Height/Weight: 6-6/210
| Birthdate: 7/7/1985
| Birthplace: Kansas City, MO
| Team: Golden State Warriors
| College: Kansas
| NBA Experience: 4
| Owned/Started%: 2/0 | Average Draft Position: 155.48
News: Golden State forward Brandon Rush (knee) expects to begin running and some light jumping in approximately three weeks, reports the San Francisco Chronicle Sunday. Rush has been off crutches for nearly a month and his rehab is progressing well at this point.
Analysis: Rush should be ready to go by training camp next season. That said, we don't really expect him to have a whole lot of Fantasy appeal.
News: CBSSports.com NBA Insider Ken Berger reports Brandon Rush's agent, Mark Bartelstein, said his client had successful surgery on his left knee Wednesday. Rush has been sidelined since tearing two ligaments in his knee Nov. 3. Bartelstein said Rush is expected to make a full recovery. Rush's surgeon wanted him to regain full range of motion before he proceeded with the ACL repair.
Analysis: Rush played just two games this season before messing up his knee. He will not play again until next season. Even if Rush managed to stay healthy, he probably would have had low-end Fantasy appeal. Don't hold onto him in any Fantasy format.
News: It's been more than two months since Warriors forward Brandon Rush suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during a game against Memphis that would require surgery. He's still waiting on the procedure. Rush's doctor has delayed the operation until the 27-year-old regains full range of motion in the knee, CSN Bay Area reports. He has shown recovery in his damaged MCL, but is still not expected to play again this season.
Analysis: Rush's doctor indicated he could be ready for surgery in the next week or two as he is facing a long rehab once the procedure is finished. It's the second time Rush has had surgery for a torn ligament in his knee, as he was affected by a right knee injury in college. Rush was hoping to be ready for the start of training camp, but that could be delayed with the postponement of his surgery. He should still be ignored in all Fantasy formats.
News: Warriors guard Brandon Rush spoke to reporters for the first time Wednesday, providing some insight into the recovery process from his torn MCL and ACL in his left knee. Rush has been unable to take part in any strength exercises, as he has to wait until the swelling goes down in the knee before surgery can take place. He expects that to happen sometime in the next week or two. “Friday will be three weeks,” he told the Contra Costa Times. “They’re saying at the beginning of December, I should be ready for surgery.”
Analysis: This is the second time Rush has undergone surgery for torn ligaments in his knee, as he dealt with this in his right knee during college. He said he is hoping to be ready for the start of training camp next summer, though he might be a free agent at that time, as he has a $4 million option. “I was not looking that far ahead but I was just trying to play the season out first,” he said. “If we were going to win and make it to the playoffs, that was going to help out a lot during free agency next year — if I was to decline the (player) option.” It sounds like Rush is planning on returning to the Warriors, but not until next season. He should be dropped in all Fantasy formats as he gets ready fro surgery.
News: Warriors guard Brandon Rush’s agent told the San Francisco Chronicle Saturday that Rush has been diagnosed with a torn ACL in his left knee, and will need surgery to repair the damage. Rush is likely done for the season. “It’s devastating, but we’ll put a plan together with the Warriors’ medical team, and we’ll get him back to 100 percent,” Mark Bartelstein told the Chronicle. “He’s crushed, as you would expect, but he’s a hard worker, and we’re going to get this right.” The standard recovery time for this injury is nine to 12 months.
Analysis: Rush previously tore the ACL in his right knee back when he was a sophomore in college, so this is something he unfortunately has experience with. He was coming off his finest season as a professional, and was looking to improve further his game. This will likely knock Rush out until at least next summer, depending on how his recovery goes. Rush had low-end Fantasy value before the injury, but he should be dropped in all Fantasy formats at this point.
News: Warriors forward Brandon Rush took an awkward fall after being fouled on a dunk attempt during the first half of Friday’s game against the Grizzlies. He immediately grabbed his left knee upon hitting the floor, and had to be carried off the court and into the locker room. The team announced that he would not return to the game, and will undergo an MRI Saturday to determine the full extent of the injury. Rush played just two minutes in the game.
Analysis: Rush is a strong scorer off the bench, averaging 9.8 points per game last season. He might have been in line for an even better season this year, but now it looks like that might not be the case. We will see what the MRI reveals, but this looked like it had the potential to be an extremely serious injury. Rush has solid low-end Fantast value in deeper formats, when healthy.
News: Warriors coach Mark Jackson on Monday named rookie Harrison Barnes the team's starting small forward to open the season after he edged Brandon Rush for the position. Barnes, the seventh overall pick in the previous NBA draft, averaged 10.4 points during the preseason while connecting on 49.2 percent of his attempts from the field. "Harrison Barnes will be my starting small forward," Jackson said. "Well deserved."
Analysis: Jackson did not elaborate much on the decision to start Barnes, but Rush's lackluster preseason could be the culprit. The 27-year-old, who is entering his second season with the Warriors, posted only 8.2 points per game despite a sizzling 48.0 field-goal percentage. He could still come close to playing 25 minutes again this year and should still be viewed as a decent reserve option in deeper Fantasy formats for now.
News: Free agent forward Brandon Rush re-signed with the Warriors in the offseason, opting to return to the team he spent the 2010-11 season with. Rush will likely remain in a similar role to last season, with the expectation that he will come off the bench behind Klay Thompson at shooting guard.
Analysis: Rush has the size and skillset to play both wing positions, so the Warriors know they can get him his minutes even with a somewhat crowded rotation. Rush averaged a career high 9.8 points per game last season, largely on the strength of 50.1 percent shooting from the field and a 45.2 percent mark from three-point range. The fifth-year veteran has been pretty consistent over the last few years, so you know what you are going to get from him. He is more of a reserve option, but his three-point shooting makes him a decent low-end starter in some Rotisserie formats, so target him in the later rounds on Draft Day in all formats.
News: Golden State guard Brandon Rush came off the bench for a solid performance on Tuesday night in a loss to the Lakers. Rush shot 9 of 15 from the field with two 3-pointers over 32 minutes to score 23 points. He tied for the team lead in scoring with David Lee. Rush grabbed three rebounds and chipped in with two blocks and an assist.
Analysis: Rush is seeing a nice little boost in playing time with Monta Ellis gone and Stephen Curry and Nate Robinson still hurting. Rush is scoring 13.8 points per game over his last five contests and he's hitting two 3-pointers per night over that span. Rush has also proven he can rebound for a guard and he's actually blocking a bunch of shots lately as well. Fantasy owners might want to take advantage of this little burst before Robinson and Curry return.
News: Warriors guard Brandon Rush had his best game in over a week on Wednesday, scoring 16 points on 6 of 10 shooting as the Warriors defeated the Hornets, 101-92. Rush did most of his damage from long range, hitting four three-pointers, while also adding two rebounds, two blocks and a steal in the game while playing 30 minutes.
Analysis: Rush has seen his role on the team increase over the month of March, as he is averaging 28.3 minutes per game, a season-high. However he is still averaging just 8.1 points and 5.1 rebounds per game in the month, as his three-point shooting is down to 32.5 percent. Rush has emerged as a useful low-end option in deeper leagues, however he is not consistent enough to be anything more than that.
News: Warriors guard Brandon Rush was able to find his scoring touch during Tuesday night's contest against the Kings. Rush finished with 17 points in the 115-89 win, on 6 of 10 shooting from the field. He went 5 for 9 from downtown and also added eight rebounds and one block to his stat line, while logging 24 minutes off the bench.
Analysis: Rush continues to see a bigger role with Stephen Curry sidelined and that could continue now that Monta Ellis is gone. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on the 26-year-old's minutes moving forward. He is shooting 56 percent from behind the arc on the season, so more minutes could lead to a major boost in production. In the meantime, continue to view Rush as a low-end option in deeper formats.
News: Warriors forward Brandon Rush had his worst three-point shooting game of the season on Friday against the 76ers, as he attempted six shots from long range and made just one as the Warriors lost, 105-83. Rush made just one shot otherwise to finish the game 2 of 9 from the field for seven points. He also added four rebounds, an assist and a block in the game while playing 33 minutes.
Analysis: With Stephen Curry out, Rush has seen a bigger role for the Warriors since the All-Star break, however he isn’t really taking advantage of it. He is shooting just 37.5 percent from the field and 25.5 percent from three-point range to average 7.7 points per game despite receiving a bump up to 32.3 minutes per game in that stretch. Rush has only been valuable this season in deeper category-based leagues because of his three-point shooting, however with his current struggles, Fantasy owners should leave him inactive in all formats despite the increase in playing time.
News: Warriors guard Brandon Rush continued his sharp 3-point shooting during Saturday night's contest against the Grizzlies. Rush made both of his attempts from downtown in the 104-103 defeat, en route to finishing with eight points. He finished with 3 for 7 from the field and also chipped in with four rebounds, two blocks, one steal and an assist, while logging 27 minutes off the bench.
Analysis: Rush continues to shoot lights out from downtown and his 52.6 shooting percentage from behind the arc currently ranks second in the league. However, Rush isn't a huge contributor in other areas of the box score, which continues to limit his value. As long as he is stuck behind Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis in the rotation, these are the types of stats Fantasy owners will likely be accustomed to seeing. Only owners in deeper Rotisserie formats should consider rolling with Rush heading into Fantasy Week 9 (Feb. 20-26).
News: Warriors G Brandon Rush has had his share of ups and downs in his first season in Golden State, and after a season-high 20 points 10 days ago, he has failed to return to double-digits in four games since. On Thursday against the Nuggets he was able to score just five points on 2 of 6 shooting in 21 minutes while adding just three rebounds, an assist and a steal.
Analysis: Consistent minutes haven’t been Rush’s problem, as he has played more than 20 minutes in three of the last five games and is averaging almost 25 minutes per game. The problem has been an inconsistent place in the offense, as the Warriors feature a bevy of ball-dominant guards who struggle to get their teammates involved. Rush is putting up 9.3 points per game 50.7 shooting from the field and 56.9 from three-point range, making him just a low-end option for Fantasy owners unless he finds a more consistent role.
News: Warriors forward Brandon Rush scored a season-high 20 points against the Kings on Tuesday night, helping his team to a 93-90 win. Rush made 6 of his 10 shots from the field, knocking down four 3-pointers. He also converted all four of his foul shots. Rush saw 25 minutes on the court for the Warriors, even some quality minutes late in the game. He also chipped in two assists and six boards.
Analysis: Rush continues to provide a spark off the bench for the Warriors as the second unit has been getting plenty of action. Over the last five games Rush is averaging 11.4 points, 5.0 boards and 1.4 assists per outing. He's shooting at a stellar 61.3 percent from the floor over that span, as well as 80 percent from downtown. While he is playing well for the Warriors, Rush is still more of a low-end option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Golden State F Brandon Rush had 10 points and four rebounds during the Warriors' 91-90 loss to Memphis on Monday night. Rush paced Golden State's reserves as he connected on 4 of 6 shot attempts, including 2 of 3 from beyond the 3-point arc, during 25 minutes of playing time.
Analysis: Rush rebounded from a pair of lowly scoring performances and topped double-digits in points for the first time in three games. He remains a strong producer from long distance and has drained at least one trey in each of his past seven outings and has gone 13 for 21 during that span (61.9 percent). His scoring chances could dip with Stephen Curry's return to the lineup, but he remains a useful reserve option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Golden State SF Brandon Rush had a very solid game on Tuesday in a win at Cleveland. Rush came off the bench for 23 minutes as he scored 14 points for the Warriors in the win. Rush went 6 of 11 from the field and went 2 for 3 from 3-point range. He added five rebounds and two assists.
Analysis: Rush has gone 11 for 19 from the field in his last two games over 22 minutes per night. He's picking up his scoring right now with Stephen Curry still missing time. Unfortunately, Curry is on his way back and Rush's value might not get any higher than it is right now. He's only worth using in the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Warriors F Brandon Rush got his first start with his new team on Thursday as Dorrell Wright sat with a knee contusion. In a 117-109 loss, Rush scored 12 points on four-of-eight shooting, making three of his six three-point attempts in the game and adding four rebounds and three assists. He will likely get one more start with Wright likely sitting Saturday at Charlotte, but he’ll probably go back to the bench whenever Wright comes back.
Analysis: Rush continues to frustrate with his inconsistency, and he is averaging just 8.9 points per game this season. We hoped that getting a change of scenery this season would help him find his considerable talent, but Rush continues to underperform. If he could earn a starting role and consistent minutes, he might be a useful Fantasy player, but at this point, he can’t be relied on in any Fantasy format.
News: After three frustrating seasons with the Pacers, Warriors G Brandon Rush seems to have found a place of comfort in Golden State, as he is averaging 12 points per game on 48 percent shooting through three games. In his most recent contest, a 92-78 win over the Knicks on Wednesday, Rush scored 19 points on seven-of-13 shooting from the field while adding six rebounds, two blocks, and two steals in 26 minutes.
Analysis: Rush is a former lottery pick who was never able to get over the hump in three seasons in Indiana. He scored 9.1 points-per game last season, but has found a role he is comfortable with in Golden State. Coming off the bench, he is shooting five-of-eight from three on the year. There’s a long line of wings moving to Golden State and thriving in their open offense, including Rush’s teammate Dorrell Wright. Rush is a very talented player who looks to be one of the Warriors main weapons off the bench. Consider him a low-end Fantasy forward with his new team.
News: The Golden State Warriors have completed a trade sending forward Lou Amundson to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for guard Brandon Rush. The teams announced the trade Monday.
Analysis: Rush averaged 8.9 points and 3.6 rebounds in three seasons for the Pacers. Indiana considered him a part of the core group of young players, but the team eventually added enough talent at his position to make him expendable. Golden State is a good fit for Rush, who has become a very good 3-point shooter, hitting .411 and .417 on threes over the last two seasons. The Warriors attempted the sixth-most 3-pointers in the NBA last season and play a high-tempo style that would give Rush plenty of opportunities to score. He likely will be a reserve on Golden State, but it would still help his value. He’s not worth taking on Draft Day, but he could be considered a Fantasy sleeper at this point.
News: The Warriors are in the process of acquiring G Brandon Rush from Indiana, according to a report in the Contra Costa Times. The Pacers would receive Lou Amundson in the reported deal, though it is not official yet. The Pacers have been trying to trade him in recent weeks, after he came under fire following the posting of homophobic slurs on his twitter account, which he says was the work of hackers.
Analysis: Rush, the 13th pick in the 2008 NBA Draft, has failed to progress as the Pacers had hoped. After scoring 8.1 points per game as a rookie, he has leveled off at 9.4 and 9.1 in his last two games, while his shooting percentage has remained almost static. However, Golden State could be a good fit for Rush, who has become a very good three-point shooter, hitting .411 and .417 on threes over the last two seasons. The Warriors attempted the sixth-most three pointers in the NBA last season and play a high-tempo style that would give Rush plenty of opportunities to score. He would likely be a reserve on Golden State, but it would still help his value. He’s not worth selecting on Draft Day, but he could be considered a Fantasy sleeper if he finds a spot in the Warriors rotation.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that Pacers forward Brandon Rush is a candidate to be traded this offseason. Team president Larry Bird said Rush has not lived up to expectations. "He's so inconsistent," Bird said. "I hate to see him turn into a role player. All the skills he's got, but he's not consistent."
Analysis: This past season Rush averaged 9.1 points, 3.2 rebounds and made 93 3-pointers. As Bird said, Rush has potential to play well, but it likely won't happen with the Pacers since Indiana has Danny Granger and the developing Paul George ahead of him. Keep an eye on what happens with Rush this offseason, and if he is dealt he could have improved value, but a return to the Pacers would likely limit his value again in 2011-12.
News: Pacers swingman Brandon Rush scored 11 points with eight rebounds in Sunday's overtime loss to the Suns. He shot just 3 of 9 from the field, however and is just 11 of 28 (39.3 percent) from the field over his last five games.
Analysis: Rush is getting a chance at a boost in playing time with Mike Dunleavy sidelined through mid-April with an injury. The result has been an average of around 30 minutes over his last three games, but the statistical production just has not been there yet. He is in position to contribute viable numbers for owners looking for a stopgap off the waiver wire for those owners willing to take a chance he will turn things around in a four-game slate with favorable matchups against Golden State, Oklahoma City and Houston in Week 19 (Feb. 28-March 6).
News: Indiana forward Brandon Rush was in the starting lineup and tallied nine points in the Pacers' 102-101 victory over Detroit on Wednesday night. Rush, who was inserted into the starting lineup in place of injured forward Mike Dunleavy, connected on 4 of 8 from the field, including 1 of 2 from 3-point range. Rush logged a team-high 34 minutes and chipped in four rebounds for Indiana, which improved to 5-2 in its last seven games.
Analysis: With Dunleavy out indefinitely with a broken thumb, Rush will start in his place and collect the most playing time. He makes for a decent Fantasy option based in his performances earlier in the season when he averaged 13.7 points per game during the month of December. His playing time has been drastically reduced as he recovers from a sprained ankle he sustained in late January. Rush makes for an adequate injury replacement for Dunleavy owners, but there could be better options on your league's waiver wire.
News: Pacers forward Brandon Rush was inserted back into the starting lineup after it was announced that guard Mike Dunleavy sustained a broken left thumb in Tuesday's game versus the Wizards. Rush finished the unofficial first half averaging a career-high 10.6 points with 3.5 rebounds and one assist in 39 games.
Analysis: Rush missed six games in late January/early February due to a sprained right ankle, but sat out four games after coming back. Interim coach Frank Vogel had said he didn't want to change the rotation once Rush came back from injury and has played just 32 minute since Jan. 23. Now that Dunleavy is sidelined, Rush should see plenty of action. Fantasy owners should view Rush as a low-end option in the deepest of formats, despite getting this opportunity to start. He has to prove his worth before picking him up in Fantasy leagues.
News: Indiana F Brandon Rush had a nice little run with his production this season but he has not seen much playing time lately. He missed six games in late January/early February due to a sprained right ankle, but sat out four games after coming back. Pacers interim coach Frank Vogel did not want to chance the rotation after Rush returned, but he finally got the 25-year-old some action action in the final two games before the All-Star break. Rush finished the unofficial first half averaging a career-high 10.6 points with 3.5 rebounds and one assist in 39 games.
Analysis: Rush looked to be off to the best season of his career but his injury and a change of coaches have slowed him down in the past few weeks. He has played just 32 minute since Jan. 23, and has scored 12 points over that span. He has shown the ability to score on a consistent basis but he will need minutes on the court to have any kind of impact in Fantasy. Keep an eye on how he is used after the All-Star break as his Fantasy value will depend on it. Keep Rush stashed away in deeper formats but if Vogel doesn't change his rotation, he will have very minimal appeal in Fantasy.
News: Pacers guard Brandon Rush did not play in Friday's 116-105 win over the Timberwolves. Rush has missed the last eight games, the first six with a sprained right ankle and the last two because of a coach’s decision. Pacers interim coach Frank Vogel said while Rush is off the injured list and able to return he won’t change the rotation until necessary.
Analysis: Rush is no longer injured, but has yet to get back on the floor. The problem is Indiana is playing very well right now and interim head coach Frank Vogel doesn't want to tweak his rotation. While Rush can be a productive Fantasy option when he sees starter minutes, he won't have much value until he can get back on the court.
News: The Pacers official team website reports that forward Brandon Rush is healthy and should return for Friday's game against Minnesota. "I'm definitely anxious to get back in there," said Rush. "It's looking like a whole different type of team we have now with everybody being involved and everybody getting the chance to have the ball in their hands and make plays." The problem for Rush could be where he plays. The Pacers are set at the wing spots with Danny Granger, Mike Dunleavy, Paul George and Dahntay Jones. Coach Frank Vogel is hesitant to mess with success, as the Pacers have won five of six. "(Rush) will be active tonight. I'm not sure yet if he will play," Vogel said. "I'm probably leaning more toward not rocking the boat. We're playing well. I want to have him available. He could step in and play 30 minutes and we wouldn't skip a beat. We'd improve in some areas. I've got great depth at the wing and he'll be active but I'm not sure yet how I'm going to use him."
Analysis: Rush is the team's fifth-leading scorer (10.9) and is first in 3-point percentage (.417). Rush averaged 14.0 points and 4.6 rebounds in 13 starts but the Pacers went 4-9. Keep an eye on what happens with Rush, but he has minimal Fantasy value even with his return to health.
News: After suiting up and not playing Tuesday, Pacers guard Brandon Rush (ankle) was inactive for Wednesday's game against the Bobcats. He was only available in an emergency situation anyway.
Analysis: Rush is still not ready to return, although he appears to be very close. He has now missed eight games with his ankle injury and according to reports, will get his spot back in the rotation when he does return. Still, Fantasy owners should allow him to prove healthy and productive before activating him in any format. Continue to monitor Rush's progress to see when he will be able to get back on the court.
News: Pacers guard Brandon Rush (ankle) was active for Tuesday's 117-112 loss to the Heat, but did not enter the contest. Interim coach Frank Vogel said Rush is till not 100 percent, but he wanted to have him available if the Pacers got into foul trouble. He is still considered day to day.
Analysis: Rush is still not ready to return, although he appears to be very close. He has now missed seven games with his ankle injury and according to reports, will get his spot back in the rotation when he does return. Still, Fantasy owners should allow him to prove healthy and productive before activating him in any format. Continue to monitor Rush's progress to see when he will be able to get back on the court.
News: Pacers F Brandon Rush (ankle) remained inactive for Sunday's game against New Jersey. The Indianapolis Star had reported that Rush could return as early as Sunday's game against New Jersey. Rush was initially expected to be out two weeks after suffering an ankle sprain last week.
Analysis: The report noted that Rush will get his spot back in the rotation when he does return. Given the fact that he was supposed to be out another full week, it is wise to allow him to prove healthy and productive before activating him in any format. Rush averaged just 8.1 points, 3.4 rebounds and 0.7 assists in January.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that Brandon Rush (ankle) could return as early as Sunday's game against New Jersey. Rush was initially expected to be out two weeks after suffering an ankle sprain last week.
Analysis: The report notes that Rush will get his spot back in the rotation when he does return. Given the fact that he was supposed to be out another full week, it is wise to allow him to prove healthy and productive before activating him in any format. Rush averaged just 8.1 points, 3.4 rebounds and 0.7 assists in January.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that Pacers SF Brandon Rush is expected miss a couple of weeks with an ankle injury sustained Wednesday against the Magic.
Analysis: Rush was on the verge of losing his spot in the rotation recently because of his sporadic play, and now coach Jim O'Brien doesn't have to worry about making that decision. Rush is only worth stashing away in deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: Indiana forward Brandon Rush left Wednesday's game against Orlando with a sprained right ankle. Rush played just six minutes in the game, going 1 for 2 from the field (both shots coming from 3-point land). He would finish the game with three points and one rebound. Coach Jim O'Brien said on Tuesday that rookie Paul George was close to bumping Rush out of the rotation. "The decision that I have to make is when do I move Paul definitely in front of Brandon," O'Brien said. "That's coming if we keep getting sporadic play." George logged more than 25 minutes on Wedesday.
Analysis: This injury could make the decision even easier for O'Brien. It's an up and down year for Rush. Over his last five games he's averaging just 6.0 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.0 assists per outing. Until more is known on the severity of his injury, Rush should be benched in all formats. When healthy, Rush is only an option in deeper Fantasy leagues. Throw in the good chance of him loosing playing time to George, and Rush won't be worth much of anything in any format.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that Pacers SF Brandon Rush's inconsistency could cost him a spot in the rotation. Coach Jim O'Brien said rookie Paul George is close to bumping out Rush. "The decision that I have to make is when do I move Paul definitely in front of Brandon," O'Brien said. "That's coming if we keep getting sporadic play."
Analysis: Rush played 39 minutes on Jan. 17, but saw only 21 minutes on Sunday against the Nuggets and has 16 points over his last three games. With the way the Pacers lineup seems to fluctuate on an almost game-by-game basis, Rush is a very risky start in deeper Fantasy leagues at the moment, and that isn't likely to change.
News: Pacers forward Brandon Rush continues to start over Mike Dunleavy for "defensive purposes" according to coach Jim O'Brien. In the 11 games he's started this year, Rush is averaging 15.0 points, 1.5 assists and 4.5 boards per contest. That's up from his 10.0 points and 3.3 rebounds when he comes off the bench.
Analysis: While Rush is producing much better stats when he starts, it seems like O'Brien will continue to switch Rush and Dunleavy in and out of the lineup based on matchups. While that may work for him, it drives Fantasy owners crazy. Until O'Brien makes a decision on one or the other, both Rush and Dunleavy are only worth using in deeper Fantasy formats as low-end forward options.
News: The Pacers gave Brandon Rush a start on Wednesday in a win over Dallas. It definitely paid off as Indiana took down the Mavericks and Rush helped pace them with 20 points. He shot 7 of 16 from the field and hit two 3-pointers in the performance. Rush added three rebounds in 33 minutes.
Analysis: Rush shows flashes that would make Fantasy owners' mouths water. That said, he could just as easily score in single digits in the next couple games. Rush is inconsistent and will bounce in and out of the starting lineup for the Pacers. Until he becomes a regular, he only has low-end Fantasy value.
News: Pacers F Brandon Rush got the start over Mike Dunleavy at shooting guard against the Mavericks on Wednesday. Rush averages just under 12 points per game coming off the bench.
Analysis: Rush has not been scoring much in recent games, but perhaps the move will spark him into some buckets. Even as a starter, Rush is a marginal Fantasy option in the majority of leagues.
News: Pacers F Brandon Rush had another poor shooting performance on Saturday night against the Hawks. He scored just eight points on 2 of 8 shooting in the 108-93 loss. He went 1 for 3 from downtown and converted 3 of 4 free throws while playing 20 minutes. Rush also had one assist in the defeat. He is averaging 9.2 points with 2.8 rebounds over his last five contests.
Analysis: Rush is averaging a career-high 11.7 points on the year, but that number has gone down in recent weeks as he has struggled with his shot. He is shooting just 38 percent from the field over his last five games and 29 percent from beyond the arc. While he has still been seeing solid minutes off the bench, the production simply isn't there. Leave Rush off rosters in a majority of Fantasy leagues and only view the 25-year-old as an option in deeper category-based formats when playing well.
News: Indiana forward Brandon Rush scored eight points on a 3-for-5 shooting performance on Wednesday night against Washington. He nailed both shots from downtown, but just hasn't been able to find a lot of shots recently. He's averaging around six shots per game over his last five outings. Rush would grab four rebounds in his 27 minutes of court time in Wednesday's 104-90 loss to the Wizards.
Analysis: Rush is averaging just 8.8 points, 4.0 boards and 1.2 assists per game over his last five contests. He's gone 8 for 14 from behind the 3-point arc and 10 for 12 from the charity stripe. Despite shooting a good percentage, Rush can't get enough shots to make him worth much in Fantasy leagues. Owners should continue to view him as a decent option in deeper category-based leagues because of his percentages.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush has scored in single digits in two straight games now after three solid efforts in his previous three contests. Rush managed just six points on Monday night in a win over the Hornets. He played 30 minutes and shot 2 of 7 from the field with two 3-pointers. Rush added three rebounds, two assists, one steal and one blocked shot.
Analysis: Rush can score in bunches but also has a tendency to lose himself for games at a time. Mike Dunleavy is back in the starting lineup and it resulted in a win over the Hornets on Monday. That is bad news for Rush, who only has low-end Fantasy value at this time.
News: Indiana guard Brandon Rush scored 16 points in a losing effort Wednesday night as the Pacers fell to the Lakers, 109-94. Rush, who played 32 minutes for the third game in a row, contributed four rebounds and two assists for Indiana, which was going for its first season sweep of the Lakers since 1992 after winning 95-92 on Nov. 28 in Los Angeles.
Analysis: Rush, who received the starting shooting guard spot for the Pacers recently, is scoring a decent number of points every game and has been consistent with his shooting percentage. Rush has scored in double figures in his last four games while his accuracy has been 46 percent or better in three of those outings. He won't contribute much else and is a streak 3-point shooter, so consider him a low-end Fantasy guard.
News: After scoring just five points in his last outing, Pacers F Brandon Rush got back on track on Friday night against the Bobcats. He dropped 16 points on 6 of 13 shooting and hauled in four rebounds in the 100-92 win. Rush, who played 28 minutes, went 4 for 8 from downtown. He is averaging 16.6 points over his last five contests.
Analysis: Rushed dropped a season-high 26 points earlier in the week and has supplied some decent offense off the bench for Indiana. He is shooting a career-high 43 percent from beyond the arc this season and has produced when given minutes. While he does not supply much in other categories, Rush has been productive enough to be considered a low-end option in most Fantasy formats. But with the Bulls, Lakers, Cavaliers and Celtics on the schedule in Week 8 (Dec. 13-19), pick your spots with the 25-year-old.
News: Indiana SF Brandon Rush clearly was the key to trouncing the Toronto Raptors on Monday night, 124-100. Rush scored 16 points in the first quarter and cruised the rest of the way as he shot 10 of 18 from the field over 31 minutes. Rush finished with a game-high 26 points as he went 6 for 8 from the 3-point line. He added four rebounds and two steals.
Analysis: Rush has scored 47 points in his last two games combined and is averaging 15.8 PPG over his last five. That comes with 3.2 rebounds, a steal and almost three 3-pointers per game over 32.8 minutes. As long as Rush is getting minutes, it looks like he's going to play at a nice level. That said, he can cool down in a hurry so beware of that.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush scored 15 points on 5 of 9 shooting with three 3-pointers on Wednesday night in a blowout loss to the Jazz. Rush played 42 minutes and added two rebounds and one assist with a block.
Analysis: Rush has been as erratic as it gets lately. He's scored in double figures in three of his last five games but has a total of 13 points in the other two. Rush and Mike Dunleavy are sharing time and right now Rush is seeing more minutes. He doesn't contribute enough, however, to matter outside deeper Fantasy formats.
News: One night after starting in Miami, Pacers swingman Brandon Rush came off the bench on Tuesday night against the Cavaliers. He scored 16 points with three rebounds, out-producing starter Mike Dunleavy. On Monday night, Rush put up an excellent stat line with 20 points, seven rebounds and four assists as a starter.
Analysis: Coach Jim O'Brien maintains that he will continue to swap Dunleavy for Rush based on matchups, but that Dunleavy will get a majority of the starts for now. However, it has been Rush who is getting slightly more playing time and has been the more productive Fantasy option. Rush is averaging 13.8 points and 4.0 rebounds with decent 3-point shooting over his last five games and is a decent pickup off the waiver wire for the short term.
News: The Pacers decided to start Brandon Rush at shooting guard on Monday against the Heat. It worked as Rush led Indiana to victory. Rush played 38 minutes and scored a team-high-tying 20 points in the victory. He shot 9 for 15 from the field and added seven rebounds, four assists and a steal.
Analysis: Rush keeps getting more minutes and keeps playing better with them. He's been shooting the ball well and has scored in double figures in three straight games. Now that he's starting, Rush should see a nice Fantasy boost in all leagues. He can be starting in more and more deep Fantasy leagues right now.
News: With starting guard Mike Dunleavy missing Thursday’s Clippers-Pacers game to attend the birth of his child, Brandon Rush took his place in the starting lineup and turned in one of his best games of the season. Rush finished with 14 points, five rebounds and a career-high five blocks in 28 minutes of action to lift Indiana to a 107-80 victory. Since returning from a suspension to begin the season, Rush has averaged 7.5 points per game in just over 25 minutes of work.
Analysis: Rush and Dunleavy had already been jostling for playing time this season and this could add more speculation to the debate. This was Rush’s second game scoring in double-digits and the five blocks were an added bonus from the 6-foot-6 wingman. He did commit four turnovers, the same amount Dunleavy surrendered in Tuesday’s game against Atlanta. Unless Pacers coach Jim O’Brien decides to switch out Dunleavy, keep Rush on your waiver wire in Fantasy leagues.
News: Pacers guard Brandon Rush scored just seven points in Saturday's 99-85 win over the Cavaliers. Rush was 3 of 5 from the field, including 1 of 3 from behind the arc in 19 minutes off the bench. He also had three rebounds in the victory.
Analysis: Rush has struggled over his first three games this season and looks like he will come off the bench for the time being. It might take him some time to get up to speed after missing the first five games due to suspension. Because of the logjam at the swingman position, Fantasy owners may want to leave Rush on the bench heading into Week 4 until his role is better defined.
News: Indiana forward Brandon Rush made his season debut on Tuesday as the Pacers scored 144 points in a blowout win over Denver. Rush played 30 minutes and was the first player off the bench for the Pacers. He looked as if he's been playing all along. He shot 6 of 11 from the field and went 2 of 5 from long range, scoring 16 points. Rush added seven rebounds, two assists and a steal. The Pacers wanted to get Rush in the game because Mike Dunleavy has not been scoring much. That said, Dunleavy poured in a game-high 31 points in the win.
Analysis: Rush is going to get his minutes but he may continue coming off the bench if Dunleavy can play as he did Tuesday. Still, Rush played well and the Pacers obviously are a better team when he's on the floor. Rush made 64 starts last season, averaging 10.1 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. He could still end up starting once he gets his feet under him, and would be worth using in deeper Fantasy leagues when that happens.
News: Pacers SG Brandon Rush, who will make his season debut Tuesday against the Nuggets after serving a five-game suspension for failing a drug test three times, will come off the bench, according to the Indianapolis Star. There had been some talk of him replacing Mike Dunleavy in the starting lineup.
Analysis: Rush made 64 starts last season, averaging 10.1 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. He could still end up starting once he gets his feet under him, but he would be just a low-end Fantasy option either way. You can leave him for deeper leagues.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that Pacers coach Jim O'Brien is thinking about making a change to his starting lineup that would move Mike Dunleavy to the bench with Brandon Rush going into the starting lineup. "We have to look seriously at Michael because he has not been real productive," O'Brien said. Rush, last season's starting shooting guard, will make his season debut against the Nuggets after missing the first five games of the season while serving a league-mandated suspension for failing a drug test three times.
Analysis: Rush made 64 starts last season, averaging 10.1 points and 4.4 rebounds per game. Frankly, we like the upside that Dunleavy offers more. However, it appears Rush could be headed for a return to having some appeal as a low-end starter in deeper formats and is worth taking a chance on off the waiver wire.
News: The Indiana Pacers have picked up the fourth-year option on the contract of swingman Brandon Rush despite his recent suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy. Rush will make about $2.9 million next season after Friday's move, made before Rush sat out against Charlotte in the second of his five-game, unpaid ban. Rush was the 13th pick in the 2008 draft out of Kansas. He started 64 games for the Pacers last season and averaged 9.4 points.
Analysis: Rush isn't eligible to play for the Pacers until Nov. 9 versus the Nuggets. Rush will be given a chance to gain some playing time once he comes off his suspension, but he'll likely be a role player. He averaged 9.4 points and 4.2 rebounds last year, but didn't take advantage of his extended playing time when Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavy were out of action with injuries. Fantasy owners should view him as a reserve option at best right now, until he proves his Fantasy value.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush will start the final two preseason games for injured Danny Granger, reports the Indianapolis Star on Monday. Originally, Rush was not expected to play in either game.
Analysis: Rush is suspended for the first five games of the regular season but the team will give him a shot at proving his worth in the last two preseason contests. Rush didn't improve as expected in his second year. As a rookie, Rush averaged 8.1 points and 3.1 rebounds in 75 games. His stats improved in 2009-10 -- he averaged 9.4 points and 4.2 rebounds -- but he didn't take advantage of increased playing time when Granger and Mike Dunleavy were out due to injuries. At best, Rush should be taken with a very late-round pick in Fantasy drafts.
News:Brandon Rush of the Indiana Pacers was suspended for five games by the NBA on Friday for violating the league's drug agreement. Pacers president Larry Bird said in a statement that the organization would support Rush. "We have been made aware that Brandon Rush has been suspended for violating the NBA's anti-drug policy," Bird said. "We will do what we can to provide Brandon help going forward."
Analysis: Rush didn't improve as expected in his second year. As a rookie, Rush averaged 8.1 points and 3.1 rebounds in 75 games. His stats improved in 2009-10 -- he averaged 9.4 points and 4.2 rebounds -- but he didn't take advantage of increased playing time when Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavy were out due to injuries. This news knocks him out of the first couple of scoring periods of the Fantasy hoops season, but he still retains value as a low-end stopgap reserve and is worthy of a late-round pick in deeper leagues.
News: Pacers forward Brandon Rush didn't improve as expected in his second year. As a rookie, Rush averaged 8.1 points and 3.1 rebounds in 75 games. His stats improved in 2009-10 -- he averaged 9.4 points and 4.2 rebounds -- but he didn't take advantage of increased playing time when Danny Granger and Mike Dunleavy were out due to injuries.
Analysis: Rush doesn't appear on the verge of becoming an elite Fantasy option. He's a solid reserve worth a late-round pick, and hopefully he can improve in 2010-11. But we don't see him becoming a star, especially with Granger still on the roster and Dunleavy expected to bounce back next year.
News: Pacers F Brandon Rush scored 14 points in a loss to the Hawks on Sunday. Rush shot 5 of 9 from the field while collecting two assists and a block in 30 minutes. He has now scored in double figures in six straight contests.
Analysis: Rush has stepped up nicely over his last five games, averaging 14.8 points and 3.4 assists over that span. Although Rush can provide some decent scoring, he doesn't offer too much in other statistical categories. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Pacers F Brandon Rush scored 20 points in a win over the Pistons on Tuesday. Rush shot 7 of 9 from the floor while adding four rebounds, a block and a steal. He has now seen his point total increase in his last four games.
Analysis: Rush has scored in double figures in four straight games and is averaging 13.4 points over his last five. However, he has low production on the glass and with assists. Fantasy owners should consider Rush a low-end Fantasy option that only has value in deeper leagues.
News: Pacers swingman Brandon Rush had 15 points with three rebounds and two threes in Sunday's game against Oklahoma City. He has scored in double figures in three straight games.
Analysis: Rush continues to start and usually sees 30-plus minutes per night. He offers double-digit scoring in the low-to-mid teens and some decent three point shooting. View him as a low-end starter for deeper leagues.
News: According to the team's official Web site, Pacers F Danny Granger (head, neck) hopes to play in Friday's game against Detroit. Granger's head cleared up while he was being examined at Methodist Hospital Tuesday night and he is listed as a game-time decision for the Pacers' game against Detroit tonight in Conseco Fieldhouse. "He seems to feel fine," said coach Jim O'Brien. In his absence, Brandon Rush scored 13 points with four blocks, two rebounds, two assists and two steals Wednesday at Cleveland.
Analysis: The Indianapolis Star reported on Thursday that Granger would be "out indefinitely," but it seems he feels a lot better and is willing to give it a go. This situation has improved dramatically for Fantasy owners (and Granger, obviously) in the last 24 hours and it appears he won't be looking at a long, lingering indefinite absence after all. That means that the perceived Fantasy boost that looked to be coming Rush's way may not be there after all. He remains just a low-end Fantasy stopgap measure.
News: According to the Indianapolis Star, Pacers F Danny Granger will be out indefinitely with head and neck injuries. Granger was examined and released from Methodist Hospital after a CT scan on his head and neck taken Tuesday night came back negative. "(The team's physicians will) evaluate him on a day-to-day basis," O'Brien said. "If he's capable of going, he'll go, but you never know when somebody gets hit that hard in the head area." In his absence, Brandon Rush scored 13 points with four blocks, two rebounds, two assists and two steals Wednesday at Cleveland.
Analysis: Granger, who did not attend Wednesday's game at Cleveland, took an elbow to his cheek late in Tuesday's win over Charlotte. He had to be helped to the locker room. This is going to be a headache for Fantasy owners because he could be back for the team's next game or he could miss a week or two. Nobody knows. Fantasy owners will have no choice but to continue to monitor this situation on a daily basis. We're all in the same boat as the Pacers with this. Rush will have some limited viability in deeper leagues in the meantime.
News: Pacers F Brandon Rush had 13 points, three assists and three rebounds in Sunday's game in Milwaukee. He played 43 minutes. He is averaging 14.2 points and 5.0 rebounds in his last five games. He is averaging 38.8 minutes per game in that span.
Analysis: Rush has benefited from the downfall of Mike Dunleavy this season and is playing a very consistent role at the two-guard spot for the Pacers. He won't give you much more than this, but he can do so on a regular basis.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush erupted for 24 points on Tuesday in a win over the Philadelphia 76ers. Rush shot 9 of 20 from the field and nailed four 3-pointers. He added nine boards.
Analysis: Rush is averaging 13.2 points per game over his last five and that comes with 6.2 rebounds and almost three 3-pointers per night. Rush could begin to score a little more consistently and that would increase his current value just a bit. He can be utilized in most 12-team and deeper leagues.
News: According to the team's official Web site, Danny Granger received a one-game suspension as a result of an altercation with Phoenix Suns C Channing Frye. He will serve the suspension during Tuesday night's game against Philadelphia and will be eligible to return Friday at Boston. In Granger's absence, Troy Murphy, Roy Hibbert, Brandon Rush and Mike Dunleavy could all see some sort of Fantasy boost.
Analysis: Rush and Dunleavy should see a direct boost in playing time for Tuesday's game with Granger out. Think of them as viable stopgap measures in larger leagues with daily lineup transactions.
News: Pacers F Brandon Rush had five points with eight rebounds and two assists Wednesday night in Portland. He is averaging 9.2 points and 5.8 rebounds in his last five games.
Analysis: Rush remains more of a replacement option for deeper Fantasy leagues. It helps that he sees around 30 minutes per night and he remains a solid, cheap source for threes in category-based play.
News: Pacers forward Brandon Rush had a big game on Wednesday night in a loss to the Bulls in Chicago. Rush scored 21 points on 7 of 17 shooting with five 3-pointers. He added seven rebounds and two blocked shots. He went 5 for 9 from 3-point range.
Analysis: Rush has only scored in double figures twice over his last five games and is averaging 11 PPG over that span with 4.8 rebounds, 1.4 blocks and just under two 3-pointers per night. Rush has shown promise but has mostly been highly inconsistent this season. For that reason, he remains only a low-end option in deeper leagues.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush scored 10 points on Saturday against the Rockets, reaching double figures for the first time in five games. In 24 minutes, he shot 4 of 6 from the field, 2 of 2 from long-range. He added four rebounds.
Analysis: Rush's production is down a little of late, averaging 8.0 points and 3.4 rebounds over his last five games. He had a nice stretch from mid-January to early February in which he averaged 13.3 points a contest, but he's ceded any Fantasy value he had gained thanks to failing to score 10 in four of his last five. He is once again only a viable option in deeper leagues.
News: Over his last five games, Pacers F Brandon Rush has averaged 11 points per game to go along with two assists and 3.6 rebounds.
Analysis: Rush has the ability to score in double figures, but he hasn't shown he has the capability to explode with a high scoring game. He can be used in the deepest of Fantasy leagues, but he has minimal appeal otherwise.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush had a solid performance against the Pistons on Saturday. He finished with 16 points, four rebounds, five assists, two steals and one block. In 31 minutes he shot 7 of 12, making two of three from long-range.
Analysis: Rush has picked up his play in 2010. He's averaging 13.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.0 assists over his last five games. He's scored in double figures in eight straight contests, and in 10 of 12. He is becoming a borderline No. 4 Fantasy forward.
News: Indiana F Brandon Rush scored 12 points as Indiana fell to Cleveland 94-73 on Friday. Rush played 38 minutes shooting 5 of 14 from the field. He added six rebounds and one assist.
Analysis: Over his last five games, Rush has not failed to reach double figures. He is averaging 14.8 points per game over that span while hauling in 5.4 rebounds. With the Pacers struggling as much as they have this year, Rush could be looked at to provide some type of spark. He is a low-end Fantasy option in the deepest of leagues.
News: Pacers small forward Brandon Rush recorded a double-double on Wednesday night in a loss to the Lakers. Rush shot 5 for 15 from the field and hit two threes as he scored 13 points to go with 10 rebounds. He also blocked a shot.
Analysis: Rush has scored in double figures in four straight games and has played over 30 minutes in each and may finally be establishing himself as a viable Fantasy option and contributor for the Pacers. Monitor him over the next few games and if this trend continues, snatch him up off waivers, especially in deeper leagues.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush scored 17 points and grabbed 10 rebounds against Miami Tuesday. It was his third double-double of the season. Rush made 7 of 9 shots from the field in 37 minutes, with two assists.
Analysis: Despite averaging 27 minutes per outing Rush has scored in double digits just 16 times in 40 games this season. He is too inconsistent to be anything other than a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush has a combined 10 points and seven assists in his last two games spanning 55 minutes on the court. He's shot 3 for 8 overall over that span with three threes and four rebounds.
Analysis: Rush is averaging 8.8 points per game over his last five contests and just 7.8 on the season. He sees around 28 minutes per game but doesn't do much with it. He's only viable for Fantasy use in the deepest of leagues.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush scored 15 points in 32 minutes on Wednesday against Memphis. Rush shot 6 of 12 from the field and hit three threes.
Analysis: Rush doesn't do anything but hit threes and score for your Fantasy team and he doesn't even do that consistently. He's only worth owning in the deepest of Fantasy leagues.
News: Pacers swingman Brandon Rush was replaced in the starting lineup by Dahntay Jones Saturday in San Antonio. Rush played 29 minutes off the bench and managed 9 points with 4 rebounds.
Analysis: Jones was not very efficient in the starting lineup and this isn't a move that is set in stone. The Pacers are trying some different looks to get some added production while Danny Granger is sidelined. Rush remains a very low-end Fantasy option and this clearly doesn't help his Fantasy appeal.
News: Pacers forward Danny Granger, the team's leading scorer, will be out for at least four weeks with a foot injury. The team said Tuesday that Granger would miss a minimum of four to six weeks with a torn right plantar fascia, the tissue across the bottom of the foot connecting the heel and toes. The Pacers say Granger won't need surgery and is starting rehabilitation. Granger left the floor in the third quarter of Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Clippers. Granger is averaging 24.4 points a game this season for the Pacers, who have lost nine of their last 10 games following a five-game winning streak. The team's next-best scorer, Dahntay Jones, averages 15.3 points per game.
Analysis: Jones should see a boost in production, but you can also expect T.J. Ford, Brandon Rush, Mike Dunleavy and Troy Murphy to step up as well. The Pacers will have to replace Granger's stats, which should mean more shot attempts for the rest of their scoring options. Look for Jones, Dunleavy and Rush to see the most improvement with the additional playing time now that Granger is out.
News: Indiana's Brandon Rush, who started the season's first 15 games at shooting guard, was replaced by Dahntay Jones at Sacramento on Wednesday and didn't enter the game until the fourth quarter. He played only nine minutes, finishing with one point and three rebounds.
Analysis: Rush was mostly just a placeholder for the Pacers and too inconsistent for Fantasy use. Jones, on the other hand, actually offers production. Even as a starter, Rush was nothing more than a last resort in Fantasy, so he obviously isn't worth your time now.
News: Pacers SG Brandon Rush recorded his second double-double of the season Wednesday against the Clippers, finishing with 13 points and 11 rebounds in 33 minutes. He has now scored in double figures in four straight games, averaging 12.8 points during that stretch.
Analysis: Rush will continue to score 10-12 points per game since he plays so many minutes, but he's not a major contributor statistically. He's just a low-end option in Fantasy.
News: Indiana SF Brandon Rush played despite an ankle injury on Wednesday against the Warriors. Rush played 34 minutes as a starter and scored 11 points on 4 of 10 shooting with two threes. He added seven rebounds, two blocks and a steal.
Analysis: Rush is averaging just seven points per game over his last five contests and that comes with 4.4 rebounds and 1.2 blocks. Rush has had to deal with the unexpected emergence of Dahntay Jones, which has limited his production in the early going. He really only has lower-end Fantasy appeal at this time.
News: The Pacers' official website reports that Brandon Rush was able to practice Tuesday and is listed as day to day. He is questionable for Wednesday night's game against Golden State.
Analysis: Rush has had to deal with the unexpected emergence of Dahntay Jones, which has limited his production in the early going. That, coupled with the ankle injury, make him a player to be reserved in Fantasy for now.
News: Indiana G Brandon Rush sprained his right ankle on Friday against the Wizards and did not return. He is considered questionable for Wednesday against the Warriors.
Analysis: Rush continues to start for the Pacers but he struggles to put up big numbers on a consistent basis. He really only has low-end appeal when healthy and should not be active in any format for Week 3 (Nov. 9-15) as the Pacers play only two games to begin with.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush recorded a double-double on Wednesday in a win over the Knicks. Rush scored 12 points on 4 of 12 shooting with two threes. He added 10 rebounds, three assists, two steals and a block.
Analysis: Rush came into the game averaging 5.3 points and 2.0 rebounds in his first three games. He continues to start for the Pacers but it seems the good games will be the aberrations. He really only has low-end appeal until he plays as he did Wednesday a little more consistently.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush got the start on Wednesday in the season opener against Atlanta. Rush scored six points on 3 of 3 shooting. He had three assists and did nothing else.
Analysis: Rush had no rebounds or steals and didn't hit or attempt any threes. With that kind of limited production, we don't see why the Pacers are starting him in the first place. Especially seeing as Dahntay Jones played more minutes and scored 17 points with four boards and two blocks.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that rookie forward Brandon Rush has a starting spot locked up heading into 2009-10. The paper reports that Rush will start at a wing spot along with Danny Granger, which means when Mike Dunleavy (knee) returns, he will come off the bench, "It looks pretty solid," Pacers coach Jim O'Brien said. "The last month, the numbers Brandon and Danny have put up have been (solid). If we can get them to play defense, we'll be alright."
Analysis: Rush should be considered a sleeper heading into next year, especially if Dunleavy remains limited coming into the season. Rush should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy forward in 2009-10.
News: Indiana rookie forward Brandon Rush had 27 points, three rebounds and two assists Monday against Cleveland. Rush has scored 20 points in back-to-back games and has scored at least 20 points in three of his past eight games.
Analysis: Rush took advantage of Marquis Daniels and Mike Dunleavy finishing the year with injuries. He showed what he can do with increased playing time, which should give him confidence heading into next year. Rush has a chance to be a decent Fantasy option and is worth drafting as a No. 4 Fantasy option.
News: Indiana SF Brandon Rush scored 13 points and added three rebounds in Sunday's game against the Thunder. He also had a steal and a blocked shot in the game.
Analysis: Rush has been playing very well lately but has slowed down a bit this past week. He is averaging 19.2 points per game over his last five contests with 4.8 rebounds. He is a very nice option off the waiver wire right now if you are in need of a fill-in forward (or guard also in leagues that allow multiple positions).
News: Indiana SF Brandon Rush matched his career-high on Sunday by scoring 29 points for the second straight game in a win over Washington. Rush was 13-of-25 with three threes and added 10 rebounds and a block. "It's amazing what confidence will do," Pacers coach Jim O'Brien said of Rush's development. "He's playing pretty good basketball. He's our best athlete and ... can have an impact on the game."
Analysis: Rush has really blown up as a member of the starting lineup for the Pacers with Troy Murphy out. He's averaging 19 points, seven rebounds and almost two threes per game over his last five games. He is a very nice option off the waiver wire right now if you are in need of a fill-in forward (or guard also in leagues that allow multiple positions).
News: Pacers F Brandon Rush made 13 of 19 shots in Saturday's game against Chicago. He finished with 29 points and has scored in double figures in four straight games. "My teammates were able to find me, and I was making some shots," said Rush. "I was able to get to the hole, just play my type of game."
Analysis: Rush is making the most of his recent opportunity after being inserted into the starting lineup once T.J. Ford was moved to the bench. It also helps that Marquis Daniels is sidelined. After averaging 13 points and 6.5 rebounds the previous two games, the rookie scored 10 of the Pacers' first 12 points and 18 in the opening quarter. He is a very nice option off the waiver wire right now if you are in need of a fill-in forward (or guard also in leagues that allow multiple positions).
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush scored 15 points on 7-of-14 shooting on Saturday in a win at Charlotte. Rush started and played 39 minutes and he missed all four threes he attempted. Still, he added five rebounds, two blocks and a steal and had a very productive night for the Pacers.
Analysis: Rush is a versatile forward and is averaging just over nine points, four boards and just under a steal per night over his last five games. That comes with well over a three per game. The rookie from Kansas has a bright future ahead, but Rush has low-end Fantasy appeal at this time.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush contributed 14 points and five rebounds in 33 minutes Monday against the Knicks. He went 5-of-15 from the field and also added three assists. Rush has hit double-figures in just three of his last eight games.
Analysis: Rush will likely benefit from some extra playing time in the next few weeks with Danny Granger out with a foot injury. The rookie from Kansas has a bright future ahead, but Rush has low-end Fantasy appeal at this time.
News: The Indianapolis Star reports that Brandon Rush and Maceo Baston will be alternated on and off the inactive list on different nights. "I don't think it's fair to have the same guys on the inactive list every night," coach Jim O'Brien said. "Maceo (Baston) has been on the inactive list, so I thought him being a veteran, it's worth giving him a uniform. There will be different guys on the inactive list every night." Baston and Josh McRoberts were inactive Tuesday against San Antonio while Rush was active.
Analysis: Clearly, this situation does not bode well for any of these players. At the moment, none should be reserved in Fantasy leagues until they can at least begin to see regular minutes off the bench. Keep them on the waiver wire until further notice.
News: Indiana rookie SF Brandon Rush, the 13th pick in the draft out of Kansas, had 16 off the bench for the Pacers on Saturday night against the Bucks. Rush shot 5-of-9 from the field with two threes and added two steals. He played 28 minutes on Saturday after not getting more than 13 in any of his previous four games.
Analysis: Rush failed to score in his previous game and is averaging just 6.6 points per game this season with minimal other Fantasy numbers. He's definitely not worth using even in deeper leagues right now but Saturday's performance proves he's got some upside.
News: Pacers rookie SF Brandon Rush, coming off a career-best 10-point effort in his last game, nearly doubled it with 18 points off the bench Tuesday at Dallas. He played 30 minutes, also contributing two rebounds, two assists and one steal.
Analysis: Rush gets decent minutes off the bench, but his scoring will probably remain erratic in his rookie season. Consider him just a low-end Fantasy option right now, but monitor his progress.
News: Indiana was without Danny Granger on Wednesday against the Nets and started SF Brandon Rush instead. Rush scored eight points in 23 minutes and picked up four boards and two steals.
Analysis: Rush came into the game averaging 5.8 points, 2.0 rebounds and 0.7 assists in almost 20 minutes per game. He normally comes off the bench and is, at best, a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Pacers SF Brandon Rush, a rookie out of Kansas, finished with seven points on 3-of-5 shooting in 24 minutes off the bench Wednesday in the season opener at Detroit. He also had two rebounds, one assist and three turnovers.
Analysis: Rush definitely has some upside, but you have to figure he'll struggle a bit as a rookie. The Pacers probably won't give him heavy minutes just yet, so think of him as a low-end Fantasy forward.
News: Talk about bad matchups to start the season. The Pacers will play the best defensive team in the NBA last season to begin the year on the road in Detroit. Then, they will play the second best at home against Boston. Not to mention that they'll play just the two games this week.
Analysis: This could mean a slow start for Danny Granger, whom everyone expects to have a big year. He did not have a good preseason shooting the ball and that could linger on against these two tough defensive teams. The same goes for Mike Dunleavy, who is dealing with an ankle injury. He should be fine for the start of the regular season, though. Granger and Dunleavy remain worthy of a start for Week 1 in most formats, but don't expect huge weeks out of them. T.J. Ford had an outstanding preseason and is fully healthy going into the season. Those factors make him worth using in any league that requires starting four guards, regardless of the matchups. Troy Murphy is worth taking a shot on in deep leagues that require two centers, but if it's a toss up, go with just about any other option this week. When it comes to fringe players on the Pacers roster, which is basically everyone else, we recommend going with other options.
News: Pacers F Brandon Rush scored 17 points with five rebounds, three assists and two blocks in Friday's preseason game against Memphis. He played 27 minutes off the bench. He shot 7-for-11 from the field, including 3-for-3 from beyond the arc.
Analysis: Rush, a 6-foot-7 wing player, averaged 13.3 points last season to help Kansas win a national championship. Pacers coach Jim O'Brien likes his scoring ability, athleticism and defensive skills. He will join his brother Kareem in Indiana and should actually end up getting more playing time than him. There is some definite late-round sleeper potential here, but don't expect him to get 27 minutes on a consistent basis in the regular season.
News: The Pacers announced that both Brandon Rush and Roy Hibbert signed Tuesday. Based on the league's rookie scale, Rush will make about $1.5 million his first year as the No. 13 pick, and Hibbert will make about $1.2 million as the 17th selection. All rookie contracts for first-round picks are guaranteed the first two years, with options for the next two. The team did not provide details.
Analysis: Rush, a 6-foot-7 wing player, averaged 13.3 points last season to help Kansas win a national championship. Pacers coach Jim O'Brien likes his scoring ability, athleticism and defensive skills. He will join his brother Kareem in Indiana and may actually end up getting more playing time than him. His upside as a rookie isn't very promising for Fantasy purposes as he won't have a starting job and will be very erratic. Leave him on the waiver wire in most leagues.
News: The Trail Blazers completed the draft-night deal that brought Jarryd Bayless and forward Ike Diogu to Portland, and sent Brandon Rush, Jarrett Jack, Josh McRoberts and cash to the Indiana Pacers. The Blazers acquired the draft rights to Bayless, the 11th overall draft pick, while Indiana received the rights to Rush, the 13th pick. The deal was struck on June 26, but could not be formally announced until Wednesday.
Analysis: Rush will join his brother Kareem in Indiana and may actually end up getting more playing time than him. His upside as a rookie isn't very promising for Fantasy purposes as he won't have a starting job and will be very erratic. Leave him on the waiver wire in most leagues.
