until one goes down, he remains more of a low-end Fantasy starter.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani saw his first game action since Dec. 10 in his return Wednesday night against the Celtics. After missing time due to a torn ligament in his right elbow, he scored 13 points and hauled in three rebounds in the 99-95 loss. He went 5 for 10 from the floor, missing all three of his attempts from downtown, and converted three free throws. Bargnani also posted two assists and two steals while playing 22 minutes off the bench. "He gave us some good minutes," Toronto coach Dwane Casey said. "I thought he wore down a little bit and I didn't want to wear him down too much."
Analysis: Bargnani shot just 39 percent in his first 21 games this season but played well in his return Wednesday. The Raptors will likely slowly ease him back into the starting lineup so keep an eye on his progress going forward. With Rudy Gay now in Toronto, the 27-year-old will not have the carry the Raptors on offense anymore and should see more single teams. Owners in most formats should feel free to get Bargnani active once again.
News: Raptors coach Dwane Casey confirmed prior to Wednesday’s game against the Celtics that center Andrea Bargnani will return to the floor, for the first time since suffering a torn ligament in his right elbow Dec. 10. Casey told reporters that Bargnani will come off the bench, and is not guaranteed to play big minutes right away.
Analysis: Bargnani regressed this season, shooting just 39.8 percent from the field prior to his injury, and the Raptors have had some players step up in a big way in his absence. It will be interesting to see how the Raptors work with Bargnani healthy, as they have gone 14-14 without him on the floor. Bargnani is still one of the rare centers who can hit three-pointers, so Fantasy owners will obviously want to consider getting him in the lineup once it looks like he is ready to play big minutes.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani (elbow) might play Wednesday vs. Boston for the first time since early December. Bargnani went through shootaround Wednesday and afterward coach Dwane Casey said Bargnani will be a game-time decision. "He look good," Casey said.
Analysis: Bargnani could slide back into the starting lineup once he is healthy, but he could still lose playing time to Aaron Gray. Bargnani was averaging just 16 points and 4.3 rebounds per game before getting hurt, which trailed his averages from previous seasons. We know he has more room to be productive, but Bargnani's numbers are still good enough to be considered a viable Fantasy start when healthy.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani (elbow) remains a game-time decision for Wednesday's game against Boston despite an encouraging practice session Tuesday. Bargnani has not played since suffering a ligament tear in his right elbow at Portland on Dec. 10. "[Tuesday] was probably the hardest practice he's had," coach Dwane Casey told reporters. "He went through it well. Got some tough rebounds which was good to see."
Analysis: Bargnani said he is still experiencing soreness in his elbow as the tendon continues to limit him specifically on the glass. The 7-footer has struggled to find his footing this season while being limited to just 21 games, averaging just 16.0 points and 4.3 rebounds per game -- his lowest total since his second NBA season. Bargnani should be activated only in deeper Fantasy formats at first once he is able to return to the court.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani attempted to go through shootaround on Sunday but decided he could not play against the Heat, reports the team's official site. Bargnani has been out with an elbow injury and was hoping to return Sunday. He is day to day. "(He's) still sore, still has a problem when he pushes off on that tendon," coach Dwane Casey told reporters.
Analysis: Bargnani could return Wednesday against Boston as that is his next opportunity. Bargnani could see a bigger role with the Raptors upon his return as the team traded away Ed Davis. That said, Bargnani was struggling before his injury and we're not sure what kind of player the Raptors are getting back shortly. He should be monitored upon his return to health.
News: Raptors head coach Dwayne Casey said Saturday that Toronto center Andrea Bargnani (elbow) could return to the lineup Sunday against Miami. Of course, Casey also said it is possible Bargnani doesn't return until Wednesday against Boston.
Analysis: Bargnani could see a bigger role with the Raptors upon his return as the team traded away Ed Davis. That said, Bargnani was struggling before his injury and we're not sure what kind of player the Raptors are getting back shortly. He should be monitored upon his return to health.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was ruled out for Friday's contest against the Clippers as he continues to recover from a torn ligament in his right elbow. General manager Bryan Colangelo told TSN 1050 radio in Toronto that he expects Bargnani back in the lineup within a week, and is likely to come off the bench.
Analysis: It seems as if the Raptors are expecting to have the 27-year-old out of Italy back at some point between Week 15 (Feb. 4-10) and Week 16 (Feb. 11-17), as he continues to recover from a torn ligament. He has been sidelined since mid-December and could be used as trade bait for the Raptors, so we'll keep an eye on that. It also seems as if he will not return to the starting lineup when healthy, so Fantasy owners will want to temper expectations some. Bargnani was already struggling prior to the injury, so a reduced role likely won’t help. He can still produce at a solid rate and remains worth stashing -- especially at a thin position -- in most Fantasy formats.
News: The Toronto Sun reported Friday that Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani remains one or two weeks away from returning from a torn ligament in his right elbow. Bargnani has been able to take jumpers and work out prior to games, but is still experiencing pain in the elbow.
Analysis: It looks like Bargnani will return sometime early in the month of February, though a concrete timeline has yet to be established. If he is still dealing with pain, that would seem to be the biggest remaining hurdle for his return. It appears as if Bargnani will not return to the starting lineup when healthy, so Fantasy owners will want to temper expectations some. Bargnani was already struggling prior to the injury, so a reduced role likely won’t help. Still, he is a talented scorer, and remains worth stashing in most Fantasy formats.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani was able to participate in Saturday's practice as far as taking jump shots, reports the team's official site. That said, Bargnani still does not have a timetable to return from his torn right elbow ligament and strained right wrist.
Analysis: Bargnani could be back in action by the end of January, but some reports have him possibly coming back off the bench. Bargnani can definitely score, but he is a low-end rebounder as a center. That doesn't figure to change upon his return and he'll be viewed as a decent option in most deeper formats.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani could return to the lineup by the end of the month after being sidelined since Dec. 12 with a torn right elbow ligament and strained right wrist, the Globe and Mail reports. However, his starting job might not be waiting for him. Bargnani could play a reserve role to Ed Davis, who has shined in his absence with 11.9 points and 7.3 rebounds per game after being added to the starting lineup. "It’s gong to be very difficult [to keep Davis from the starting rotation]," coach Dwane Casey said Thursday. "He’s earned it. Again, we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it. But unless he does something, just goes backwards -- which I don’t see him doing -- it’s going to be very difficult to get him out of there and also difficult to keep him off the floor."
Analysis: Davis' gain would obviously be Bargnani's loss as the former top overall draft pick has struggled to stay healthy over the past three seasons. His production also remains inconsistent as he was averaging 16.0 points per game prior to the injury, his lowest clip since the 2008-09 campaign (15.4 ppg). The 7-foot Bargnani has also never averaged more than 6.2 rebounds a night during any of his previous six NBA seasons. Fantasy owners should monitor his status while keeping him reserved in the majority of formats as he inches toward a return.
News: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani, who has been out since mid-December with a ligament tear in his right elbow, is still being limited to just cardio work in practice, reports Sportsnet.ca. Coach Dwane Casey added that there is still no timetable for Bargnani's return as he still can't lift anything with his right arm. "All he can do now is cardio," Casey said. "He can't really do any physical lifting with his arm."
Analysis: The original timetable for Bargnani's return was 1-2 months but it appears he will be back closer to the two-month mark at this point. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the situation on moving forward to see when he will be able to finally be able to get back on the court. Bargnani was averaging 16 points and 4.3 rebounds prior to his injury and should remain stashed in the majority of formats for the time being.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani, who has been out since mid-December with a ligament tear in his right elbow, seems like a lock to be traded, reports ESPN Saturday.
Analysis: Bargnani needs to get healthy first before he's going anywhere. Fantasy owners just want that to happen. If he goes somewhere else, he should end up seeing as much Fantasy value as before. Bargnani is a solid 3-point shooter for a center and is an excellent Fantasy option in most formats, when healthy.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani has been labeled out indefinitely going forward due to a torn elbow ligament, reports the Toronto Sun Wednesday. Bargnani, who missed Wednesday's game against Brooklyn, said his elbow just doesn't feel right and tests proved the tear. His expected timetable for a recovery is 1-2 months.
Analysis: Bargnani injured his elbow Monday and now sounds like he could miss a month or even longer for the Raptors. This is a serious issue and could have Bargnani out until at least the new year. Bargnani was playing well before the injury, but should be stashed in most Fantasy formats now. Ed Davis should pick up some Fantasy appeal in place of the Toronto center.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani was given X-rays during the first half of Monday's game at Portland. Bargnani underwent X-rays on his right elbow after playing only eight minutes and could not return after halftime. That said, the X-rays came back negative, reports the Toronto Sun. Bargnani went 1 for 3 before leaving to score two points with two rebounds. He was 0 for 2 from 3-point range. "I fell on the elbow first," Bargnani told reporters. "[My hand] felt numb afterwards. It is still a little numb. X-rays were negative, so that’s good. ... It doesn’t feel good. It doesn’t feel right."
Analysis: The X-rays on Bargnani's elbow came back negative so he's considered day to day going forward. He's been playing well of late with two 20-point efforts over his last five games. He can be active in all Fantasy formats, when healthy.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani had a solid performance on Monday night in a loss at Denver. Bargnani hit two 3-pointers and scored 23 points over 40 minutes for the Raptors. He shot 10 of 20 from the field overall in the game and added four rebounds and a block.
Analysis: Bargnani has been extremely erratic over his last couple games but appears to be getting over his ankle injury that caused him to miss last Wednesday's game at Memphis. Bargnani scored just four points over 27 minutes in a win over Phoenix Friday, but is averaging over 17 points per game on the year. Hopefully he keeps hitting his shots, because Fantasy owners don't own the center for his rebounding. He can be active in most Fantasy formats thanks to his 3-point shooting.
News: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani was able to get back on the court for Friday's contest against the Suns. Bargnani, who missed Toronto's last game due to an ankle injury, finished with just four points in the 101-97 win, on 1 of 4 shooting from the field. He missed his lone attempt from downtown and added two rebounds and one assist to his stat line, while logging 27 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Bargnani looked to be a bit limited Friday night as he didn't look for his shot much and logged just 27 minutes of game action. The 27-year-old has had been on quite a little tear prior to his ankle injury and entered Friday's contest averaging nearly 18 points per game while making 1.7 3-pointers per contest. As long as he is healthy, Bargnani can be considered a high-end option in most formats heading into Fantasy Week 6 (Dec. 3-9).
News: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani was back in the starting lineup for Friday's contest against the Suns after missing the previous game with an ankle issue.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 21.2 points with 5.2 rebounds in the previous five contests and is shooting 47 percent over that span. Owners in daily formats should feel free to get him active against Phoenix.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani is dealing with a sore left ankle and missed Wednesday's game at Memphis. Bargnani is day to day. Bargnani scored 21 points in Tuesday's loss at Houston.
Analysis: Bargnani was able to play Tuesday so his ankle must have been sore following the performance. He should be able to return in the coming days so Fantasy owners should pay attention to that. When healthy, Bargnani is a solid start in all Fantasy formats thanks to his 18 points, five rebounds and almost two 3-pointers per night.
News: After scoring just four points his last time out, Raptors center Andrea Bargnani got back on track Tuesday night against the Rockets. He led Toronto with 21 points and hauled in four rebounds in the 117-101 loss. He went 8 for 12 from the field, including 3 for 4 from downtown, and made both of his free throws. Bargnani also posted an assist and a steal while playing 31 minutes in the defeat.
Analysis: Bargnani has not gotten off to the best of starts this season but has looked better of late. He is averaging 21.2 points with 5.2 rebounds in the previous five contests and is shooting 47 percent over that span. Jonas Valanciunas' presence has cut into his rebounding numbers but Bargnani remains a solid option in Fantasy so keep him active in all formats going forward.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani appears to be moving past his shooting struggles. Bargnani, who is shooting just 36 percent from the field this season, made 10 of his 21 field-goal attempts in Toronto's contest against the 76ers Tuesday night. He went 2 of 5 from downtown and also added seven rebounds, one assist and one steal to his stat line, while logging 40 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Bargnani has really been struggling to knock down shots in the early part of the season, but turned in one of his more productive performances Tuesday night. Still, it seems the 27-year-old is still adjusting to playing exclusively at power forward this season, which may be part of the reason his rebounding and shooting numbers are done. However, he has shown some signs of life in his game over the past week as he is averaging 16.2 points and 4.8 boards over his last five contests. Despite his slow start, Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Bargnani as a viable option in most formats at this point in the year.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani failed to score in double figures for the first time this season on Tuesday night against the Pacers. He finished with just eight points and two rebounds in the 74-72 win. He went 3 for 13 from the floor, including 2 for 6 from downtown, while playing 30 minutes. Bargnani also chipped in with an assist in the victory.
Analysis: Bargnani entered Tuesday's contest shooting just 37 percent on the year and that number obviously dropped with his poor performance. Still, he is averaging 18.2 points with six rebounds and 1.2 steals in his last five games. While his low shooting percentages have hindered his value in Rotisserie formats, the 27-year-old continues to be a viable option in Fantasy and should be considered as such going forward.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani's shooting woes continued during Tuesday's contest against the Thunder. Bargnani, who is a career 43.9 percent shooting from a field, made just five of his 14 shot attempts in the 108-88 defeat to finish with 16 points. He did go 3 for 6 from downtown also added six rebounds and one assist to his stat line, while logging 25 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Bargnani has not shot the ball well for the most part over his first four games as he failed to make over 35 percent of his shots in three of those contests. However, he has been good from deep as he is making 46.7 percent from behind the arc. While we would expect his overall shooting percentage to get back up near his career average of 43.9 percent when all is said and done, it will be interesting to see how Bargnani performs playing mostly power forward instead of center. He will now have duel eligibility in some formats and some think his move to the four will allow him to play more freely. As long as he can stay healthy, Bargnani can be considered a high-end option in all leagues moving forward.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani struggled with his shot in Toronto's season opener against the Pacers Wednesday night. Bargnani connected on just four of his 15 field-goal attempts in the 90-88 defeat and finished with 16 points. He went just 1 for 4 from downtown and also added three rebounds, three blocks and one assist to his stat line, while logging 34 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Bargnani has been dealing with the flu over the past few days and its possible he was still a bit under the weather for Wednesday's season opener. However, poor shooting nights are nothing new for the 27-year-old, who has shot under 45 percent from the field in each of his last two seasons. However, this will be an interesting year for Bargnani as he will spend most of his time on the court at power forward instead of center. He will now have duel eligibility in some formats and some think his move to the four will allow him to play more freely. As long as he can stay healthy, Bargnani can be considered a high-end option in all leagues moving forward.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani missed more than half of the 2011-12 season -- 35 out of 66 games to be exact -- and his production took a big dive when he tried to come back from a calf injury in the second half of the season. “Before the injury, I was among the top (scorers),” he told the Toronto Sun. “That’s where I need to be and I know I can be there. Now I have to come back next year and do it.” Bargnani averaged 23.5 points in the first half of the season and just 16.1 after that, with his shooting percentage tumbling from 47.6 percent to 39.2. The injury is not expected to linger into the offseason, as Bargnani was largely sat as a precaution during the final month of the season.
Analysis: Bargnani, the former number one pick in the NBA Draft, looked like he was in the midst of a breakout season prior to the injury, so it will be interesting to see if he can stay healthy and maintain that production in 2012-13. The one issue that has lingered in his game, his poor rebounding numbers for a center, was also moderately improved before the injury, and he should be joined in the frontcourt next season by the team’s 2011 first-round pick, Jonas Valanciunas, which could help open things up for him even more. He is expected to be 100 percent healthy and should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy center, worthy of selecting with an early-round choice on Draft Day.
News: The Raptors announced on Friday that center Andrea Bargnani will miss the remainder of the season due to a calf injury. Bargnani, who has dealt with calf issue all season, missed the last two games after leaving last Sunday's loss to the Thunder due to tightness in his left calf. “The risk vs. rewards of him continuing to play and injuring it again, possibly tearing it, I’d much rather and our organization’s decision is to get it well completely," coach Dwane Casey said.
Analysis: This move doesn't really come as much of a surprise with the Raptors having nothing left to play for at this point. Bargnani struggled to calf issues all season long, missing a total of 27 games due to a calf strain and tightness. The 26-year-old was extremely production when he was on the floor as he averaged a team-high 19.5 points, with 5.5 rebounds and 33.3 minutes in 31 games. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his health over the summer months. If Bargnani is able to come back at 100 percent, he can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy center heading into 2012-13.
News: The Raptors report Friday that center Andrea Bargnani (calf) will not play Friday night against Boston.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in all daily leagues should keep Bargnani reserved Friday, and hopefully he can return soon. There is some concern the Raptors will shut down Bargnani since this calf issue has been a lingering problem all year. When healthy and active, Bargnani is a quality Fantasy option in all leagues, but health has been a major problem for him this season.
News: The Raptors announced on Wednesday that forward Andrea Bargnani remains out with a calf injury until he is able to undergo further evaluation and testing on Thursday. The team will have their medical staff take another look at the calf that has been bothering him all season, and his status moving forward will be determined from there.
Analysis: Bargnani has now missed 28 games with this calf issue, and at this point the chances of him coming back quickly do not look good. The Raptors do not have much to play for at this point, and so they may start looking long term. Fantasy owners will need to keep an eye on his status as he is considered day by day until the team sets a timeline, but for now he remains a risky start due to his health.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani said that his latest calf issue is related to the injury that cost him sufficient playing time earlier this season, the Toronto Sun reports. Bargnani left Sunday's game against Oklahoma City in the first half and did not return. "The calf was starting to give me problems again. [Sunday] morning it was tight, but during the game it was getting more sore,” said Bargnani, who is listed as day to day. The injury kept him out of Monday's game against the Pacers.
Analysis: Bargnani missed 26 games earlier this year as a result of the calf issue and could be left on the bench again this month. He lasted just 13 minutes against the Thunder, and now we know it will cost him at least one game. The Raptors play four times during Fantasy Week 16 (April 9-15), including the game he is already set to miss. He is a solid start when healthy, but his status makes him a risky option for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Raptors center left Sunday's game against the Thunder with four minutes remaining in the first half and was unable to return, as he came down with what the team is referring to as calf tightness. Bargnani played just 13 minutes in the game, scoring seven points on 1 of 3 shooting with five rebounds.
Analysis: Bargnani missed a good chunk of the season with a calf injury, so it is hard to say whether the injury is something to be concerned about or whether the team is simply being extra cautious. We should know more in the coming days, so keep an eye on his status. However this injury definitely throws his status into doubt for Week 16 (April 9-15), so be cautious with him.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani posted his fifth 30-plus scoring performance of the season during Tuesday night's contest against the Bobcats. Bargnani finished with 30 points in the 92-87 victory, on 11 of 22 shooting from the field. He went 2 of 6 from downtown and also added three rebounds, one steal and one assist to his stat line, while logging 34 minutes of game action. "I feel better," he said. "Every day I get better. I just have to keep working and keep playing hard."
Analysis: Bargnani has seemed to finally get his game back on track as he has been scoring the ball much more efficiently over the past few games. He is averaging 21.8 points over his last five contests and is shooting 47 percent from the field over that stretch. While his rebounding numbers continue to underwhelm, Fantasy owners can continue to view the 26-year-old as a high-end option in all formats over the final few weeks of the season.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani has struggled mightily with his shot since returning from a calf injury, however he seemed to right the ship on Wednesday against the Nuggets, making 7 of 14 from the field and 10 of 12 from the line en route to a 26-point day. Bargnani went 2 of 4 from three-point range, while also adding five rebounds, two assists, a block and a steal in 36 minutes to lead the Raptors to a 105-96 win.
Analysis: Bargnani has been shooting just 33.3 percent from the field since his return, so Wednesday’s game can hopefully start getting him back on track. Bargnani had been enjoying one of the best seasons of his career prior to the injuries, and while that momentum is likely lost, he is still a high-end Fantasy center who is more than capable of providing a boost down the stretch, so keep him in the lineup in most leagues.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani had a rough night shooting the ball on Wednesday against Chicago. He scored just eight points on a 2-for-10 shooting performance. Bargnani missed all three of his attempts from downtown, but managed to knock down all four of his freebies at the charity stripe. He added a steal, six assists and five boards in his 33 minutes of action. The Raptors would lose the game, 94-82.
Analysis: Bargnani missed nearly two months this year with a calf injury and hasn't been himself since returning. His scoring is down, which is his main asset in Fantasy leagues. He's averaging 12.4 points, 2.2 assists and 3.8 boards per contest over his last five games, while shooting 29.2 percent from the field. Despite his struggles, Bargnani still holds value in a relatively thin center position. Consider him a low-end No. 2 center in deeper leagues at this time.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani looked a bit rusty in his first game back in action during Saturday night's contest against the Pistons. Bargnani, who was making his first start since Jan. 25, finished with eight points in the 105-86, on 2 of 8 shooting from the field. He made all four of his free-throw attempts and also added three rebounds, three assists and one steal to his stat line, while logging 19 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Bargnani looked a bit rusty against the Pistons, but that is to be expected after a nearly two-month layoff. However, the 26-year-old seemed to be moving well on the court and reported no problems with his calf following the contest. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how he fares against the Bucks on Sunday. If Bargnani is able to get through that contest without suffering any setbacks, owners should get him active heading into Fantasy Week 12 (March 12-18).
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was back in the starting lineup on Saturday night against the Pistons. Bargnani hasn't played since re-injuring his calf back on Jan. 25.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should keep tabs on Bargnani to see how long he's able to play. If he doesn't have any restrictions and looks good, he'd be worth starting in Fantasy Week 12 (March 12-18). Bargnani isn't much of a rebounder, but is posting a career-best 6.4 boards per game this season. When healthy, Bargnani is a must-start center option.
News: The National Post reports Friday that Raptors coach Dwane Casey said injured center Andrea Bargnani (calf) could return Saturday at Detroit, Sunday against Milwaukee or Tuesday at Cleveland. On Thursday, Bargnani took part in his first practice since re-injuring his left calf Jan. 25.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should continue to be patient with Bargnani, and hopefully he can play Saturday or Sunday to give owners an idea if he will be ready for Fantasy Week 12. When healthy and active, Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, but this calf injury has lingered longer than expected.
News: The Raptors reported Thursday that center Andrea Bargnani was taking part in his first practice since re-injuring his left calf Jan. 25. Bargnani said he is "anxious to get back," and coach Dwane Casey said they will ease Bargnani back into playing when he does return. Casey said the team needs to "monitor his minutes." Bargnani could return as soon as Sunday's game against Milwaukee.
Analysis: It sounds like Bargnani is getting closer to a return, and we hope he can get back to 100 percent as soon as possible. Continue to monitor what happens with his practice time and when an eventual return date will be nailed down. When healthy and active, Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: The Raptors report that coach Dwane Casey said Wednesday that center Andrea Bargnani (calf) is "getting closer" to a return. Casey said Bargnani "needs practice" and "needs contact." The Raptors have said they want him to get a couple full sessions in before throwing him back in the lineup. That said, Bargnani is apparently targeting Sunday's game against the Bucks as his return game.
Analysis: When healthy and active, Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, but this calf injury has lingered longer than expected. We hope he can return soon, but Fantasy owners should just continue to monitor his progress until he gets back on the court.
News: The Toronto Sun reports that Raptors center Andrea Bargnani’s return date is still up in the air with his injured calf. The Raptors want him to get a couple full sessions in before throwing him back in the lineup. The team is off Tuesday, plays Wednesday but has Thursday and Friday off before a back to back set. If Bargnani goes full out to end the week, a Saturday return in Detroit, or more likely, Sunday at home against Milwaukee seems reasonable.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should continue to monitor Bargnani's progress, and hopefully he can return Saturday. We hope Bargnani will get some practice time in, and that should help speed up his recovery. When healthy and active, Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, but this calf injury has lingered longer than expected.
News: The National Post reports that Toronto coach Dwane Casey said injured center Andrea Bargnani has no definite timeline for his return from a strained left calf. “We’re getting closer and we’re getting closer,” Casey said. “But again, he’s got to listen to his body and come back on his terms.” Casey hopes Bargnani can return at some point during the upcoming homestand, which includes Orlando on Monday and Houston on Wednesday. “Personally,” Casey said, “I’d feel more comfortable putting him out there with a practice under his belt.”
Analysis: It sounds like Bargnani will remain out against the Magic on Monday, but maybe if he can practice Tuesday he could return against the Rockets. When healthy and active, Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, but this calf injury has lingered longer than expected. Fantasy owners should use caution in Week 11 since Bargnani could again be limited or not play at all.
News: The Raptors PR staff reports center Andrea Bargnani (calf) will miss Sunday's game against Golden State, as expected. Bargnani has been participating in strength and conditioning drills. Bargnani would be unlikely to play Monday as well.
Analysis: Toronto continues to be very cautious with Bargnani as they do not want to rush him back before he is ready. He is loosely considered day to day but he could still miss a few more games before he's able to return. He is a injury risk heading into Fantasy Week 11 (March 5-11). We will continue to deliver the latest updates on his status, but for now leave the 26-year-old reserved.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was once again ruled inactive for Friday night's contest against the Grizzlies due to a calf injury. Bargnani has been sidelined since Jan. 25 with his injury, although he is now being considered day to day.
Analysis: Toronto continues to be very cautious with Bargnani as they do not want to rush him back before he is ready. Despite being considered day to day, it seems unlikely he will play on Sunday against Golden State, which would make him a injury-risk heading into Fantasy Week 11 (March 5-11). We will continue to deliver the latest updates on his status, but for now leave the 26-year-old reserved.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was unable to return on Wednesday night against the Hornets as he continues to deal with a calf strain. He has not played since Jan. 25 due to the injury.
Analysis: Bargnani has missed significant time with this injury already but it looks as though he is nearing a return. He was averaging 23.5 points with 6.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists before going down so keep an eye on his progress going forward. He could be back by the time Week 11 (Mar. 5-11) rolls around and Bargnani should be considered a must-start Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: The Toronto Sun reports that Raptors center Andrea Bargnani — who said his calf was feeling a bit better and that he was done with his swimming rehabilitation and was on to light on-court work — will miss the game Tuesday at Houston. Bargnani has been sidelined since late January with a strained calf.
Analysis: We hope Bargnani can return soon, and it appears like a return to the court is getting closer. But until he plays and shows he can stay healthy then Fantasy owners should keep him reserved in all leagues.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani (calf) will travel with the Raptors for the upcoming two-game road trip to Houston and New Orleans, reports the Toronto Sun Monday. However, Bargnani did not practice Monday and is not expected to play in Tuesday's game at Houston.
Analysis: Some though that Bargnani was not even close to return so this is great news regardless of whether or not he plays on the road trip. If he wasn't even close, you would expect him to remain in Toronto to rehab. There is at least a small chance Bargnani comes back very soon as he did some conditioning and running drills. When healthy, Bargnani can be active in all Fantasy formats so this is something to watch out for.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani (calf) will not return to the court until after the All-Star break, according to the National Post. Bargnani has been sidelined since late January after re-aggravating a previous calf injury. There is no immediate timetable for his return.
Analysis: The Raptors continue to be extremely cautious with Bargnani, who was the team's leading scorer prior to the injury. Bargnani is clearly the franchise's top player so Toronto won't rush his return, especially since he's already aggravated the injury before. Bargnani was averaging 23.5 points, 1.4 3-pointers, 6.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game before going down to injury. He should continue to be reserved in all Fantasy formats.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani has begun training in a swimming pool and could begin some on-court workouts later in the week, reports the team's PR staff. That said, the Raptors still have no timetable for Bargnani's return to action. He is not expected back before the All-Star break.
Analysis: Toronto continues to be very cautious with Bargnani, who was leading the team in scoring prior to being injured. Bargnani is the team's franchise player so they don't want to rush his return, especially since he's already aggravated the injury once before. Bargnani was averaging 23.5 points, 1.4 3-pointers, 6.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game before going down to injury. He should continue to be reserved in most Fantasy leagues.
News: The National Post reports Raptors C Andrea Bargnani, who has already missed 14 games with a strained calf, isn't on the verge of returning, coach Dwane Casey said Thursday. “His timeframe is extended, whether it is two weeks or three weeks, whatever it is,” Casey said. “We’re not putting a day on it. Extended is beyond day to day, I think. We’re not [spending] each day waiting on him. He’s back when he’s back. That’s the same message we gave to the team. We’re not going to rush him back. We need him back. But we’re not going to rush him.”
Analysis: What disappointing news for Fantasy owners, who can now only hope that Bargnani returns after the All-Star break. If his status improves before that, then we will let you know. For now, though, keep the must-start Fantasy option reserved in all formats.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani told the Toronto Sun he has yet to run on his injured left calf since re-injuring the muscle two weeks ago in a win over Utah. Bargnani said his calf is improving, but he still has plenty of time before he can come back.
Analysis: Bargnani still isn't practicing and it could be some time before he's able to get back on the court for Toronto. The team's leading scorer will continue to travel with the team and is working in the weight room. That said, Bargnani is still days away from joining team workouts. Bargnani was averaging 23.5 points and 6.4 rebounds prior to his latest injury, so leave him reserved in the majority of formats for now.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani, who has missed the past two contests with a calf injury, will not travel with the team for Wednesday night's contest against the Celtics. Toronto has yet to announce an official timetable for Bargnani's return.
Analysis: Bargnani had an MRI taken last week that revealed no structural, although no one is sure when he will be able to get back on the court. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward, although it looks like he could be sidelined for at least another week. Bargnani was averaging 23.5 points and 6.4 rebounds prior to his latest injury, so leave him reserved in the majority of formats for now.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani will be sidelined indefinitely after an MRI revealed no significant damage to his injured left calf, the team announced Friday. Bargnani re-injured a previous calf injury during Wednesday's game against Utah and there is no timetable for his return. He finished with 25 points in 40 minutes, but left the game during the second overtime and described the calf strain as "much worse" than his previous setback. Linas Kleiza and Ed Davis are expected to receive additional playing time at power forward in Bargnani's absence.
Analysis: This is another tough break for Bargnani as he had just returned from a six-game absence because of an earlier calf injury. The 7-footer had registered 61 total points in his two outings back from the injury and appeared poised to continue his strong production this year. However, Fantasy owners should now keep Bargnani reserved in all formats heading into Week 6 (Jan. 30-Feb. 5) while continuing to monitor his injury status.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani left Wednesday's game against the Jazz in double overtime after re-injuring his left calf. He posted 25 points with five rebounds in 40 minutes on the court before the early exit. He also recorded four assists and a blocked shot. After the contest, Bargnani said that his calf strain felt "much worse" and that he will be "out for awhile." He is expected to undergo an MRI when Toronto travels to Denver on Friday.
Analysis: Bargnani left the arena on crutches and could be out longer than the six games he missed earlier in the month due to the same injury. More will be known after the results of the MRI so keep an eye on his status going forward. He scored 36 and 25 points in his two games back from the injury, and is one of the few scoring threats on Toronto. Owners should plan on finding another big man to replace Bargnani in the short term as he could be a serious injury risk heading into Week 6 (Jan. 30-Feb. 5).
News: After missing the previous six games due to a calf injury, Raptors C Andrea Bargnani showed no signs of rust in his return on Tuesday against the Suns. He scored a season-high 36 points and hauled in six rebounds in the 99-96 win. He went 10 for 21 from the floor, including 4 for 6 from downtown, and made all 12 of his free throws. Bargnani, who played 42 minutes, also chipped in with two assists, two steals and a block in the victory.
Analysis: Bargnani posted his fourth 30-point performance of the season on Tuesday and played extremely after missing some time. The offense in Toronto runs through the 26-year-old and he is on pace for a career campaign. He is averaging 23.4 points with 6.5 rebounds thus far so with Utah, Denver and New Jersey left on the schedule for Week 5 (Jan. 23-29), continue to roll with Bargnani as a solid option in all Fantasy formats.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani is expected to play in Tuesday night's contest against the Suns. Bargnani, who has missed the past six games with a calf injury, was able to go through pre-game warmups with suffering a setback.
Analysis: Bargnani is expected to be back on the floor Tuesday night, although Fantasy owners should keep an eye out leading up to tipoff, just to be sure. Bargnani can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy option in all formats, when healthy.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani (calf) could return to the lineup Tuesday at Phoenix, according to the Toronto Sun. Bargnani has missed the past six games with an ailing calf injury and the Raptors have not won during his absence. He paces the team in scoring with 22.3 points per game and provides a quality 6.5 rebounds a night. "A guy like that gives you so much just by his presence on the floor, not just his scoring but the spacing of the defense," Toronto coach Dwane Casey said.
Analysis: Bargnani attempted to play Sunday against the Clippers, but instead was held out of the starting lineup again. The Raptors have struggled to score without the 7-footer and are averaging just 79 points per game in his absence. "When I’m in the post I think I help a lot, even if I don’t score," said Bargnani, who topped 30 points three times this season. There is certainly an injury risk starting Bargnani during Fantasy Week 5 (Jan. 23-29), but he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy C when healthy.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani will not play Sunday against the Clippers. Bargnani did warm up to test his injured calf and was considered a game-time decision before being held out. It is the sixth straight game Bargnani has missed.
Analysis: The fact Bargnani is testing out his injured calf is encouraging. But the fact he is still not ready to play is discouraging. The Raptors don't play again until Tuesday, so Bargnani remains an injury-risk start for Week 5 (Jan. 23-29). Continue to track his progress just in case we get a positive report before weekly lineups lock on Monday. Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was active for Friday's contest against the Trail Blazers, but the team stated he would not dress for the contest. He's now missed five games with a calf injury. Toronto coach Dwane Casey said Bargnani will return to practice Saturday.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 22.3 points and a career-high 6.5 rebounds a night this season. The fact he's injured is definitely disheartening as he's posting really good numbers for Fantasy owners. Toronto is being extremely cautious with the big man, which means owners should keep him reserved until further notice. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status moving forward as he's a high-end center option when healthy.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani is considered a game-time decision for Friday's game against Portland due to a troublesome calf injury, according to the team's official website. Bargnani, who is averaging 22.3 points a night this season, has missed the past four games with the issue.
Analysis: The Raptors were targeting a Sunday return for Bargnani, but there is an outside chance he could come back earlier against the Blazers. The 7-footer is shooting a career-best 48.9 percent from the field this season as he has developed into a strong scorer for Toronto -- when healthy. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status as his return to the court appears imminent. Consider him a high-end option in all formats.
News: Raptors coach Dwane Casey said Andrea Bargnani, who has missed the last four games with a calf injury, did not practice with the team Thursday and remains day to day. Toronto returns to action Friday against Portland.
Analysis: The fact Bargnani remained idle Thursday is not a good sign for his Friday status. But if we get a more positive report leading up to tip-off, then we will let you know. Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani missed his fourth straight game on Wednesday versus the Celtics. He did not dress for the game as he continues to deal with a calf injury. Coach Dwane Casey said he may return on Friday, but that Bargnani is targeting a Sunday return to the court.
Analysis: Bargnani has been one of the best scorers in the league this season and is averaging nearly 23 points per game. The 26-year-old is also posting a career-high 6.5 rebounds a night. Fantasy owners should monitor his status while viewing him as a high-end option when healthy.
News: Raptors coach Dwane Casey said C Andrea Bargnani will not play Wednesday against the Celtics because of a calf injury. It will be the fourth straight games he misses. Casey added that he is targeting a Sunday return against the Clippers for Bargnani, but Friday against the Trail Blazers is a possibility.
Analysis: Fantasy owners aren't loving the fact that one of their best players continues to sit idle. Bargnani didn't participate in the shootaround Tuesday, so he really is a day-to-day candidate. Keep the must-start Fantasy option reserved until further notice. It does appear he could be back by the end of Fantasy Week 4 (Jan. 16-22).
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani was unable to participate in the team's shootaround on Tuesday because of a persistent calf injury, according to the Toronto Star. Bargnani has missed the past three games with the issue, but coach Dwane Casey does not believe it is serious.
Analysis: Bargnani is still listed as day to day, but there is no immediate timetable for his return. It's an especially tough time for his injury as he ranks among the top-10 scorers in the NBA with 22.3 points per game. Fantasy owners should monitor his status while viewing him as a high-end option when healthy.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani (calf) missed Monday's game at Atlanta, according to the team's official site. Coach Dwane Casey said the injury isn't that serious, but that Bargnani will need a few days off. Bargnani missed Saturday's game against the Bulls as well. He is day to day.
Analysis: Bargnani has been one of the best scorers in the league this season and is averaging nearly 23 points per game. The 26-year-old is also posting a career-high 6.5 rebounds a night as he seems to finally be utilizing his 7-foot frame effectively on the glass. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy center, when healthy. Fantasy owners shouldn't be too worried about his missed game Monday. He should return shortly.
News: The Toronto Sun reports that Raptors C Andrea Bargnani (calf) continues to be considered day to day. Bargnani is not likely to play on Monday at Atlanta, however. Coach Dwane Casey said the injury isn't that serious, but that Bargnani will need a few days off. Bargnani missed Saturday's game against the Bulls.
Analysis: Bargnani has been one of the best scorers in the league this season and is averaging nearly 23 points per game. The 26-year-old is also posting a career-high 6.5 rebounds a night as he seems to finally be utilizing his 7-foot frame effectively on the glass. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy center, when healthy.
News: Toronto reported that center Andrea Bargnani was once again ruled out with a calf injury. The injury is not as serious as originally thought, but the team is being cautious with him. He's still being considered day-to-day.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging a career-high 6.5 boards per contest, along with nearly 23 points. He's turned it up a notch this season and Fantasy owners couldn't be happier -- besides him missing games with this calf injury. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy center, when healthy.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani (calf) was not listed among the probable starters in the official game notes prior to Saturday's contest against the Bulls in Chicago. Bargnani is listed as day to day by the Raptors and seems like he won't be playing on Saturday night.
Analysis: Bargnani has been one of the best scorers in the league this season and is averaging nearly 23 points per game. The 26-year-old is also posting a career-high 6.5 rebounds a night as he seems to finally be utilizing his 7-foot frame effectively on the glass. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy center, when healthy.
News: According to Toronto team officials, center Andrea Bargnani has been ruled out of Friday's contest with Indiana. He is dealing with a calf injury, which he sustained on Wednesday. The team is considered him day-to-day. Ed Davis got the start in Bargnani's place.
Analysis: Bargnani has been one of the best scorers in the league this season and is averaging nearly 23 points per game. The 26-year-old is also posting a career-high 6.5 rebounds a night as he seems to finally be utilizing his 7-foot frame effectively on the glass. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy center, when healthy.
News: Toronto coach Dwane Casey said Raptors C Andrea Bargnani is not expected to play in Friday's game against Indiana because of a calf injury, according to The National Post. Bargnani left Wednesday's game against Sacramento in the fourth quarter and did not return with the injury.
Analysis: Casey said Bargnani will be considered day to day after Friday's game so he could make a quick return to the court. Bargnani has been one of the best scorers in the league this season and is averaging nearly 23 points per game. The 26-year-old is also posting a career-high 6.5 rebounds a night as he seems to finally be utilizing his 7-foot frame effectively on the glass. Consider him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy C when healthy.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani left Wednesday's game against the Kings in the fourth quarter with a strained left calf and could not return. Bargnani couldn't finish out the game as he played 26 minutes on the night. Bargnani shot just 2 of 13 in the game as he struggled with his shot all night to score just 10 points. The big man added 10 rebounds in the performance. He's considered day to day for the Raptors at the moment.
Analysis: Bargnani had scored over 20 points in his previous three games and is averaging 23 points per game on the season for the Raptors. He's been one of the best scorers in the league thus far this season and he's bringing in over a 3-pointer per night as well. Unfortunately, he's not the best rebounding big man in the league by a wide margin. Still, he's getting over seven boards per night over the last five games and can be active in all Fantasy leagues, when healthy. Fantasy owners have to hope he doesn't need to miss extended time now.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani grabbed a season-high 11 rebounds on Saturday night against the 76ers. He also scored 21 points on an 8-for-19 shooting display, giving him his first double-double of the season. Bargnani connected on 4 of his 6 attempts from the foul line as well. The big man added an assist and a steal in the 97-62 loss.
Analysis: Bargnani is not known as a rebounder, so his 11 is a huge boost for Fantasy owners. He's averaging 23 points and 5.7 boards this season, which gives him plenty of value. His scoring keeps him ranked among the top Fantasy centers, so owners should keep him active moving forward.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani had a monster performance in a victory over Cleveland on Wednesday night. Bargnani took 16 shots and hit 11 of them as he scored a game-high 31 points for the Raptors over 34 minutes on the floor. Bargnani went 3 for 7 from 3-point range and added seven rebounds, three assists and a block in a solid all-around performance. The Raptors were plus-22 with Bargnani on the floor.
Analysis: Bargnani is currently the highest-scoring center in the NBA at the moment. He's putting up more points per game than Andrew Bynum, Dwight Howard and Amar'e Stoudemire. Unfortunately, he's not among the top 30 Fantasy centers in rebounding or blocked shots and that hurts him. Still, the scoring is enough to make him a solid Fantasy option in most formats.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani had his best game of the young season on Friday night against the Mavericks. He scored 30 points and hauled in seven rebounds in the 99-86 loss. He went 11 for 18 from the field, including 2 for 3 from downtown, and made 6 of 8 free throws. Bargnani, who played 42 minutes, also had an assist and a blocked shot in the defeat.
Analysis: Bargnani has increased his scoring in each of the first three games as he continues to lead the offense in Toronto. While he does not rebound like a typical big-man, his ability to score and shoot the ball from beyond the arc makes him very valuable in Fantasy. He could be able to best the 21.4 points he averaged a year ago so keep an eye on his progress and be sure to have Bargnani active in all formats for Week 2 (Jan. 2-8).
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani did not have his finest performance on Monday night against the Cavaliers. He scored 13 points with six rebounds in the 104-96 win. He went 5 for 12 from the field, including 1 for 4 from downtown, and made both of his free throw attempts. Bargnani, who played 30 minutes, also recorded two assists in the victory.
Analysis: Bargnani did not do a ton of scoring on Monday and his numbers could take a hit this season with some young, up-and-coming players surrounding him in Toronto. While he does not rebound like a typical big-man, his ability to score and shoot the ball from beyond the arc makes him a different type of breed. Keep an eye on how he does early on to see if he can come close to the 21.4 points he averaged a year ago. Even if his scoring dips a bit, Bargnani remains a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: The Toronto Sun reports that Raptors C Andrea Bargnani is in excellent shape as the NBA lockout is ending and the season is upon us. Bargnani, who hasn't always put in the type of work necessary to get the most out of his skills, has been undergoing vigorous individual workouts for the last few weeks in Toronto. The Raptors have a new defensive-minded coach in Dwane Casey and Bargnani is going to be asked to contribute on that end of the floor more.
Analysis: Bargnani is coming off a season in which he scored at a career-best rate but saw his rebounding and block totals take a severe hit. Casey won't allow that to happen if Bargnani wants to see a lot of the floor. He's been working hard and that is good news for Fantasy owners who missed his rebounding last year. Bargnani could improve in that area and the scoring and 3-point shooting will continue to be there. Fantasy owners can consider Bargnani a high-end Fantasy C worth drafting in the early rounds.
News: According to The Sports Network in Canada, Raptors center Andrea Bargnani might want out of Toronto. Bargnani recently told Italy's Sky Sports that Toronto might not be his city of choice if he could decide the rest of his playing career. "I want to stay in Toronto, at least this is the politically correct answer," Bargnani said. "If [I am] to go somewhere else, I'd like a warm climate city and a team where I can actually play my role."
Analysis: Bargnani is coming off a season where he averaged a career-high 21.4 points per game, while adding 5.2 rebounds per game. There is some thought that the Raptors could trade Bargnani, and that is something to monitor this offseason. We expect him to return to Toronto in 2011-12, and we consider Bargnani a solid option in all leagues. He should be drafted with an early-round selection as long as he remains with the Raptors.
News: Raptors GM Bryan Colangelo addressed the media on Monday, and he was critical of center Andrea Bargnani's play in 2010-11. “We need a bigger, better post presence,” Colangelo said, noting that seven-footers who excel on the boards and defensively are keys to success. “Defending the rim is one of the main weaknesses we have, we need to get a guy who rebounds the ball.” Colangelo also said nobody on the roster is “untradeable” and did not discount the possibility he would move Bargnani. “The biggest need is we have not paired a legit five next to Andrea Bargnani," Colangelo said. "He’s our five because we don’t have anybody else to play that position at his size. ... I don’t know if he’ll ever become a better defensive player than he is. But can he be a better rebounder? Absolutely. That’s a mindset, that’s a desire thing. He knows he can do better, but doesn’t focus on it. Whether Andrea is here or not, we need a guy who can do those things.”
Analysis: Bargnani is expected to remain in Toronto for the 2011-12 season, and he remains a quality Fantasy option despite his flaws. Bargnani played in 66 games and scored 21.4 points per game. He didn't compliment the scoring with solid rebounding, as Colangelo said, pulling down just 5.2 per game. Still, we consider Bargnani a solid option in all leagues, and he should be drafted with an early-round selection as long as he remains with the Raptors.
News: Though he had the best scoring season of his career, Raptors center Andrea Bargnani had some trouble staying healthy down the stretch of the season. He missed the last five games, and eight of the final 10, with an ankle issue that popped up on him earlier in the year. He also dealt with the flu more than once, along with calf and knee problems. Despite all the injuries, Bargnani played in 66 games and scored at a strong 21.4 points per game to rank second in the NBA behind Dwight Howard (23.0). He didn't compliment the scoring with solid rebounding, pulling down just 5.2 per game. GM Bryan Colangelo just wants to see improvement. “I don’t know if he’ll ever become a better defensive player than he is. But can he be a better rebounder? Absolutely," he told the Toronto Sun. "That’s a mindset, that’s a desire thing. He knows he can do better, but doesn’t focus on it. Whether Andrea is here or not, we need a guy who can do those things.”
Analysis: Bargnani burst onto the scene as an elite Fantasy option this season when he was healthy. Despite missing all those games, he finished the season as the No. 12 scoring Fantasy center in the league. Every big man who finished ahead of him played in at least six more games than Bargnani, who averaged nearly 30 Fantasy points per game. Owners took him at the end of the fifth round in standard CBSSports.com leagues, and we can see him being selected in the same capacity heading into the 2011-12 season. The scoring is there, but the rebounds and defensive effort needs to increase further in order for Bargnani to elevate into a top-five Fantasy option at center. His health issues will hold him back on Draft Day as well.
News: The National Post reports that the Raptors will be without Reggie Evans, Leandro Barbosa, Andrea Bargnani, Jose Calderon and Amir Johnson for Wednesday's season finale against Miami. Bargnani has now missed four consecutive games with an ankle injury.
Analysis: Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues when healthy, and he should be fine for the start of the 2011-12 season. We consider Bargnani an early-round pick in all formats, and he should continue to play at a high level next year. Prior to his injury, he averaged 21.4 points and 5.2 rebounds in 66 games this season.
News: As expected, Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was held out of Monday's contest against the Bucks as he continues to deal with a ankle injury. Bargnani has now missed four consecutive games with his injury, although the team is still listing the big man as day to day. Bargnani is averaging 21.4 points and 5.2 rebounds in 66 games this season.
Analysis: Bargnani's ankle continues to give him problems and has kept him sidelined for almost all of April. Still, the team has not officially shut him down for the season yet, so there is a chance he could play in the Wednesday's season finale against the Heat. Fantasy owners in daily formats should continue to monitor his status moving forward. Bargnani can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy center in most formats, when healthy.
News: According to the National Post, Raptors center Andrea Bargnani has been ruled out for Monday's contest against the Bucks with a ankle injury. Bargnani has now missed three straight games with his injury. However, he continues to be listed as day to day.
Analysis: Bargnani has now already been ruled out of Monday's contest because of his on-going ankle issues, but the team has still yet to shut him down. That means there is a possibility he could play in Wednesday's season finale against the Heat. Fantasy owners in daily formats should continue to monitor his status moving forward to see if he will suit it up against Miami. Bargnani can be considered a high-end Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: The team's official website reports that Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was unavailable for Sunday's game against the Nets, as he nurses an ankle issue. The injury has kept the center out of the lineup for three straight games now, after missing 3 of 5 previously.
Analysis: Bargnani has been in and out of the lineup, but he now seems to be out for good until he's fully healthy. The Raptors only have two games left to play, so it won't be too big of a surprise if they decide to rest their best player as a precautionary move and gear up for next season. Fantasy owners should stay atop the situation just in case he returns, but even then we don't know what kind of role the Italian would play down the stretch. When healthy and in a normal light, we like Bargnani as a high-end option in all formats because of his exceptional scoring ability.
News: As expected, Raptors center Andrea Bargnani did not play in Friday's contest against the 76ers because of an ankle injury. Bargnani has missed four out of the last five games with a sore right ankle. He remains listed as day to day.
Analysis: Bargnani's ankle continues to give him problems and it remains unclear if he will be able to play again. The team will continue to evaluate him on a daily basis, so Fantasy owners in daily formats should continue to monitor his status moving forward. However, keep in mind that he most likely will not be at 100 percent when he returns. Bargnani can be considered a must-start in most formats, when healthy.
News: The Raptors report Thursday that center Andrea Bargnani will not travel to Philadelphia for Friday's game against the 76ers. Bargnani missed Wednesday's game against Cleveland with an injured right ankle.
Analysis: The Raptors have no need to play Bargnani with the playoffs out of reach and will likely be cautious with his status for the rest of the season. When healthy, Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, but we might not see him on the court again this year.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani was not in Wednesday's lineup after he aggravated his right ankle injury on Tuesday. He has now missed four of the team's last five outings with this injury.
Analysis: Bargnani missed all four of his shots and grabbed just two rebounds in his little time on the court on Tuesday. It seems the big man can't shake this ankle injury, which is troubling for Fantasy owners and the Raptors. When he's healthy, Bargnani is a top center option in all Fantasy formats. But with just four games left, owners in even daily leagues should have a healthy alternative in for Bargnani. Continue to monitor this issue as the season winds down.
News: Toronto got only eight minutes from injured leading scorer Andrea Bargnani on Tuesday before he left the game with a sore right ankle. He missed three of the previous four outings with an ankle injury. Bargnani missed all four shots he took and grabbed two boards. The Raptors would lose the game, 131-118.
Analysis: Bargnani leaving with this same ankle injury is very upsetting. When healthy he is a must-start Fantasy center, but unfortunately he's showing his lack of durability late in the season. Owners that rolled the dice on him may regret it as the Raptors could choose to shut him down. Toronto does play six games in the final week, so he could return to see some action, but it is seeming less likely. Owners in daily formats should keep him reserved until more is known on his status.
News: According to Toronto's official website, center Andrea Bargnani was good-to go for Tuesday's outing in New York. Bargnani has missed three of the last four games with an ankle injury.
Analysis: Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy center, when healthy. Despite him playing on Tuesday it is unclear how much he'll play during the final week of the season. For that reason alone he remains a risky start. Playing versus the Knicks is a good sign and the Raptors play six times during the period, giving him plenty of chances to take the court.
News: The Raptors report Tuesday that center Andrea Bargnani is considered a game-time decision for Tuesday's game against the Knicks. Bargnani missed Sunday's game against the Magic with an ankle injury.
Analysis: The Raptors have no need to play Bargnani with the playoffs out of reach and will likely be cautious with his status. When healthy, Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, but Fantasy owners should use caution when setting your lineup in case he sits out against the Knicks to rest his ankle.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was not available for Sunday's game against the Magic as he continues to deal with a sore right ankle. Bargnani has now missed two consecutive games with his injury. He is being considered day to day by the team.
Analysis: Bargnani aggravated a bone spur in his right ankle a few weeks ago and it continues to act up on him, which is making his ankle sore. While his injury is considered a day to day, it will likely continue to give him problems over the final six games of the season. This means he will remain an injury risk heading into Fantasy Week 24 (April 4-13). The Raptors are slated to play six times during the upcoming scoring period, so he could still put up a good scoring week, even if he misses a game or two. Fantasy owners should continue to check back for more updates as they become available. Bargnani can be considered a high-end Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani has been ruled out for Saturday's game against the Bulls because of a sore right ankle. Bargnani was unable to practice on Friday because of the injury and is being considered day to day by the team.
Analysis: Bargnani aggravated a bone spur in his right ankle a few weeks ago and it continues to act up on him. He sat out a game last week with the injury, although he was able to return to the lineup on Wednesday against the Bucks. However, it has began to act up again and now could put his status for Sunday's game in jeopardy as well. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status moving forward. Bargnani can be considered a high-end Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: According to the website thescore.com, Raptors center Andrea Bargnani did not practice Friday and will be a game-time decision for Saturday's game at Chicago. Bargnani returned to the lineup Wednesday against Milwaukee after he missed the previous game with a sore right ankle.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues should use caution with Bargnani since the Raptors have nothing to play for, and he could be a candidate to rest. When healthy, Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, and he played well Wednesday against the Bucks with 22 points, two rebounds and three assists in 32 minutes.a
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani was back in the starting lineup on Wednesday night against Milwaukee. The Raptors big man missed Saturday's contest with a sore right ankle, but was able to log 32 minutes versus the Bucks. He shot 8 for 14 from the floor -- connecting on 2 of his 5 shots from downtown -- and nailing all four of his freebies at the charity stripe. He finished with a team-high 22 points, grabbed two boards and dished out three assists. Toronto would go on to lose the game, 104-98, despite Bargnani's efforts.
Analysis: Over his last four games, Bargnani has scored in double figures in three of those outings. He's averaging 19.0 points, 2.8 assists and 2.3 rebounds per contest. While he's a high-end Fantasy center option, he is far from a rebounding machine. That is the one downfall from drafting a big man that is more of a shooter. Regardless, Bargnani is still worth using in all formats when healthy.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani was back in the starting lineup on Wednesday versus Milwaukee. He missed Saturday's game with the Clippers with a sore right ankle.
Analysis: Bargnani is back, but he may be limited down the stretch of the season. The Raptors are well out of the playoffs, so there is always a chance he doesn't see much court time from here on out. This is something Fantasy owners should keep an eye on. When he's healthy, Bargnani is a must-start center option.
News: The Raptors report Wednesday that center Andrea Bargnani (sore right ankle) will be considered a game-time decision for Wednesday's game against Milwaukee. Bargnani did not play in Saturday's game against the Clippers.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues should use caution in case Bargnani is out again. The Raptors have nothing to play for and could decide to rest Bargnani. When healthy, Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani was not available for Saturday's contest against the Clippers because of an ankle injury. Bargnani has an aggravated bone spur in his ankle and being considered day to day.
Analysis: Bargnani is dealing with an ankle injury and now will be an injury risk heading into Fantasy Week 23 (March 28-April 3). The only good news is the Raptors don't play again until Wednesday after the Clippers games, which gives him an extra few days to rest up. Still, Fantasy owners will now have to monitor his status moving forward. Bargnani can be considered a high-end Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani returned to the lineup Friday against the Pacers after missing Wednesday's game with the flu, and it showed. He clearly was not at his best, shooting a dreadful 1 of 13 from the floor on the way to a season-low eight points. Bargnani got some solid playing time, seeing 30 minutes of action, but it wasn't enough to break his shooting funk. The Italian shot 0 of 6 from 3-point land, but did go on to make six shots out of eight attempts from the line. He added five rebounds, a pair of assists and two blocks in the win.
Analysis: Bargnani played coming off of illness before missing his last game, and averaged 24 points in the three game span. As it seemed like he could produce despite the illness, Bargnani put up his worst effort of the season. He hadn't scored less than eight in a game since March of 2010. Still, Bargnani is one of the top 10 Fantasy centers in standard CBSSports.com leagues. Monitor his status in the coming days to see if his flu has worsened and if any playing time is in jeopardy. If it's not, continue to roll with the 25-year-old in all formats moving forward.
News: The Raptors report that center Andrea Bargnani will play and start Friday's game against the Pacers despite dealing with flu-like symptoms. He missed Wednesday's game against the Jazz with the same issue.
Analysis: Bargnani missed February 27 against the Mavericks with the flu as well, so the issue is lingering a bit longer than usual. Still, Bargnani has shown that he can play while sick, as he averaged 24 points per game in the three outings between missing games under the weather. The Italian also chipped in six rebounds and nearly three assists per game in the short span, so Fantasy owners should not hesitate to play the rangy 7-footer in all formats when he is in uniform.
News: The Raptors report that center Andrea Bargnani (flu-like symptoms) will be able to play Friday night against Indiana. Bargnani missed Wednesday's game against Utah.
Analysis: Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy, and hopefully he doesn't suffer a setback prior to facing the Pacers. He is averaging 26.0 points and 6.0 rebounds over his last nine games for the Raptors.
News: According to Toronto's official website, center Andrea Bargnani was not in the lineup on Wednesday night against Utah as he's dealing with the flu. He did not practice on Monday or Tuesday and is being considered day to day by the team.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 26.0 points and 6.0 rebounds over his last nine games for the Raptors. Toronto needs him for his scoring, although is rebounding is up this season on his career numbers. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor him heading into the weekend to see if he'll be ready to take the court. When he's healthy, Bargnani is a high-end center option.
News: The Raptors announced Wednesday afternoon that C Andrea Bargnani is considered a game-time decision for Wednesday's game against Utah. Bargnani did not practice Monday or Tuesday while dealing with the flu.
Analysis: Bargnani felt ill on the flight back from London, where the Raptors played the Nets for two games. Fantasy owners in daily-lineup leagues are advised to seek healthy alternatives where possible. We'll have more information on his status when it is available. He remains a high-end Fantasy option when available to play.
News: The National Post reports that Raptors center Andrea Bargnani did not practice again Tuesday after sitting out Monday with the flu. He apparently felt ill on the flight back from London, where the Raptors played the Nets for two games.
Analysis: We expect Bargnani to play Wednesday against Utah, but Fantasy owners in daily leagues should use caution after two days of not practicing. When healthy, Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, so hopefully he does not miss any time.
News: The National Post reports that Andrea Bargnani did not practice on Monday. He felt ill on the flight back from London and was given the day off. Bargnani scored 35 points with 12 rebounds in Saturday's triple overtime loss to the Nets. He played 52 minutes in the game.
Analysis: Bargnani and the Raptors do not play again until Wednesday after the long trip over from London. Barring a significant setback, expect Bargnani to be available for all three of his team's games in Week 20 (March 7-13), making him a safe and solid play in any format.
News: Despite missing two practices the Raptors' last game because of flu-like symptoms, C Andrea Bargnani was back on the court for Tuesday's game against the Hornets. Bargnani shot just 6 of 16 from the field, including missing on all three of his 3-point attempts but still manged to score 14 points in the 96-90 victory. He went 2 of 2 from the charity stripe and also chipped in three rebounds and two assists while logging 33 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Bargnani wasn't very sharp on Tuesday, but that is to be expected after missing a few days with the flu. Still, the 25-year-old averaged a season-best 25.6 points to go along with 5.4 rebounds in 10 games during the month of February. Barganani has the ability to light it up on any given night and should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy center in all formats moving forward.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani (illness) is expected to be back on the court for Tuesday's contest against the Hornets. Bargnani as held out of Sunday's game against the Mavericks with flu-like symptoms.
Analysis: Bargnani has been playing very of late as he is averaging a season-high 25.6 points in the month of February. He is also averaging six boards and nearly a steal per game over that stretch and can be considered a solid Fantasy play in all formats, when healthy. Owners in daily leagues should make sure he is active.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani was able to participate at the team's morning shootaround, according to Raptors play-by-play announcer Matt Devlin. Bargnani was held out of Sunday's game against the Mavericks with flu-like symptoms.
Analysis: Bargnani should play on Tuesday night against New Orleans. He is averaging 26.5 points over his last five games to go with six boards and nearly a steal per game. Consider him a good play in any format going forward, barring setbacks.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Mavericks with flu-like symptoms. Bargnani also missed practice on Saturday because of his illness and is considered day to day. He is averaging 22.7 points and 6.7 rebounds in the three games since the All-Star break.
Analysis: Bargnani has been playing very of late as he is averaging a season-high 25.6 points in the month of February. He will now be a slight injury risk heading into Fantasy Week 19 (Feb. 28- March 6), but with the Raptors not playing again until Tuesday, he seems like a safe play for the upcoming scoring period. Consider Bargnani a must-start Fantasy center, whenever he is in the lineup.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani missed practice on Saturday because of flu-like symptoms, reports the Toronto Sun. He is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Dallas. Bargnani is averaging 22.7 points and 6.7 rebounds in the three games since the All-Star break.
Analysis: Bargnani has been playing very of late as he is averaging a season-high 25.6 points in the month of February. Fantasy owners in daily leagues should continue to monitor his status leading up to tipoff. If Bargnani doesn't play on Sunday, he will be considered a slight injury risk heading into Week 19 (Feb. 28-March 6). Consider the 25-year-old a must-start Fantasy center, when healthy.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani came out of the All-Star break very solid on the boards -- for him, at least -- with back-to-back eight rebound games. Bargnani grabbed eight boards Wednesday in an upset win over Chicago. He added those rebounds to his 24-point performance on 7 of 19 shooting. He added four assists. Bargnani has gone 0 for 6 from 3-point range in the two games following the break.
Analysis: Despite not hitting his threes, Bargnani has been awesome of late for Toronto. He's averaging over 27 points per contest over his last five and that comes with 6.4 rebounds and 44 percent shooting from long distance. He's easily a must-start Fantasy option for Toronto.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani recorded a game-high 38 points and four rebounds in the Raptors' 103-95 loss to Miami on Wednesday night. Bargnani connected on 15 of 26 attempts from the field, including a sensational 5 of 6 from 3-point range, to post his seventh 30-point game of the season. It was the second time this season Bargnani has topped 15 shots in a game and first since Dec. 8 against New York (16).
Analysis: Bargnani has made a habit of scoring in bunches this season and appears to be in the midst of another impressive stretch. The 7-foot center paced the Raptors in scoring for the sixth consecutive game -- all with 20-plus points -- and is now averaging an astounding 29.3 points in that span. What's most impressive about his run this time is his accuracy from 3-point range. His five treys against the Heat established a season high and he is now 9 for 16 (56.3) in his last five games. Continue to consider him a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani totaled 27 points and six rebounds in the Raptors' 98-93 victory over the visiting Clippers on Sunday. The 7-foot Bargnani was a constant force in the paint against an over-matched Los Angeles frontcourt and connected on 9 of 21 from the field. He also made 1 of 3 attempts from 3-point range to give him a trey in three consecutive games. Bargnani had nine points in the third quarter alone, including his 3-pointer and a driving layup in the final two minutes to help Toronto stake a 78-71 lead into the fourth. "He's a tough cover because of his size and ability to put it on the ground," Clippers coach Vinny Del Negro said of Bargnani.
Analysis: Bargnani, the first overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft, continued his torrid play recently to help the Raptors halt a three-game losing streak. Bargnani has now topped 20 points in five straight games and is averaging 27.6 over that span. He has nailed at least nine shots from the field in that stretch and is also 7 of 17 from 3-point range. It's hard to find faults in his strong play recently, but Fantasy owners would likely appreciate more consistency on the glass from the big man. Bargnani is averaging just 5.0 rebounds in the last five games. Still, he has elevated his scoring average to the highest in his career (21.5 ppg) and should be considered a must-start in all Fantasy formats while he stays hot.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani has put together three straight games with more than 20 points after Wednesday's 29-point effort against San Antonio. He led the Raptors in scoring, but the team would not hold on to the lead as the Spurs rallied to win, 111-100. Bargnani shot 13 for 20 from the field -- going 2 for 4 from downtown -- and connecting on 1 of his 2 foul shots. The big man added just two rebounds and a steal in his 38 minutes of action.
Analysis: Bargnani has recorded 30, 23 and 29 points over his last three contests -- shooting a combined 32 for 67 (47.8 percent) from the floor. Despite being the starting center, Bargnani has been grabbing just 4.3 boards over that span. Not exactly what Fantasy owners or Toronto want out of Bargnani, but his scoring and 3-point shooting makes up for it a little. Fantasy owners should keep him active as his contributions outweigh his lack of rebounding. He may be a borderline must-start center option, but Bargnani can help out in other ways and is a valuable asset.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani continues to find ways to score, but he's taking his fair share of shots to do it. In Friday's win over the Timberwolves, he scored a game-high 30 points, but it took him 26 shots to hit the mark. Bargnani shot just 10 of 26 from the floor, though he made 3 of 7 shots from beyond the arc. He was again mediocre on the glass, pulling down six rebounds on the night. Bargnani added three assists in 37 minutes of playing time.
Analysis: Bargnani finished January shooting just over 40 percent from the floor after shooting at least 45 percent in each month of the season before the new year. It's looking even worse after a pair of games in February, in which Bargnani is shooting a combined 14 of 38, or just 36.8 percent. Still, he is thriving in leagues that don't consider shooting percentage, as the Italian has scored in double-figures in every game he's played in this season, averaging 20.9 ppg for the year. The rebounds continue to find their way into other players hands, but the point production is enough to maintain Bargnani's status as a borderline must-start Fantasy option moving forward.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani did not have his finest shooting performance on Saturday night against the Timberwolves and finished with some low stats. He scored only 15 points and hauled in three rebounds in the 103-87 loss. He was a lowly 5 of 24 from the field, including missing all five of his attempts from downtown, and made 5 of 6 foul shots while playing 32 minutes. Bargnani was hindered by a team effort from the Timberwolves. "We just took him out of his comfort zone," Kevin Love said. "He wanted to post up right on the block but we pushed him out to 15, 18 feet. He tried to back us down from there, but we forced him into a lot of tough turnaround jump shots, a lot of fadeaways." Bargnani also had three assists, three blocked shots and two steals in the defeat.
Analysis: Bargnani has not been shooting the lights out lately but he is still getting his points while chipping in all around. He is averaging 22.4 points with 4.2 rebounds, one steal and 1.4 blocks over his last five contests, but is shooting 39 percent from the floor over that span and 21 percent from beyond the arc. Injuries have slowed him down a bit this season but he is still averaging a career-high 21.3 points on the year and has been able to improve on his steals and blocked shots. While Bargnani is not your typical center, he is a legitimate scoring threat on a nightly basis and produces just enough in other areas to make him a solid Fantasy option in all formats. With Indiana, Atlanta and Minnesota on the schedule for Week 15 (Jan. 31-Feb. 6), continue to roll with the Italian national as a must-start Fantasy C.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani missed practice on Tuesday because of sore knees and the flu, so he entered Wednesday's contest against the 76ers a bit under the weather. He had his left foot looked at on the bench and would go to locker room late in first quarter. He'd return to the bench after a short time as it was reported he jammed his foot. Bargnani would shoot 6 for 10 from the floor -- going 1 for 2 from downtown -- and converting all four of his foul shots. The big man added two steals, three blocks, two assists, five rebounds and finished with 17 points. His efforts would not be enough as the injury plagued Raptors would lose to the 76ers, 107-94.
Analysis: Bargnani had a pretty complete game on Wednesday. He isn't your typical center as Bargnani gives Fantasy owners an added weapon from behind the arc. Over his last five games he's shooting 6 for 16 from downtown and averaging 19.8 points per outing. Toss in his 1.4 blocks, 1.6 assists and 5.0 boards per game, and Bargnani is a solid option at the center position. While he may not be 100 percent, he's playing well enough to be considered a high-end center option.
News: According to the team's official website, Raptors C Andrea Bargnani was held out of Tuesday's practice due to sore knees and flu-like symptoms. However, he was cleared to play in Wednesday's game against Philadelphia.
Analysis: Bargnani is not 100 percent, clearly, but he did drop 29 points on the Grizzlies in his last appearance on Monday. Tuesday's move to hold him out seems merely precautionary. He has attempted 51 shots over his last two games and remains a premiere offensive weapon at center for Fantasy owners.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani has suddenly heated up again for the Raptors as he scored 29 points on Monday in a loss to Memphis. Bargnani went 13 for 27 from the field on Monday over 44 minutes as the Raptors were playing with an injury-depleted lineup. He took it upon himself to score and score he did. He missed all four 3-pointers he attempted, however, and added just five rebounds. He also had a block, steal and three assists.
Analysis: Bargnani, averaging over 21 points per game on the year, was shooting poorly and not scoring well last week. He's averaged 28.5 PPG over his last two contests, however, and is back to shooting at a high level. Continue to roll with him in most Fantasy leagues.
News: When Toronto C Andrea Bargnani's shots are falling, he can put up sometimes unbelievable numbers. When they aren't, his game can get pretty ugly. Case in point was Wednesday at San Antonio. Bargnani, who had scored 26, 31 and 25 points, respectively, in games against the Hawks, Pistons and Wizards a few days ago, had 14 against the Spurs. He shot 6 of 20 from the field and went 1 for 5 from 3-point range. He added seven rebounds and two blocked shots over 37 minutes.
Analysis: Bargnani has gone 2 for 12 from long distance in his last two games and had been 4 for 11 in the three games previous. He's taking the same amount of shots, he's just hitting less in his last two games. He will bounce back, however, and he averages over 20 points and almost six rebounds per game on the year. He's a 3-point machine for a center and should be active in most leagues despite his shooting slump.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani continued his scoring spree with another solid performance in Friday night's 101-95 loss to the Pistons. Bargnani scored a team-high 31 points in the contest on 12 of 25 shooting from the field. He went 7 of 9 from the charity stripe and also chipped in with nine rebounds, three assists, one steal and a block. Bargnani is averaging 25.8 points and 6.6 rebounds over his last five contests.
Analysis: Bargnani has been on fire since he returned from his calf injury and it appears he is out of the woods with that issue for now. He has been shooting lights of late, going 53 of 101 (53 percent) over his last five contests and has scored 30 points twice over that span. These are the types of performances Fantasy owners were hoping for from Bargnani and he should active in all formats heading into Week 13 (Jan. 17-23). The Raptors play at New Orleans, San Antonio, Orlando and Miami during the upcoming scoring period.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani had yet another productive game on Sunday against the Kings in his fourth game since returning from a calf injury. He scored 30 points to go with eight rebounds and three assists in 39 minutes. In four games since his return, he has averaged 36.5 minutes per game without showing any lingering effects of the injury.
Analysis: Bargnani missed six of his previous eight games as he dealt with lingering issues stemming from the calf injury. He returned from the injury twice only to miss more time, but now it is clear he is out of the woods in terms of the calf problem and Fantasy owners can once again feel safe about activating him again across the board.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani returned to the court after a four-game absence on Tuesday night against Chicago. He's been dealing with a calf injury, but was able to log 32 minutes against the Bulls and score a team-high 23 points. Bargnani shot 7 for 17 from the field -- went 1 for 4 from downtown -- and nailed all eight of his foul shots. Bargnani would add one assist, two blocks and six rebounds for the Raptors. Toronto would lose the game however, 111-91.
Analysis: Bargnani was averaging 21.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game this season, before Tuesday's contest. Despite reports he'd be limited in his playing time, Bargnani logged the second highest minutes on his team. It seems the rest did him good, and should be once again considered a high-end center. He doesn't hit the glass hard, but is a nice source of 3-pointers in category-based Fantasy leagues.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani was in the starting lineup on Tuesday, but according to the team's official website would see limited action. Bargnani has missed four straight games with a calf injury. He is averaging 21.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game this season.
Analysis: Bargnani owners should monitor him on Tuesday to see how he produces. He'll probably show some rust and with limited minutes, not produce the numbers owners like. The Raptors play four times in the scoring period, so he should be able to bounce back by the end of the week. When healthy, Bargnani is a high-end Fantasy center.
News: Raptors radio analyst Eric Smith reports that Andrea Bargnani (calf) is considered 'probable' for Tuesday's game at Chicago. He sat out his fourth straight game on Sunday, but was able to travel with the team to Chicago.
Analysis: Bargnani could have some rust to shake off on Tuesday, but he remains a good play in most formats. The Raptors are slated for four games in Week 11 (Jan. 3-9). He is averaging 21.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game this season while healthy and remains a strong play in most formats when healthy enough to play.
News: According to the team's official website, Raptors C Andrea Bargnani (calf) is expected to travel with the team to Chicago for their game on Tuesday. Bargnani is expected to play. He sat out his fourth straight game on Sunday.
Analysis: Bargnani could have some rust to shake off on Tuesday, but he remains a good play in most formats with the team slated for four games in Week 11 (Jan. 3-9). He is averaging 21.2 points and 5.6 rebounds per game this season while healthy and remains a strong play in most formats when healthy enough to play.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani sat out his fourth straight game on Sunday. The Raptors would lose to the Celtics, 93-79, without their center. Bargnani continues to deal with a calf injury.
Analysis: The Raptors play four times in Week 11 (Jan. 3-9), so there is a chance he could help Fantasy owners. When healthy, Bargnani is a high-end center, but he doesn't contribute much on the boards. Owners should stick with their healthy alternatives until Bargnani is 100 percent.
News: The Boston Globe reports that Andrea Bargnani (calf) was ruled out for Sunday's game against the Celtics. For Bargnani, it was the fourth consecutive game he has been ruled out for.
Analysis: Bargnani remains day-to-day going forward, but he will be a risky injury play for Week 11 (Jan. 3-9). The Raptors are slated for four games, which helps his chances to help owners -- especially in average-based play. Healthy alternatives are advised.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani missed his third straight and fourth game out of five on Friday. Bargnani, the Raptors' top scorer, continues to deal with a calf injury.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 21.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game this year for Toronto. He's also shooting 46.8 percent from the field, as he's stepped up his game with Chris Bosh in Miami. There is a chance he can return on Sunday, which would give Fantasy owners a chance to see him in action before having to set those Week 11 (Jan. 3-9) lineups. When healthy, Bargnani is worth starting as a No. 1 center option.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani remains away from the Raptors and could not play on Tuesday at Dallas. Bargnani continues to deal with calf, ankle and knee injuries. He is doubtful to play in any of the road games that see the Raptors returning home on Jan. 2 against Boston.
Analysis: Bargnani did not travel with the team to Memphis for the previous game and seems unlikely to return before the end of this road trip. He is clearly a player to keep reserved in all weekly formats and remains too risky for even average-based play. He has value as a No. 1 option at center when healthy, so he remains worthy of stashing in all leagues. Continue to monitor his progress.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani did not make the trip to Memphis for Monday's game against the Grizzlies as he continues to deal with calf, ankle and knee injuries, reports NBA.com. He is doubtful to play in any of the road games that see the Grizzlies returning home on Jan. 2 against Boston.
Analysis: Bargnani did not travel with the team to Memphis and seems unlikely to play more than a game in Week 10 (Dec. 27-Jan. 2) -- if that. He is clearly a player to keep reserved in all weekly formats and remains too risky for even average-based play. He has value as a No. 1 option at center when healthy, so he remains worthy of stashing in all leagues. Continue to monitor his progress.
News: Raptors play-by-play announcer Matt Devlin reports that Raptors coach Jay Triano said at Monday's morning shootaround in Memphis that he does not expect Andrea Bargnani (calf, ankle, knee) to join his team on their current road trip. The Raptors do not return home until Jan. 2 against Boston.
Analysis: Bargnani did not travel with the team to Memphis and seems unlikely to play more than a game in Week 10 (Dec. 27-Jan. 2) -- if that. He is clearly a player to keep reserved in all weekly formats and remains too risky for even average-based play. He has value as a No. 1 option at center when healthy, so he remains worthy of stashing in all leagues. Continue to monitor his progress.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani did not travel with the team to Memphis on Sunday and is listed as doubtful for Monday's game against the Grizzlies. Bargnani is dealing with a left calf injury, reports the team's official website.
Analysis: Bargnani has been banged up this season and it appears he will not play on Monday. There is a chance he could start to feel better and meet with the team on their current three-game road trip, however, Fantasy owners should consider him a major injury risk heading into Fantasy Week 10 (Dec. 27-Jan. 2). Bargnani is averaging 21.2 points and 5.6 rebounds on the season and can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy center, when healthy.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani, who was held out of Sunday's game against the Lakers because of a knee and ankle injury, got back on the court on Wednesday against Detroit. He had missed two of his team's last three games due to the knee issue. He played 34 minutes and looked healthy on his way to 16 points on 6 of 17 shooting with two rebounds and an assist. He missed his only 3-point attempt. Bargnani, who sat out Sunday's loss to the Lakers with a sore right ankle, strained his left calf in the third quarter but stayed in the game.
Analysis: Bargnani returned after sitting out after scoring 32 points with nine rebounds in his last game against the Nets before going down. He has been a bit banged up of late and appeared to suffer another leg injury during Wednesday's game, but has been extremely productive when on the floor. Now that he's back, he should be monitored for this latest issue but can be considered a solid start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani, who was held out of Sunday's game against the Lakers because of a knee and ankle injury, is expected to be able to play on Wednesday against the Pistons, reports the Toronto Sun. . Bargnani has missed two of his team's last three games due to the knee issue.
Analysis: Bargnani scored 32 points and nine rebounds in his last game against the Nets. He has been a bit banged up of late, but has been extremely productive when on the floor. Fantasy owners should daily leagues should continue to monitor his status leading up to tipoff. He is worth starting in all formats, when healthy.
News: According to The National Post, reports that Andrea Bargnani (knee, ankle) did not practice on Monday. He had been held out on Sunday against the Lakers and is considered day-to-day. Bargnani has missed two of his team's last three games due to the knee issue.
Analysis: The Raptors do not play until Wednesday, so they decided to take advantage of the extra off time to rest some ailing players. With the Raptors slated for just one game (that's right, one game) in Week 9 (Dec. 20-26), Fantasy owners have to consider him extremely risky for the upcoming weekly scoring period. There won't be many times that you will have to bench Bargs, but this may be one of those rare occasions.
News: The Raptors held out C Andrea Bargnani (knee, ankle) on Sunday against the Lakers. He scored 32 points in Friday's win against the Nets, but missed practice on Saturday. Bargnani continues to be bothered by a sore knee and right ankle.
Analysis: Bargnani has missed two of his team's last three games due to the knee issue. With the Raptors slated for just one game (that's right, one game) in Week 9 (Dec. 20-26), Fantasy owners have to consider him extremely risky for the upcoming weekly scoring period. There won't be many times that you will have to bench Bargs, but this may be one of those rare occasions.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani, who scored 32 points in Friday's win against the Nets, missed practice on Saturday and will be a game-time decision for Sunday's contest with the Lakers, reports the Toronto Sun . Bargnani continues to be bothered by a sore knee and right ankle.
Analysis: Bargnani played very well on Friday night, but continues to be hampered by ankle and knee problems. He has only missed one game thus far because of those, but now will be a game-time decision on Sunday. Fantasy owners in daily leagues should continue to monitor his status leading up to tipoff. He is worth starting in all formats, when healthy.
News: After missing the previous game with a sore left knee, Raptors C Andrea Bargnani returned to the starting lineup for Friday's matchup with the Nets. He scored 32 points and hauled in nine rebounds in the 98-92 win. He went 14 for 26 from the floor, including 1 for 3 from downtown, and connected on all three of his free throws. "Bargnani is a tough cover for anybody and he had a big night," Nets coach Avery Johnson said. "We gave him a lot of different looks. He beat some of our coverages." Bargnani, who played 38 minutes, also had two assists, two blocked shots and a steal in the victory.
Analysis: Bargnani did not show any signs of his injury on Friday night as he put up his second-highest point total of the year. He is averaging a career-high 21.4 points for Toronto and has definitely picked up the slack after Chris Bosh left in the offseason. He has been filling up the stat sheet on a nightly basis and should continue to do so as one of the few scoring options for the Raptors. Even though he has just one game during Week 9 (Dec. 20-26), continue to view Bargnani as a solid option in all Fantasy formats.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani was back in the starting lineup on Friday night for the Raptors. He missed Wednesday's contest with a sore left knee.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging a career-high 21.0 points per game and is playing all-around good basketball. He's not a big rebounder or shot blocker, but Fantasy owners will take his points and 3-point shooting from their center. He's worth starting in all Fantasy formats, when healthy.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani, who missed Wednesday's game because of a sore left knee, is a game-time decision for Friday's game against the Nets, according to play-by-play reporter Matt Devlin.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging a career-high 21.0 points per game, emerging as the clear go-to guy in Toronto with Chris Bosh now in Miami. He isn't a high-end source of rebounds or blocks, but you obviously want him active if he's able to go. Keep an eye on his status leading up to game time.
News: Raptors coach Jay Triano doesn't know when C Andrea Bargnani, who missed his first game of the season Wednesday because of two sore knees, will be able to return, according to the Toronto Star. “They were bothering him [Tuesday] morning and he played [Tuesday] night, and [Wednesday] he’s worse and can’t go," Triano said before the game. "He’s going to be evaluated by the doctors tonight and I’m not sure what their next step of action will be after that.”
Analysis: Bargnani has shined with Chris Bosh now in Miami, averaging a career-high 21.0 points per game. He isn't a high-end source of rebounds or blocks, but he's clearly a No. 1 Fantasy center still. He's unlikely to miss more than a couple games with this injury, so you should plan to start him in Fantasy Week 9 (Dec. 20-26).
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani was a late scratch from Wednesday's game against the Bulls. According to the team, he is dealing with a sore left knee. He is considered day-to-day.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily lineup leagues will have to prepare healthy alternatives. It does not appear to be a serious injury, but it is something to monitor going into Fantasy Week 9 (Dec. 20-26). When healthy, Bargnani remains a must-start in all formats. Ed Davis was given the start in his absence.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani continued his recent scoring spree in Saturday's 120-116 win over the Pistons. Bargnani scored 22 points in the victory on 8 of 13 shooting while helping Toronto overcome a 25-point second half deficit. He went 4 of 6 from downtown and also chipped in with five rebounds and two assists in the contests.
Analysis: Bargnani has picked up his scoring of late and is averaging 29 points over his last three contests. While he doesn't rebounds as well as most centers around the league, he has an excellent shooting touch and has the ability to put up huge scoring numbers. Continue to view him as a No. 1 Fantasy center heading into Fantasy Week 8 (Dec. 13-19).
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani went 2 for 3 from 3-point range and 16 of 24 from the field overall on Wednesday night in 39 minutes against the Knicks. Despite the Raptors dropping the game, Bargnani had his best scoring night as a professional with 41 points. He added seven rebounds, six assists and two steals in the career performance.
Analysis: Bargnani has been playing well fairly consistently but he erupted on Wednesday night for 41 points. The career-high gives him 22.6 points per game over his last five with 7.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists and almost a 3-pointer per night. Keep playing Bargnani as a strong No. 2 center in all Fantasy formats.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani recorded his first double-double of the season Friday night to spark the Raptors to a 111-99 victory over Oklahoma City. Bargnani finished with 26 points and 12 rebounds, providing the Raptors their fifth double-double of the season. He logged a game-high 42 minutes and connected on 11 of his 20 shots.
Analysis: Bargnani 's 12 rebounds were a season-high and he now has at least seven boards in four consecutive games. His 42 minutes were also the most he has played this season as the Raptors took advantage of Kevin Durant's absence from the Thunder lineup. Keep playing Bargnani as a strong No. 2 center in all Fantasy formats.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani played his fewest minutes since Nov. 8 against Golden State (21), but finished with 18 points and eight rebounds in the Raptors' victory over the Wizards on Wednesday night. Bargnani, who played just 26 minutes Wednesday, connected on 8 of 13 shots and added three assists.
Analysis: Bargnani was averaging 35 minutes per game but received more rest as Toronto built a 20-point lead at halftime against the lowly Wizards. The Raptors center will contribute nightly in the points category but has struggled lately turning the ball over. The big man is averaging 3.8 turnovers in his last five games, including two contests in which he has committed five turnovers in a game. He still remains a solid Fantasy play in all formats as a high-end No. 2 center.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani led all scorers with 24 points to help the Raptors win their fourth consecutive game with a 106-90 victory over the 76ers on Wednesday night. Bargnani took a game-high 16 shots and connected on eight -- the fourth game this season he has finished with fewer than 17 field-goal attempts.
Analysis: Bargnani also had five rebounds and two assists for the Raptors, who remained undefeated since trading Jarrett Jack to New Orleans last Saturday. He has now shot 45 percent or better in his last four games and is averaging 24.2 points per game in his last five contests. Bargnani should still be utilized as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy center, especially if his current increased shooting percentage continues.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani had another strong performance on Wednesday night in Philadelphia, contributing 30 points on 12 of 18 shooting from the floor. He added seven rebounds in 37 minutes. He is averaging 23.2 points per game over his last five contests and has managed at least seven rebounds in three of them.
Analysis: Bargnani, not known for his rebounding, is starting to pick things up in that category. His scoring is something we've expected to rise this season due to the fact that Chris Bosh is no longer around, but his rebounding has always left much to be desired as a big man. If he can begin to add this level of rebounding on a consistent basis, it will take him from being a low-end No. 1 center option in Fantasy to an elite option.
News: Raptors coach Jay Triano sat C Andrea Bargnani for the final five minutes of the first quarter Tuesday at Washington because of a poor defensive showing, according to the Toronto Sun. Though Bargnani finished the game, Triano wasn't sure if his message got across. “You will have to ask him,” Triano said, adding that he didn't see any improvement from Bargnani the rest of the game. Bargnani finished with 12 points and two rebounds in 28 minutes.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 19.9 points per game and is so important on offense that you can't honestly believe the Raptors would consider sitting him. He's not a great rebounder or shot blocker for a big man, but his 3-point shooting helps make up for it. He remains a must-start in Fantasy.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani led all scorers with 27 points in Friday's 110-106 win over the Magic. Bargnani scored 21 of his points in the first half and finished shooting 11 of 23 from the floor. He went 1 of 3 from behind the arc and also chipped in the two rebounds, and an assist in the victory.
Analysis: Bargnani has scored in double figures in all nine games, but has yet to have a double-figure rebounding game. The big man gives Fantasy owners an unexpected boost in the 3-point category, but is normally a liability for rebounds. Still, he does enough as a whole to be consider a No. 1 Fantasy center in most formats.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani played 21 minutes on Monday and shot 5 of 10 from the field to score 11 points in a loss to Golden State. Bargnani did not have a big scoring night in the loss and he added just one rebound and one assist. He went 1 for 1 from long range.
Analysis: Bargnani was averaging over 20 points per night before Monday's contest but the low rebound total was to be expected. He has seven 3-pointers in his last five games and is averaging a block per contest as well. As long as he keeps that up, plus the scoring, Bargnani is worth using in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani put together his best game so far this season on Wednesday as the Raptors fought back, but would lose to the Jazz, 125-108. Bargnani logged 36 minutes, going 8 for 19 from the field and shooting 2 for 3 from downtown. He would finish with 26 points and a season-high nine rebounds. He also connected on 8 of his 9 foul shots, dished out three assists and blocked two shots.
Analysis: Bargnani continues to produce 20-plus points per outing, but before Wednesday was averaging just three rebounds per game. The big man gives Fantasy owners an unexpected boost in the 3-point category, but is normally a liability for rebounds. Still, he does enough as a whole to be considered a No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani stayed red hot on Monday during a loss to the Kings. Bargnani did his best to keep the Raptors close as he shot 10 of 17 and 3 of 6 from 3-point range to score a team-high 28 points over 35 minutes. He added two rebounds, one assist, one steal and two blocks.
Analysis: The Raptors' center has been over 20 points every game this season as he's averaging 23.3 points per contest. Bargnani does play center, however, so his 3.0 rebounds per game leaves something to be desired. That said, you own him for his scoring and his 3-point shooting and he's doing plenty of both. With five threes in three games, Bargnani gives you a large advantage in that category. He's also been swatting some shots with 1.7 blocks per game. Treat him as a No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani led his team in scoring in the season opener against the Knicks on Wednesday night. He scored 22 points in 35 minutes on 8 of 21 shooting in the 98-93 loss. He made his lone 3-point attempt and also went 5 for 8 from the free-throw line. Bargnani also had six rebounds and two blocks in the defeat.
Analysis: Bargnani is expected to supply most of the scoring for Toronto this season and did his part in the season opener. With Chris Bosh down on South Beach now, the fourth-year player out of Italy will look to improve on the 17.2 points he averaged a year ago. He does not put up much in for form of rebounds, which is rare for a center, but he provides enough to make him a solid option in most leagues. Bargnani remains a solid No. 1 center so keep him active in all formats.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani finished tied for the team high in points on Friday night against the Celtics. He scored 15 points in just over 25 minutes in the 117-112 loss. He made 5 of 16 shots, including going 5 of 6 from the charity stripe, but went 0 for 3 from the 3-point line. Bargnani also chipped in with five rebounds and two assist in the defeat.
Analysis: The departure of Chris Bosh this offseason points to Bargnani as the team's new go-to scorer, which would indicate even better numbers this year. His rebounding, too, might rise although Bargnani's lack of physical play in the paint will likely keep his rebounding boost at a minimum. Bargnani, who averaged a career high 17.2 points a season ago, remains a solid No. 1 center to target early in all formats.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani shot just 1 for 9 in his preseason opener Wednesday against Phoenix. He finished with three points and four rebounds in 24 minutes against the Suns. Bargnani averaged 17.2 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.4 blocks, all career highs, while playing 80 games last season.
Analysis: The departure of Chris Bosh this offseason points to Bargnani as the team's new go-to scorer, which would indicate even better numbers this year. His rebounding, too, might rise although Bargnani's lack of physical play in the paint will likely keep his rebounding boost at a minimum. Bargnani remains a solid No. 1 center to target early in all formats.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani continues to improve and had his best season in 2009-10. Bargnani averaged 17.2 points, 6.2 rebounds and 1.4 blocks, all career highs, while playing 80 games. But can he be the best player in Toronto if Chris Bosh leaves as a free agent? The Sports Xchange reports that coach Jay Triano isn't sure. "Andrea, as we've seen, feeds off other people," the coach said.
Analysis: Bargnani has developed into a solid player, and we'll see how he does without Bosh if that happens in 2010-11. A good indication could be how Bargnani played in the final five games of the regular season when Bosh was out with a nasal fracture, and Bargnani averaged 21.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.2 blocks. That kind of production is encouraging and would allow Bargnani to remain a No. 1 Fantasy center next year. Keep an eye on what happens with Bosh this summer, but Bargnani is still worth drafting early in all leagues in 2010-11.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani had 18 points, five rebounds, two blocks and one assist Sunday against Chicago. Bargnani is averaging 15.8 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in his past five games.
Analysis: Bargnani should finish the season strong with Chris Bosh (nose) out for the year. The Raptors have two games remaining at Detroit on Monday and against New York on Wednesday and are fighting for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Look for Bargnani to play well and keep him active in all leagues.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored 18 points and hauled in nine rebounds in a loss to the Warriors on Sunday. Bargnani shot 7 of 23 from the floor while also adding two assists and a block in 38 minutes. Bargnani has not scored less than 16 points over his last five games.
Analysis: Bargnani has maintained his solid play over his last five games, averaging 19 points and 7.4 rebounds. With the Raptors playing six times during Fantasy Week 24 (April 5-14), Bargnani makes for a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center in most formats.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored 23 points in a win over the Sixers on Saturday. Bargnani shot 7 of 15 from the field while collecting six boards and a block in 45 minutes. He has now scored 20 or more points in back-to-back games.
Analysis: Bargnani is riding a hot streak and is averaging 18.2 points and 8.6 rebounds over his last five games. With the Raptors battling for playoff position, Bargnani will need to continue his contributions for the rest of the year. As long as he is healthy, he makes for a low-end No. 1 center that provides a cheap source of three's.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 16 points, including three 3's, in a win over the Bobcats on Monday. Bargnani shot 6 of 14 from the field while adding nine rebounds, a block and a steal in 39 minutes. He has scored in double figures in five straight contests.
Analysis: Bargnani continues to be one of the few centers in the league that can shoot the 3-ball. He is averaging 15.6 points and 8.2 rebounds over his last five contests while hitting nine 3-pointers over that span. Fantasy owners should continue to use Bargnani as a quality center in any format.
News: For the fourth consecutive game, Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored in double figures, putting up 17 points against the Heat on Sunday. Bargnani shot 7 of 13 from the field, hitting three 3's, grabbing five boards and blocking a shot.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 13.4 points and seven rebounds over his last five contests. He appears to have gotten his scoring back on track and with the Raptors playing four games during Fantasy Week 23 (March 29-April 4), Bargnani remains a quality Fantasy cener in all formats.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani had a nice little Friday night against the Nuggets. He scored 14 points on 5 of 13 shooting with a 3-pointer and grabbed 15 boards. The double-double was accompanied by a steal and two blocks over 34 minutes.
Analysis: The Italian center is still averaging just 13 points and 6.8 boards per game over his last five. He needs to start getting hot with his shot again but there is no reason not to have him active in just about all Fantasy leagues anyway.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 12 points in a loss to the Jazz on Wednesday. Bargnani shot 5 of 9 from the floor while adding five rebounds and two blocks. It was the fourth time in his last five games that Bargnani has scored in double figures.
Analysis: Bargnani hasn't exactly been spectacular over his last five games. He is averaging 14.6 points and six rebounds over his last five contests. While those numbers aren't horrific, they are not what Fantasy owners expect from Bargnani. He can be treated as a No. 2 Fantasy center with potential for much more.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 15 points and added four rebounds in a loss to the Thunder on Friday. Bargnani shot 7 of 13 from the field and hit one 3-pointer.
Analysis: Bargnani has remained fairly steady in his scoring, averaging 15.8 points and 5.4 reboudns over his last five contests. As long as he remains a consistent, he remains a solid option in just about every format.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani showed what a double-double looks like on Wednesday in a win over Atlanta. The Italian big man with the shooter's touch hit two 3-pointers and shot 8 for 14 overall to score 22 points. He added 11 rebounds and a block.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 17 points per game over his last five and that comes with 6.2 rebounds, a block and a 3-pointer per game. He is playing well and is a solid Fantasy choice in most leagues as he can shoot the three as a center.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani had 11 points and just two rebounds in Sunday's game in Portland. He has scored exactly 11 points in three of his last five games.
Analysis: Bargnani has been underwhelming of late, averaging just 14.8 points and 4.8 rebounds in his last five games. He remains a viable play in any league that starts two centers, but can be reserved for anybody enjoying a better run of play.
News: Raptors center Andrea Bargnani had 21 points and eight rebounds Tuesday at the Lakers. This was his highest-scoring game since Feb. 26 against Cleveland and the first time he's had more than 15 points in his past five games.
Analysis: Bargnani missed Chris Bosh, who was out for seven games with an ankle injury. With Bosh back, look for Bargnani to get better looks in the offense. Bargnani remains a must-start Fantasy option when active and hopefully he'll continue to produce at a high level with Bosh healthy again.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored 11 points to go with four rebounds and two assists Sunday afternoon against Philadelphia. He had scored just nine points in his previous game against the Knicks and has been held under 15 points in his last four games.
Analysis: Bargnani has gotten off to a sluggish start in March after a very solid month of February. Fantasy owners should be too alarmed yet, though we understand your frustration with the slump coming at one of the more critical junctures of the Fantasy season. Perhaps the return of Chris Bosh will free things up for him in coming games. He remains a good play in most Fantasy scenarios.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 14 points in a loss to Oklahoma City on Sunday. Bargnani shot 6 of 9 from the field while adding two rebounds and two assists in 27 minutes.
Analysis: Bargnani continues to remain consistent, averaging 16.8 points over his last five contests. With Toronto playing three games during Fantasy Week 19 (March 1-7), Fantasy owners can be assured that Bargnani will get his usual double figures. He is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored 24 points in a loss to Cleveland on Friday. Bargnani shot 9 of 17 from the field while adding four rebounds and three assists in 45 minutes. It was the first time in his last five games that Bargnani has scored 20 or more points.
Analysis: Bargnani is one of the more consistent players in the NBA. He generally doesn't score a ton of points, but he will normally give Fantasy owners something similar to the 16.8 points and 6.4 rebounds he has averaged his last five contests. Bargnani is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 18 points in a win over Washington Saturday. Bargnani played 39 minutes, shooting 6 of 13 from the floor while adding four blocks and six rebounds.
Analysis: Over his last five games, Bargnani is averaging 16.6 points and 7.4 rebounds. He has only eclipsed the 20-point mark just once during that span, but has consistently scored in the teens. As long as Bargnani remains healthy, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 14 points and added 10 rebounds as the Raptors fell to Memphis 109-102 on Wednesday. Bargnani shot 7 of 19 from the field in 40 minutes of play while adding three blocks. It was the eighth double-double for Bargnani this season.
Analysis: Bargnani has been playing stellar basketball over his last five games. Whether it is scoring 34 points or hauling in 10 rebounds, Bargnani is playing like a No. 1 Fantasy center and is a must-start option in all formats.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored 16 points and hauled in 7 rebounds during Wednesday's win over the 76ers. In 36 minutes he added two assists, two steals and two blocks. He shot 5 of 12 from the field, making one of four 3-point attempts.
Analysis: Bargnani is playing exceptional basketball this month. Through four February games he's averaging 23.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 2.0 blocks, scoring at least 20 three times. He is playing like a solid No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: The Toronto Sun reports that Raptors center Andrea Bargnani will play Wednesday night against the 76ers as expected. Bargnani is dealing with a sore ankle, but he practiced in full Tuesday.
Analysis: Keep Bargnani active in all Fantasy formats Wednesday. He is averaging 25.3 points and 5.7 rebounds in three February games and is a solid No. 1 Fantasy option when healthy.
News: According to the National Post, Raptors C Andrea Bargnani was able to practice fully Tuesday after undergoing a light work out Monday due to a sore ankle. He is expected to play Wednesday against Philadelphia.
Analysis: Bargnani should remain a safe play in all Fantasy formats. He is averaging 25.3 points and 5.7 rebounds in three February games and is a solid No. 1 Fantasy center in all formats.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani has scored well over his last few games and dropped 22 points on the Kings in a win on Sunday. Bargnani shot 9 for 15 from the field and hit a three. He added eight rebounds and a block.
Analysis: The Toronto big man is averaging 25.3 points, 5.7 boards, 2.0 blocks and over a three per night in his last three games since February began. He should return from the All-Star break a solid Fantasy option in any league.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored a career-high 34 points in Tuesday's loss to the Pacers. In 36 minutes he shot 14 of 21, adding four rebounds and one block.
Analysis: Bargnani has been an extremely consistent scorer, reaching double figures in 23 of his last 24 games. He's getting better as the season goes on, with his average peaking at 18.2 points a game in the month of January. He doesn't rebound much but his consistent scoring makes him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani (foot) was in the lineup on Sunday to help the Raptors defeat Indiana 117-102 on Sunday. Bargnani played 35 minutes and shot 7 of 12 from the field while bringing in four rebounds and handing out three assists.
Analysis: In his last four games, Bargnani has averaged 17 points per game with 4.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists. It appears that Bargnani is healthy and able to play. With three games during Fantasy Week 15 (Feb.1-7), Bargnani makes a viable No. 1 center and should start in all leagues.
News: Raptors coach Jay Triano said before the game that C Andrea Bargnani hurt his foot in the closing seconds of Toronto's victory over Miami on Wednesday night. Triano didn't specify which foot, and Bargnani started against New York on Thursday. In 30 minutes of play, Bargnani scored just two points on 1 of 9 shooting. He added three rebounds and one assist.
Analysis: Fantasy owners will have to pay close attention to see if anything develops with Bargnani. He did start on Thursday which is a good sign, but his production fell way below his averages. If the injury is bothering him, the Raptors might consider giving Bargnani a rest. When healthy, he is a viable No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored 27 against the Heat on Monday, his second straight game with at least 20 points. In 36 minutes he shot 13 of 19 from the field, 1 of 4 from downtown. He added three rebounds, one assist and one block.
Analysis: Bargnani is peaking in January, averaging 19.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.8 blocks this month, with seven games of 20 or more points. He is a No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: After missing Friday's contest due to a back injury, Toronto C Andrea Bargnani returned to the Raptor lineup and scored 22 points to lead Toronto to a 106-105 victory over the Lakers on Sunday. Bargnani played 39 minutes in his return shooting 7 of 17 from the field and adding eight rebounds and one assist. Bargnani returned with a bang in the first quarter after bringing the Toronto crowd to their feet with a reverse dunk.
Analysis: Sunday's game was a nice return for Bargnani. In the last seven games he has played in, Bargnani has averaged just under 19 points per game and slightly over eight rebounds per game. Toronto plays three games during Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 25-31), and Bargnani should be a safe play in all Fantasy formats.
News:Andrea Bargnani (back) was able to go through the team's morning shoot around and is expected to play Sunday night against the L.A. Lakers, according to various reports.
Analysis: This injury was never expected to keep him out long. Bargnani will be a safe play in all weekly formats for Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 25-31) and should remain active in just about every format.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani did not play in Friday night's game against the Bucks due to a sore lower back. He will be day-to-day and is questionable for Sunday's game against the Lakers.
Analysis: This does not sound like a serious injury at this time, but it is something Fantasy owners should monitor over the weekend leading up to Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 25-31), obviously. If you have the chance to reserve him in daily lineup leagues, do so immediately. Rasho Nesterovic is expected to see more playing time in his absence.
News: The only thing wrong with Andrea Bargnani's night was his introduction. The public address announcer said he was from Spain. Bargnani is from Rome, and he put on a show for "Italian Heritage Night." Bargnani had 24 points and 12 rebounds, helping the Toronto Raptors get off to a sizzling start in a 112-104 victory over the New York Knicks on Friday night. With the game featuring three Italian players being televised live in his home country at 2 a.m., Bargnani hurt the Knicks inside and out, making five 3-pointers and shooting 9 of 13 from the field. "It was a big game in Italy. They were doing the game live in Italy, so everybody in Italy was watching this game," said Bargnani, the No. 1 pick in the 2006 draft. "I was very excited about it because it was something special for me, too, because it's the first time three Italian players played together," Bargnani added. "You want to look good, you want to do something good."
Analysis: Bargnani all four 3-point attempts in the first quarter and throwing down a powerful dunk that brought Toronto players on the bench to their feet. "He was pretty aggressive coming out to start the game," Raptors forward Chris Bosh said. "It was good for him to get himself going and establishing himself early." Bargnani probably wishes every game was heritage night since it seems to get his blood boiling. Bargnani is not a regular double-double threat, but he is having his finest season from a scoring standpoint and only continues to improve as a pro. Keep him active in most Fantasy formats.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 12 points and added 17 rebounds in a 105-101 loss to Indiana on Monday. This was the third game Toronto has played in the last four days. "We were fatigued, maybe," coach Jay Triano said. "Didn't have our legs. I've never seen us miss that many free throws. But our guys played as hard as they could in a back-to-back, the way that they battled, and we didn't have it."
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging close to 17 points per game, so the scoring is nothing new for him. He isn't a big rebounder for a center, but he hits far more 3-pointers than most. He's also a decent shot-blocker. The 24-year-old is having the best season of his career and is worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored 18 points Wednesday at Orlando, putting him in double figures for the 12th straight game. He also had eight rebounds. He's averaging 17.1 points during that 12-game stretch.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging right at 17 points per game, so the scoring is nothing new for him. He isn't a big rebounder for a center, but he hits far more 3-pointers than most. He's also a decent shot-blocker. The 24-year-old is having the best season of his career and is worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 28 points and hit two threes on Wednesday in a win over the Bobcats. He shot 11 of 20 from the field overall and added one block, one steal and four boards.
Analysis: Bargnani has not been consistent with his rebounding but the scoring and three-point shooting is still there every night. He's also swatting almost two shots per game of late. He can be starting in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani is averaging 15.6 points and 4.8 rebounds per game over his last five contests and those numbers are way down from his season averages of 16.3 points and 6.1 boards. Bargnani does have two blocks in each of his last four games.
Analysis: Bargnani has the ability to average a double-double but often trades solid rebounding for three-point shooting. He's one of the few centers in the NBA with the ability to consistently hit the three and that makes him unique. Still, you'd like him to rebound more consistently if you start him at center. Toronto has an unfavorable schedule in Week 10 (Dec. 28-Jan. 3) but does play three times. He remains a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani had just 12 points and two rebounds in 29 minutes Wednesday at Orlando, giving him less than 20 points in each of his last seven games. He's averaging 14.0 points during that stretch.
Analysis: Bargnani isn't the kind of player who scores 20 points every night, but he is averaging 16.5 for the season. Much of his Fantasy appeal comes from his ability to shoot 3-pointers, but he's a decent rebounder as well. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy center even if his production has dropped off a bit lately.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani returned to the starting lineup Friday against the Hawks after missing Wednesday's loss at Milwaukee with a sore right ankle and scored 17 points. He added three rebounds and an assist to his stat line.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should be happy to see Bargnani miss only the one game with the injury, the only game has has missed this season. When healthy and active, Bargnani should be considered a must-start Fantasy center.
News: According to the Raptors' official website, Jose Calderon (groin) and Andrea Bargnani (ankle) will start Friday night against Atlanta. However, their minutes will be monitored, according to coach Jay Triano.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should closely monitor each player over the course of the weekend heading into Fantasy Week 8 (Dec. 14-20). It does appear they will be safe plays, but look to see how limited they may be in terms of minutes. When healthy, they are both must-starts.
News: The Toronto Star reports that Andrea Bargnani (ankle) will take part in the team's shootaround Friday morning and will be a game-time decision for Friday's game against Atlanta if he does not suffer any setbacks.
Analysis: Bargnani is dealing with a sore ankle and this injury isn't expected to keep him out for much longer. Monitor his status over the weekend, but we feel he'll be a safe play for Week 8 (Dec. 14-20) barring any setbacks. In daily lineup leagues, consider him a risky play.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani missed his first game of the season on Wednesday due to a sore right ankle. He is questionable for Friday against the Hawks.
Analysis: Bargnani was initially a question mark for the team's game on Tuesday with the ankle injury but was able to play in that contest. Hopefully the ankle won't be something that keeps Bargnani out much longer as he is a must-start across the board when healthy.
News: Toronto PF Chris Bosh (illness) and C Andrea Bargnani (ankle) will play on Tuesday against Minnesota. The cold Bosh was suffering from and Bargnani's ankle issues will not keep them out, reports the team's play-by-play announcer Paul Jones via Twitter.
Analysis: Bargnani is clearly worth starting at all times in Fantasy play. Be glad he didn't have to miss any time with this latest ailment and keep him active in all Fantasy lineups.
News: The National Post reports Raports forward Chris Bosh (cold), center Andrea Bargnani (ankle) and guard Jose Calderon (hip) each went through Tuesday's shootaround. They are game-time decisions but all three should play against Minnesota.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Bosh, Bargnani and Calderon active in all leagues for Tuesday's game against the Timberwolves.
News: According to the Raptors' official team website, Andrea Bargnani has a sore right ankle and is listed as day to day. Coach Jay Triano is "hopeful" that he can play Tuesday
Analysis: Fantasy owners should keep this in mind heading into Fantasy Week 7 (Dec. 7-13). It doesn't sound like a major issue, but it is something you should be aware of. The Raptors play four games in Week 7, and it's unlikely a "sore ankle" will keep him out for all four.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 16 points and grabbed nine rebounds on Friday in a win at Washington. Bargnani was 2 of 6 from deep and finished 6 of 20 overall in the game. He blocked a shot and dished out three assists.
Analysis: Bargnani continues to play well and averages 17.1 points and 6.4 boards per game with a block and a couple threes in the mix. Toronto plays four games in Week 7 (Dec. 7-13) and that makes him a solid start in any Fantasy format.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 24 points on 8 of 19 shooting on Sunday in a loss to the Suns. He went 1 for 5 from long range and added seven rebounds and a block.
Analysis: Bargnani was back over 20 points after missing that plateau in his previous four games. He continues to score and rebound nicely and hit threes with the best Fantasy centers. He is very much a No. 1 Fantasy C, plus Toronto plays four times in Week 6.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani had perhaps his best game of the season on Friday night in a win over Miami. The sweet-shooting big man from Italy had his second-straight double-double with 24 points and 10 rebounds. He shot 9 of 14 from the field, hit two threes and also blocked two shots.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 18.4 points, 6.5 rebounds, 1.3 blocks and almost two threes per game this season in 13 contests for the Raptors. He is very much a No. 1 Fantasy C.
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.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani shot 8 of 16 from the field on Wednesday night in a win over the Detroit Pistons. Bargnani scored 22 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for a double-double. He added two blocked shots and a steal. He also hit two threes.
Analysis: Bargnani has scored over 20 points in three of the four games in which he's played but Wednesday was his first double-double. He has also hit at least two threes in each game. He should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy C for use in all leagues.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 28 points and led all scorers on Wednesday night against the Cavs. The center shot 11 of 15 from the field and hit two threes. He added five rebounds and a block.
Analysis: Bargnani couldn't have done better in his season debut. He should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy C for use in all leagues.
News: The Toronto Raptors have re-signed former No. 1 pick Andrea Bargnani to a five-year contract extension. The deal was announced Wednesday, the first day players could sign contracts. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Analysis: Bargnani averaged career highs of 15.4 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.2 blocked shots and 31.4 minutes in 78 games last season. He topped 20 or more points a career-best 23 times and set an NBA record for a starting center by making multiple 3-pointers in 10 consecutive games. Bargnani is a candidate for a big season and is worth drafting as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center in standard formats. He isn't a typical big man in that he won't provide high-end rebound numbers, but he can make up for that with his contributions from beyond the arc. In category-based play, just make sure you get your rebounds elsewhere.
News: Toronto Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani sat out his second straight game because of a sore left heel and missed the season finale against the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday.
Analysis: The top pick in the 2006 draft, Bargnani was the team's second-leading scorer at 15.4 points while averaging 5.3 rebounds. It was a disappointing end of the season for Bargnani, who took major strides and was one of the few bright spots for a team that was 32-49 entering the finale. Bargnani should be a high-end Fantasy center next season.
News: The Toronto Star reports Raptors center Andrea Bargnani didn't play Monday night in Washington, but with two days off to rest his sore left heel there's a better-than-average chance he'll be in the lineup Wednesday night at Chicago.
Analysis: Bargnani will remain questionable for the season-finale against the Bulls. The safe option in daily leagues is to keep him reserved in case his injury causes a setback and he misses the game.
News: The Toronto Sun reports Raptors center Andrea Bargnani, who missed Monday's game at Washington with a sore left heel, insisted he will play in Wednesday's regular season finale in Chicago if the pain is manageable. "I'm just hoping the inflammation goes down," he said.
Analysis: It sounds like Bargnani will be a game-time decision. For now, consider him a risky start in daily leagues and hope the pain is OK.
News: Toronto was without center Andrea Bargnani, who's been hampered by a sore left heel, on Monday against Washington. Bargnani played the Raptors' final home game of the season on Sunday against Philadelphia, but interim coach Jay Triano wouldn't play him on consecutive days. "We know he's playing through pain. Back-to-backs are out of the question," Triano said. Bargnani could play in Toronto's final game in Chicago on Wednesday.
Analysis: Bargnani is clearly a must-start Fantasy center when he's healthy. Now that he's dealing with this injury, however, he's not someone to start in daily leagues for the season's final game. He'll be too big an injury risk for that game.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani was able to play in Friday's game against the Wizards, going 4-for-16 from the field for nine points and three rebounds in the game. He did not play in Wednesday's game due to a sore heel but missed only that game with the injury.
Analysis: Bargnani has been a breakout player since the month of January as the Raptors have given him the reins as the team's starting center after letting Jermaine O'Neal go to the Heat. He's averaging 16 points over his last four games with 4.3 boards and 1.3 assists with those numbers being right near his season averages.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani did not play Wednesday against the Pacers because of a sore left heel. Patrick O'Bryant got his first career start in Bargnani's place and finished with 16 points and seven rebounds.
Analysis: Bargnani averaged a season-high 20.2 points in March and has been averaging 18.0 points in four April games. He has been a solid scoring force since January and is starting to finally live up to his first-pick potential. Bargnani is worth starting as a No. 1 Fantasy center when healthy.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani recorded 23 points in a win at New York on Saturday. The big Italian center added seven rebounds and four blocks. He also had two steals. Bargnani shot 8-of-19 from the field and hit three threes.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 21 points, five boards, 1.4 blocks and two threes per night over his last five games. He's playing at a high level, scoring and he's even beginning to block some shots. He remains a must-start at a thin position in Fantasy.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani missed one game with a foot injury but was back in action on Wednesday night against the Bucks. Bargnani didn't miss a beat as he scored 23 points to lead his team on 7-of-17 from the field and three threes. He added two blocks.
Analysis: Bargnani appears to be just fine after Wednesday's game. He's averaging 23 points, six boards and 1.3 blocks per game over his last four contests and can be trusted as a must-start center in all leagues once again.
News: The Toronto Star reports Raptors center Andrea Bargnani has practiced for two days in a row without incident and should play Wednesday against Milwaukee unless his sore right Achilles flares up again. Bargnani missed Sunday's game against the Clippers.
Analysis: It now appears like Bargnani will play against the Bucks, but he could be limited if he is able to return. Be cautious when setting your lineup in daily leagues, and if you have a safer alternative then keep Bargnani on the bench.
News: The Toronto Sun reports that Raptors coach Jay Triano "isn't ruling out" Andrea Bargnani for Wednesday's game against Milwaukee.
Analysis: Bargnani's absence Sunday snapped his streak of consecutive games played at 130. It was his first absence since Dec. 9, 2007. He was averaging 19.8 points and 6.0 rebounds in his last nine games. When healthy, Bargnani is a solid Fantasy option, but he is out indefinitely at this point.
News: The Toronto Sun reports Monday that Raptors center Andrea Bargnani, who missed Sunday's game against the Clippers, is nursing a sore left heel and no timetable for his return has been established. "It is something that has been bothering him a little bit," interim head coach Jay Triano said of Bargnani. "He is just going to get some rest and hopefully it calms down."
Analysis: Bargnani's absence snapped his streak of consecutive games played at 130. It was his first absence since Dec. 9, 2007. He was averaging 19.8 points and 6.0 rebounds in his last nine games, but is now an injury risk for the upcoming scoring period. The safe option for the upcoming scoring period is to keep him reserved in all leagues, and hope he can return prior to the end of the season. When healthy, Bargnani is a solid Fantasy option.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani missed Sunday's game against the Clippers with a sore left heel, according to the Canadian CBC. There was no immediate word from the Raptors when Bargnani might return to action.
Analysis: Bargnani's absence snapped his streak of consecutive games played at 130. It was his first absence since Dec. 9, 2007. He was averaging 19.8 points and 6.0 rebounds in his last nine games, but is now an injury risk for the upcoming scoring period. It is possible more information will emerge before lineup deadlines, but make sure healthy alternatives are available. Jake Voskuhl started in his place but managed just three points and six rebounds and is not a recommended stopgap measure. The good news here is that the Raptors do not play again until Wednesday so he could have plenty of time to rest. The bad news is the Raptors play just two games, making him that much more of a gamble.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani had 27 points with seven rebounds in Friday's game against Charlotte. It was his second 27 point outing in his last three contests.
Analysis: Aside from a four-point game, which was as a result of him being under the weather, Bargnani has remained very productive lately. He is clearly playing at an elite level and Fantasy owners can feel comfortable starting him in all leagues as a No. 1 center.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani, who left Friday's game due to the flu and was a game-time decision, scored a game-high 27 points with nine rebounds and four assists in Sunday's game against Indiana. He was held to just four points after leaving Friday's game early.
Analysis: Aside from the four-point game, which was as a result of him being under the weather, Bargnani has scored 20-plus points in five of six games. He is clearly playing at an elite level and Fantasy owners can feel comfortable starting him in all leagues for Week 21 since the flu bug clearly does not appear to be affecting his production any longer.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani scored four points in nine minutes Friday against Detroit before leaving because of flu-like symptoms. He is considered day to day.
Analysis: Bargnani had scored at least 20 points in four straight games and should get back to around 18 points and six or seven rebounds with good three-point shooting and shot blocking ability here soon. Consider him questionable for Sunday's game, but he should be available to Fantasy owners for Week 21.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani had 20 points with eight rebounds in Sunday's game against Utah. He is averaging 21.4 points with 6.0 rebounds over his last five games.
Analysis: Bargnani has scored 20-plus points in four of his last five games and is also providing excellent three-point shooting. He continues to enjoy a breakout season and should remain active in all leagues at this time. Consider Bargnani a low-end No. 1 center in all formats.
News: Toronto center Andrea Bargnani had 25 points, seven rebounds and one assist Tuesday at Houston. Bargnani has five games with at least 20 points in his past eight outings.
Analysis: Bargnani continues to have a breakout season and should remain active in all leagues at this time. Consider Bargnani a low-end No. 1 center in all formats.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani had 28 points and 10 rebounds, leading his team in Sunday's game against the Knicks. He also made three three pointers and was 9-for-12 from the foul line. He added three blocks and three assists. He is averaging 19.6 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.8 assists over his last five games.
Analysis: Bargnani appears to be in for a big finish with Jermaine O'Neal no longer around to cut into his minutes. The deadline deal may have solidified the formerly erratic Italian into a reliable Fantasy stud the rest of the way. Start him in all leagues right now, obviously.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored 18 points on 6-of-16 shooting against the Knicks in a 127-97 loss on Friday. Bargnani also had six rebounds and four assists in the game. Over his last five games, he is averaging 15.6 points, 6.6 rebounds and 1.4 assists.
Analysis: Now that Chris Bosh and Shawn Marion are both active in Toronto, the team is looking the way it will for the rest of the season in all likelihood. Bargnani is now the unquestioned starting center in Toronto and worth starting in most 12-team leagues.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Toronto C Andrea Bargnani was 1-for-11 on Saturday night, his worst shooting night since Dec. 10, when he missed all four shots in a game against Indiana.
Analysis: Bargnani scored under 10 points for just the first time since since the end of January and only the second time since December. He just played awful and was on the floor for 10 less minutes than in his previous game. He's also not hit double figures in rebounding in three straight games. Right now he's still worth starting in 12-team and deeper formats but he's definitely not the same guy who dropped 20 points per game during the entire month of January.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Toronto C Andrea Bargnani was 1-for-11 on Saturday night, his worst shooting night since Dec. 10, when he missed all four shots in a game against Indiana.
Analysis: Bargnani scored under 10 points for just the first time since since the end of January and only the second time since December. He just played awful and was on the floor for 10 less minutes than in his previous game. He's also not hit double figures in rebounding in three straight games. Right now he's still worth starting in 12-team and deeper formats but he's definitely not the same guy who dropped 20 points per game during the entire month of January.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani scored over 20 points on Wednesday against the Lakers for the first time in five games. Bargnani played 43 minutes as Chris Bosh got hurt in the game and scored 21 points with nine rebounds and a block. He was 2-of-5 from three-point range.
Analysis: Bargnani's value would go up if Bosh misses any amount of time. Still, he should remain in the starting lineup regardless and is playing like someone worth using in all leagues even with Bosh healthy.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani could be in the beginning stages of an oncoming slump after scoring 12 points on 4-of-16 shooting Sunday in a loss to Orlando. Bargnani added eight rebounds and a block in the game and was 0-for-2 from long distance.
Analysis: This was the first time in five games that Bargnani failed to connect from long range and his numbers have been dropping for three games now. He's averaging just 12 points and four boards over his last three games after putting up 23 and six in the two games prior to that. He's shooting just 33 percent over his last three. The Raptors have a very tough 4-game schedule in Week 15 against some excellent defenses -- like Orlando -- so you definitely want to think about using a different option if you have one.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani was able to bounce back from an eight-point performance on Wednesday at New Jersey with a 16-point game in a 96-85 loss to the Bucks on Friday. Bargnani went 6-of-16 from the field, hitting two of the five triples he attempted. He added four rebounds to his total.
Analysis: Bargnani is settling into his role as the everyday starter in Toronto, averaging 17.2 points per game over his last five games. He is 9-off-22 from downtown during that span. He remains a nice option in any format as long as he is putting up numbers like these on a consistent basis.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani had 24 points, seven rebounds, two threes, a block and a steal in Sunday's game against Sacramento. He is averaging 24 points and 6.2 rebounds over his last five games.
Analysis: Bargnani also has two threes in each of his last three games. The rebounding numbers are not what you would like from an elite center, but he begins to make up for that with three-point shooting, rare in a Fantasy center. Consider him a great play in any format while he can remain this productive. He's a big focal point in the offense these days.
News: Toronto's Andrea Bargnani scored 16 points with Jermaine O'Neal back from a knee injury. Bargnani, who continued to start for O'Neal on Wednesday, was 6-of-16 from the field with two threes and added six rebounds.
Analysis: Bargnani still played at a high level even with O'Neal's return. O'Neal played OK but didn't do anything to warrant moving back into the starting lineup and the Raptors got waxed in the game. That could keep Bargnani's value high for the coming days and heading into Week 14 (Jan. 26-Feb. 1) but check back before the weekend is over to see if anything changes.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani had 15 points, three rebounds and a three pointer in Sunday's game in Toronto. He is averaging 21.2 points and 7.0 rebounds over his last five games.
Analysis: Bargnani emerged as a No. 1 Fantasy option at center with Jermaine O'Neal out and the Raptors are going to let it ride with him until he cools off even with O'Neal back. However, Bargnani is a historically streaky player who will likely lose minutes and shot attempts to O'Neal in the long run if O'Neal is not traded as there are rumors he might be. Enjoy this excellent run of production while it lasts and ride it out as long as possible.
News: The Toronto Star reports that while it is possible that Jermaine O'Neal will return from his nine-game absence due to a knee injury Friday, Andrea Bargnani will remain in the starting lineup for now with O'Neal coming off the bench. Bargnani is averaging 22.3 points and 7.1 rebounds as a starter during O'Neal's nine-game absence
Analysis: Bargnani has emerged as a No. 1 Fantasy option at center with O'Neal out and this news makes it possible he will retain that value for a bit longer. However, he is a historically streaky player who will likely lose minutes and shot attempts to O'Neal in the long run. Enjoy this excellent run of production while it lasts and ride it out as long as possible.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani continues to play at an extremely high level with Jermaine O'Neal injured. Bargnani scored a career-high 31 points and added 10 boards in a double-double against Chicago on Wednesday night. He was 10-of-14 from the field with two threes.
Analysis: Bargnani continues to be a must-start No. 1 Fantasy center while O'Neal is out. He's averaging 23 points, eight rebounds, a block and almost three three-pointers per night over his last five.
News: Raptors C/F Andrea Bargnani had 17 points with nine rebounds in Sunday's game against Boston. Bargnani is averaging 20.4 points, 6.8 rebounds and has at least three three pointers in each of his last five games.
Analysis: Bargnani is enjoying one of his better stretches of the season and it coincides with the absence of Jermaine O'Neal. We already know that O'Neal will not play Monday in Boston and Bargnani should continue to be a solid Fantasy option for the time being. Start him in any league as long as he shows this type of productivity. He offers excellent three-point shooting for a big man, decent rebounding and solid scoring.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani continues to pour in the points of late as he dropped 25 points on the Wizards Wednesday night. Bargnani shot 8-of-9 from the field, 4-of-5 from long range and had four boards and two blocks.
Analysis: Bargnani is playing like a must-start Fantasy center with Jermaine O'Neal injured. He's scoring 22 points per game over his last five with six boards and two blocks to go with it. He's a field goal percentage machine, too, and he can hit threes. He's hot right now for as long as O'Neal is out so grab him up if you can.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani, starting with Jermaine O'Neal sidelined by a sore knee, had 21 points, eight rebounds, two assists and one block Monday at Milwaukee. He also shot 5-for-6 from 3-point range.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 21 points over the four games O'Neal has missed, and he looks like an excellent spot starter in Fantasy right now. Even when O'Neal returns, Bargnani has his serviceable stretches, but his scattered production makes him no more than a No. 3 Fantasy C.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani had one of his better games on Wednesday night in a loss at home to the Nuggets. Bargnani scored 26 points on 9-of-19 shooting with six boards and five blocked shots. He was 3-of-6 from long range and added two steals.
Analysis: The Italian center in his third season with the Raptors started the game with Jermaine O'Neal out and played 41 minutes. He responded big time. He started the year off so hot and has faded into almost nothing, but hopefully playing without O'Neal for a few days will re-energize him. Unfortunately, once he goes back to the bench, he won't get this kind of minutes and will be back to being a low-end Fantasy center.
News: Raptors C/F Andrea Bargnani played just 12 minutes off the bench in Sunday's game against New Orleans. Jamario Moon returned to the starting lineup at small forward and had eight points with eight rebounds in 31 minutes.
Analysis: Bargnani had been starting at small forward for the Raptors, but was in an offensive funk and has been replaced once again. Until his shot starts to fall again, Fantasy owners should try their best to steer clear of him.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani has gone back to Fantasy irrelevance lately. On Wednesday night against the Pacers, Bargnani played 23 minutes off the bench and failed to score with just four boards. He had three turnovers and was 0-for-4 from the floor.
Analysis: Bargnani hasn't scored in double figures since a double-double six games ago. His rebounds are down, his scoring is down and he's playing like only a low-end Fantasy center at a weak position.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored 14 points with seven rebounds, three assists, a block and two three-pointers Sunday against Boston. He came into the game averaging 17.0 points and 5.6 rebounds over his previous five games.
Analysis: Bargnani has been inserted into the starting lineup at small forward over Jamario Moon and he is very close to becoming triple-eligible in leagues that use individual positions and allow multiple positions. He is eligible at center in all leagues, though, and is putting up numbers worthy of a No. 1 option. Start him in all leagues while he's this hot.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored 29 points with 10 rebounds, two assists, a block and five three-pointers in Friday's overtime loss against the Nets. He has scored a combined 54 points in his last two games.
Analysis: Bargnani has been inserted into the starting lineup at small forward over Jamario Moon and he is very close to becoming triple-eligible in leagues that use individual positions and allow multiple positions. He is eligible at center in all leagues, though, and is putting up numbers worthy of a No. 1 option. Start him in all leagues while he's this hot.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani was 3-for-4 from three-point range in Wednesday's win over Miami to score 25 points, his season high. He added two blocks and four boards.
Analysis: Bargnani has now averaged just over 14 points per game over his last four contests for the Raptors. He's a power forward that doesn't rebound as much as he hits threes. Still, he's definitely worth using on most occasions in deeper Fantasy leagues.
News:Andrea Bargnani replaced Jamario Moon in Toronto's starting lineup at small forward on Sunday against Miami. He scored 12 points and added four rebounds and three assists in 31 minutes on the floor.
Analysis: Bargnani is a good player on the wing despite his size as a seven-footer. So if the Raptors would like to play big lineups against small teams like Miami, this could continue. In individual position leagues that allow multiple positions, Bargnani could end up becoming triple-eligible if this continues and he adds small forward eligibility.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani played just 11 minutes in Monday's game at Boston. He finished with two points and no rebounds. Bargnani had scored 18 points in Sunday's game in Charlotte.
Analysis: Bargnani has been getting around 20-25 minutes on most nights without many designed looks in the offense. He's not going to get more than a handful of rebounds per night, but has been blocking a lot of shots. For now, consider stashing him in larger leagues in the hopes that he starts to see a more prominent role on a consistent basis.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored 18 points in Sunday's game at Charlotte. He also added five rebounds, three blocks, an assist and a steal. He shot 3-for-5 from beyond the arc.
Analysis: Bargnani has been getting around 20-25 minutes on most nights without many designed looks in the offense. He's not going to get more than a handful of rebounds per night, but has been blocking a lot of shots. For now, consider stashing him in larger leagues in the hopes that he starts to see a more prominent role on a consistent basis.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani scored nine points with tree rebounds in Friday's game against Atlanta in 26 minutes of action. He has been held scoreless in two of his first five games.
Analysis: Bargnani has been getting around 20-25 minutes on most nights without many designed looks in the offense. He's not going to get more than a handful of rebounds per night, but has been able to block eight shots in five games. For now, consider stashing him in larger leagues in the hopes that he starts to see a more prominent role.
News: The Raptors exercised the fourth-year option Monday on forward Andrea Bargnani, the first overall pick in the 2006 draft. Financial terms were not disclosed. The Raptors had until Friday to exercise their option on the 23-year-old.
Analysis: Bargnani didn't seem to fit into the system well in Toronto last year, but could be in for a completely new look and feel with a new coach in 2008-09. It's too early to give up on the No. 1 overall draft pick from 2006, but his stock in Fantasy has dropped to that of a reserve pick in the middle rounds in 2008-09.
News: The Raptors are one of the three-game teams in Fantasy Week 1 (Oct. 27-Nov. 2) and two of those games come against a Warriors team that gave up the most points in the NBA last season (108.8 ppg) and a Milwaukee team that gave up the seventh most (103.9 ppg). That means that their roster should be ripe with one-week, stopgap options to choose from.
Analysis: Anthony Parker and Jamario Moon will start at shooting guard and small forward and could score in double figures with respectable totals across the line. Consider them as No. 4 options this week in 12-team leagues. Moon has been dealing with a heel injury and did not have a particularly good preseason, though. Off the bench, Andrea Bargnani remains a low-end option until he proves otherwise. The same goes for Jason Kapono, Roko Ukic, Will Solomon and Kris Humphries.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani played 27 minutes of exhibition action against Minnesota on Thursday and scored a game-high 22 points on 7-of-13 shooting. Bargnani hit both three pointers he attempted and grabbed four rebounds.
Analysis: Bargnani didn't seem to fit into the system well in Toronto last year, but could be in for a completely new look and feel with a new coach in 2008-09. It's too early to give up on the No. 1 overall draft pick from 2006, but his stock in Fantasy has dropped to that of a reserve pick in the middle rounds in 2008-09.
News: Toronto C Andrea Bargnani played 25 minutes off the bench on Tuesday in the Raptors preseason win over the Cavs. Bargnani shot 6-of-12 from the field and scored 15 points. He grabbed eight rebounds, hit a three pointer and blocked a shot, as well.
Analysis: Bargnani didn't seem to fit into the system well in Toronto last year, but could be in for a completely new look and feel with a new coach in 2008-09. It's too early to give up on the No. 1 overall draft pick from 2006, but his stock in Fantasy has dropped to that of a reserve pick in the middle rounds in 2008-09.
News: After averaging 11.6 points and 3.9 rebounds as a rookie, Andrea Bargnani struggled in his second NBA season. His points, rebounds, steals, blocks, shooting percentages and minutes played all dropped during the 2007-08 regular season.
Analysis: It got so bad that he was even replaced by Rasho Nesterovic late in the season. He had one good month -- February -- when he averaged 15.1 points and that was about it. He didn't seem to fit into the system well in Toronto, but could be in for a completely new look and feel with a new coach in 2008-09. It's too early to give up on the No. 1 overall draft pick from 2006, but his stock in Fantasy has dropped to that of a reserve pick in the middle rounds.
News: Raptors C Andrea Bargnani, whose main contribution to the team in his first two seasons has been his ability to extend defenses as a 7-footer with long-range shooting ability, has not made a three-point field goal in April, reports the Sports Xchange.
Analysis: Bargnani had a good stretch during the middle of the season but has tailed off lately. Consider him a low-end center option heading into 2008-09.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani had 17 points with three rebounds in 21 minutes off the bench Wednesday at Atlanta. He shot 7-for-12 from the field.
Analysis: Bargnani has scored in double figures just twice in his last five games and is not playing consistent minutes behind Rasho Nesterovic of all people. Despite being eligible at center, Bargnani is not a recommended start at such a critical point in the Fantasy season.
News: A quick start by Bargnani helped Toronto take a 17-point lead in the opening quarter Sunday against Denver. He went 7-for-8 from the field and had 16 points in the first as the Raptors jumped in front early, but he was held scoreless the rest of the way.
Analysis: Bargnani played well despite the return of Chris Bosh, but then the team went away from him in the second half. He remains an erratic Fantasy option, having scored no points his last time out. He had 14 points in the game prior to that, but five points in the game prior to that. You get all that? Basically, it means he shouldn't be trusted to produce at this critical juncture of the season.
News:Andrea Bargnani and Anthony Parker each scored 14 points, Jose Calderon had 10 points and 10 assists and the Toronto Raptors ended a season-high five-game losing streak with a 96-54 victory over the Miami Heat on Wednesday night. Bargnani was able to play Wednesday despite taking an elbow to the face Monday. He also had three rebounds Wednesday as he went 6 of 11 from the field.
Analysis: Bargnani scored in double figures for the first time in four games. He has been playing better basketball since February, but the Raptors are still convinced he has much more room for improvement. Consider him a decent No. 2 Fantasy center or a low-end No. 3 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Raptors PF Andrea Bargnani left the court at the end of the third quarter Monday at Utah after he was hit on the nose with Jamario Moon's elbow in a scramble for the ball. X-rays were negative. Bargnani finished with five points and three rebounds in 24 minutes. He shot only 2-for-11 from the floor.
Analysis: Bargnani has had to play extensive minutes with Chris Bosh unavailable, and that could continue well into next week. He remains inconsistent, but the upside is there for last year's No. 1 overall draft pick. Consider him a decent No. 2 Fantasy center or a low-end No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Toronto C/F Andrea Bargnani went for 15 points, six rebounds and six assists Tuesday at the Lakers.
Analysis: Bargnani has had to play extensive minutes with Chris Bosh unavailable and that could continue well into next week. He remains inconsistent, but the upside is there for last year's No. 1 overall draft pick. Consider him a decent No. 2 Fantasy center or a low-end No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani played 47 minutes in Sunday's win over Seattle. He shot 6-for-21 from the field and 0-for-7 from beyond the arc, scoring 16 points with 7 rebounds.
Analysis: Bargnani has had to play extensive minutes with Chris Bosh unavailable and that could continue well into next week. He remains inconsistent, but the upside is there for last year's No. 1 overall draft pick. Consider him a decent No. 2 Fantasy center or a low-end No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani had his best game in a while in Friday's loss to Washington. He scored 27 points with 5 rebounds and an assist. He was 9-for-18 from the field and 5-for-9 from beyond the arc.
Analysis: Bargnani gave the team some much-needed offense coming from the post with Chris Bosh still out with a knee injury, but he did most of his damage from the wing. He got hot from beyond the arc and scored 27 points for the second time in four games. The problem is he had scored just 24 points combined in his last three games. He remains inconsistent, but this is the type of upside he has. Consider him a decent No. 2 Fantasy center or a low-end No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani, who took a blow to the head Wednesday, played Friday against the Wizards and finished with 27 points and five rebounds. Raptors star PF Chris Bosh missed his fourth straight game with a sore right knee.
Analysis: Bargnani has been hot more often than not lately, but when he goes cold, it's brutal. Because of his inconsistency, think of him as no more than a No. 2 Fantasy center.
News: According to the Globe and Mail, the Raptors may be without F/C Andrea Bargnani on Friday against Washington. He is listed as "day-to-day" after the Heat's Alexander Johnson elbowed him in the face and knocked him to the ground on a layup Wednesday. GM Bryan Colangelo said X-rays for a possible facial fracture were negative, but Bargnani was seen by an oral surgeon Thursday, as some teeth were shifted and three broken by the blow.
Analysis: When healthy, consider Bargnani a No. 2 Fantasy center. Hopefully he can suit up, but keep an eye on what happens.
News:Andrea Bargnani scored 12 points for Toronto during Wednesday's game against the Heat, but Bargnani's night will be best remembered by a scary collision with Miami's Alexander Johnson that knocked the 2006 No. 1 overall pick out of the game early in the third quarter. Bargnani said he broke three teeth, but X-rays ruled out any facial fractures. "I feel a lot better now," Bargnani said. Bargnani was driving the right baseline with 9:57 left in the period when he went airborne near the basket. He collided with Johnson, who was called for a flagrant foul on the play. "I thought he was going up for a dunk, so I jumped and caught him off-balance," Johnson said. "I wasn't trying to hurt him."
Analysis: Losing Bargnani for any significant stretch would be a problem. He showed no sign of concussion, but the Raptors said he would likely be examined again Thursday. The back of Bargnani's head slammed on the court. He remained down for about three minutes, returned to the court to make the two free throws, then retreated to the Raptors' locker room. "Any time a guy leaves his feet like that, and takes that kind of a hit and goes down hard, you have to be concerned," Raptors coach Sam Mitchell said. "But it seems like he's OK. He's a little sore but we don't expect that he'll miss any time at all." Bargnani has scored 20-plus points in two of his last seven games, but the second-year forward continues to struggle for consistency. He is a No. 4 Fantasy forward when healthy.
News: Toronto forward Andrea Bargnani had six points, five rebounds and two assists Tuesday at Orlando.
Analysis: Bargnani hasn't played well recently and is too inconsistent to be a regular on your Fantasy roster. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy option at best.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani shot just 2-for-8 from the field in Sunday's loss at Charlotte. He scored just 6 points with 5 rebounds and 2 blocks.
Analysis: Bargnani failed to step up once again with Chris Bosh sidelined due to an injury. Bosh has been ruled out for the upcoming week, giving Bargnani more chances to produce. This makes him an appealing stopgap as a Fantasy center this week, even if his performance doesn't.
News: The Toronto Star reports that Chris Bosh could be sidelined for "up to a week" with his knee injury. He will travel with the team on its upcoming road trip, but will do so "only as a spectator". "We're just going to give him some time," said coach Sam Mitchell. "Our thinking right now, unless something different happens, is not to even play him these next three games, give him some rest, let it calm down." Rasho Nesterovic will move into a starting spot next to Andrea Bargnani on the front line.
Analysis: This should benefit Bargnani from a Fantasy standpoint. "This may actually help Andrea's growth even more, because now he's got to do a little bit more of everything," said Mitchell. Bargnani is now a very promising start for the upcoming scoring period as a No. 2 center.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani had just 2 points with 5 rebounds in Monday's win at Indiana after he scored 25 points with 7 rebounds and 5 assists Sunday against the Knicks.
Analysis: Bargnani continues to be annoyingly erratic for Fantasy owners and his second NBA season has to be considered a bust to this point. He has the upside of a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center or a No. 2 Fantasy forward, but is no more than a low-end No. 2 center or No. 4 forward now.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani, who had gone six games without scoring as many as 20 points, had 25 points, seven rebounds and five assists Sunday against the Knicks. He shot 5-for-10 from 3-point range.
Analysis: After a torrid stretch at the beginning of February, Bargnani had scored a combined nine points in his last two games. If he's back on track now, he deserves to start as a No. 2 Fantasy center, and he has the potential to develop into a No. 1 eventually.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani, who recently came off a streak of seven straight games with double-digit scoring, scored only five Friday at New York. He scored only four in his last game.
Analysis: So much for all that. Bargnani averaged 17.9 points over that seven-game stretch, making him a solid Fantasy option, but if he goes back to single digits more often than not, he should remain on your team's bench. Monitor his performance in the coming games.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani had 8 points and an assist in Friday's Rookie-Sophomore game in New Orleans as part of All-Star Weekend.
Analysis: This is the second year Bargnani was part of this game, without much improvement. He had a disappointing first half in his second NBA season, but started to come on prior to the break. He was a much better player in the second half last season, so now is a good time to buy low on Bargnani if you can.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani had 14 points, 3 rebounds, an assist, a steal and a block in Wednesday's blowout win over New Jersey.
Analysis: Bargnani has now scored in double figures in eight of his last nine games, re-emerging as a solid start in Fantasy leagues -- especially where he's eligible at center.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani had 16 points and six rebounds Sunday at Minnesota. He has now scored in double figures in seven of the last eight games, averaging 16.9 over that span.
Analysis: The Raptors finally seem to have found a proper way to use Bargnani, the No. 1 overall pick in 2006. With him going well now, he deserves to start as a No. 2 center in Fantasy. If he could ever maintain this pace, he'd qualify as a No. 1.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani, who has had an up-and-down second season in the NBA, scored 22 points Monday at Miami. He also had five rebounds and three assists. Over his last six games, he has scored at least 20 points three times.
Analysis: And he's scored in double figures five times over that same stretch, averaging 17.5 points. With him going well now, he deserves to start as a No. 2 center in Fantasy again. If he could ever maintain this pace, he'd qualify as a No. 1.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani cracked double digits in scoring for the fourth time in five games Friday against the Lakers, dropping a season-high 28 points on 9-of-18 shooting (including 4-of-7 from 3-point range). He also pulled down four rebounds.
Analysis: Something has gotten into Bargnani lately, as he's averaged 16.6 points over his last five games after not breaking single digits once in eight straight games. As long as he remains hot, he can suffice as a No. 2 center in Fantasy.
News:Andrea Bargnani scored 19 points, and the Toronto Raptors used a big second quarter and a flurry of 3-pointers to beat the Washington Wizards 122-83 on Wednesday night. Bargnani helped from beyond the arc as he went 3-for-4 from 3-point range. He also had two rebounds and three assists in the game.
Analysis: Bargnani has really improved his offensive game as of late. He has scored in double figures for three of his last four contests. A lot has to do with his ability to shoot the three. He is 8-for-16 (.500) from beyond the arc in his last four contests. The knock on Bargnani is that he lacks physical play down low. Once he becomes a force inside, the sky is the limit. For now, he remains a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani had 13 points and seven rebounds Friday against the Bucks only two nights after putting up 20 and seven. He did shoot 4-for-12 from the field, however.
Analysis: The Raptors have recently recommended Bargnani work with former NBAer John Lucas, who has a reputation as one of the best trainers of professional basketball players in the world. So far, so good. If Bargnani can keep this pace going, he deserves a look as a No. 2 Fantasy center.
News: The Toronto Sun reports Raptors head coach Sam Mitchell has a solution to help Andrea Bargnani become a better basketball player. Mitchell is recommending that Bargnani work with former NBAer John Lucas, who has a reputation as one of the best trainers of professional basketball players in the world. Mitchell says Bargnani needs to improve his toughness, especially with rebounding, and Lucas is the perfect solution. "It's like a war down there. It's like, hold, grab, hit. And that's what our guys need," Mitchell said. "And that's when the (toughness) in Andrea will come out. Because he has it in him."
Analysis: Bargnani had a solid rookie campaign by averaging 11.5 points and 3.92 rebounds. His rebounding efforts (3.35 rpg) and offensive output (8.68 ppg) have both declined in Year Two. "He's a young guy, he's a great player, a great person, just give him a break," said teammate Rasho Nesterovic, who lost his starting center job to Bargnani this season. Bargnani still has a lot of upside, but is a low-end Fantasy option until he heats up.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani had only three points in 12 minutes Saturday at Philadelphia. He hasn't scored in double figures in eight straight games.
Analysis: Bargnani has stunk up the court more often than not this season, and now, at his lowest of lows, we can't even recommend him as a No. 2 center in Fantasy. He still has upside, but we're growing more and more skeptical he'll make good on it this season.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani continued his low-scoring ways Tuesday at Detroit, going without a point in 16 minutes. He has now averaged 4.2 points over his last five games.
Analysis: Bargnani starts at center, but he isn't doing enough to matter in Fantasy right now. The Raptors just can't seem to make up their minds on how they want to use their big man from Italy. He has some Fantasy potential still, but you can't afford to use him until the team gives him consistent minutes once and for all.
News: Despite playing in a game that went to two overtime periods, Andrea Bargnani manged to score just four points and two rebounds. He logged just 15 minutes and was 2-for-8 from the field.
Analysis: The Raptors just can't seem to make up their minds on how they want to use their big man from Italy. He has some Fantasy potential still, but you can't afford to use him until the team gives him consistent minutes once and for all.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani, who scored 25 points on Jan. 4, had only seven in 17 minutes Friday at New York. He has averaged only 5.7 over his last three games.
Analysis: Bargnani continues to start, but Jamario Moon, among others, has begun to steal some of his minutes. The Raptors just can't seem to make up their minds on how they want to use their big man from Italy. He has some Fantasy potential still, but you can't afford to use him until the team gives him consistent minutes once and for all.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani had his second-best scoring effort of the season Friday against the Pistons, dropping 25 points on 10-of-16 shooting (including 3-of-5 from 3-point range). He also had two rebounds. He has now averaged 21.0 points over his last two games and 13.2 over his last five.
Analysis: And that 13.2 average starts to look even better considering he scored zero in one of those five games. The Raptors have begun to trust Bargnani as their starting center again, and he has rewarded them. As long as his good play continues, he deserves to start as a No. 2 center in Fantasy.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani scored zero points Saturday at Houston even though he started at center and played 21 minutes. He did, however, have six rebounds.
Analysis: Bargnani has disappointed in his second season, taking a step back from his rookie year. He doesn't start consistently and doesn't do much when he does. With less than 10 points and four rebounds per game, we can't recommend him as anything more than a backup center in Fantasy.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani played only 12 minutes off the bench Tuesday at Atlanta after sitting out four games with a hyperextended left knee. He didn't score, shooting 0-for-4 from the floor.
Analysis: The Raptors probably wanted to take their time working Bargnani back, though he didn't exactly pressure them to hasten their pace. Assuming he regains a starting role, he'll serve as a No. 2 center in Fantasy, with the potential to develop into more.
News: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani missed his fourth straight game Sunday vs. Houston because of a hyperextended left knee.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 11.9 points and 4.5 rebounds. Right now, his numbers make him a No. 3 forward or No. 2 center in Fantasy when healthy, but he should be reserved until further notice.
News: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani missed his third straight game Friday at Boston because of a hyperextended left knee suffered in Saturday's loss at Washington.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 11.9 points and 4.5 rebounds. While projected to serve as the team's starting center this season, he's played more at small forward so far, even coming off the bench earlier in the season. Right now, his numbers make him a No. 3 forward or No. 2 center in Fantasy when healthy.
News: Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani missed his second straight game Wednesday against the Suns because of a hyperextended left knee suffered in Saturday's loss at Washington. Bargnani is averaging 11.9 points and 4.5 rebounds.
Analysis: While projected to serve as the team's starting center this season, he's played more at small forward so far, even coming off the bench earlier in the season. Right now, his numbers make him a No. 3 forward or No. 2 center in Fantasy when healthy.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani missed Monday's game against the Bobcats after suffering a hyper-extended left knee when he landed awkwardly in Saturday's loss at Washington.
Analysis: Bargnani is averaging 11.9 points and 4.5 rebounds. While projected to serve as the team's starting center this season, he's played more at small forward so far, even coming off the bench earlier in the season. Right now, his numbers make him a No. 3 F or No. 2 C in Fantasy when healthy.
News: The Raptors' Andrea Bargnani (knee) remained active Friday against the Cavaliers. In fact, he started, taking the place of injured PF Chris Bosh in the lineup and going for 26 points, six rebounds and three assists in 40 minutes of play. Bargnani had limped off in the fourth quarter Wednesday after a knee-on-knee collision with Grizzlies C Stromile Swift.
Analysis: Bargnani has shifted from the starting lineup to the bench this season, playing a wide range of minutes. He has, however, scored in double figures in six of his last seven games. The No. 1 draft pick of the 2006 draft is still learning the NBA game and hasn't developed into the outstanding Fantasy option people expected him to become. He is merely a No. 3 Fantasy forward or No. 2 Fantasy center at this time.
News: Raptors PF Andrea Bargnani limped off the court Wednesday against Memphis and did not return after suffering a right-knee bruise in a fourth-quarter collision with Stromile Swift. "He was driving, so he was coming forward," Bargnani said. "I was moving into him so I hit very strong. We'll see how it feels in the morning."
Analysis: Bargnani finished with 11 points, seven rebounds and two assists in 21 minutes Wednesday. It was the fifth time in six games he finished in double figures. Bargnani, the No. 1 draft pick of the 2006 draft, is still learning the NBA game and hasn't developed into that outstanding Fantasy option people have been waiting on. He is merely a No. 3 Fantasy forward at this time. He is day to day.
News:Andrea Bargnani had 18 points and five rebounds, shooting 6-of-9 from the floor. He was back in the starting lineup, playing at power forward.
Analysis: Bargnani only returned to the starting lineup because Rasho Nesterovic went down with an ankle injury. Before then, he had fallen way out of the rotation and seemingly out of coach Sam Mitchell's good graces. Monitor his playing time in the coming days.
News: Raptors PF/C Andrea Bargnani had 12 points in 19 minutes of action off the bench in Sunday's loss to Golden State.
Analysis: Bargnani has seen his playing time dramatically reduced in his last three games, averaging 13.3 minutes over that span. With Rasho Nesterovic sidelined for at least the next week and possibly two, his minutes should once again increase. He's worth a start in deep leagues as a No. 2 center.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani came off the bench for the second straight game Saturday at Chicago. He scored 14 points and had two assists in 21 minutes of play. Rasho Nesterovic again started at center.
Analysis: Bad news for Bargnani owners: the Raptors won big 101-71, which means the Bargnani-off-the-bench experiment will likely continue into the foreseeable future. He should play enough minutes to make him a desirable Fantasy option, but he won't gain center eligibility as expected if he's coming off the bench. Think of him as a No. 3 Fantasy forward for now.
News: Raptors coach Sam Mitchell made a change in his starting lineup Friday at Philadelphia, replacing Andrea Bargnani with Rasho Nesterovic at center. "We're not panicking because we're 2-3," Mitchell said before the game. "We're just trying to get the most out of the guys." Bargnani scored nine points on 3-of-8 shooting in 23 minutes off the bench.
Analysis: Bargnani owners can't feel good about this move, not if it puts their big man only getting 23 minutes a game. Don't panic, of course, as it's still just in the experimental stages. Bargnani clearly has more Fantasy value than Nesterovic even coming off the bench, and we still classify him as a No. 3 forward for now.
News: After scoring at least 20 points in each of his first two games, Raptors F Andrea Bargnani scored just nine points off 2-for-13 shooting in Sunday's overtime loss to Boston. He did have a season-high eight rebounds, though.
Analysis: Bargnani had been off to a great start, so we aren't too worried about the one mediocre game. He's seven starts at center away from gaining eligibility at the position and he could become a No. 1 option there once that happens. For now, he remains a must-start Fantasy forward.
News: For the second consecutive game to start the season, Raptors C Andrea Bargnani eclipsed the 20-point mark Friday at New Jersey.
Analysis: Bargnani has started both game at center and is now just eight more starts at the position away from picking up dual eligibility. Once he does pick up center eligibility, he'll be classified as a must-start No. 1 option the way he's scoring. He's not going to help you much in the rebounding area, but he can pick up 5-8 boards per night and that's not too bad.
News: Raptors PF/C Andrea Bargnani scored 20 points in Wednesday's season opener vs. Philadelphia. He was 6-for-11 from the field and 3-for-4 from beyond the arc. He added five boards and two blocks.
Analysis: Bargnani started at center and is in line to gain center eligibility as soon as 10 games into the season in most CBSSports.com leagues. With that in mind, Bargnani should become a must-start Fantasy center in what we expect will be a breakout campaign for him.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani will enter the season as the team's starting center, according to The Sports Xchange, where he'll stretch defenses with his three-point shooting.
Analysis: With this news, Bargnani will gain eligibility at center in most Fantasy leagues a few games into the season, which greatly increases his Fantasy value. Consider him a No. 1 center once he gains eligibility at the position. For now, he's a No. 2 forward.
News: On his 22nd birthday, Raptors PF Andrea Bargnani grabbed eight rebounds and scored 17 points on 6-of-9 shooting in the club's final preseason game Friday against the Wizards. He started at center, playing 23 minutes.
Analysis: Some rumors surfaced earlier that Bargnani would play some center this season, but he's played mostly forward this preseason. In any case, he's hinted of an oncoming breakout with his play so far. We like him as a No. 2 or No. 3 forward in Fantasy right now, and if he does end up gaining eligibility at center before all's said and done, even better.
News: Raptors PF Andrea Bargnani led his team with 19 points in a 92-82 win over the Bulls on Friday. He shot 7-of-12 from the floor and had three assists.
Analysis: Some rumors surfaced earlier that Bargnani would play some center this season, but he's played mostly forward this preseason. In any case, he's hinted of an oncoming breakout with his play so far. We like him as a No. 2 or No. 3 forward in Fantasy right now, and if he does end up gaining eligibility at center before all's said and done, even better.
News: Playing without Chris Bosh on his side, Raptors PF Andrea Bargnani scored 23 points in an exhibtion loss to Spanish club Real Madrid Thursday in Madrid, Spain.
Analysis: Bargnani was a force in the middle for the Raptors and looked like he should flourish in the starting center role for Toronto. He should pick up center eligibility as soon as 10 games into the regular season this year and could become a great option at the position.
News: The Toronto Star is reporting that Andrea Bargnani could start at center this season for the Raptors. "If Andrea ends up being the starting center," coach Sam Mitchell said, "you've got (frontcourt) scorers there in Andrea and Chris, you've got a guy, A.P. (Anthony Parker), who can shoot the ball, T.J. (Ford) scores in his way, so you need a guy to make hard cuts, bring some toughness to your defense. Someone that gives you a little attitude on the court, you know?"
Analysis: Bargnani will be eligible at forward and power forward entering the season, but it appears as though he may pick up center eligibility as early as 10 games into the season. Keep that in mind as you draft, as it clearly adds tons to his Fantasy appeal.
News: Andrea Bargnani had 13 points and seven rebounds as the Toronto Raptors held off a spirited Virtus Lottomatica Roma squad for a 93-87 preseason victory Sunday in Rome.
Analysis: During his first season in the NBA, the 7-foot forward averaged 11.6 points and 3.9 rebounds in 65 games, and was a member of the all-rookie first team. He did a good job in his rookie season of proving he belongs in this league, shedding comparisons to draft bust Darko Milicic, and is a player that should begin to flourish in his second NBA campaign. We like him as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Kevin Garnett had 19 points and 16 rebounds in his Celtics debut, and Boston ruined Andrea Bargnani's homecoming with an 89-85 preseason victory over the Toronto Raptors on Saturday. Bargnani, last year's top overall draft pick by Toronto, played his first game in his hometown (Rome) in an NBA jersey and scored 13 points in less than 15 minutes. "Andrea was pretty good. I probably could have done a better job at getting him back in, but I wanted to keep him fresh for (Sunday)," Raptors coach Sam Mitchell said. "I know where Andrea's at."
Analysis: During his first season in the NBA, the 7-foot forward averaged 11.6 points and 3.9 rebounds in 65 games, and was a member of the all-rookie first team. He did a good job in his rookie season of proving he belongs in this league, shedding comparisons to draft bust Darko Milicic, and is a player that should begin to flourish in his second NBA campaign. We like him as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Andrea Bargnani will play for the Toronto Raptors through the 2009 season. The Raptors exercised the third-year option on his contract Friday, securing the Italian forward and the 2006 top pick in the draft.
Analysis: During his first season in the NBA, the 7-foot forward averaged 11.6 points and 3.9 rebounds in 65 games, and was a member of the all-rookie first team. He did a good job in his rookie season of proving he belongs in this league, shedding comparisons to draft bust Darko Milicic, and is a player that should begin to flourish in his second NBA campaign. We like him as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward.
News: When asked about the upcoming season, Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani didn't believe he was assured of a starting job. "I don't know if I will be in the starting five," Bargnani replied, according to The Toronto Sun. "We have a lot of good players. I think you have to deserve (a spot) in the starting five. I'm ready to work, to practice 100 percent and after that we will see what happens. The coach will make his decision."
Analysis: We like Bargnani's attitude going into the season, but we don't think he'll have a problem cracking the starting five. He did a good job in his rookie season of proving he belongs in this league, shedding comparisons to draft bust Darko Milicic, and is a player that should begin to flourish in his second NBA campaign. We like him as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Portland guard Brandon Roy, the NBA Rookie of the Year, was a unanimous choice Tuesday for the league's all-rookie team. Roy led the first team with 58 points, followed by Toronto's Andrea Bargnani (57), Minnesota's Randy Foye (48), Memphis' Rudy Gay (39) and Toronto's Jorge Garbajosa (37) and Portland's LaMarcus Aldridge (37) in voting by the league's head coaches.
Analysis: Roy led all rookies with averages of 16.8 points, 4.0 assists and 35.4 minutes in 57 games. He scored at least 20 points 16 times, despite a heel problem that caused him to miss 20 games early in the season. Bargnani, the first pick in the 2006 draft, was third among rookies with 11.6 points a game. Foye averaged 10.1 points and 2.7 rebounds in 82 games with the Timberwolves, while Garbajosa finished fifth among rookies in rebounding. Aldridge led all rookies in blocks (1.16 a game), had six double-doubles and was fourth in rebounding.
News: Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani (sinus, appendectomy) was back on the floor for the team's season finale Wednesday vs. Philadelphia. He scored 17 points, brought down five boards, dished out two assists, blocked a shot and recorded a steal in the game.
Analysis: Bargnani looks like he'll be just fine for the opening round playoff series vs. the New Jersey Nets. In his rookie season, he averaged 11.6 ppg and 3.9 rpg, but really started to come on strong prior to his appendectomy. He has shed the Darko Milicic comparisons and will be a star in this league. His biggest impact won't be felt for another couple of seasons, but he is a must-own in keeper leagues and will be drafted in all leagues next season.
News: Forward Andrea Bargnani sat out another game on Sunday, his 13th straight. He missed 11 after having his appendix removed and has sat out the last two with a sinus infection. He's expected to play Tuesday in Detroit.
Analysis: It's likely too late for Bargnani to help anyone at this stage of the Fantasy season, but he should be a safe start in daily leagues soon. He's a must-own in keeper leagues and will be selected in the middle rounds on Draft Day next season.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani (sinus) was unable to play Sunday vs. New York. He remains day to day. He is expected to play in at least one game next week as the Raptors gear up for the playoffs.
Analysis: It's likely too late for Bargnani to help anyone at this stage of the Fantasy season, but he should be a safe start in daily leagues soon. He's a must-own in keeper leagues and will be selected in the middle rounds on Draft Day next season.
News: The return of rookie forward Andrea Bargnani has been delayed until at least Sunday. The 7-footer missed 11 games after having his appendix removed and sat out Friday with a sinus infection.
Analysis: It's likely too late for Bargnani to help anyone at this stage of the Fantasy season, but he should be a safe start in daily leagues soon. He's a must-own in keeper leagues and will be selected in the middle rounds on Draft Day next season.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani (appendectomy) is close to playing, according to the Toronto Sun, but is dealing with a case of the flu that may very well keep him out of Friday's game vs. Detroit.
Analysis: It's likely too late for Bargnani to help anyone at this stage of the Fantasy season, but he should be a safe start in daily leagues at some point this weekend. He's a must-own in keeper leagues and will be selected in the middle rounds on Draft Day.
News: Raptors rookie forward Andrea Bargnani, still recovering from a late-March appendectomy, is expected to practice Wednesday and Thursday and be back in action Friday when Toronto hosts Detroit. The 7-footer will have missed 11 games because of the surgery.
Analysis: Keep Bargnani reserved until he proves healthy enough to play. He should make a full recovery for next season and is a good option in keeper leagues.
News: Raptors rookie forward Andrea Bargnani, who had an emergency appendectomy two weeks ago, could be cleared to take part in full-contact scrimmages Thursday when he sees his doctor again. There is a thought the 7-footer will return to action next week.
Analysis: This is good news for Fantasy owners who are still counting on Bargnani in the playoffs. Keep him reserved for now and hope for a quick return.
News: Key backup and promising rookie Andrea Bargnani had an emergency appendectomy and will be lost to the team for a significant amount of the remainder of the regular season. The 21-year-old fell ill Tuesday after practice and had the operation in the early morning hours of Wednesday.
Analysis: Team officials can't say how long he'll be out -- a typical recovery period is three weeks to a month -- and the Raptors will have to find some way to replace the 11 points and four rebounds the 7-footer provided each game. Celtics F Al Jefferson missed seven games earlier this season after undergoing an appendectomy of his own, but that was truly remarkable. At this point, consider Bargnani out for the rest of the Fantasy season. Bargnani was playing a lot of small forward lately, putting the onus on the inconsistent Joey Graham and slumping Morris Peterson to pick up some of the slack.
News: Toronto Raptors forward Andrea Bargnani had an appendectomy on Wednesday, and is expected to be released from a hospital in the next few days. No timetable was set for the return to the court of Bargnani, the No. 1 pick in the draft, who is averaging 11.5 points and 3.9 rebounds off the bench for Toronto.
Analysis: Keep Bargnani reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he is given clearance to play. Bargnani and Portland's Brandon Roy are considered the top candidates for rookie of the year. The Italian is coming off Eastern Conference rookie of the month honors for February, when he averaged 13.5 points on 50 percent shooting to help Toronto surge to the top of the Atlantic Division.
News: Raptors rookie forward Andrea Bargnani is easily the best long-range shooting big man in the league. Among 7-footers, Bargnani, with 99 three-pointers made, is more than 40 ahead of Dallas's Dirk Nowitzki.
Analysis: Bargnani is playing well this year for a rookie and should be used as a No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Bargnani returned after missing Saturday's game to be with his ailing grandfather in Italy. He finished with nine points and two boards in 23 minutes off of the bench.
Analysis: It appears safe to get Bargnani back into the active Fantasy lineup in all larger leagues which allow daily transactions.
News: According to the Toronto Sun, Raptors F Andrea Bargnani could be back as soon as Tuesday, when the Raptors play in Washington. He left for Italy on Saturday morning to be with his ailing grandfather. Both GM Bryan Colangelo and Mitchell have left Bargnani's return date up to their prized rookie.
Analysis: They have made it clear that it will be his decision when he comes back. There is no guarantee he'll be back at all this week, though, so Fantasy GMs should consider alternatives if at all possible.
News: Toronto played without rookie forward Andrea Bargnani on Saturday against the Cavs. The No. 1 overall selection in last year's draft flew back to Italy to be with his ailing grandfather. The club is hoping to have him for Tuesday's game at Washington.
Analysis: Raptors coach Sam Mitchell said the club will give Bargnani as much time as he needs to tend to personal matters. "There is a life after basketball, family," he said. "He's part of our basketball family but he has his immediate family to take care of. I know Andrea will get back as soon as he can." The forward posted averages of 14.3 points, 3.9 rebounds and 28.7 minutes in helping the Raptors go 9-3 in February. For the season, he is averaging 11.1 points and 3.7 rebounds. Consider him a decent option in larger leagues and a must-own in all keeper formats. Keep him reserved in Fantasy leagues until he makes his return.
News: Toronto Raptors rookie Andrea Bargnani, expected to miss two games due to an illness in his family, will play in Friday against Minnesota after all. Bargnani was unable to get a flight home to Italy because of bad weather in Toronto. A team spokesman says he's now scheduled to fly home Saturday.
Analysis: Bargnani was named the Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month for the second consecutive month on Thursday. He will now miss a game in Cleveland on Saturday but is still expected back Tuesday for a game at the Washington Wizards. The forward posted averages of 14.3 points, 3.9 rebounds and 28.7 minutes in helping the Raptors go 9-3 in February. For the season, he is averaging 11.1 points and 3.7 rebounds. Consider him a decent option in larger leagues and a must-own in all keeper formats.
News: Andrea Bargnani scored 20 points, and the Toronto Raptors used a torrid shooting first half to build a 20-point lead and beat the Houston Rockets 106-90 on Wednesday night. Bargnani has had more than 20 points twice in the last seven games.
Analysis: Bargnani has slightly increased his scoring and rebounding averages since the All-Star break to 10.9 ppg and 3.8 rpg. Consider him a decent option in larger leagues and a must-own in all keeper formats.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani had 18 points, seven rebounds and two assists in a loss to the Cavs Wednesday. Bargnani has scored in double-figures for six straight games.
Analysis: The No. 1 overall pick in last summer's draft has been able to put up a very solid first half, averaging 10.6 ppg and 3.5 rpg. Consider him a decent option in larger leagues and a must-own in all keeper formats.
News: Raptors rookie F Andrea Bargnani scored 12 points off 5-for-11 shooting Friday night in Las Vegas during the NBA Rookie Challenge game.
Analysis: The No. 1 overall pick in last summer's draft has been able to put up a very solid first half, averaging 10.6 ppg and 3.5 rpg. Consider him a decent option in larger leagues and a must-own in all keeper formats.
News: Raptors rookie 7-foot forward Andrea Bargnani sure knows how to stretch defenses. In his last four games, he's shooting better than 50 percent (14-for-27) from long range.
Analysis: Consider Bargnani a No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Raptors rookie forward-center Andrea Bargnani showed all the facets of his game against Chicago, hitting three of four three-pointers in the first half, when he piled up a season-high 17 points in the half. He also had a driving finger roll and a dunk, two plays he wouldn't have had the confidence to make in the first three months of the season.
Analysis: Bargnani finished with 22 points and three rebounds. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy forward.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani had 11 points, three rebounds and one assist in a win over the Magic Wednesday.
Analysis: Bargnani hasn't played all that well in six games since returning to the lineup (illness). Continue to use him as a low-end Fantasy option in this his rookie season, but his upside remains high.
News: No. 1 draft pick Andrea Bargnani of Toronto will lead the rookie team trying to snap a four-game losing streak against the sophomores in the Rookie Challenge & Youth Jam at All-Star weekend.
Analysis: Bargnani has been awful the last two games since returning to the lineup (illness). However, he has played well in spurts this season, good enough to average 10.1 points per game. When healthy, Bargnani is a low-end Fantasy forward/center.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani (illness) returned to the team's lineup on Friday against the Celtics. He had seven points, three rebounds and three assists in 20 minutes off the bench.
Analysis: It appears safe to insert Bargnani back into active Fantasy lineups. When healthy, Bargnani is a low-end Fantasy forward/center.
News: The Raptors improved to 3-1 on their five-game homestand with a win over the Hornets on Wednesday. Toronto won despite missing starting point guard T.J. Ford and No. 1 pick Andrea Bargnani. Bargnani, the No. 1 pick in the draft, missed the game because of a fever.
Analysis: Bargnani is listed as day-to-day and could be back for Friday's game against the Celtics. It is best to reserve him in all Fantasy leagues until he is cleared to return. When healthy, Bargnani is a low-end Fantasy forward/center.
News: Raptors rookie F/C Andrea Bargnani is getting much more comfortable with the NBA three-point line. The 7-footer is 24-for-53 from outside in 10 January games, and he was 27-for-91 in the first 31 games of the season.
Analysis: Even with his three-point prowess, Bargnani should only be used in deep Fantasy leagues at this point.
News: Raptors rookie forward-center Andrea Bargnani had a three-pointer in Monday's game, giving him 46 on the season. According to official league measurements, he has the most three-pointers among 7-footers. Dallas's Dirk Nowitzki is second and Sacramento's Brad Miller is third.
Analysis: Bargnani had just five points and five rebounds on Monday, but has been playing particularly well off the bench. The No. 1 overall pick in last summer's NBA Draft is worth using as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward in leagues of 12-plus teams at this time. If you intend to use him as a center, he is consider a No. 2 option.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani scored 12 points in Sunday's loss to Dallas. He played just over 32 minutes off the bench and finished 4-for-10 from the floor.
Analysis: Bargnani is seeing heavy minutes now and has been able to put together some solid lines. The No. 1 overall pick in last summer's NBA Draft is worth using as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward in leagues of 12-plus teams at this time.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani scored 10 points coming off the bench Friday against the Celtics. He also had seven rebounds and three assists.
Analysis: Since the start of December, Bargnani has looked more and more like the No. 1 pick in the draft. Sooner or later, he might replace Jorge Garbajosa as the team's starting power forward. For now though, he remains a decent low-end Fantasy forward/center.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani scored 11 points off 4-for-8 shooting off the bench Sunday vs. Washington. He added three boards, two assists and two blocks.
Analysis: An outing like this can be very useful to owners in deeper Rotisserie formats, especially in leagues in which he's eligible at center. He is a must-own in keeper formats, but can already be of some use in larger leagues as a stopgap option.
News: Andrea Bargnani made just his second start of the season Friday and his first since Dec. 10. He finished with 12 points against the Hawks.
Analysis: Bargnani is still evolving in only his first NBA season, but has put aside much of the Darko Milicic comparisons that came about when he was taken first overall in the NBA draft this summer. He is a must-own in keeper formats, but can already be of some use in larger leagues as a stopgap option.
News: Raptors rookie forward-center Andrea Bargnani was a hero a week ago with a game-winning basket at the overtime buzzer against Portland. It's been downhill since then, though. In four games since he's just 12-for-40 from the field.
Analysis: Bargnani is still evolving in only his first NBA season, but has put aside much of the Darko Milicic comparisons that came about when he was taken first overall in the NBA draft this summer. He is a must-own in keeper formats, but can already be of some use in larger leagues as a stopgap option while Chris Bosh (knee) sits out.
News: Rookie Raptors F/C Andrea Bargnani is red-hot from the free throw line. In his first nine games in the league, he made just six of 11 foul shots; since he became a regular part of the rotation, he's shooting at an 86 percent clip.
Analysis: Bargnani is still evolving in only his first NBA season, but has put aside much of the Darko Milicic comparisons that came about when he was taken first overall in the NBA draft this summer. He is a must-own in keeper formats, but can already be of some use in larger leagues as a stopgap option while Chris Bosh (knee) sits out.
News: T.J. Ford scored Toronto's first nine points in overtime and he knew the right time to pass the ball, too. Ford drove into the lane and found Andrea Bargnani in the corner for the go-ahead basket in the Raptors' 101-100 win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night. Bargnani finished with 11 points and two rebounds.
Analysis: Bargnani, the top pick in the NBA draft, is averaging 15 points over his last four games. He has benefited from the absence of Chris Bosh. He is only owned in 69 percent of leagues at this time, but is someone worth picking up. Consider him a No. 4 Fantasy forward in leagues of 12 teams or more.
News: Rookie forward/center Andrea Bargnani had 18 points and 10 rebounds Sunday against the Warriors for his first career double-double.
Analysis: It should be the first of many double-doubles for the top overall pick in this summer's draft. He's picked up his game of late with Chris Bosh (knee) out of the lineup and warrants a start in leagues of 10-plus teams as a No. 4 Fantasy forward option.
News: Raptors rookie F Andrea Bargnani, who made a season-high five three-pointers in Wednesday's win in Orlando, missed all three long-range shots he attempted on Friday vs. New Jersey. He scored only six points in 20 minutes of play.
Analysis: Despite the slow game, Bargnani has really come on of late with fellow forward Chris Bosh away. Bosh could be out for a couple of weeks and Bargnani is worth using in leagues of 12-plus teams as a stopgap option in the meantime.
News: Andrea Bargnani showed the Orlando Magic exactly why the Toronto Raptors selected him first overall in the NBA draft. The Italian rookie hit five 3-pointers, scored 23 points and had six rebounds to lead the Raptors to a convincing 91-84 victory over the Eastern Conference-leading Magic on Wednesday night. Bargnani came into the game shooting 27.9 percent from 3-point range, but was 4-for-4 in the fourth quarter and finished 5-of-8.
Analysis: Bargnani hit three straight 3-pointers to start the fourth period and give the Raptors their biggest lead of the second half, 74-64. The Magic went on an 8-2 run to cut the deficit to 76-72 with 5:53 left in the game, but Bargnani killed the comeback with another 3-pointer, this one from two steps behind the line. Bargnani has been playing better as of late, upping his ppg total to 8.2. Consider picking him up in Fantasy leagues and storing him away on your bench.
News: With Toronto's Chris Bosh (knee) and Zach Randolph out of their teams' respective lineups, it offered fans a matchup of No. 1 pick Andrew Bargnani versus No. 2 pick LaMarcus Aldridge Sunday in Toronto. The two young big men started the game matched up on each other, but the potential showdown fizzled, partially because each was saddled with foul problems. Bargnani was 3-for-9 shooting and collected eight points and four boards in 27 minutes. Aldridge was 1-for-6 from the field and had three points and three rebounds in 19 minutes.
Analysis: Both players are mainly long-term Fantasy options, but have become useful in larger leagues as potential No. 4 forwards because they are getting regular playing time.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani, the No. 1 pick in the draft, replaced the injured Chris Bosh in the starting lineup on Sunday against the Trail Blazers and had eight points and three rebounds in his first start.
Analysis: Bargnani will likely get a few more starts this week because Bosh isn't expected back until Friday. Consider Bargnani a possible one-week Fantasy replacement for Bosh. His best Fantasy value still remains in keeper leagues.
News: Rookie forward Andrea Bargnani was inactive for Toronto's game at Chicago on Friday night because of a sore back that has been bothering him the past few days.
Analysis: The top pick in the draft, Bargnani is averaging 8.2 points and 2.7 rebounds. Coach Sam Mitchell said the back started bothering him before Wednesday's 95-91 loss at Cleveland - a game in which Bargnani scored 14. The Raptors' next game is Sunday at home against Portland. Consider him questionable for that game.
News: Rookie Andrea Bargnani is not going to turn into "Pistol" Pete Maravich anytime soon, but after having no assists in his first 10 games, he's now got nine in his last eight.
Analysis: Bargnani, the top overall pick in this year's draft, has put together a couple of solid lines and should begin to draw some attention in leagues of 10-plus teams.He's already worth starting in leagues of 12-plus teams and is a must-own in keeper formats.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani scored 12 points with five rebounds Wednesday at Dallas. He logged 31 minutes off the bench.
Analysis: Bargnani, the top overall pick in this year's draft, has put together a couple of solid lines and should begin to draw some attention in leagues of 10-plus teams.He's already worth starting in leagues of 12-plus teams and is a must-own in keeper formats.
News: Forward-center Andrea Bargnani, who is improving with every game, had nine points against Atlanta, giving him 32 in his last three games after he scored only 37 in his first eight.
Analysis: Bargnani, the top overall pick in this year's draft, has put together a couple of solid lines and should begin to draw some attention in leagues of 12-plus teams. He's already a must-own in keeper formats.
News: Andrea Bargnani, the No. 1 pick in the 2006 draft, had the best game of his brief career with 15 points against Utah Monday.
Analysis: Bargnani is going to become more involved at some point, and playing 27 minutes Monday was certainly a step in that direction. Consider him mainly in keeper formats and reserve him until further notice.
News: Rookie center-power forward Andrea Bargnani, the first overall pick in the 2006 draft, played just 10 minutes on Friday, getting as many fouls (four) as points.
Analysis: Bargnani is going to become more involved at some point, but that hasn't happened yet. Consider him mainly in keeper formats and reserve him until further notice.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani did not score any points in six minutes of action Wednesday vs. Philadelphia.
Analysis: Through four games, the top overall pick in this year's draft is averaging just 3.5 ppg and 2.3 rpg. He is going to become more involved at some point, but that hasn't happened yet. Consider him mainly in keeper formats and reserve him until further notice.
News: Raptors F Andrea Bargnani scored just two points in his NBA debut Wednesday at New Jersey.
Analysis: He added two rebounds and picked up three fouls in just eight minutes of action. He's still far from contributing regularly and should be considered mainly in keeper leagues.
News: Out at the top of the 3-point arc, Andrea Bargnani grabbed a loose ball and immediately rose to take his first shot as an NBA player. Not a shred of hesitation. The ball went in, part of the top overall draft pick's eight points and four rebounds in 13½ minutes in the Toronto Raptors' 93-88 exhibition victory over the Washington Wizards on Monday night. The 7-foot, 250-pound Italian -- the first European ever taken No. 1 -- entered as a substitute about 5½ minutes into the game and also showed some rough edges: He picked up three personal fouls within four minutes. "I need to improve the same things I did in Italy. It's not a whole new world. It's still basketball," Bargnani said. "If I don't do well on defense, I won't be on the floor."
Analysis: Bargnani (Bar-NYAH-nee) finished 3-of-6 from the field, including 2-for-2 on 3's. He finished with five fouls. He has drawn comparisons to Dallas Mavericks All-Star Dirk Nowitzki because of his height and outside touch: He made 37 percent of his 3-point tries in Italy. As a forward, he's a player to target in the middle rounds of most drafts. Remember that Dirk only averaged 8.19 ppg, 3.45 rpg and 1.00 apg in his rookie season. We think Bargnani improves on that, but it's his 3-piont shooting that will likely help your Fantasy squad the most.
News: Andrea Bargnani, the No. 1 pick overall by the Toronto Raptors, scored 20 points on 6-of-11 shooting. He was also 2-of-5 from behind the arc. He also added four boards and two blocks in 30 minutes.
Analysis: Bargnani was impressive in the team's summer league opener, but this is also just against some veterans, rookie and fringe players looking for work at the end of a bench. It remains to be seen how he'll perform against the big boys, but this is a positive start.
News: Rookie Andrea Bargnani signed a two-year contract with the Toronto Raptors. The team also holds an option for the next two years of his deal.
Analysis: Bargnani, the No. 1 pick overall in last Wednesday's NBA Draft, is a perimeter specialist who has been likened to a Pau Gasol. He is a good athlete who is a smart player, but he is not a big-time rebounder or defender. He will have marginal Fantasy appeal in 2006-07, but don't expect big things right off the bat from the Italian import.
News: The Toronto Raptors have selected Andrea Bargnani with the No. 1 pick overall in Wednesday's NBA Draft. He will join Rafael Araujo, Chris Bosh, newly-acquired Rasho Nesterovic and Charlie Villanueva along the front lines for the Raptors. He is the first European player to be taken No. 1 overall and the first foreign-born player since Houston selected Yao Ming back in 2002.
Analysis: The 20-year-old perimeter specialist has been likened to a Pau Gasol. He is a good athlete who is a smart player, but he is not a big-time rebounder or defender. He will have marginal Fantasy appeal in 2006-07, but don't expect big things right off the bat from the Italian import.
