News: Wizards center Nene said he agonized over a persistent foot injury so much this season that he considered retirement, the Washington Post reports. Nene managed just 61 games this season due to a painful bout of plantar fasciitis in his left foot that never fully healed and a sore right knee. "How tough? Tough enough to think about the end of my career? Yeah, that’s how tough it was," he said Sunday. "It was so hard to play the way I did it. I thought to end my career because it’s so painful, my body can’t support. I’m glad I finished the season, but the way I suffer, I hope, never again."
Analysis: Nene ruled himself out for the Wizards' final two games of the season and hopes rest during the offseason will help him stay healthy next year. "To play through pain, that’s not necessary," the 30-year-old Nene said. "Let the young guys play. They need the work." During his first full season with Washington, Nene averaged 12.6 points per game -- his lowest mark since the 2006-07 season (minimum 20 games). Fantasy owners should follow his recovery during the offseason as his draft stock could tumble if he's not 100 percent.
News: Washington center Nene has ruled himself out for the rest of the regular season, CSN Washington reports Sunday. Nene has knee and foot issues. "I'm going to sit down," Nene said. "Let the young guys play ... That's not necessary, to play the last two games. For what?"
Analysis: Nene played in 61 games this season and averaged 27.2 minutes per night. Over that time on the floor he put up 12.6 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists and shot 49 percent from the field. He was a viable Fantasy option in most formats, when healthy, and that is how he'll enter next season.
News: Wizards center Nene was fairly productive in his return to the court during Tuesday's contest against the Bulls. Nene, who had missed the past four games due to swelling in his right knee, finished with 10 points and seven rebounds in the 90-86 win. He went 5 of 11 from the field and also added seven rebounds, four assists and one block to his stat line, while logging 28 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Nene was finally able to get back on the court Tuesday night after almost 10 days due to his problematic right knee. The veteran has once again had problems staying healthy this season as he has missed 18 games due to a variety of issues. Despite all of his setbacks, Nene has still managed to put up 12.9 points and 6.9 rebounds on 48 percent shooting from the field, so owners should consider the 30-year-old a viable start in most formats over the final few scoring periods of the year.
News: Wizards center Nene is expected to return to the lineup for Tuesday's game against Chicago after dealing with some swelling in his right knee, the Washington Post reports. Nene, who has been out of the lineup the past four games, was able to participate in Monday's practice and coach Randy Wittman anticipated him back on the court versus the Bulls. "I don’t know how many minutes I’m going to play, but yes, I’m going to try to play to see how I feel," Nene said.
Analysis: Nene's season has been marred by injuries as he also missed time at the beginning of the season with a painful foot issue. "I just need to get it stronger, my exercise, my physical therapy and see how they go," he said. "To play at a high level, physical in the post, my body is feeling that." But he has still been able to contribute 12.9 points and 6.9 rebounds per game this season despite all the setbacks. Consider him a quality Fantasy option in the majority of formats when he's in the Wizards' lineup.
News: Wizards center Nene, who has missed the past four games due to a lingering right knee issue, is hoping to return to the lineup for Tuesday's contest against the Bulls, reports CSNWashington.com. Nene was able to go through a full workout Monday morning. “He’s getting close,” he said. “He worked out hard today. We’ll see how he is in the morning.”
Analysis: Wittman also told reporters that even if Nene is unable to suit up Tuesday, he expects him back in the lineup sooner rather than later. The Wizards are slated to play four times during the upcoming scoring period, so Nene could still be available for three contests, even if he does sit out Tuesday. The 30-year-old is averaging 14.2 points and 7.0 rebounds over his previous 10 games and can be considered a viable start in most formats when healthy.
News: Wizards center Nene missed his fourth straight game Sunday against the Raptors as he continued to due to lingering knee injury. Nene remains listed as day to day, according to the team's official website.
Analysis: Nene will be considered an injury risk heading into Fantasy Week 23 (April 1-7), so owners will have to make a tough call on whether or not to get him active. The 30-year-old is averaging 14.2 points and 7.0 rebounds over his previous 10 games, but with Washington just playing out the string at this point, the team could opt to hold him out for a while longer. Nene can be considered a viable start when healthy, but owners may want to seek out a healthy alternative for the upcoming scoring period.
News: Wizards center Nene was ruled out for Friday's contest against the Magic as he continues to nurse a left knee injury. Nene, who has now missed three straight games with his ailment, remains listed as day to day, reports the team's official website.
Analysis: Nene's knee is still barking a bit, but he is expected to get back on the court at some point. Hopefully it will before the start of Fantasy Week 23 (April 1-7), so owners will be able to judge how healthy he really is heading into the upcoming scoring period. Nene is averaging 14.2 points and 7.0 rebounds over his previous 10 games, making him a viable start in all formats when healthy.
News: The Wizards report Friday that center Nene is a game-time decision for Friday's game at Orlando. Nene has missed the past two games with a lingering knee injury.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should continue to monitor what happens with Nene, and hopefully he will return against the Magic. When healthy and active, Nene is a quality Fantasy option in the majority of leagues.
News: Washington center Nene missed Wednesday's game at Oklahoma City due to his lingering knee injury. Nene had to sit out Wednesday for the second consecutive game for the Wizards. He is considered day to day.
Analysis: Nene has taken his share of bumps and bruises this season, but had been able to stay on the court recently. However, his knee issues flared up on him Monday, forcing him out of the lineup, and now he's missing multiple games. When healthy, Nene is a solid option in most Fantasy formats. Unfortunately, owners may have to seek healthier alternatives down the stretch.
News: Wizards center Nene was ruled out for Monday's contest against the Grizzlies due to what coach Randy Wittman called a "weakness" in his knee. Nene, who has been dealing with soreness in both of his knees over the past few weeks, is being loosely considered day to day, according to the team's official website.
Analysis: Nene has taken his share of bumps and bruises this season, but has been able to stay on the court recently. However, his knee issues flared up on him Monday, forcing him out of the lineup. The Wizards are slated to play four times this week, but Nene's injury history combined with the fact the Washington is just playing out the string at this point, makes him a huge injury risk. Owners still fighting for a playoff spot may want to seek out a healthier alternative this week.
News: Washington center Nene only missed two shots on Monday during a loss at Charlotte. Nene scored 21 points and went 9 for 11 from the field over 29 minutes. He grabbed seven rebounds and added seven assists with the complete stat line. Nene also blocked a shot.
Analysis: Nene had a massive game on Monday but has been a bit erratic of late for the Wizards. He still doesn't really see over 30 minutes per game, but he averages close to a double-double so he can remain active in most Fantasy formats.
News: Washington center Nene recorded a double-double over 31 minutes during a loss at Cleveland on Tuesday. He shot 5 of 11 from the field to score 15 points and added 10 rebounds for the Wizards. Nene added an assist.
Analysis: Nene could stand to rebound a little more consistently but gives Fantasy owners enough production from a thin position to be a solid option. He's been putting the ball in the basket lately and should remain active in most Fantasy formats.
News: Wizards center Nene returned to action Sunday night against the 76ers after missing the last two games with a shoulder injury. He went 7 of 14 shooting from the field and 1 of 2 from the free throw line as he finished with 15 points and nine rebounds in a 90-87 victory. He also chipped in with two assists, a steal and two blocked shots while logging 35 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Nene appears to be healthy enough to play, which is an encouraging sign for Fantasy owners heading into the next scoring period. He nearly picked up his sixth double-double of the season and does not seem to have his minutes restricted since returning to action. He is averaging 12.0 points and 7.8 rebounds in his last four games played. Consider him a solid Fantasy option in most formats now that he is back on the floor.
News: Washington center Nene is expected to return to action Sunday afternoon against the 76ers after missing his last game two games with to a shoulder injury.
Analysis: Nene appears to be healthy enough to play, which is an encouraging sign for Fantasy owners heading into the next scoring period. We'll continue to monitor his progress during the game. He was averaging 11.0 points and 7.3 rebounds in his last three games before getting hurt and should be viewed as a solid Fantasy option in most formats, when healthy.
News: Wizards center Nene, who missed practice Thursday, was ruled out of Friday's contest against the Knicks as he continue to deal with a shoulder injury, according to the team's official website. Nene has missed the last two games with the injury. He is listed as day to day.
Analysis: Nene suffered the injury at the start of Week 18 (Feb. 25-March 3) and will now be in danger of missing time during Week 19 (March 4-10) if he is not back in the lineup Sunday against the Sixers, so we'll continue to keep an eye on his progress moving forward. Nene is averaging 10.0 points and 7.3 rebounds in four games since the All-Star break and remains a decent Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: Comcast Sports Net reports Thursday that Wizards center Nene missed practice with a shoulder injury, but he could still play Friday against the Knicks. Nene was unable to play Wednesday against the Pistons after suffering a shoulder injury Monday against the Raptors.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 10.0 points and 7.3 rebounds per game in four games since the All-Star break and remains a decent Fantasy option when healthy. Keep an eye on his status prior to Friday's game, and if he's able to play with the shoulder ailment then get him active in all leagues.
News: Wizards center Nene was unable to play Wednesday against the Pistons, after suffering a shoulder injury Monday against the Raptors. Nene was limited in practice Tuesday and was a game-time decision for Wednesday’s matchup. He is considered day to day at this point.
Analysis: The Wizards seemed confident that Nene would be able to play, but obviously the injury did not progress the way they hoped. It does not seem to be a serious structural issue, but this does look like something that could hobble him for a few more days. Nene is averaging 10.0 points and 7.3 rebounds per game in four games since the All-Star break, and remains a decent Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: Wizards center Nene was limited in practice Tuesday due to a sore right shoulder, reports the Washington Post. Nene got hit on the shoulder a few times during Washington's win over the Raptors on Monday night and could barely lift his right arm over his head to take his shirt off. "Sore, he’s sore today, so he didn't do a whole lot,” coach Randy Wittman said of Nene. “We didn't do a whole lot anyway, just going over some things we needed to clean up. A lot of shooting [for the team], but he didn't, I mean he was down there [on the practice court], but we actually didn't do any contact anyway.”
Analysis: Whittman also added he thinks Nene will be able to play in Wednesday's tilt against the Pistons, which would be good news for Fantasy owners and the Wizards. Nene's scoring has been a bit off the mark since the All-Star break as he has failed to score in double figures in two of his four games following the break. Still, he is putting up 10 points and 7.3 rebounds over that span on 41 percent shooting from the field. As long as Nene is able to keep himself on the court, owners should consider him a viable start in most formats moving forward.
News: Wizards center Nene nearly notched his sixth double-double of the season during Monday's contest against the Raptors. Nene finished with 11 points and nine rebounds in the 90-84 win on 4 of 10 shooting from the field. He scored nine of his 11 points in the final period, including a putback dunk late in the quarter. "I thought he was huge for us in the fourth, scoring some big baskets and anchoring our defense," Wizards coach Randy Wittman said.
Analysis: Nene hasn't exactly been lighting up the scoreboard as he has failed to score in double figures in two of his four games following the break. However, he has still managed to average 10 points and 7.3 rebounds over that span on 41 percent shooting from the field. Despite his recent lull, Nene is in the midst of putting together a fairly productive season with the Wizards. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the 30-year-old as a viable option in the majority of formats moving forward.
News: Wizards center Nene didn't get off to the best start in the second half of the NBA season Tuesday against Toronto. Nene scored just seven points and grabbed seven rebounds as he played 36 minutes in the loss. He was 3 of 11 from the field and dished out three assists.
Analysis: Nene failed to score in double figures for the first time since Jan. 28 on Tuesday against Toronto as his shots weren't falling. He had shot around 70 percent from the field in his previous three games before the break. We're not concerned. Nene remains a worthy Fantasy start in most leagues and formats moving forward.
News: Wizards center Nene recorded a big-time double-double to help Washington defeat the Bucks in Milwaukee on Monday night. The starting power forward -- Emeka Okafor is center -- played 37 minutes in the game and scored 21 points with 13 rebounds. He barely missed as he went 10 of 13 from the field with six assists, two steals and a blocked shot for good measure.
Analysis: That is three consecutive double-doubles and counting for Nene, who appears to be getting to full strength at the moment. Shooting just 48 percent from the field on the year, Nene is hitting on over 60 percent over his last five games and is averaging 16 points, 9.4 boards and a block per night over that stretch. Get him active across the board.
News: Wizards center Nene enjoyed another productive performance as he recorded his fourth double-double of the season during Friday's contest against the Nets. Nene went 9 of 13 shooting from the field and 2 of 2 from the free throw line. He finished with 23 points and 11 boards in a 89-74 victory. He also chipped in with an assist, two blocked shots and a steal while logging 34 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Nene has now doubled up in each of the last two games while shooting over 66 percent from the field as he continues to produce at a solid rate, especially with John Wall on the floor. He is averaging 14.6 points and 7.6 rebounds while shooting 52.5 percent from the field over his last five games. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the 30-year-old in most Fantasy formats while he continues to produce at this level.
News: Washington center Nene saw 32 minutes on Monday during an impressive win over the Clippers. He played well for the Wizards in the winning effort as he scored 15 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Nene was 5 for 11 from the field and added four assists in the contest.
Analysis: Nene has remained consistent this season and he's averaging the same 12 points and 6.4 boards per game over his last five that he has all season. As long as he remains consistent, he can be active in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Wizards center Nene did not have one of his better offensive games during Monday's contest against the Kings. Nene finished with just eight points in the 96-94 defeat -- which was his second lowest scoring output of the season. He made just two of his eight field-goal attempts but did chip in with seven rebounds, two assists, one steal and a block, while logging 30 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Nene continues to be a bit erratic on the offensive side of the ball as he still turns in way too many stinkers. The 30-year-old has failed to score in double figures in five of his last 10 games, albeit he is still putting up 11.9 points over that stretch on 45 percent shooting from the field. However, he is giving owners seven rebounds over that same stretch and has been able to stay on the court lately -- which wasn't the case earlier in the year. While Nene is no longer performing like a high-end option, he still can be considered a viable low-end start in most formats moving forward.
News: Wizards center Nene turned in a decent performance during Saturday's contest against the Bulls. Nene scored a team-high 16 points, grabbed six boards and handed out four assists in a 86-73 victory. He went 5 of 13 shooting from the field and a perfect 6 of 6 from the charity stripe while logging 30 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Nene has scored in double figures in five of his last seven contests and is averaging 13.9 points and 7.1 rebounds per game over that span. He is also shooting 45.2 percent from the field in January, which is his lowest percentage in a month this season. Fantasy owners can only hope that he continues to mesh well with John Wall on the floor. Consider the 30-year-old a low-end starting Fantasy center in most formats heading into Week 14 (Jan. 28-Feb. 3).
News: Washington center Nene recorded a season high for scoring on Monday in a win at Portland. Nene scored 19 points by halftime and finished with 24 for the Wizards in the winning effort on the road. He played 32 minutes and was 10 of 17 from the field. Nene grabbed nine rebounds and added five assists and four steals for the Wizards.
Analysis: Nene needed a game like Monday's because his statistics have been mediocre otherwise over his last handful of games. Over a knee issue and continuing to play with foot problems, Nene is as close as he's going to get to 100 percent right now. As long as he's healthy and seeing plenty of minutes, Nene is a solid start in most Fantasy leagues.
News: After missing the previous game with a knee injury, Wizards center Nene was back in the starting lineup Saturday against the Hawks. Nene played a limited role in the team’s offense, despite playing 27 minutes. He attempted just five shots in the game, the lowest total of any of the team’s starters. He finished with eight points, however he hit the boards hard for 10 rebounds -- three offensive. Nene added three assists, while turning the ball over as many times, in a 93-83 win.
Analysis: Nene had been scoring the ball better recently, averaging 13.3 points per game in the previous 10 games, however he has scored just 13 over the last two games combined. His recent struggles are likely related to the knee soreness, so hopefully his play will pick up as his health returns. Fantasy owners have to hope that the return of John Wall to the lineup will help Nene get going, but we will need to see what kind of chemistry the two can develop. For now, he remains more of a low-end starting Fantasy center in most formats.
News: Wizards center Nene, who missed Monday's game with tendinitis in his right knee, was listed active for Saturday's contest against the Hawks, according to the team's official website.
Analysis: Nene has been limited to 20 games this season because of various ailments. The injuries have not only cut into Nene's availability, but he has also seen a decline in scoring and rebounding this season. Nene can be considered a viable Fantasy start heading into Saturday's contest.
News:The Washington Examiner reports Wizards center Nene, who missed Monday's game with tendinitis in his right knee, did not practice Thursday and remains questionable for Saturday vs. Atlanta.
Analysis: Nene has been limited to 20 games this season because of various ailments. The injuries have not only cut into Nene's availability, but he has also seen a decline in scoring and rebounding this season. Nene can be considered a viable Fantasy start when healthy, but if he sits out Saturday, then he remains an injury-risk play heading into the next scoring period.
News: Wizards center Nene was ruled out for Monday's contest against the Thunder as he continues to battle tendinitis in his right knee. Nene, who missed five of six shots and finished with just five points in Washington's loss to the Heat Sunday night, is being considered day to day with his latest ailment.
Analysis: Nene has now missed 13 games this season due to a variety of ailments and now could miss more time with his latest injury. However, the good news is the Wizards only play twice in the upcoming scoring period, so Nene should get plenty of time to rest his injury this week. Fantasy owners -- especially those in daily formats -- should keep an eye on his status moving forward to see when he will be able to return. Nene is averaging 12.9 points and 6.3 rebounds on the year and can be considered a viable start in most leagues when healthy.
News: Wizards center Nene knocked down a jump hook shot with under a second remaining to send Friday's contest against the Nets to overtime. Nene fouled out with 14.1 seconds in the first overtime, and finished with 20 points on 8 of 12 shooting from the field. He also went 4 of 5 from the charity stripe and added six rebounds, four assists and three steals while logging a season-high 36 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Nene had not logged more than 29 minutes in a game this season before Friday's double-overtime game. He has scored in double figures in 11 of the last 12 games played for the Wizards while averaging 14.9 points on 51.7 percent shooting from the field over that span. Nene has also averaged seven rebounds per night over that stretch of games. He has been fairly productive as of late as he continues to work back from a sore left foot injury that kept him out the first couple of weeks of the season. At a thin position, Consider him a viable Fantasy center in most formats moving forward.
News: Washington center Nene had a solid performance on Wednesday night but the Wizards still lost at Indiana. Nene scored 15 points over 25 minutes on 6 of 13 from the field. He grabbed six rebounds and added a block and two steals in the game.
Analysis: Nene keeps getting better for the Wizards the healthier he gets. He's averaging 14.2 points and 7.6 rebounds over his last five games and should keep producing the more he plays. Nene can officially be back in action in most Fantasy formats.
News: Wizards center Nene enjoyed his second 20-point performance of the season as he picked up his second double-double during Friday's contest against the Magic. Nene scored 23 points on 7 of 11 shooting form the field, and got to the free throw line often, as he drained 9 of 10 shots from the charity stripe in a 105-97 victory. He also chipped in with four assists and a steal in 29 minutes of work.
Analysis: Nene has not logged in more than 29 minutes in a game this season and has picked up the pace in scoring as of late. He has averaged 17.3 points and 6.5 rebounds over his last six games played, much higher than his 12.9-point, 5.7-rebound seasonal average. He's still working his way back from a nagging foot injury and has missed a few games every now and then. Fantasy owners should view him as a viable Fantasy option in most formats moving forward.
News: Wizards center Nene received his first start of the season Saturday against the Pistons, after sitting out the previous game with an illness. He did not make a huge impact in the start, managing to score 10 points on just 2 of 8 shooting, though he did connect on all six of his free-throw attempts in the game. He added seven rebounds and five assists in 26 minutes of playing time, in a 96-87 loss.
Analysis: It is not clear whether Nene is in the starting lineup for good, but the Wizards have little to lose by trying to get him going early. Their offense has struggled for much of the season, and Nene might be their best option to create offense. Nene is averaging 16.0 points in just 25.0 minutes per game over the last five games, though he has been forced to sit out two games in that span for various reasons. Nene is not yet playing full-time minutes, but he remains a useful Fantasy option in many formats at the center position.
News: The Wizards expect to get back the services of Nene for Saturday's game against Detroit. Nene missed Friday's game with an illness.
Analysis: Nene just returned to near full strength following a nagging foot injury and he quickly falls under the weather. He just can't stay completely healthy. He's back now, and should return to being a viable Fantasy option in most formats.
News: The Wizards announced Friday that they will be without center Nene for that evening's game against the Pistons, as he is dealing with an illness. His status for Saturday's game against the Pistons has not been determined yet.
Analysis: Nene has been solid since returning from a foot injury, though his minutes have been limited in an attempt to keep him fresh. This illness does not seem like it will keep him out for too much longer. Nene is averaging 12.7 points and 5.8 rebounds per game in just 21.8 minutes, so if he can get back on the floor he should be a solid Fantasy option moving forward.
News: Washington center Nene played in Tuesday's game against the Hawks. Nene was a late scratch for Saturday's game against the Heat after having played in three games in four nights. Nene continues to feel pain in his sore left foot but will attempt to play through it going forward. He saw 24 minutes Tuesday and went 5 of 7 from the field to score 18 points. He grabbed four rebounds and added six assists, three steals and a blocked shot in the all-around performance.
Analysis: Clearly, there will be games when Nene simply can't go and it is likely to continue to frustrate Fantasy owners all season. He had played in eight straight before sitting out Saturday, but who knows when and where that foot will act up. Nene gives plenty of Fantasy value but his affliction keeps him relegated to the deeper formats for consistent usage right now.
News: Wizards center Nene was a late inactive Saturday against the Heat, after playing three games in four nights. He has been officially diagnosed with a sore left foot, the same foot that cost him much of the first few weeks of the season. At this point, the severity of the injury is not yet known.
Analysis: Nene has been eased back into action this season, so it is no big surprise that he would not play in a fourth game in five nights. This foot injury plagued him throughout last season, and the Wizards are simply hoping to manage the soreness and get him through it. We will keep an eye on his status moving forward, to see if the 30-year-old will have to miss any time. He is averaging 11.4 points and 6.3 rebounds in just 21.2 minutes per game, and should be considered a viable starting Fantasy option in deeper formats, when healthy.
News: Washington center Nene is adjusting to playing in back-to-back games as he will do on Wednesday in Houston, reports the Washington Post. "It's crazy," he said. "The last back to back I couldn't jump. I don't know how I'm going to be [in Houston]. It's crazy, you know, the situation."
Analysis: Nene recorded a double-double on Tuesday against the Hornets and will give it a go in Wednesday's game as well. Still, head coach Randy Wittman said the big man's legs still are not where they need to be. Nene's plantar fasciitis isn't going anywhere and he'll likely deal with it for some time going forward. He should take games off from time to time but at least he's attempting to play in back-to-backs. Fantasy owners still need to monitor him on occasion, but he can be active in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Wizards center Nene turned in a solid performance off the bench as he scored in double figures for just the third time this season during Friday's contest against the Hawks. Nene scored 12 points and grabbed six rebounds in a 104-95 defeat. He went 4 of 8 shooting from the field and converted 4 of 6 free throws on the night. He also chipped in with an assist in 24 minutes on the floor.
Analysis: Nene has yet to post a double-double this season as the Wizards are slowly working him back into game action. He is averaging 10.8 and five rebounds through his first six games this season. At this point, he may be a little too risky to rely on until he is back at 100 percent, especially since the Wizards could rest him on any given night to keep him fresh. Fantasy owners should be viewed as a low-end option heading into Week 7 (Dec. 10-16).
News: Washington center Nene returned to the starting lineup Wednesday against Portland. Nene has continued to sit out due to his plantar fasciitis. He returned to play in two games before sitting out once again. Back in action Wednesday, Nene may be considered day to day going forward if the foot injury feels sore on any given night. He played only 19 minutes and scored six points with six rebounds and a steal. Nene went 1 for 4 from the field in the Wizards' first win of the season.
Analysis: Nene played well in the two games in which he played for the Wizards. Still, it will be hard to trust his Fantasy value going forward if he's going to consistently have to sit out whenever the pain is too great. Fantasy owners need to play the wait-and-see game with Nene. If he stops missing time, Nene would be a worthy Fantasy option in most formats.
News: Wizards center Nene (foot) participated in practice Tuesday, but remains questionable for Wednesday's game against Portland, the Washington Examiner reports. Nene was inactive Monday night after being considered a game-time decision as he continues to overcome plantar fasciitis in his left foot. He has totaled 31 points in the only two games he has played this season for the winless Wizards (0-12).
Analysis: The Wizards provided Nene a rest day instead of practicing Sunday in the hopes he would be able to remain on the court moving forward. It proved to be a fruitless effort as he missed his 10th game of the season following his 29-minute effort last Saturday against Charlotte, which surpassed his per-determined minutes limit. Fantasy owners should monitor his progress as he appears headed for another game-time call Wednesday.
News: Wizards center Nene was ruled out for Monday's game against San Antonio due to the plantar fasciitis that has plagued him for much of this season, reports CSN Washington. Nene saw time in the previous two Washington games but was labeled a game-time decision earlier Monday before ultimately being ruled out.
Analysis: Nene's playing status is apparently being left to the player's tolerance of pain on any given night. This is going to make him wholly unreliable in most Fantasy formats going forward. Owners in weekly formats should plan on keeping him inactive until he can prove reliable on the court. Daily owners will have to play a little closer attention to see how he feels on any given night. When completely healthy, Nene was expected to be a solid Fantasy option in most formats.
News: Wizards coach Randy Wittman said Sunday he will allow center Nene to determine the amount of playing time he can handle as he continues to work past a foot injury that kept him sidelined for three months. Nene has totaled 49 minutes in his first two games despite Wittman expressing a concern about the Brazilian's conditioning following a bout with plantar fasciitis in his left foot. "This is on him. I can’t judge his pain, what kind of pain, if he’s having pain," Wittman told the Washington Post. "I’m leaving that on him."
Analysis: Nene was expected to be restricted to 20 minutes during his second game back from injury last Saturday, but finished with 29 minutes in the double-overtime loss. The Wizards provided him a rest day instead of practicing Sunday and expects him to remain on the court moving forward, barring any setbacks. "I plan on him playing," Wittman said. "He didn’t get hurt." Nene has posted double-digits in points (31 total) during his first two games as he is shooting 55.6 percent from the field. He will certainly be a huge boost for Fantasy owners once he regains his normal amount of playing time.
News: Entering Saturday's game against the Bobcats, Wizards center Nene had a 20-minute medical limit. The 30-year-old logged in 29 minutes and finished with 19 points and grabbed five rebounds in a 108-106 double-overtime defeat. He went 8 of 13 shooting from the field and converted 3 of 4 free throw attempts on the night. He also chipped in with three assists and two steals to round out the stat sheet.
Analysis: Nene was expected to be eased in to the lineup, but that plan was thrown out the window once the Wizards flirted with their first victory of the season in overtime. He has scored 31 points and hauled in six rebounds combined through his first two games since coming back from a foot injury. At this point, Fantasy owners should view him as a solid option in deeper formats until he is back at 100 percent on the floor.
News: Washington center Nene was able to practice on Friday and said he feels, "OK," reports the Washington Examiner. Nene was limited to 20 minutes in Wednesday's season debut and is likely to continue to be limited.
Analysis: Nene was icing his right knee, left quad and left foot at the end of practice Friday and that is a painful reminder that he's not healthy. He scored 12 points with one rebound and one block over his 20 minutes Wednesday at Atlanta in his debut. For now he's going to be a lower-end Fantasy option until he's no longer limited at all.
News: Wizards center Nene made his season debut Wednesday night against the Hawks. After missing time due to a foot injury, he scored 12 points with one rebound in 20 minutes off the bench. Nene did most of his damage from the charity stripe, where he went 8 for 10, and made 2 of 5 attempts from the field. Nene also chipped in with a block and a steal in the 101-100 overtime loss.
Analysis: Nene returned from his injury earlier than expected and played well offensively Wednesday. It will likely take more time for him to get to 100 percent, however, so keep an eye on his progress going forward. Nene is expected to split time at center with Emeka Okafor this season so owners in deeper Fantasy formats should get the 30-year-old active now that he has returned.
News: The Washington Post reports Wizards center Nene is unlikely to make his season debut Wednesday in Atlanta. Nene remains officially a game-time decision as Nene himself did say there was a "chance" he could play. Nene has been out all season thus far with his foot injury.
Analysis: There were several reports suggesting that Nene wanted to return against Atlanta on Wednesday but that was ultimately not the case. His next opportunity would be Saturday against Charlotte so we'll assume he's going to at least to attempt to return at that point. When Nene does finally return he should likely be worked into a steady rotation. He will eventually become a solid Fantasy option, however.
News: According to various reports, Washington center Nene (foot) could make his season debut earlier than expected and is considered a game-time decision for Wednesday's game at Atlanta. Nene, who also was sidelined for training camp and the preseason, participated in practice Tuesday before the team boarded a flight to Atlanta. "It's going to help, no question, but again I don't want these guys sitting in the weeds waiting when are they coming back," Wizards coach Randy Wittman said about Nene and injured guard John Wall. "We're going to wait for them to get here and things are going to be fine."
Analysis: Nene, who re-aggravated the foot injury while playing in the Summer Olympics, indicated last Sunday that he was probably three weeks away from returning to the court after visiting with specialists. The 7-footer was wary of returning early in order to prevent another setback, but has handled practice sessions without any reported issues. Nene could immediately be thrust into the starting lineup as the Wizards have scored the fewest points in the league without him and Wall in action. Fantasy owners should closely monitor his status as Nene is considered a solid starting option in the majority of formats when healthy.
News: The Washington Post reported Sunday that Wizards center Nene (foot) is “probably three weeks away”, after visiting with a foot and ankle specialist in Baltimore last week. The report did not indicate whether Nene is three weeks away from returning to games or three weeks from returning to practice. Nene indicated that he is concerned about coming back too early, something that he has done in the past. “I want that thing to heal 100 percent, because I don’t want to shrink my career,” Nene said. “I need to take care of it right now. I want to finish the pain, because it is still painful. I try sometimes, like, ‘Hurry up,’ when I have physical therapy. That could be a mistake. I need to be true with myself and know this is a serious situation.”
Analysis: It looks like this is going to carry into December, at the earliest, before we might see Nene return to the floor. This issue has been bothering him since last season, and it does not seem to be healing as expected. The Wizards invested a lot in the 30-year-old, so they obviously will not want to rush him back, despite an 0-5 start. Nene is a solid starting center in most Fantasy formats, when healthy, so most Fantasy owners will want to keep him stashed while his recovery continues.
News: The Washington Post reports Friday that Wizards center Nene remains without a timetable to return and is out indefinitely. Nene, who is dealing with plantar fasciitis in his left foot, has increased his workload in practice since receiving treatment two weeks ago but shouldn't be expected back anytime soon. Asked when he would be back, Nene simply said that he'll be back when he's "100 percent ready to help my team."
Analysis: Nene should not be considered day to day at this point as it sounds like it may be well into mid-November before he takes the court for the Wizards for the first time. Nene missed 10 games because of the same injury last season and Wizards coach Randy Wittman is wary of rushing the 30-year-old back too soon. When healthy, Nene should be viable in most Fantasy formats but owners just have to bench him for now. Kevin Seraphin, Trevor Booker and Emeka Okafor will continue to see more minutes as long as Nene is out.
News: The Wizards started the regular season without the services of center Nene on Tuesday night in Cleveland. Nene is dealing with left plantar fasciitis and was inactive for the first game of the season. There is no indication yet as to when he'll be able to return to the floor for the Wizards.
Analysis: Nene missed 10 games because of the same injury last season and Wizards coach Randy Wittman is wary of rushing the 30-year-old back too soon. It's unclear if the 6-foot-11 big man will be ready at any point during the first week of the regular season so Fantasy owners should have had him reserved. When healthy, Nene will definitely help out owners in all formats.
News: Wizards center Nene visited a specialist last week and continues to receive treatment on his foot, but there is still no indication when he will be able to return to the court, the Washington Post reports. Nene has been sidelined with plantar fasciitis in his left foot after aggravating the injury during the Summer Olympics last August. "I was a little behind, than I thought," Nene said Friday. "It’s still inflamed. I just want to take care of it the right way. But all the exercises, I’ve been doing fine. I’ve been listening. I’ve been obedient."
Analysis: Nene missed 10 games because of the same injury last season and Wizards coach Randy Wittman is wary of rushing the 30-year-old back too soon. It's unclear if the 6-foot-11 big man will be ready for the start of the regular season. "I’m not going to say," Nene said. "That’s the reason I don’t say. I don’t know. I want to, but sometimes it does not go the way you want." Nene has posted averages of 12.4 points and 7.0 rebounds per game in his career and is worth a selection toward the end of the middle rounds in most upcoming Fantasy drafts.
News: Wizards center Nene (foot) told the Washington Post there is still no timetable for his return but he is hopeful he can get back on the court "soon." Nene has yet to practice this season after the his plantar fasciitis flared up during the Olympics. “I hope I can comeback soon,” he said. “I’m going to do the maximum I can. I can lead, vocal, talk to the players, see things they didn’t see while they played. That’s the way I can help them.”
Analysis: Nene's status for the regular season remains very much in question at this point as most were expecting him to be close to returning by now. However, there is still no timetable for him to start practicing yet, so owners will have to keep an eye on his status over the next few weeks. Nene averaged 14.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game for the Wizards after a deadline-day trade last season, but once again was forced to battle with injuries. Still, the 30-year-old has proved to be a very productive option when healthy and is worthy of snatching up in the middle rounds on Draft Day in most Fantasy formats.
News: Wizards center Nene is not expected to be available when training camp starts Tuesday, as the plantar fasciitis issue in his left foot that plagued him last year has flared up yet again. He is expected to be ready by the time the team opens play Nov. 30 at Cleveland, however it is not known how much of training camp he will miss.
Analysis: Nene averaged 14.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game for the Wizards after a deadline-day trade last season, but he continued to battle injuries all season long. The Wizards are expected to battle for a playoff spot this season, and they will need Nene healthy and ready to contribute all season in order to do that. The fact that the injury recurred over the summer is not a good sign for Nene's long-term health, and he is a risk to miss some time this season. Nonetheless, he is a very productive center and is worthy of grabbing in the middle rounds on Draft Day in most Fantasy formats.
News: After missing nine games with plantar fasciitis in his left foot, Wizards center Nene was back in uniform for Wednesday's game against the Bucks. While he did not start the game, Nene did manage to play 18 minutes off the bench, and he took advantage of the undersized Bucks' front court immediately. Nene scored 14 points on 7 of 12 shooting in the game, while grabbing four rebounds and blocking two shots to help the Wizards to a 121-112 win.
Analysis: The Wizards had been hopeful that the big man would be able to return to the floor, so this does not come as much of a surprise. While he will likely still get a game or two off and see limited minutes, Nene should be a solid starting option for the remainder of the season.
News: As expected, Wizards center Nene was held out of Monday night's contest against the Bulls as he continues to deal with plantar fasciitis in his left foot. Nene has now missed nine straight games due to his ailment and remains listed as day to day.
Analysis: Nene remains hopeful he can get back on the court this season, but is running out of time. Washington only has five games left on the schedule, so Nene will need to pick up the pace if he wants to return. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward. Nene can be considered a high-end option in all Fantasy formats when healthy.
News: Wizards center Nene missed his eighth game in a row on Saturday against Cavaliers, as he continues to deal with plantar fasciitis in his left foot. He has been able to participate in practice recently, however, and coach Randy Wittman seemed hopeful when asked by NBA.com whether Nene would be able to return before the end of the season. “I think there is still hope. They’re on the floor doing stuff, hopefully leading up to the last few games, that we can get them back out there,” Wittman said.
Analysis: The Wizards plays six times in Week 17 (April 16-26), so if he can get back on the floor soon Nene would be a solid play. Unfortunately, there is so much uncertainty surrounding his status that it would be a huge risk to play him in the final scoring period of the season. Nene can be considered a high-end option in all Fantasy formats when healthy, however continue to monitor his status to see if he will be able to get on the floor.
News: Wizards center Nene was held out of Friday night's contest against the Knicks as he continues to deal with plantar fasciitis in his left foot. Nene, who has missed seven straight contests due to his injury, was able to participate in the team's morning shootaround. “He’s getting closer. He did a little bit yesterday, but not a whole lot. That’s a positive,” interim coach Randy Wittman said. “Obviously we’re headed in the right direction right now. It looks like we might [have him back soon]. Probably not today or tomorrow. Maybe some time next week. We’ll see.”
Analysis: Nene was hoping to return to the linuep over the weekend, but now it appears he won't be able to get back on the court until Week 17 (April 16-26) at the earliest. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status heading into the final scoring period of the season. Despite being sidelined for a while, Nene can be considered a high-end option in all formats when healthy.
News: Wizards center Nene was held out of Tuesday night's contest against the Magic as he continues to deal with plantar fasciitis in his left foot. Nene, who has missed six straight contests due to his injury, is hoping to return to the lineup over some time over the weekend, according to the team's official website.
Analysis: Nene has been sidelined for over two weeks with his injury, but is getting closer to getting back on the court. Fantasy owners in daily formats should keep an eye on his status moving forward as he could be ready to play in Friday night's game in New York. Nene can be considered a high-end option in all formats when healthy.
News: While Wizards center Nene was out yet again on Monday against the Bobcats, he told the Washington Post that he hopes to return from plantar fasciitis by the end of the week. He has now missed six games with the injury, but it is a good sign that he feels hopeful about making his return.
Analysis: Nene should be back on the court soon, and hopefully we will get some more concrete information soon regarding when to expect him back. For now, he remains day to day, and Fantasy owners simply need to keep a close eye on his status, as he is a high-end option when healthy.
News: Wizards center Nene was held out of Friday night's contest against the Nets as he continues to deal with plantar fasciitis in his left foot. Nene has now missed five straight games with his condition but is being considered day to day.
Analysis: Nene has now missed five straight games with his injury and no one is sure when he will able to return. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward, but Nene will now be considered a major injury risk heading into Week 16 (April 9-15). When healthy and active, Nene is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Wizards center Nene missed his fourth game in a row on Thursday against the Pistons, as he continues to try to work through plantar fasciitis in his left foot. He remains day to day, however it doesn't sound like there has been much progress made recently in his comeback.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues should continue to keep Nene reserved, and hopefully he can return soon. When healthy and active, Nene is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: With fellow plantar fasciitis sufferer Trevor Booker also out, Wizards center Nene missed Wednesday's game against the Pacers. His absence was expected, based on what coach Randy Whittman had been telling reporters. Nene is day to day.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues should keep Nene reserved, and hopefully he can return soon. When healthy and active, Nene is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: The Washington Examiner reports that Wizards center Nene (foot) is likely out for Wednesday's game against the Pacers. Coach Randy Wittman said Wednesday on Nene's status that he "probably" won't play against the Pacers.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues should keep Nene reserved, and hopefully he can return soon. When healthy and active, Nene is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Wizards interim coach Randy Wittman told the Washington Post that he doesn't know when Nene or Trevor Booker will return to the lineup, but he is hoping both will be available to play in Wednesday's contest against the Pacers. Nene has missed the team's last two games as he continues to deal with plantar fasciitis in his left foot.
Analysis: Nene is officially being considered day to day, so Fantasy owners in daily formats will have to continue and monitor his status moving forward. However, the Wizards are slated to play three straight games over three consecutive days starting on Wednesday, so it seems highly unlikely Nene will be available for all three games, even if he does return on Wednesday. Nene can be considered a high-end Fantasy center in all formats when healthy.
News: The Wizards werw once again be without the services of center Nene on Monday against the Bucks, as he continues to deal with plantar fasciitis in his left foot. He has been in a walking boot, and told the Washington Post on Sunday that he is still dealing with pain in his heal and foot. He has been out for two games now after sustaining the injury on Friday.
Analysis: Nene said he dealt with the same issue while in Denver, and at this point we have to wonder whether he will be willing to play until the pain completely subsides. The 29-year-old has been bothered by an assortment of issues throughout the season and should be considered an injury risk for Fantasy Week 15 (April 2-8).
News: Wizards center Nene was seen in a walking boot on his left foot Sunday and he remains day to day, according to the Washington Post. "Sore, pain in my heel right now," Nene said when asked how he was feeling. "But I’ll be fine." He missed Sunday's contest against Toronto.
Analysis: Nene said he dealt with the same issue while in Denver and is unlikely to play through the pain Monday against Milwaukee. The 29-year-old has been bothered by an assortment of issues throughout the season and should be considered an injury risk for Fantasy Week 15 (April 2-8).
News: The Wizards were without center Nene on Sunday against the Raptors, as he is dealing with a pulled left fascia injury sustains on Friday. He remains day to day with the injury.
Analysis: It is no surprise that Nene is out on Sunday; that much was expected. The question moving forward will be how much time he will miss with the injury in the next week or so. Nene is a question mark for Week 15 (April 2-8), so his Fantasy owners will want to be cautious with him, and possibly rely on healthier options. The Wizards don't have much to play for this season, so they might be content with taking it slow with him. Nene remains a high-end Fantasy option in all formats when healthy, however you'll definitely want to keep a close eye on his progress.
News: Wizards center Nene is being considered day to day with his pulled left fascia injury, reports the Washington Post. Nene sustained the injury during Friday night's contest against the 76ers but said he should be fine moving forward. "Sore, pain in my heel right now,” Nene said. “But I’ll be fine.”
Analysis: Nene is being considered questionable for Sunday's contest against the Raptors, so Fantasy owners in daily formats should keep an eye on his status leading up to tipoff. Nene is averaging 14.8 points and 9.3 rebounds in six games with Washington and is averaging 30.2 minutes per game over that stretch. Consider him a high-end option in all formats when healthy.
News: While the Wizards may have gotten a blowout win over a playoff team on Friday when they defeated the 76ers, 97-86, things weren’t all good, as they lost both Trevor Booker and center Nene to pulled left fascia. Nene managed to stay in the game until the seven-minute mark with the injury, however he limped back to the locker room shortly after. Nene finished the game with 16 points, eight rebounds and four assists in just 25 minutes.
Analysis: Nene has played well for the Wizards, however he has also been stricken by a couple injuries, with the back bothering him prior to this foot injury. Fantasy owners will need to monitor his status moving forward, as he continues to be injury prone. Nene remains a high-end Fantasy option when healthy, so keep an eye on him.
News: Wizards center Nene missed Wednesday’s practice with back spasms, however he seemed unaffected by them on Thursday against the Pacers, as he put up 16 points and grabbed 13 rebounds. Nene played 33 minutes and was a factor until the end of the game, showing no signs of being limited by the injury. He shot 5 of 12 from the field in the game, while dishing out two assists and getting a block and steal each, however the Wizards would still lose, 93-89.
Analysis: Nene, never known as a strong rebounder, is actually getting the job done on the boards since joining the Wizards, as he is averaging 9.6 rebounds per game with three double-doubles in the five-game stretch since coming over. He has struggled some with consistency, however that is to be expected when joining a new team. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his health, as this back issue could bother him moving forward, however he is worth starting in all Formats when healthy.
News: The Washington Post reports that Wizards center Nene did not practice Wednesday. Coach Randy Wittman said Nene was feeling better than he did the day before but he wasn’t sure if he would be available against the Pacers on Thursday. Nene had eight points and nine rebounds in 28 minutes in the Wizards’ 79-77 loss to the Pistons on Monday despite missing the previous game in Boston with back spasms.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should keep an eye on what happens with Nene, and hopefully he can play against the Pacers. When healthy and active, Nene is a quality Fantasy option in all leagues, but this back problem could linger, which would hurt his production heading into the Fantasy playoffs.
News: Wizards center Nene was in the starting lineup for Monday night's contest against the Pistons. Nene, who missed Sunday's contest against the Celtics due to a back injury, returned for 28 minutes and scored eight points. Nene went 3 of 8 from the field and grabbed nine rebounds with two steals.
Analysis: Nene has been dealing with his back injury all season long, but was able to return to action on Monday night. When he can stay healthy, Nene has continued to produce this season. Now that he's back, Nene is worth using in most Fantasy formats.
News: Wizards center Nene has played well since coming over from the Nuggets, however he was unable to play on Sunday against the Celtics, as he come down with back spasms prior to the game. He did receive treatment on the back before the game, however he was unable to give it a go.
Analysis: Nene has been dealing with a myriad of injuries this season, however this is the first time that the back has been bothering him. Still, this should not be an injury that lingers. Still, the Wizards play again on Monday on the third night of a back-to-back-to-back, so it wouldn't be a surprise to see him sit again. Keep an eye on his situation, as he should be a high-end Fantasy center when healthy.
News: Wizards center Nene made his debut on Wednesday night as Washington took on New Jersey. He shot 9 for 13 from the field and converted 4 of his 6 foul shots, finishing with 22 points. Nene added a team-high 10 rebounds in his 31 minutes of action. “With the situation we’re at, he’s going to be a vital piece for us moving on, not only this year but in the future,” coach Randy Wittman told NBA.com prior to the game. “We’re going to get him out there right away. His experience in the league is going to allow him to go out and play even though he’s not really going to have an idea of everything we’re trying to do. He knows how to play, and that’s a situation where I told him." Nene added two assists and a block in Washington's 108-89 win.
Analysis: Nene has been dealing with a heel injury this season, but looked fine on Wednesday. Fantasy owners may want to give him a few games to make sure everyone is on the same page. If Wednesday's any indication how things will play out for Nene in Washington, then everything should be fine. When he's in the lineup, Nene is a high-end center option.
News: Wizards center Nene is expected in Washington on Saturday but will likely wait until Wednesday against the Nets to make his debut, reports the Washington Post. Nene is expected to practice with the team on Monday and Tuesday.
Analysis: Nene should be good to go for Fantasy Week 13 (March 19-25), but owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward. While Nene can be considered a high-end Fantasy option in most formats when healthy, it could take him sometime to gel with his new team. However, we recommend getting him active if he is in the lineup.
News: The Washington Post reports that newly-acquired Wizards center Nene will not play Friday night against the Hawks. Nene, who was traded from Denver to Washington on Thursday, has 48 hrs to report and still needs to pass a physical before the trade is complete.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should remain patient with Nene, and hopefully he will be ready for Fantasy Week 13. He is a must-start option in all leagues when healthy and active, and he should be able to finish the season strong with the Wizards.
News: Yahoo! Sports reports that center Nene has been traded as part of a three-team deal. Nene goes to the Wizards, center JaVale McGee is headed to Denver and guard Nick Young is going to the Clippers. Brian Cook is also headed from the Clippers to Washington.
Analysis: Nene has struggled this season with injuries and was just starting to play well after missing nine games with a calf injury. He should continue to post quality stats in Washington, and he will give the Wizards a much more offensive force than McGee. Keep an eye on Nene as he adjusts to playing for a new team, but he should remain active in most Fantasy leagues even though he's leaving the Nuggets.
News: Nuggets center Nene turned in a solid performance during Tuesday night's contest against the Hawks. Nene finished with 22 points in the 118-117 victory, on 8 of 16 shooting from the field. He made all six of his free-throw attempts and also added six rebounds, five assists and two blocks to his stat line, while logging 39 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Nene looks like he is starting to round back into form after missing nine games due to a calf injury. While coach George Karl will likely try and limit the 29-year-old's playing time until he feels he is fully healthy, he showed on Tuesday that he can still log big minutes when needed. Fantasy owners should feel free to get Nene active now that he seems to be getting his footing back.
News: Denver center Nene saw 22 minutes of action on Wednesday night against Cleveland as he's being eased back into action. He shot 5 for 10 from the field and went 3 for 5 at the charity stripe, finishing with 13 points. Nene added a block, two steals, one assist and five boards for the Nuggets. Denver ended up losing the game, 100-99.
Analysis: Nene has been back for two games now, after he was sidelined for nine outings due to a calf injury. It may take him a few more games to get 100 percent healthy, but for now Nene is back and can be viewed as a low-end center option. Once he shows he can go deep into games, Nene should be considered a viable play in all Fantasy leagues. Keep tabs on him heading into Week 12 (March 12-18).
News: The Nuggets official Twitter page reports that coach George Karl said Wednesday he expects center Nene to play about 20 minutes. Nene returned to action following a nine-game layoff due to a calf injury on Monday against the Kings. He came off the bench and only played 16 minutes. Karl said the next step for Nene is to play late in the game and still have energy.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues need to weigh playing Nene for 20 minutes in comparison to whoever else is on your roster. We consider Nene a solid starter in all formats when 100 percent healthy, but he has indicated it could take time for him to get back up to speed following the layoff with the injury.
News: Denver center Nene is probable and expected to play on Wednesday against Cleveland, reports the team's official site. Nene returned to action following a nine-game layoff due to a calf injury on Monday against the Kings. He came off the bench and only played 16 minutes, scoring six points with four rebounds on 2 of 5 shooting.
Analysis: Nene is being eased back into action and is likely to continue coming off the bench and seeing limited minutes. He's not out of the woods yet. When healthy, Nene is a solid Fantasy option for use in all leagues and formats.
News: Nuggets center Nene was available to play against the Kings on Monday, but came off the bench. Nene had missed the team's last nine games with a calf injury but returned for 16 minutes and went 2 of 5 from the field for six points. Nene grabbed four rebounds and added two blocks and two assists with a steal.
Analysis: Nene was expected to see limited minutes on Monday as he works his way back to health. Keep an eye on how he fares moving forward to make sure he does not suffer a setback. Nene can be considered a viable Fantasy option in all formats, when healthy.
News: Nuggets center Nene will be available to play against the Kings on Monday, but is not expected to start, according to the team's official website. Nene has missed Denver's last nine games due to his calf injury.
Analysis: Nene is expected to see some minutes on Monday night, which is great news for Fantasy owners. Keep an eye on how he fares moving forward to make sure he does not suffer a setback. Nene can be considered a viable Fantasy option in all formats, when healthy.
News: Nuggets center Nene was unable to play yet again on Sunday against the Spurs, as he continues to recover from a calf injury. He did practice on Saturday, so he's close, but he is not 100 percent healthy yet.
Analysis: Nene had been hoping to play on Sunday, however his date of return keeps getting pushed back. He is close, but not quite there yet. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status, as the Nuggets do play Monday at home. When healthy, he should be active in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Denver center Nene is not expected to play by coach George Karl on Sunday at San Antonio, reports the Denver Post. Nene practiced on Saturday but is not yet 100 percent healthy.
Analysis: Nene was hoping to play on Sunday but the Nuggets have decided he needs to sit out at least one more game. He should return to action shortly. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor the situation over the next few days to see how things play out. When healthy, Nene can be active in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Nuggets center Nene( calf) was able to practice on Saturday and may try to return to the lineup on Sunday against the Spurs, reports the Denver Post. Nene has missed Denver's last nine games due to his calf injury.
Analysis: Nene was first reported to be out until Monday, but appears he will try and play on Sunday. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor the situation over the next few days to see how things play out. If Nene proves to be healthy against the Spurs, owners would be able to plug him back into their lineups for Fantasy Week 11 (March 5-11), which would obviously be a big boost. Nene can be considered a viable Fantasy option in all formats, when healthy.
News: Nuggets center Nene did not play in Friday's contest against the Rockets as he continues to deal with a nagging calf injury. Nene has now missed nine straight games with his injury, but coach George Karl told reporters that he could be back on the court in time for Monday's game against the Kings. “I know they’re near returning, but they haven’t [played] in a while,” Karl said. “[Saturday's] practice will probably tell us a lot more.”
Analysis: Nene continues to be slowed by his calf injury, but is getting close to making his return. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward to see when he will be able to make his return. Nene can be considered a No. 2 Fantasy center in most formats, when healthy. The Nuggets play four times during Fantasy Week 11 (March 5-11) against the Kings, Cavaliers, Hornets and Grizzlies.
News: Nuggets coach George Karl told reporters on Thursday that he does not expect center Nene to return from his lingering calf injury on Friday against the Rockets. Nene has already missed eight straight games with the injury.
Analysis: The team had been holding out hope that Nene would be able to return once the All-Star break passed, but the injury continues to bother Nene. During the break, Karl told reporters that he’s not sure Nene will be able to get back to being a 35-minute per game guy for the rest of the year, so Fantasy owners will need to lower expectations for when the big man does return. Continue to monitor his status moving forward, and consider him a No. 2 Fantasy center when he does return.
News:The Denver Post reports Nuggets center Nene will not return to action Wednesday against Portland. It will be the eighth straight game he misses with a calf injury.
Analysis: The Nuggets were hoping Nene would be back after the All-Star break, but it seems he needs more time to recover. Nene has continued to be a viable Fantasy option when active, but continue to keep him reserved until further notice.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nuggets center Nene (calf) could return after the All-Star break. Nene has missed seven games with the injury. Coach George Karl recently said Nene might not be a player that averages 35 minutes until next season. He has played in only 23 of Denver's 33 games this season.
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Nene following the All-Star break, and hopefully he will return at 100 percent. When healthy, Nene is a solid Fantasy option in all leagues, and we still expect him to produce at a high level even in limited minutes.
News:The Denver Post reports Nuggets coach George Karl suggests that Nene, who is battling a calf injury, might not be a player that averages 35 minutes until next season. He has played in only 23 of Denver's 33 games this season and is expected to sit out through the All-Star break with his latest setback. "His conditioning, being out this long, how we keep him in shape and how we get him to be a 35-minute player might not happen," Karl said. "We might just have to rotate and play the big guys. It's actually been pretty fluid the past few games."
Analysis: It's true that Nene's scoring is down a full point per game in 2011-12, but his rebounding is up and his assists have remained the same. He is still averaging 30.6 minutes per game when he does play, so it's not like he is sitting for most of the game. However, in his absence the Nuggets have gotten quality play from the likes of Kenneth Faried, Kosta Koufos and Chris Andersen, so Karl can afford to protect Nene once he does come back. Don't drop Nene in Fantasy, but keep tabs on his progress once he does return. There appears to be a chance he might not be as valuable in the second half as he was in the first.
News: Nuggets center Nene, who continues to be bothered by a troublesome calf injury, will remain sidelined until after the All-Star break, coach George Karl told reporters prior to Monday night's contest against the Timberwolves. Nene has missed the past four contests due to his injury.
Analysis: This move really doesn't come as much of a surprise, as the Nuggets know they will need Nene healthy to make a strong run toward to the postseason. Hopefully another week off will allow the 29-year-old to get healthy so he stay on the court during the second half of the year. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status over the next week or so. Nene can be considered a nigh-end Fantasy option in most formats, when healthy.
News: Nuggets center Nene was out for Sunday's game at Oklahoma City as he continues to deal with a troublesome calf injury, according to the Denver Post. Nene has missed the past four games because of the issue and also dealt with a heel injury earlier this season.
Analysis: It's undetermined when the Nuggets' starting center will return as the All-Star break is approaching next week. Denver plays three games during Fantasy Week 9 (Feb. 20-26) so the team could hold him out for additional rest. Nene has been a solid contributor when active and is averaging 13.4 points and 7.8 rebounds per game this season. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status heading into next week.
News: Nuggets C Nene has been out since Saturday against the Pacers with a calf injury, and while there was some hope that he would be ready to return for Friday's game against the Grizzlies, he was not listed among the team's actives for the game. It is the third-straight game Nene has missed with the injury.
Analysis: The Nuggets' starting center has also dealt with a heel injury this season, and at this point we don't know for sure when he'll come back. Nene has missed eight games this season, but continues to be productive when active, averaging 13.4 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy formats until further notice.
News: Nuggets C Nene was ruled out for Tuesday's game against Phoenix and is expected to also miss Wednesday's contest at Dallas with a troublesome calf injury. "How long Nene will be out? I don't know," coach George Karl told the Denver Post on Monday. "He'll probably miss Tuesday's game, maybe a few more. ... I haven't heard the specifics, just someone whispering to me that it might be four or five days."
Analysis: Four or five days from Monday puts the next possible game Nene could suit up for as Friday at Memphis. However, that is not a guaranteed return date for the Nuggets' starting center, who has also dealt with a heel injury this season. Nene has missed five games this season, but is productive when active and is averaging 13.4 points and 7.8 rebounds per game. Keep him reserved in all Fantasy formats until further notice.
News: Denver C Nene is expected to miss a few games, reports Hoopsworld.com on Sunday. This news comes from his coach George Karl, who reportedly said Nene would need some time after leaving Saturday's game against Indiana with a calf strain. Nene has already been dealing with a nagging heel injury.
Analysis: Nene has been playing well this season with 13.4 points and 7.8 rebounds per game for the Nuggets. The team just wants him to get healthy so he might have to miss a few games going forward. Fantasy owners might consider keeping him benched in the upcoming scoring period. When healthy, Nene can be utilized in most Fantasy formats.
News: Denver center Nene left Saturday's game with Indiana with a calf strain. He scored 11 points and grabbed five rebounds in his 21 minutes of action. He shot 5 for 9 from the field and made one foul shot. Nene added an assist and a steal in the 113-109 win.
Analysis: Denver has two days off before they take the court again, so Nene may be ready to face Phoenix. He's averaging 11.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game over his last four contests. The big man has been dealing with a heel injury all season as well, so there is a chance he gets rest in one of the back-to-back contests in Week 8 (Feb. 13-19). When healthy and on the court, Nene is a solid center option in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: After sitting out the previous contest due to a nagging heel injury, Nuggets C Nene returned on Wednesday night against the Mavericks. He scored 16 points and hauled in 10 rebounds in the 105-95 loss. He went 6 for 12 from the floor, including missing his lone 3-pointer, and made 4 of 5 free throws. Nene, who played 36 minutes, also chipped in with two assists in the defeat.
Analysis: Nene posted his fifth double-double of the season on Wednesday and showed no signs of his injury. He is having the best campaign of his career on the boards and continues to average over 13 points per game for the Nuggets. Keep an eye on his progress going forward just in case his heel causes him to miss more time. But as long as he is active, consider Nene a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: Nuggets C Nene is expected back for Wednesday's game against the Mavs after sitting out Monday with a heel injury.
Analysis: Nene has missed four games with his nagging heel injury this year and it appears to be an ailment that will continue to linger. Nene's production has dropped a bit in the last few games, so maybe a day off will help him get back on track. He still remains a viable Fantasy start in all formats.
News: Nuggets C Nene is considered a game-time decision for Wednesday's game against Dallas because of a nagging heel injury, according to the Denver Post. Nene missed Monday's outing against Houston -- the fourth game he has been sidelined with the injury this year.
Analysis: Nene just can't seem to shake this nagging heel injury and Denver is going to be overly cautious it does not develop into a prolonged issue. When healthy, the 29-year-old continues to produce at a high level and is averaging 13.3 points and 8.0 rebounds per game this year. He also has posted four double-doubles. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status while consider him a solid option when active.
News: Nuggets C Nene was sidelined for Monday's game against the Rockets because of a persistent left heel strain. Nene has missed four games this season due to the troublesome issue with the last occurrence coming Jan. 20 at Washington.
Analysis: Nene just can't seem to shake this nagging heel injury and Denver is going to be overly cautious it does not develop into a prolonged issue. When healthy, the 29-year-old continues to produce at a high level and is averaging 13.3 points and 8.0 rebounds per game this year. He also has posted four double-doubles. His benching Monday could be a precautionary move, but he could be a risky start for Fantasy Week 7 (Feb. 6-12).
News: Denver center Nene continues to connect at a high percentage from the field. He went 6 for 9from the floor on Tuesday night in Memphis, and connected on 2 of his 3 foul shots. The big man finished with 14 points and five boards. Nene added two assists, a block and three steals for the Nuggets, but it wouldn't be enough. Denver lost to Memphis in overtime, 100-97. Nene is shooting 58.5 percent from the field over his last five outings.
Analysis: Nene continues to post solid numbers for the Nuggets and Fantasy owners. He's averaging 16.0 points and 8.2 boards over his last five games. His biggest issue this year has been his heel, which has kept him out a handful of games. Fantasy owners should keep tabs on if coach George Karl sits him down once a week -- which will likely happen later this scoring period as Denver plays on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. But as long as Nene is on the court for two of those three games, he's worth using in most Fantasy formats.
News: After sitting out Friday's contest against the Wizards with a heel injury, Nuggets C Nene was back in the starting lineup for Saturday's contest against the Knicks. Nene finished with 12 points on 5 of 13 shooting from the field in the 119-114 triple overtime victory. He went 2 for 6 from the free-throw line and also chipped in with 13 rebounds, five assists, three steals and a block, while logging 45 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Nene has been dealing with his heel injury for a few weeks now and it appears the Nuggets will be very careful with the way they handle his ailment. While he was able to return to action on Saturday, we would not be surprised if coach George Karl sits him down for a game or two every few weeks. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how his heel is holding up moving forward. Nene can is averaging 13.5 points and 8.8 rebounds thus far. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy C, heading into Week 5 (Jan. 23-29).
News: Nuggets C Nene (heel) is expected to play in Saturday's game at New York, according to the Denver Post. Nene was held out of Friday's contest against Washington with a persistent heel issue as the team did not want to risk further injury to its starting center.
Analysis: The Nuggets are being cautious with Nene, who is averaging 13.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game this year. Fantasy owners should monitor his status for any setbacks and consider him a high-end option in most Fantasy formats when he's on the court.
News: Denver center Nene missed Friday's game in Washington with a nagging heel injury, something that kept him out of a few games earlier in the season. Coach George Karl said that Nene could also miss Saturday's contest in New York.
Analysis: he Nuggets are being cautious with their starting center, who is averaging 13.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game this year. He is also contributing a block a night. Fantasy owners should monitor his status for any setbacks and consider him a high-end option in most formats when he's on the court.
News: Denver coach George Karl said Nuggets C Nene will not play in Friday's game at Washington for precautionary reasons due to a lingering heel issue, according to the team's official website. Karl added Nene could also miss Saturday's game against New York.
Analysis: Nene missed a handful of games earlier this season with a heel injury and it doesn't appear he is completely over the issue. The Nuggets are being cautious with their starting center, who is averaging 13.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game this year. He is also contributing a block a night. Fantasy owners should monitor his status for any setbacks and consider him a high-end option in most formats when he's on the court.
News: Nene had a season-high 14 rebounds Wednesday against the 76ers, while adding 20 points for one of his best games of the season. "He was being aggressive -- we need him to be aggressive all the time," Nuggets point guard Ty Lawson, who often looks for Nene during basket penetration, told The Denver Post. "Our pick-and-rolls, if he rolls, he knows I'm either going to find him or he'll draw attention (from defenders) and the opposite side is going to be open. He played well for us."
Analysis: Nene definitely seems to be getting more aggressive offensively. He has attempted 11 or more shots in three of his last four games. He has scored in double figures in four straight games as well. Nene is a high-end Fantasy option and has even more value in leagues where he has dual-eligibility at forward and center.
News: Denver center Nene hasn't been too productive at the foul line this year, but knocked down 80 percent of his freebies on Tuesday against Milwaukee. He shot 3 for 6 from the field and finished with 14 points in the Nuggets 105-95 win. Nene added a team-high nine rebounds, one block, one steal and an assist in his 26 minutes of action.
Analysis: Nene is the best rebounding option on Denver, but has been slowed a bit this year by a nagging heel issue. He's missed some time because of it, but has been able to play through the pain. Over his last five games he's averaging 13.4 points, 9.4 rebounds, 1.2 blocks and 3.2 assists over that span. Fantasy owners should continue to view Nene as a viable center option in all formats.
News: Nuggets C Nene said he received a painkilling shot prior to Monday's game against New Orleans to help his strained left heel, according to the Denver Post. Nene has been dealing with persistent pain in the area, but said he is doing his best to manage the issue. The team's training staff has considered having Nene wear different shoes if necessary. "Half the time when I play, it gets worse after the game," Nene said.
Analysis: Nene missed three of his past four games before returning to the lineup against the Hornets. It was an encouraging effort as he played 30 minutes, while registering nine points and a season-high 11 rebounds. With Denver playing four games during the upcoming week, he is expected to sit and rest during the Nuggets' practices. Fantasy owners should consider him a solid C option in most formats as long as he's active.
News: After missing three of the last four games with a strained left heel, Nuggets C Nene was able to play on Monday against the Hornets. He scored nine points and hauled in 11 rebounds while playing 30 minutes in the 94-81 loss. He also chipped in with four assists, a steal and a block. Before the contest, coach George Karl said that he wants to limit Nene to about 25 minutes on a nightly basis in order to keep him in the lineup. "I would like to work him into where he’s trying to give us something every night rather than taking him in and out of the lineup,” Karl said. “I’d rather play him shorter minutes and play him every night.”
Analysis: This injury looks as though it could limit Nene for awhile so owners should keep an eye on his progress going forward. Hopefully Karl's plan of limiting his minutes will allow him to keep playing as Nene is averaging 12 points and 7.8 rebounds thus far. While his numbers could take a hit while he is dealing with the heel injury, consider Nene a viable option in the majority of Fantasy formats as long as he is active.
News: Denver C Nene (heel) took part in the team's shootaround, and will play in Monday's game against New Orleans, according to the Nuggets' coach George Karl. Karl said he hopes to give Nene around 25 minutes against the Hornets. Nene sat out Saturday's game with a burdensome left heel injury.
Analysis: Nene was able to return last Friday but was limited to just six points in 24 minutes against New Orleans. The Nuggets decided to rest him the following night at San Antonio as the heel injury appears to be a lingering issue. Nene has averaged 30-plus minutes for most of his career, but the injury has limited him to just 27 minutes early this year. When healthy, he should be viewed as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy C in most formats.
News: Denver center Nene did not play in Saturday's game versus San Antonio as he's dealing with a left heel injury. He did play 24 minutes on Friday night. Nene is considered questionable for Monday's game against New Orleans. That said, he's hoping to be out there for the Nuggets.
Analysis: Denver needs Nene to stay healthy, so they are probably leaning on the cautious side of things. Owners should keep tabs on his status for Week 3 (Jan. 9-15) to make sure he doesn't miss any action. When healthy, Nene is a viable center option in all Fantasy formats.
News: Nuggets C Nene made his return from a foot injury on Friday night, playing 24 minutes against the Hornets. However on Saturday, Nuggets coach George Karl told the San Antonio Express-News that Nene was doubtful for the game Saturday against the Spurs.
Analysis: Nene did not appear to have any setbacks during the game on Friday, but clearly the foot is still bothering him. He did not play especially well in the game, so it's possible that it was bothering him more than he let on. This could be an injury that lingers, however, so keep an eye on his progress going forward. Denver has a viable backup in Kosta Koufos so expect them to take it easy on the 29-year-old when possible. Still, there are few options better than Nene, when healthy, so keep him active in the majority of Fantasy formats when he's in the lineup for Denver.
News: After missing the previous two games due to a foot injury, Nuggets C Nene returned on Friday against the Hornets. He scored six points and hauled in eight rebounds in the 96-88 win. He went 2 for 7 from the floor and made 2 of 4 free throws while playing 24 minutes. Nene also chipped in with two assists and two steals in the victory.
Analysis: Nene did not have his finest scoring performance on Friday but did a decent job on the boards and showed no signs of his foot injury. This could be an injury that lingers, however, so keep an eye on his progress going forward. Denver has a viable backup in Kosta Koufos so expect them to take it easy on the 29-year-old when possible. Still, there are few options better than Nene, when healthy, so keep him active in the majority of Fantasy formats as long as he is playing.
News: Nuggets C Nene is expected to play Friday at New Orleans despite lingering pain in his left foot, according to the Denver Post. "My sense is yes," Nuggets coach George Karl said when asked if the 7-footer would play. Nene has missed the previous two games.
Analysis: Nene participated in the team's shootaround on Friday so it appears he will suit up against the Hornets. Denver C Kosta Koufos performed well during Nene's absence, but will return to the bench for the game. Nene has registered double-figures in points in each of his past four outings while also contributing on the glass (7.2 rebounds per game). Consider Nene a solid Fantasy option in all formats when healthy.
News: Denver C Nene is listed as a game-time decision for Friday's game at New Orleans with a persistent foot injury. Nene was sidelined for a second straight game on Wednesday after continuing to experience pain in his left heel. Nuggets C Kosta Koufos will start again if Nene is out.
Analysis: Nene reportedly said Thursday he is feeling better, but he remains no guarantee to play against the Hornets. He has registered double-figures in points in each of his past four outings while also contributing on the glass. Consider Nene a solid Fantasy option in all formats when healthy.
News: Nuggets C Nene was unable to play in Wednesday's game against the Kings. It was the second straight game he missed due to a bruised foot.
Analysis: Nene participated in the team's shootaround Wednesday but he was unable to return to game action. Keep an eye on his status going forward as he should be back within the next few days. Nene is averaging 13.8 points with 7.2 rebounds and one block through five games and should be considered a solid option in all Fantasy formats, when healthy.
News: Denver C Nene (knee) participated in the team's shootaround Wednesday but said he is not sure if he will play against Sacramento, according to the Nuggets' website. Nene said he is still experiencing sharp pain in his left heel that sidelined him last Monday against Milwaukee.
Analysis: It's encouraging to see Nene back on the court, yet Denver is certainly going to be cautious with its standout big man. Nene underwent treatment to help the issue on Tuesday and it could be responding well. The 29-year-old has registered double-figures in points in each of his past four outings while also contributing on the glass. Consider him a quality Fantasy option in most formats when healthy.
News: Denver C Nene sat out Monday's game against the Bucks due to a bruised foot. The team's official site reports that Nene said his left heel has been bothering him for around 10 days already. The Nuggets decided to play it safe Monday and rest the big man against Milwaukee. Nene will undergo treatment Tuesday and hopes to return Wednesday against Sacramento.
Analysis: Nene is not out of the woods yet. He may not return against the Kings on Wednesday, either. These things tend to linger longer than the players would often hope. Nene is averaging 13.8 points with 7.2 rebounds in five games this season and should be able to return to the lineup shortly. Nene has been a reliable Fantasy option over the last few years and should continue to be viewed as such, when healthy.
News: Nuggets C Nene did not play in Monday's game against the Bucks due to a bruised foot. Kosta Koufos got the start in his place. Nene is being considered day to day.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 13.8 points with 7.2 rebounds in five games this season and should be able to return to the lineup shortly. Keep an eye on his status in the coming days to make sure he returns for Wednesday against the Kings. Nene has been a reliable Fantasy option over the last few years and should continue to be viewed as such, when healthy.
News: Denver C Nene registered a game-high 25 points and seven rebounds during the Nuggets' 117-100 victory over Utah on Wednesday night. Nene finished an efficient 10 of 13 from the field and also chipped in three steals and two blocks. "He's so unselfish sometimes we have to say, 'Nene, go the basket, get a bucket,"' Denver G Ty Lawson said. "When he does that we know if he gets in trouble he can also find the open man. Sometimes we have to push him to get more aggressive."
Analysis: Nene rebounded nicely from his paltry eight-point showing in the season opener. The Nuggets led 42-40 with 5:39 left in the second quarter when Nene took over on offense. The Brazilian scored 11 points the rest of the half to help Denver take a 63-46 lead into the locker room. "Every night is a mismatch with him, as long as he's aggressive," Nuggets G Andre Miller said. "We got the ball to him, made some cuts and played from there. Once he got some easy buckets it opened it up for everyone." Consider Nene a No. 1 Fantasy C in most formats.
News: After being pulled out of a preseason game due to precautionary reasons, Nuggets C Nene was good to go for Monday's season opener against the Mavericks. He scored eight points and hauled in seven rebounds in the 115-93 win. He went 4 for 8 from the field while playing 23 minutes. Nene also had two assists and a block in the victory.
Analysis: Nene signed a five-year, $67 million deal to remain the Denver this offseason and is expected to anchor the middle for the Nuggets. He could see his minutes limited early on so keep an eye on the situation going forward. The 29-year-old is coming off a season in which he averaged 14.5 points with 7.6 rebounds and one block so continue to view him as a solid option in the majority of Fantasy formats, especially at a thin position.
News: Nuggets C Nene logged just eight minutes in Denver's preseason opener against the Suns on Tuesday night before being pulled for precautionary reasons, the team announced. Nene, who signed a five-year, $67 million deal with the team last week, finished with 10 points, while hitting all five of his shots prior to leaving the contest.
Analysis: The Nuggets didn't offer many details about why Nene was pulled, saying only he was removed for precautionary reasons. However, the fact that he was pulled after making each of his first five shots seems a little odd. While there doesn't seem to be anything seriously wrong with Nene, owners may want to keep an eye on his status moving forward. As long as he is healthy, Nene can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy C in all formats on Draft Day.
News: According to multiple reports, C Nene signed a five-year, $67 million deal with the Nuggets on Tuesday night. Nene, who also showed interest in signing with New Jersey, averaged 14.5 points and 7.6 rebounds per game in Denver last season.
Analysis: Nene was being considered the biggest free agent of this offseason, so now he should start to see the rest of the pieces fall pretty quickly. He's just now hitting his prime at 29 years old and as the second half of last season proved when he nearly averaged a double-double in the final two months of the regular season. While Denver may struggle a bit with have their team stuck in China, Nene should have no problems getting his numbers again next season. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy C, worthy of an early-round pick on Draft Day.
News: According to CBSSports.com NBA Insider Ken Berger, the potential list of suitors for free-agent C Nene is down to New Jersey and Denver. Houston could also engage in discussions again if C Marc Gasol remains with Memphis. Nene appeared in 75 games for the Nuggets last season and averaged 14.5 points and 7.6 rebounds per game.
Analysis: Denver is actively trying to keep Nene, who is viewed as one of the top free agents in a thin class this offseason. However, they might be outbid by the Nets or another team that could offer the 6-foot-11 center more money. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on where he lands, but he should be considered a top Fantasy C in all formats regardless of where he plays next season.
News: With the NBA lockout officially scheduled to end next week, free-agent C Nene is expected to draw attention from several teams. One of those clubs is likely to be the Rockets, according to the Houston Chronicle. Nene has been tied to Houston before in trade discussions, but he has stayed with Denver throughout his nine-year NBA career. He finished with 14.5 points per game in 75 contests last season. Other teams expected to be interested in Nene, according to CBSSports.com NBA Insider Ken Berger, include: Golden State, New Jersey, Indiana, Miami and Dallas.
Analysis: Nene is considered one of the top free agent in a relatively lackluster class to choose from. He's just now hitting his prime at 29 years old and as the second half of last season proved when he nearly averaged a double-double in the final two months of the regular season. The Nuggets will certainly try to keep him, but there could be another big spender that attempts to swoop in and grab him. Consider Nene a No. 1 Fantasy C worthy of a selection in the early rounds of 2011-12 drafts, especially if he lands in a favorable spot.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nuggets center Nene will opt out of the final year of his contract worth nearly $12 million and, as a result, become an unrestricted free agent. It means Nene can sign with any team he wishes without the Nuggets getting a chance to match the offer when free agency begins after the expected NBA lockout, which likely will start Friday. The Nuggets tried to sign him to a contract extension but to no avail. Instead, Nene figures to have many suitors — including the Nuggets — as he explores his options. Nene opted out of the final year of the six-year, $60 million contract that he signed in 2006. Nene repeatedly has said he would like to retire in a Nuggets uniform.
Analysis: Nene is coming off arguably his best season. He averaged 14.5 points and 7.6 rebounds, almost career-high production in both categories. He shot 61.5 percent from the field, a career high, and 71.1 percent from the free-throw line. Keep an eye on what happens with Nene and where he signs, but he should continue to be viewed as a No. 1 Fantasy center in all leagues. He is worth drafting with an early-round selection.
News: Nuggets center Nene will not join Brazil's national team at the FIBA Americas Championship, the regional qualifying tournament for the 2012 London Olympics. The Brazilian basketball confederation said Nene asked to be released on Friday, citing personal and contractual reasons. The confederation said Nene's one-sentence statement did not provide any further explanation for his request.
Analysis: This move could mean Nene plans to opt out of his contract and become a free agent, but we should know more as the offseason goes on. Keep an eye on what happens with Nene and where he ends up playing. But no matter where he is next season, he should remain a No. 1 Fantasy option, and he's worth an early-round selection in all formats on Draft Day.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nuggets coach George Karl is hopeful that Nene will return to Denver in 2011-12. Nene said earlier this month that he might opt out of his contract and that the Nuggets "don't realize all of the sacrifices I made. When you don't feel appreciated, it's hard." But Karl seemed optimistic that the Nuggets could persuade Nene to stay. He is due to make $12 million next season but could sign a three-year extension with Denver, the team he's played for his entire career. "I have no problem with Nene expressing his opinions on his position. I think me and the organization very much want him here," Karl said. "I think with the situation of this year, maybe he felt like he needed more contact (about the contract). (But) from what I know with my relationship with Nene and his love for Denver, I just think things are going to get worked out, I really do."
Analysis: During his career in Denver, Nene has had to battle back from major injuries and ailments: a torn ACL in his right knee in the 2005-06 season opener, a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb in November 2007 and a bout with testicular cancer in January 2008. Nene made it through and has been a durable player the past three seasons, playing no fewer than 75 games. This season, Nene set a career high in field-goal percentage (.615). The 6-foot-11 center from Brazil was near career highs in points (averaging 14.5), free-throw percentage (.711) and rebounds (averaging 7.6). Keep an eye on what happens with Nene and where he ends up playing. But no matter where he is next season, he should remain a No. 1 Fantasy option, and he's worth an early-round selection in all formats on Draft Day.
News: The Denver Post reports that Denver center Nene said Monday he is strongly considering opting out of the final season of his six-year, $60 million contract, which would pay him $12 million, and testing the free-agent market. After nine seasons in the NBA, Nene has full control of his future and it could take hard work for the Nuggets to make him happy enough to return. "I've been here for nine years," said Nene, 28. "If that doesn't work how you want it, you need to sit down and evaluate everything and see what you can do." Nuggets executives Masai Ujiri and Josh Kroenke have said they want Nene back, but will have to ask themselves how high they want to go. "If I play happy, if I enjoy the game, my game improves," Nene said. "I did my best for the team, for the city. I tried to do my best for the fans. But the (Nuggets) need to understand you need to see the return on the other side, or you need to look for it. You need to look for it sometimes. They don't realize all of the sacrifices I made. When you don't feel appreciated, it's hard."
Analysis: During his career in Denver, Nene has had to battle back from major injuries and ailments: a torn ACL in his right knee in the 2005-06 season opener, a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb in November 2007 and a bout with testicular cancer in January 2008. Nene made it through and has been a durable player the past three seasons, playing no fewer than 75 games. This season, Nene set a career high in field-goal percentage (.615). The 6-foot-11 center from Brazil was near career highs in points (averaging 14.5), free-throw percentage (.711) and rebounds (averaging 7.6). Keep an eye on what happens with Nene and where he ends up playing. But no matter where he is next season, he should remain a No. 1 Fantasy option, and he's worth an early-round selection in all formats on Draft Day.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nuggets center Nene and the team are likely to work out a three-year contract extension, one that would be worth around $10 million annually. Nene has one year left on what was a six-year, $60 million contract that is worth around $12 million. He has an early termination option that he can use to become an unrestricted free agent.
Analysis: We expect Nene to remain with the Nuggets for a long time, and he will likely be the focal point on offense heading into 2011-12. Plan on drafting Nene as a No. 1 Fantasy option, and he's worth an early-round selection in all formats on Draft Day.
News: Nuggets center Nene was able to play through a knee bruise during Game 1 of Denver's playoff opener on Sunday against the Thunder. Nene, who who was questionable entering the contest with a groin injury, sustained the injury during the third quarter on a rebound attempt. He was helped off the court by team trainer Jim Gillen and Al Harrington before limping back to the locker room. However, he was back on the court in the fourth quarter and finished with 22 points and eight rebounds while logging 34 minutes. Nene shot 9 of 11 from the field and also chipped in with two steals and an assist while logging 34 minutes.
Analysis: This is the same knee that Nene injured back in 2005-06 season, when he tore his ACL and missed the entire season, although he showed no signs of being slowed down once he returned to the game. Nene actually looked batter once he returned, throwing down numerous thunderous dunks and helped Denver erase a 10-point fourth quarter deficit. He also appears to be over his groin injury and should be good to go for Game 2 of the series, which is scheduled for Wednesday night. Nene can be considered a solid Fantasy center in the majority of all formats, when healthy.
News: Nuggets center Nene, left Game 1 of Denver's playoff opener on Sunday against the Thunder with an apparent right knee injury. Nene, who was questionable entering the contest with a groin injury, sustained the injury during the third quarter on a rebound attempt. He was helped off the court by team trainer Jim Gillen and Al Harrington before limping back to the locker room. The team announced he has right knee contusion and his return is questionable.
Analysis: This is the same knee that Nene injured back in 2005-06 season, when he tore his ACL and missed the entire season. The team has still not announced the severity of the injury, so Fantasy owners should continue to check back for the latest updates when they become available. Nene can be considered a solid Fantasy center in the majority of all formats, when healthy.
News: The Nuggets report Friday that center Nene is considered day to day heading into Game 1 of the first-round playoff series against Oklahoma City. Nene did not play in the season finale Wednesday against Utah due to a groin injury.
Analysis: We expect Nene to be fine for the first game against the Thunder, but continue to monitor his progress. Nene has become a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, and we expect him to play well again in 2011-12 when he will be an early-round selection in all leagues.
News: Nuggets center Nene rested his sore leg during the team's season finale on Wednesday. Coach George Karl told The Denver Post that he expects all his injured players to be ready for the playoffs. "The leg injuries with Arron and Nene, those things could develop," Karl said prior to tip-off. "If we played a playoff game today, Gallo would go but I don't think Arron and Nene." The Nuggets face the Thunder in the first round of the playoffs.
Analysis: Denver needs Nene to be ready for the playoffs as they face a tough Oklahoma City team. Nene finished the season tops in NBA in field-goal percentage at 61.5. He averaged 14.5 points and 7.6 six rebounds per game this season. When he's healthy, Nene is a high-end center option in all Fantasy formats. Owners should monitor his progress through the postseason.
News: The Nuggets official team website reports that center Nene (groin) won't play at Utah on Wednesday. Nene injured his groin Monday against Golden State.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues should keep Nene reserved, and he's expected to be fine for the start of the playoffs. Since Denver clinched the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference there is no need to play Nene in a meaningless game. When healthy, Nene is a must-start Fantasy option in all formats, but the Nuggets are going to be cautious with his status.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nuggets center Nene left Monday's game against Golden State in the first half because of a strained left hamstring. He played just 15 minutes. After the game, Nuggets coach George Karl didn't know Nene's exact status. But since Denver clinched the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference there is a chance Nene can rest Wednesday in the season finale at Utah.
Analysis: It sounds like the Nuggets might keep Nene out against the Jazz, so Fantasy owners in daily leagues should use caution for the final game of the regular season. When healthy, Nene is a must-start Fantasy option in all formats, but the Nuggets might be cautious with his status with the playoffs approaching.
News: Denver center Nene was one of the healthy Nuggets heading into Monday's game against the Warriors, but he would fall victim to injury in the second quarter. He strained his left groin and missed the second half entirely. The team said he's day to day for now. Nene scored 12 points on 4 of 7 shooting from the floor and added a pair of rebounds before leaving with the injury. He added two steals and two more blocks in 16 minutes of limited action.
Analysis: Nene has had his fair share of bumps and bruises this season, but a groin issue is the last thing he and the Nuggets needed heading into the playoffs. He has anchored the frontcourt with some big men out of the lineup recently, and now they will have to return the favor without their most physical presence on the floor. Fantasy owners should stay atop the situation over the next 48 hours to see if he has a shot to get back in the lineup sooner rather than later. When healthy, Nene is a top-notch Fantasy option in all formats for his double-double ability.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nuggets center Nene is playing well of late. In March, he has been nothing short of superb, averaging 16.3 points, 8.6 rebounds, 1.2 blocked shots and 1.3 steals in just 29.4 minutes per game. While Nene denies any correlation between his improved play and the Melo trade, Nuggets coach George Karl politely disagrees. "He is much more aggressive to be involved," Karl said. "It's kind of been a combination of the window of more possessions directed toward him, he's asserting himself to be more responsible to that, and the players finding the opportunity to get him the ball. So, it's the situation, his talent and his size, and also the guys recognizing that he's important to us."
Analysis: Nene is playing at a high level, and hopefully he will continue to finish the season strong. Keep him active in all leagues as a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Denver center Nene kept the Nuggets ahead of the Hawks on Wednesday night, scoring a game-high 20 points on 6 of 12 shooting. He was solid from the line as well, connecting on 8 of 9 shots. Nene assisted on a pair of baskets and controlled the paint with a season-high four blocks. The Brazillian pulled down seven rebounds in the process, finishing with at least that many in seven straight outings.
Analysis: Nene has always been solid on both ends of the floor, but his offensive game has blossomed to new heights in the 2010-2011 season. He did have a small lull in his last game, scoring just nine points, but he rebounded nicely on Wednesday. Nene has failed to reach double figures in scoring only eight times on the year in 61 games. He's averaging about 15 points and 10 rebounds in his last 10 game, so Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the big man in all formats moving forward.
News: Denver center Nene didn't dominate any one category on Thursday night against Utah, but did was he's expected to do. Nene scored 13 points and grabbed eight rebounds for the Nuggets as they held on for the 103-101 win over the Jazz. He added three assists, a block and four steals in his 34 minutes of court time. Nene and Denver kept pushing the tempo versus the Jazz as the game went back and forth most of the night. Nene would shoot 5 for 12 from the field and connect on 3 of his 5 foul shots.
Analysis: Nene is all hustle for the Nuggets and has been playing well with his new teammates. Over his last five games he's averaging 12.8 points, 1.6 steals and 8.4 rebounds per contest. The Nuggets are a very deep team and have gone 5-1 since trading Carmelo Anthony and Chauncey Billups to New York. Nene will continue to get plenty of looks as he's the main guy in the post. Fantasy owners should keep Nene active in all formats as he is a solid center option any league.
News: In the team's first game at full strength with all of the trade dust finally settled Thursday, Nuggets center Nene was able to once-again establish his presence in the paint en route to a double-double against the Celtics. With Boston extremely thin in the frontcourt, Nene scored 12 points on efficient 5 of 9 shooting. He controlled the boards along with Kenyon Martin, as the two each finished with 10 rebounds in the win. Nene added two blocks and an assist in 32 minutes of playing time.
Analysis: Nene registered his first double-double since February 2 on Thursday night, so he fully took advantage of Boston's lack of depth up front. Still, he couldn't get going as much on the offensive end as the new players attempted to mesh with the rest of the Nuggets for the first time at game-speed. The result was a steady attack produced by a solid 10-man rotation that may be the most balanced in basketball. Fantasy owners should not worry, as Nene will be isolated on the low block even more than normal without the volume of shots from 'Melo from down-low and everywhere else. Heading into Week 19 (Feb. 28-March 6), the Brazilian big-man should continue to be active in all Fantasy formats with his role on the new-look Nuggets.
News: After shooting just 2 of 8 from the field in Thursday's win over Dallas, Nuggets center Nene was much more efficient in Sunday's contest at Memphis. Nene scored 14 points on 6 of 10 shooting from the field, but it wasn't enough as the Grizzlies were able to erase a 17-point deficit to come back and beat the Nuggets 116-108. He did make both of his free-throw attempts in the defeat and also chipped in with three rebounds and a block in 34 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Nene was able to get his shot back on track against the Grizzlies, although most of his shot attempts came right in front of the rim. Still, that is exactly where you want your center taking his shots from and Nene did not disappoint. The 28-year-old continues to put up career numbers for the Nuggets this season and should be able to continue that trend in the second half of the season if he can stay healthy. Continue to view him as a No. 1 Fantasy center heading into Fantasy Week 17 (Feb. 14-20).
News: After a one-game break with an illness, Nuggets C Nene was back in the starting lineup for Wednesday's game against the Warriors. He was perfect for more than 47 minutes on the night, shooting 6 of 6 from the field. However, the Brazilian took a mid-range jumper in the final seconds with a chance to win the game, but the shot hit the back iron. Still, though he didn't win the game for Denver, he scored 17 points on 6 of 7 shooting, including 5 of 5 from the line. Nene added six rebounds, two steals and a block defensively. On the offensive end, he assisted on four baskets in 32 minutes of playing time.
Analysis: Though he's missed game here-or-there, Nene has been pretty reliable in the midst of a carer year in Denver. He is a force down low, but he also has rare athleticism for a man of his stature. The combination has allowed him to average more than 15 points per game to go along with just over seven rebounds on average. The illness didn't seem to limit him at all Wednesday, so owners can resume utilizing Nene as a very good option in any Fantasy format.
News: Nuggets C Nene (illness) declared following the team's morning shootaround that he was ready to play in Wednesday night's game at the Warriors. He missed Monday's game against Houston due to the bug he has been dealing with.
Analysis: Nene missed Denver's shootaround on Monday morning due to an illness. Coach George Karl initially said that he expected him to play, but it was later determined that he was not well enough to go. He has declared himself fit to play, however, making him a viable play again in all daily formats and weekly leagues. He is averaging 19.5 points and 6.0 rebounds over his last four appearances and remains a great play in any league.
News: Denver center Nene missed the Nuggets' game against Houston on Monday night while dealing with an illness, according to AOL FanHouse.com. He missed the team's shootaround Monday morning and was not well enough to play versus the Rockets. Nene is having a solid season, posting a career-high 15.3 points and 7.3 rebounds per game
Analysis: Denver coach George Karl initially expected Nene to play, but that possibility has obviously been ruled out. It's the first game Nene has missed since Jan. 26 and just the fifth overall this season. Fantasy owners should consider him day-to-day, but he should get the nod for Wednesday's game at Golden State barring any setbacks. Consider him a must-start in all formats when healthy.
News: AOL FanHouse reports that Nuggets C Nene missed Denver's shootaround on Monday morning due to an illness. However, coach George Karl said he expected Nene to play on Monday night against Houston. Nene is averaging 18.0 points and 6.0 rebounds over his last five games.
Analysis: There is a chance Nene will be playing at less than 100 percent on Monday and possibly for the first couple of games of Fantasy Week 16 (Feb. 7-13). However, he is expected to play on and we would not anticipate him seeing enough of a drop that you would not want to activate a player who has been a steady No. 1 Fantasy center all season.
News: Denver center Nene scored a season-high 28 points in the Nuggets' 113-106 loss to Utah on Friday night. Nene was near-perfect for the game and finished 10 of 12 from the field and a pristine 8 for 8 from the free-throw line to also match his career high. It was his second consecutive 20-point outing, the second occasion this season he has posted 20 points in back-to-back games. The 6-foot-11 defensive force added five rebounds and matched a season-high with three blocks.
Analysis: Nene has become a potent scoring option and is now averaging a career-high 15.1 points per game this season. He hit a minor speed bump towards the end of January while battling a calf injury -- 35 points total in the last three games of the month -- but appears to have aptly recovered. Nene has now connected on at least 50 percent of his shots in seven straight games, including two outings above 80 percent. Consider him a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Denver C Nene has officially put his calf injury behind him after Wednesday's excellent effort in a blowout win over Portland. Nene played 32 minutes in the 109-90 victory and shot 9 of 13 from the field to score 22 points to lead the way for his team. He recorded a double-double as well as he added 10 rebounds. Nene also had three assists, a steal and a block in the performance.
Analysis: Nene has played three full games since returning from his calf injury and he's played increasingly better in each. Putting up 15 points and over seven boards per game on the year, Nene remains someone to be starting just about all Fantasy formats.
News: After logging just nine minutes in his first game since returning from a calf injury, Nuggets center Nene played 33 in Sunday's 110-99 loss to the Sixers. Nene, who has been dealing with a calf injury, scored 12 points in the defeat on 5 of 9 shooting from the field. He made both of his free-throw attempts and added six rebounds and three assists in the contest.
Analysis: Nene missed the Detroit game earlier in the week with his calf injury, but showed no ill effects of it in Sunday's loss at Philadelphia. He is averaging 13.8 points with 7.0 rebounds and 1.3 steals over his last four contests and has really taken his game to the next level this season. Now that he appears healthy, Fantasy owners should get the big man active for Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 31-Feb. 6) with the Nuggets playing four times in the upcoming scoring period. Nene can be considered a solid center options in all Fantasy leagues, when healthy.
News: Denver center Nene returned for Friday's game against Cleveland after missing the last contest with a strained right calf. But the 28-year-old played only nine minutes as he sat out the second half as a precautionary measure, the team said. Nene finished with seven points, three rebounds and an assist in the 117-103 win.
Analysis: Nene missed just one game with the injury and the Nuggets pounded the Cavs for most of the game on Friday night so Fantasy owners shouldn't be too worried about his injury. He is averaging 13 points with 7.3 rebounds and 1.5 steals over his last four contests and has really taken his game to the next level this season. He should be good to go for Saturday against the 76ers but keep an eye on his status just to be safe. When healthy, Nene is a solid center option in all Fantasy formats considering the Brazilian is having a career year and the team is dealing with several injuries in the frontcourt.
News:The Denver Post reports that Nuggets C Nene will play in Friday's game against the Cavaliers, despite a calf issue. He was originally considered as a game-time decision. The last time he faced Cleveland, he scored 22 points in 19 minutes of playing time.
Analysis: Nene missed just one game with the injury, so it was not a serious one. He was considered day to day before testing out the calf Friday prior to tipoff. When healthy, Nene is a solid center option in all Fantasy formats considering the Brazilian is having a career year and the team is dealing with several injuries in the frontcourt.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nuggets C Nene said he will test out his injured calf before Friday's game at Cleveland. He is officially questionable.
Analysis: Nene is having a career year in scoring, posting 15.2 points per game. He's also added 7.5 boards and 2.1 assists per contest. When healthy, Nene is a solid center option in all Fantasy formats. It doesn't seem like this calf injury is too serious, but owners in daily formats should monitor him over the weekend.
News: Nuggets center Nene sat out Wednesday's game in Detroit with a calf injury. Denver would go on to beat Detroit, 109-100, without some of their big men. The team is considering him day-to-day.
Analysis: Nene is having a career year in scoring, posting 15.2 points per game. He's also added 7.5 boards and 2.1 assists per contest. When healthy, Nene is a solid center option in all Fantasy formats. It doesn't seem like this calf injury is too serious, but owners in daily formats should monitor him heading into Friday's contest in Cleveland.
News:The Denver Post is reports Nuggets center Nene will not play in Wednesday's game at Detroit because of a calf injury. Shelden Williams will start in his place.
Analysis: Nene is having a career year in scoring while maintaining his solid amount of rebounds night-in, night-out. He's even stealing a couple of passes per game which serves as just a bonus for the Brazilian big man. We don't expect the calf issue to linger too long, but monitor the situation just in case. When healthy, Nene is a solid start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Denver C Nene was excellent from the field on Tuesday night as the Nuggets handled the Wizards with ease. Nene missed only one of his nine shot attempts in the game and went 5 for 7 from the line to score 21 points for the Nuggets. He missed a double-double by one rebound with nine. Nene also had a block in the performance.
Analysis: The Brazilian center with the mono-moniker has been playing well and is averaging 15.6 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game over his last five. Plus, he's shooting 69 percent from the field over that stretch. Shooting that well, Nene can be active in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Denver center Nene registered 16 points and six rebounds in the Nuggets' 112-107 victory over Oklahoma City on Wednesday night. Nene sank 7 of 8 shots from the field to finish with a shooting percentage of at least 60 percent in his seventh consecutive game. Nene added two assists but committed five fouls as Denver won for the fourth time in its last five games.
Analysis: Nene has always been a reliable shooter from the field -- 63.8 percent this season -- and he is displaying his prowess even more this month. Nene is averaging 69.0 percent from the field in January and has finished with a shooting percentage under 50.0 in just four games this season. He is still slightly inconsistent rebounding the ball and is averaging 7.5 boards per game. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center, especially at a thin position.
News: Denver C Nene had his best game in over a week on Thursday night against Miami. He scored 17 points and hauled in nine rebounds in the 130-102 win. He was an efficient 6 of 7 from the field and made all five of his free throws while playing 26 minutes. Nene also chipped in with one steal in the victory. Coach George Karl told the Denver Post that he would like Nene to play solid for an entire game because it is best for the team. "I think we all would like to see more assertiveness over the whole game," Karl said. "He seems like he has moments in games. Rather than a dominant game, he'll have a good first half or have a good third quarter. I'd like to see him be more consistent in his dominance."
Analysis: Nene had been struggling with his scoring and rebounding over the last few games but he was able to bust out of that slump against the LeBron-less Heat on Thursday. He is averaging 13.8 points with 7.2 rebounds over his last five contests, which are down from his season averages. While he has scored in double figures in all but four games this season, the 28-year-old is not producing across the board on a consistent basis. But despite his recent struggles, Nene remains a solid contributor at a thin position and should remain active in most Fantasy leagues with Cleveland and San Antonio left on the schedule for Week 12 (Jan. 10-16).
News: Denver center Nene registered 16 points and 14 rebounds in the Nuggets' 104-86 victory over Sacramento on Saturday night. Nene drained an efficient 6 of 8 from the field to finish with his fifth double-double of the season and first since Christmas. Nene, who missed Denver's last game while nursing a hamstring injury, didn't appear bothered by the issue and logged 33 minutes. He added three assists and two steals for the Nuggets, who won their third straight game.
Analysis: Nene has now posted double figures in his last five games, and his 14 rebounds in Saturday's game set a season high. His 15.1 points per this season game average represents a career high as the ninth-year center is connecting on a sterling 62.7 percent of his shots this season. As long as he is healthy, Nene will remain in the starting lineup for the NBA's third-ranked scoring offense (106.5 points per game). Consider him a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Denver center Nene is listed as a starter for the Nuggets' game against Sacramento, according to the Sacramento Bee. Nene missed Denver's last game while nursing a hamstring injury. The 6-foot-11 veteran is averaging 15.1 points and 7.2 rebounds per game this season.
Analysis: Nene has posted some solid numbers this season and has two double-doubles in his last seven games. His 15.1 points per game represent a career high as the ninth-year center is recording a sterling 62.7 percent of his shots this season. Consider him a must-start in all Fantasy formats when healthy.
News: Denver C Nene missed Wednesday's game in Minnesota with a hamstring injury. He is considered day to day. Nene last played on Tuesday and scored 17 points with seven rebounds and a block on 6 of 7 shooting.
Analysis: We are not sure when Nene managed to hurt his hamstring because he played pretty well on Tuesday and there doesn't seem to be any record of the injury happening in the game. This could be just rest mostly. Nene is averaging 14 points, 7.8 rebounds and a steal and block per game in his last five and is shooting lights out. He can be active in most Fantasy leagues, when healthy.
News: Nuggets C Nene had a solid game against the Spurs on Thursday night despite fouling out late in the fourth quarter. He scored 19 points and hauled in five rebounds in the 113-112 loss. He went 7 of 14 from the field and converted 4 of 5 free throws while playing 35 minutes. Nene also had two assists in the defeat. He is averaging 20.3 points with 7.3 rebounds over his last four contests.
Analysis: Nene recorded a double-double in his last outing but only scored 10 points, his lowest total in nearly two weeks. He is averaging a career-high 15.4 points on the year and has definitely stepped up with the loss of Chris Andersen and Kenyon Martin. With both of those guys out for at least another week or two, Nene should be able to have continued success. While he's not hauling in as many rebounds as seasons past, his scoring makes him a viable option in most Fantasy formats. Continue to roll with the 28-year-old in all leagues with Minnesota left on the schedule in Week 8 (Dec. 13-19).
News: Nuggets center Nene recorded another double-double in Tuesday's 111-94 win over the Magic. Nene scored 10 points on 4 of 7 shooting in the contest to go along with 10 rebounds. He played 34 minutes and also chipped in with two assists and a steal in the victory.
Analysis: Nene is having a resurgent season and is averaging almost 16 points per game and seven rebounds on the season. He has definitely benefited from Chris Andersen being out with an injury and should be able to continue putting up big numbers as he is averaging almost 32 minutes a game. Continue to view Nene as a viable option in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Nuggets C Nene continued his hot scoring stretch on Friday night against the Raptors. He scored 26 points on 9 of 12 shooting in the 123-116 win. Nene went 8 for 9 from the charity stripe and hauled in six rebounds while playing 34 minutes. He also had two assists, a steal and a blocked shot in the victory. Nene is averaging 18.7 points over his last six contests.
Analysis: Nene is having a resurgent season and is averaging a career-high 14.9 points over the first 19 games. He has picked up his scoring while still contributing with seven rebounds and two assists a night . He has definitely benefited from Chris Andersen being out with an injury and should be able to keep up his solid production with New York left on the schedule during the current scoring period. Continue to view Nene as a viable option in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Nuggets center Nene just his second double-double of the year on Sunday against the Grizzlies. He scored a season-high 27 points and grabbed 11 boards in his 37 minutes of action. He shot 10 for 13 from the field and connected on 7 of his 8 foul shots. He added six assists, two steals and two blocks.
Analysis: Nene has been averaging 18.4 points and 8.6 rebounds over his last five games. With Chris Andersen out of action for a few weeks again, the Nuggets will rely on Nene more. He's playing well for Denver and should be viewed as a viable center in all Fantasy leagues. Denver plays four games in Week 7 (Dec. 6-12).
News: Denver C Nene missed just one shot on Wednesday night in a win over the Bucks. Nene scored over 20 points for the second time in his last five games as he notched 24 against the Bucks. He went 8 for 10 from the line and added nine rebounds and a block. He also had two steals in the performance.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 16.4 points per game over his last five as he's seen a slight boost in his scoring numbers. He's also rebounding more of late and overall just playing better as the Nuggets have begun to win some games. With Denver winning, Nene can be used in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Denver center Nene was almost perfect on Friday night against Chicago. He went 8 for 9 from the floor and 2 for 2 from the foul line -- finishing with 18 points. He added seven rebounds, two assist and two blocks in his 26 minutes of action. The Bulls would edge out the Nuggets though, going away with the 99-98 win.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 15.0 points and 7.2 boards per contest over his last five games. Coach George Karl has said he wants to get more touches for Nene, and he's averaging a good chunk of points since that announcement was made. Fantasy owners should be happy with this recent production and keep him active in all formats heading into Week 6 (Nov. 29-Dec. 5).
News: Nuggets center Nene has been lost in the offensive shuffle, something coach George Karl would like to remedy. In his last game Nene scored 17 points on a 7 for 9 shooting performance. According to the Denver Post, Karl would like to have a more concentrated effort to get the 6-11 center. “The big key is finding him a little bit. I think right now we don’t find him as often as we need to find him,” Karl said. “When we do find him we usually get efficient, effective results. That’s something our whole team has got to understand. Effective, efficient results is better than playing one-on-one and taking tough shots.” Denver needs Nene to be a presence in the paint, especially with Kenyon Martin and Chris Andersen out of action.
Analysis: Nene was averaging 12.6 points and 5.8 rebounds heading into Thursday's contest against the Trail Blazers. While his rebounding is down this year, it's not because of lack of effort. Other members of the team -- Shelden Williams, Al Harrington and Carmelo Anthony -- are chipping in on the glass. Fantasy owners should continue to view Nene as a viable starting center in all formats.
News: Denver C Nene continues to play well and missed only two shots in Tuesday's win over the Knicks. Nene shot 7 of 9 from the field over 30 minutes and scored 17 points in the 120-118 win. He added five rebounds and three assists.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 14 points, 5.2 rebounds and a block per game over his last five. Nene will not five Fantasy owners elite production but the guy is certainly consistent. For a weak center position, Fantasy owners should have Nene active in most formats considering you know you will get a solid effort from him most of the time.
News: According to the Denver Post, head coach George Karl has been impressed with Nene's two games back with the Nuggets after missing three outings with a left groin strain. Nene's had eigh tpoints and seven rebounds against Chicago and 13 and six at Indiana. “I thought Nene played well in both games,” Karl said. “Hopefully we won’t have any limitations tonight – we’re playing probably the best big guys in basketball and also the best rebounding team.” Nene played 31 minutes on Thursday scoring 18 points and grabbed five rebounds. He handed out three assists as Denver handed Los Angeles it's first loss of the season, 118-112. Nene shot 7 for 13 from the field and knocking down all four of his foul shots.
Analysis: Nene has been playing through the pain, but the Nuggets need him right now with Chris Andersen and Kenyon Martin still out with injuries. They are thin on the frontcourt and will continue to lean on Nene heavily. When healthy, Nene is a solid No. 2 Fantasy center.
News: Denver C Nene (groin) played through his nagging groin injury on Tuesday at Indiana. The Pacers trounced the Nuggets and Nene saw just 17 minutes of action in the game. He shot well, going 4 of 7 from the field to score 13 points. Nene added six rebounds and two assists and went 5 for 5 from the free-throw line.
Analysis: Nene was dealing with an injured groin before Monday's game and played through it against the Bulls. That said, he could not play in the fourth quarter because the injury acted up on him. Hopefully his appearance in Tuesday's game doesn't come back to haunt him and cause him to miss more time. When healthy, Nene is a good No. 2 Fantasy center.
News: Denver PF Nene has been upgraded to probable for Tuesday's game at Indiana. Nene was dealing with an injured groin before Monday's game and played through it against the Bulls. That said, he could not play in the fourth quarter because the injury acted up on him.
Analysis: Nene has been able to practice but we're not sure this is the right decision for him to make, especially after he had to come out early on Monday. If he doesn't get rest, this injury could continue to plague him. Smart Fantasy owners could keep him reserved and wait until he proves his health fully on the court before using him again. Nene is a good No. 2 Fantasy center, when healthy.
News: Nuggets C Nene (groin), who had missed the team's last three games, was back in action for Monday's game in Chicago. He managed 27 minutes and shot 3 of 4 from the field to score eight points before sitting out the entire fourth quarter with the groin acting up. Nene added seven rebounds and three blocked shots in the performance. He added three assists as well in the Denver loss. He is day to day.
Analysis: Nene returned on Monday but cannot be considered healthy after leaving early once again. Clearly this groin is going to affect him and the only thing that can fix it is rest. He may miss the rest of Fantasy Week 3 (Nov. 8-14). Reserve him in daily leagues and hope he can return next week. He's averaging 10.3 points and 6.7 rebounds per game this season, which are both below his career averages. Nene is a good No. 2 Fantasy center, when healthy.
News:The Denver Post reports that Nuggets C Nene (groin), who has missed the team's last three games, worked with the first team in the team's morning shootaround on Monday. He should be able to play in Monday night's game in Chicago.
Analysis: The Nuggets have yet to announce that he has been cleared to play, but the fact that he participated on Monday morning is a great sign. He is officially listed as day-to-day, but the Nuggets have been playing short-handed for several games and will get him back in there just as soon as they think he is ready. You'll have to take a chance in weekly formats for Fantasy Week 3 (Nov. 8-14), but it appears his chances of playing are good.
News: According to the Mavericks' official website, Denver center Nene was not active for Saturday's matchup versus Dallas. Nene is missing time with a left groin strain. Gary Forbes got the start in his place.
Analysis: Nene played all 82 games for the Nuggets last year, but has now missed three for Denver this season. With Kenyon Martin and Chris Andersen both out of commission, the Nuggets need Nene. He's off to a slow start this year, averaging 10.3 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, but those numbers could definitely go up. Owners should monitor him heading into Week 3 (Nov. 8-14) before setting those lineups. Denver faces Chicago, Indiana and the Lakers, so the Nuggets would like to have their starting center healthy for all three of those games. When healthy, Nene is a good No. 2 Fantasy center.
News: Nuggets C Nene, was not in the starting lineup for Friday's game against the Clippers due to a strained groin. Melvin Ely got the start in his place.
Analysis: If you play in a daily league, you should probably go with a backup plan. He's off to a modest start anyway, averaging 10.3 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. Those numbers are good enough to make him a No. 2 Fantasy center, but he has the potential for a little more than that.
News: Nuggets C Nene, who missed Wednesday's game with a strained groin, is unlikely to play Friday against the Clippers, multiple sources have reported. When asked by a beat reporter if he would be a game-time decision, Nene shook his head.
Analysis: If you play in a daily league, you should probably go with a backup plan. Nene is looking too risky for Friday's game. He's off to a modest start anyway, averaging 10.3 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. Those numbers are good enough to make him a No. 2 Fantasy center, but he has the potential for a little more than that.
News: Nuggets C Nene, who missed Wednesday's game with a strained groin, is considered day to day. He'll be a game-time decision Friday against the Clippers, according to the Denver Post.
Analysis: Nene is off to a modest start, averaging 10.3 points and 6.7 rebounds per game. Those numbers are good enough to make him a No. 2 Fantasy center, but he has the potential for a little more than that. You'll want to reserve him for now, but he doesn't figure to miss too much time.
News: Denver C Nene missed Wednesday's game against Dallas with a left abductor (groin) strain, reports the team's official site. He will be questionable to return for Friday against the Clippers.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 10.3 points and almost seven rebounds per game over three contests this season. Nene has started slow for Denver but should get back to his normal near double-double averages. We're not sure where this groin injury stemmed from but Nene isn't expected to miss too much time. He's worth starting in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Denver center Nene registered a double-double -- his first of the season -- on Saturday night in Houston. Nene went 4 for 9 from the field, hitting his lone 3-point shot, and knocked down 75 percent of his foul shots. He finished with 12 points and 12 boards -- four offensive -- in 33 minutes of action.
Analysis: Nene has started slow out of the gate this year, but Shelden Williams has been hitting the glass hard so far. With Chris Andersen and Kenyon Martin out, Nene will be leaned on to be a post presence. His double-double on Saturday is what Fantasy owners were hoping he'd produce for them this year, so it should be interesting to see if he can keep this up. But while he's getting 30-plus minutes per game, he'll continue to hold value in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: Denver C Nene didn't have a big night but didn't need to in order to beat the Jazz on Wednesday in the season opener. Nene played 23 minutes and shot 5 of 8 from the field to score 13 points. He grabbed four rebounds and blocked a shot. Nene didn't need to get the boards with Shelden Williams pulling down 16 rebounds beside him.
Analysis: Nene can do the scoring down low while Williams can grab the rebounds. That might annoy owners who have Nene to get the rebounds but Wednesday's season opener might be telling. Owners should pay attention to that trend. Still, Nene is going to have his games and continues to be worth using in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Denver C Nene has been dealing with a calf injury, reports NBA.com on Monday. However, Nene was back at full practice on Monday and reports the calf is back to full health. He is expected to be in the starting lineup for the season opener against Utah on Wednesday.
Analysis: Playing in all 82 games last year, Nene has proven durable and his calf should not cause him to miss any time whatsoever in the first week. When he is healthy, Nene is a legit No. 1 Fantasy center, but in years' past injuries have played a part in decreasing his value. He averaged 13.8 points, 7.6 boards, 2.5 assists and 1.4 steals per game last year and should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy forward and No. 2 Fantasy center this year.
News: Denver center Nene connected on 6 of his 9 shots from the field on Thursday against Los Angeles. The big man finished with 13 points and four rebounds in 25 minutes of action. He also made three steals for the Nuggets who were still without Chris Andersen, Al Harrington and Kenyon Martin on the frontcourt.
Analysis: Nene played in all 82 games last year, something he had never done before, so hopefully he remains durable for this campaign. When he is healthy, Nene is a legit No. 1 Fantasy center, but in years' past the injuries decreased his value. He averaged 13.8 points, 7.6 boards, 2.5 assists and 1.4 steals per game last year and should be considered a mid-round draft pick this year.
News: Denver center Nene made his lone shot from the field and went 4 for 6 from the foul line on Friday against Portland. He grabbed five rebounds and had two assists in 20 minutes of action. Nene suffered a knee injury during the playoffs last year and was questionable for the start of the preseason.
Analysis: Nene averaged 13.8 points, 7.6 boards, 2.5 assists and 1.4 steals per game last year, as he played in and started all 82 games. When healthy, Nene has proved to be a good Fantasy No. 1 center. Owners should monitor him through the preseason and consider drafting him with a mid-round pick on Draft Day.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nuggets center Nene, who suffered a knee injury in Game 5 of the Western Conference first-round playoff series against Utah and missed Game 6, should fully recover for the start of next season. Nene has a knee sprain after it was initially feared he suffered a torn ACL.
Analysis: This is a good sign that Nene should return at full strength in 2010-11. We like Nene as a No. 1 Fantasy center, and he's worth a mid-round pick in all leagues as long as he's 100 percent as expected.
News: According to The Denver Post, Nuggets C Nene (knee) has not suffered a torn ACL as initially feared. He has been diagnosed with sprained ACL and has been ruled out for Game 6 of the Western Conference quarterfinals series against Utah on Friday.
Analysis: This is great news for Nene as an ACL tear would have forced him out of action next season, let alone the playoffs. In the first game of 2005, Nene tore his right ACL and missed the other 81 games of that season. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a fringe No. 1/2 center in most formats. If you have him as your No. 2 center, you'll be in good shape.
News: The Denver Post reports that the Nuggets believe center Nene tore his left ACL in Wednesday's Game 5 victory against Utah. Nene was attended to by team trainers and doctors after his second-quarter fall, and Thursday he is scheduled to undergo an MRI. The team listed the injury as a left knee sprain. Nene was injured when Jazz forward Carlos Boozer banged his left leg into Nene's knee. He was helped off the court and into the locker room leaning on trainer Jim Gillen. Nene had two points and one rebound in 14 minutes.
Analysis: In the first game of 2005, Nene tore his right ACL and missed the other 81 games of that season. In his career, which began in 2002, Nene has also battled testicular cancer, torn a ligament in his left thumb and missed time due to an assortment of other injuries. In the first four games of this series against Utah, Nene had averaged 13.8 points and 7.0 rebounds. This would be terrible news for Fantasy owners because the injury could sideline Nene heading into the start of 2010-11. He is a must-start Fantasy option when healthy, so hopefully this injury is just a sprain and not a torn ACL.
News: Nuggets C Nene left during the first half of Game 5 of their Western Conference quarterfinal series against the Jazz due to a sprained left knee. He will not return to the game, and will be re-evaluated Thursday. Nene was injured when Jazz PF Carlos Boozer banged his left leg into Nene's knee. He was helped off the court and into the locker room leaning on trainer Jim Gillen. Nene had two points and one rebound in 14 minutes.
Analysis: Nene averaged 13.8 points, 7.6 rebounds, 1.4 steals and 1.0 blocks on the season. While he may not be a No. 1 Fantasy center heading for 2010-11, he'll be close if healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Nuggets C Nene is continuing his fine play as the Nuggets make an effort to get him the ball more. Nene scored 18 points in Saturday's 98-90 win over the Los Angeles Clippers. Nene is averaging 20.0 points over the past two games and 17.4 over the past five games. With forward Kenyon Martin out, the Nuggets have been trying to get Nene more involved in the offense.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should be encouraged by Nene's increased scoring output. Even when he does not score, he is able to contribute in other areas on the court. With the Nuggets playing five times during Fantasy Week 24 (April 5-14), Nene can be used as a No. 1 Fantasy center with Kenyon Martin out of the lineup and the Nuggets jockeying for playoff position.
News: Nuggets center Nene had 22 points, five rebounds, five assists, three blocks and one steal Thursday against Portland. It was his second 20-5-5 game in his past four outings, and it was the second time in five games he's had three blocks. Nene is averaging 15.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.4 blocks in his past five games.
Analysis: Nene remains a must-start Fantasy center in all leagues. There are times where he doesn't score like an elite center, but he still finds a way to contribute in other areas. Keep him active in all formats as Denver tries to close the season strong in a push for a high playoff seed.
News: Nuggets C Nene had 14 points with eight rebounds and an assist in Monday's game at Dallas. He is averaging 12.8 points and 7.0 rebounds in his last five games.
Analysis: Nene's numbers have remained in the same ball park and he remains a veryr eliable No. 2 Fantasy center option in most leagues. He should continue to see similar numbers as long as he can remain healthy.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Denver C Nene has taken a step back after having perhaps his best all-around game of the season. On March 18, Nene had 20 points, six rebounds, five assists, five steals and three blocks against New Orleans. But in three games since then, all losses, Nene has averaged just 8.0 points. He had just seven points and five rebounds Wednesday at Boston.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 12 points and 6.6 rebounds over his last five contests. While Nene is in a mini-slump, he does have the ability to score in double figures on a nightly basis. Combine that with his ability to grab rebounds and Nene makes for a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Nuggets C Nene scored 20 points in a win over the Hornets on Thursday. Nene shot 8 of 12 from the field while grabbing six boards, dishing out five assists and attaining five assists. It was the first time in his last five games that Nene reached the 20-point mark.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 16.2 points, 7.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists over his last five contests. He is capable of a double-double on any given night and he has the ability to fill out a stat sheet. Fantasy owners should consider him a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Nuggets C Nene had 14 points, five rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks Monday night in Phoenix. He us averaging 11.4 points, 8.4 rebounds and 3.4 assists over his last five games.
Analysis: Nene continues to put up numbers worthy of a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center or a high-end No. 2 option in most standard formats. As long as he remains healthy, that should remain the case down the stretch.
News: Denver C Nene recorded a double-double on Sunday in a loss to the Lakers. Nene scored 14 points and grabbed 11 rebounds as he shot 4 for 6 from the field. He added three steals and two assists.
Analysis: Nene is just under a double-double average over his last five games at 12 points and 9.2 rebounds. He adds 1.2 steals per game over that span. Denver plays a favorable four-game schedule during Week 19 (March 1-7) so have Nene active in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: Denver C Nene helped the Nuggets beat the Celtics on Sunday afternoon as he recorded a double-double. Nene scored 16 points on 7 of 11 shooting and added 10 rebounds. He also had two steals and three assists.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 16.4 points, 9.0 rebounds and just under a steal per game over his last five. He is a steady presence as a borderline No. 1 Fantasy center. That said, Denver plays a tough three-game schedule in Week 18 (Feb. 22-28).
News: Nuggets C Nene scored 17 points against the Wizards on Friday, the sixth time in eight games he's reached double figures. He added nine rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block.
Analysis: Nene personifies consistency this season. Over his last five games, he's averaging 14.0 points and 7.4 rebounds, about what he averaged in both December and January. He is a steady presence as a borderline No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Nuggets C Nene had a game-high 20 points with nine rebounds and an assist Thursday against San Antonio. It was his second straight 20-point performance.
Analysis: Nene entered the All-Star break averaging 14.1 points and 7.8 rebounds per game with nearly a block per contest. He's a solid No. 1 Fantasy center in most formats and is going to be a big part of Fantasy championship runs in the second half as long as he remains healthy.
News: Nuggets C Nene shrugged off a foot injury to score 21 points in a blowout of the Mavericks on Tuesday. In 26 minutes he shot 8 of 9 from the field, adding eight rebounds, two assists and one steal.
Analysis: While he doesn’t put up huge numbers, Nene is consistent, scoring at least 10 points in 13 of his last 15 games. He’s averaging 13.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.2 assists over his last five games, but his play has been limited the past two games due to a foot injury. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Denver C Nene is listed as probable for Tuesday's game against Dallas in the team's media notes. Nene is dealing with a foot injury and was originally questionable for the game.
Analysis: The Nuggets play two games in Fantasy Week 16 (Feb. 8-14), making Nene a very risky play if he can't go on Tuesday. It seems, for now at least, that he will play on Tuesday, but he is still risky. When healthy, he remains a strong Fantasy option for all formats at center.
News: According to the Denver Post, Nuggets C Nene is questionable for Tuesday's game against Dallas due to an injury to his foot muscle. He got treatment on his foot Sunday and is listed as day-to-day.
Analysis: The Nuggets play two games in Fantasy Week 16 (Feb. 8-14), making Nene a very risky play now for the upcoming abbreviated scoring period in weekly formats. When healthy, he remains a strong Fantasy option for all formats at center. But it appears Fantasy owners will have to consider other options until after the break.
News: Nuggets C Nene had six points and eight rebounds Sunday at San Antonio. He played just under 29 minutes in the game. It was his first single-digit offensive performance in nine games and just his third in the month of January.
Analysis: Nene has been kept off the boards in recent games, averaging just 6.4 rebounds to go with 12.2 points over his last five games. However, the Brazilian big man is averaging 14.2 points and 8.0 rebounds to go with a block per game this season and deserves to start in just about every format -- especially those that require two starting centers.
News: Denver C Nene recorded 17 points and five boards on Monday in a win over Charlotte. Nene shot 5 for 14 from the field and added four steals.
Analysis: Nene is getting 1.8 steals per game over his last five and that comes with 15.2 points, 7.8 boards and almost a block per night. Nene continues to play at a high level and remains a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Nuggets center Nene had 19 points, 12 rebounds and two blocks Wednesday night at Golden State for his first double-double since Jan. 3, a span of six games. He now has nine double-doubles on the season.
Analysis: Nene continues to play at a high level and remains a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues. He is averaging 14.4 points and 8.0 rebounds in his past five games, but his point total has improved in each game over that span. Hopefully that will continue as the season goes on.
News: Denver C Nene scored 18 points on 7 of 10 shooting to help the Nuggets defeat Utah 119-112 on Sunday. Nene also added seven rebounds and two assists in his 38 minutes of play.
Analysis: Nene has averaged 16 points and eight rebounds during the month of January. Although he is not an elite center, he does possess double-double ability and is worth starting in all Fantasy formats. With three winnable games coming up during Fantasy Week 13 (Jan. 18-24), Nene should be in the starting Fantasy rotation.
News: Denver C Nene scored 14 points and grabbed nine rebounds on Wednesday in a win over Orlando. He shot 7 of 11 from the field and added three assists and a block.
Analysis: Nene is averaging almost 13 points and 7.4 boards over his last five games and that comes with 1.4 steals and a block per night. Although not an elite center, Fantasy owners should have Nene in their starting lineup.
News: Denver C Nene scored 20 points on Friday against Cleveland despite some doubt that he would play because of a sprained ankle. Nene shot 6 of 9 from the field and added four rebounds and three assists. He was also 8 of 10 from the charity stripe.
Analysis: Nene has double-double type ability. Prior to Friday's meeting with Cleveland Nene was averaging 14.1 points per game and 8.5 rebounds per game. Although not an elite center, Fantasy owners should have Nene in their starting lineup.
News:The Denver Post reports that Nene (ankle) may not play Friday against Cleveland. He is considered a game-time decision.
Analysis: Nene had nine points, 12 rebounds, four assists, four steals and two blocks Tuesday against the Warriors, but after the game, the team said he had aggravated a sprained ankle in the fourth quarter. He is a good enough scorer and rebounder to serve as a No. 1 Fantasy center even if he isn't quite an elite option. Keep a close eye on his status this weekend before setting your lineup for Fantasy Week 12 (Jan. 11-17). In daily leagues, play it safe.
News: Nuggets C Nene had nine points, 12 rebounds, four assists, four steals and two blocks Tuesday against the Warriors, but after the game, the team said he had aggravated a sprained ankle in the fourth quarter. He's day to day.
Analysis: Nene is a good enough scorer and rebounder to serve as a No. 1 Fantasy center even if he isn't quite an elite option. This injury doesn't sound like it'll sideline him for long, but ankle injuries can be tricky sometimes. Keep a close eye on his status this weekend before setting your lineup for Fantasy Week 12 (Jan. 11-17).
News: Denver C Nene scored 25 points on 8 of 11 shooting on Monday at Sacramento. The 25 points was a season high for Nene and he added eight rebounds and three blocks. Nene added three steals.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 16.2 points, 6.6 boards and 1.4 steals per game over his last five contests. This was only the second time all season that Nene eclipsed 20 points. He was extremely aggressive on the offensive end against the Kings so let's hope that continues. He remains worth using in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Nuggets C Nene tallied 15 points and 10 rebounds in Friday's loss to the Nuggets, giving him seven double-doubles on the season.
Analysis: After failing to score in double digits only once in November, Nene had four single-digit effort in his previous six contests coming into Friday's tilt. Hopefully he's ready to get his scoring up a little bit, but no matter what he's still worth using in most leagues.
News: Nuggets C Nene had just nine points and four rebounds Wednesday against the Rockets. He's averaging just 10.3 points and 6.6 rebounds over his last seven games.
Analysis: Nene's season numbers are much better. He isn't an elite scorer, but he is a nightly double-double candidate, making him usually worth using as a No. 1 Fantasy center. He's performing more like a No. 2 option right now, but you should still keep him active in Fantasy.
News: Nuggets C Nene scored only eight points Thursday at Detroit, giving him less than 10 in three straight games. He did have 11 rebounds and three assists, though.
Analysis: Nene scored in double figures in 18 of his first 20 games, so this recent drought is surprising. He's still getting enough rebounds and blocks to serve as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy forward, though.
News: Nuggets C Nene, who missed practice Monday with a bruised knee, had no trouble playing Tuesday against the Warriors. In fact, he finished with 18 points, 12 rebounds, three assists and two blocks.
Analysis: Nene is about a rebound short of averaging a double-double per game, and he's a better scorer than the average center. He's not quite an elite Fantasy option, but he's a No. 1 Fantasy C and a must-start in all leagues.
News: The Nuggets' official team site reports that Nene was held out of practice Monday due to a bruised knee. He is considered probable for Tuesday's game against Golden State, however.
Analysis: The Nuggets play three games in Fantasy Week 6 (Nov. 30-Dec. 6), but Nene sounds like a safe play. This sounds like a precautionary move by the team. When healthy, Nene remains a great play as a No. 1 center in any format.
News: Nuggets C Nene had one of his more well-rounded games against the Raptors on Tuesday, finishing with 20 points, 10 rebounds, five assists, four steals and four blocks. It was his first 20-10 game of the season.
Analysis: The points, steals and blocks represented season highs for Nene, who averages about a double-double per game. He's not an elite contributor in any category, but he's good enough all-around to serve as a No. 2 center in Fantasy.
News: Nuggets C Nene had 11 points and 12 rebounds in 40 minutes Tuesday at Chicago, giving him his second double-double of the season. He has scored in double figures in each of his last six games, averaging 14.0 points during that stretch.
Analysis: Nene broke out with 14.6 points and 7.8 rebounds last season, emerging as a No. 2 center in Fantasy. He's putting up similar numbers so far this season, so keep him active.
News: Nuggets C Nene recorded his first double-double of the season Tuesday at Indiana, finishing with 16 points and a season-high 13 rebounds. He didn't record a block, though, and now has none in three games since the season opener.
Analysis: Even though Tuesday represented Nene's first double-double of the season, he's averaging right at a double-double with 14.3 points and 9.8 rebounds. You'd like to see his blocks improve, but otherwise, he's giving you everything you'd expect from a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Nuggets C Nene brought down 11 rebounds in Thursday's game at Portland. He added 7 points in 37 minutes before fouling out. He also fouled out in the team's regular season opener.
Analysis: Nene has gotten into foul trouble early in the first two games of the season, but he remains a very strong option as a No. 2 center in most leagues while healthy. Nene should average something similar to the 14.6 points, 7.8 rebounds, 1.3 blocks and 1.2 steals he averaged last season.
News: Nuggets F Kenyon Martin recorded a double-double in Wednesday's season opener against Utah. He had 16 points and a team-high 11 rebounds while also adding a block and an assist. Starting center Nene fouled out after 33 minutes. He had 16 points and 6 rebounds with 2 steals and 2 blocks before fouling out.
Analysis: Nene was solid outside of the fouls, but we'd like to see more than six rebounds out of him in 33 minutes. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a low-end No. 1 center while healthy after his strong breakout campaign last fall.
News:Carmelo Anthony scored 17 points, Arron Afflalo added 15 and the Denver Nuggets ran off with a 102-70 exhibition victory over Partizan Belgrade on Saturday night. Nene added 12 points and Anthony Carter had 11 for the Nuggets, who played their first game at the Pepsi Center since their Game 6 loss to the Lakers in the Western Conference Finals.
Analysis: Nene had a breakout season last year with the Nuggets and a good playoff run before breaking his forearm in the Western Conference finals. He is clearly over the broken arm now that he is playing in games again and hopefully he can pick up where last season ended. Nene averaged 14.6 points and 7.8 rebounds, which were career highs. He also added 1.4 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.3 blocks and shot 60 percent from the field. He has become a No. 1 center in all formats. He does lose forward eligibility in leagues where you can use him in both spots, but he is worth drafting around Round 4 or 5 in all leagues.
News: Denver PF Nene broke his left forearm in Game 6 of the Western Conference finals against the Lakers and will wear a splint for 3-4 weeks. The Nuggets were eliminated from the playoffs when they lost the game 119-92.
Analysis: Nene had been dealing with a sore left hand earlier in the playoffs, so these playoffs were a grueling one in terms of injuries for Nene. Hopefully his sore hand and broken forearm will be all better before the start of training camp. Nene was a solid Fantasy option in 2008-2009 and will likely be a high-end option once again int he 2009-2010 season.
News: Nuggets F/C Nene (hand) was able to play in Game 3 of the team's first-round playoff series in New Orleans. He played 33 minutes and finished with only two points before fouling out. Nene did manage eight rebounds, three steals and an assist, however.
Analysis: Nene has been dealing with a sore hand, but it is not something that is going to keep him out of playoff action. However, it has appeared to have an influence on how the team is using him in the offense. Expect him to play with this injury in Game 4 and beyond.
News: The Denver Post reports Nuggets forward Nene is playing the first-round series against New Orleans with a sore left hand, and even though he's right-handed, Nuggets coach George Karl said, "I think it's a little bigger deal than people think because he uses it and he likes to finish with his left as much as with his right." Before Game 2 on Wednesday night, Karl spoke glowingly about Nene: "He's one of the more talented big guys I've ever coached. He's strong, quick, fast and has basketball hands." Nene had eight points, eight rebounds and four assists against the Hornets in Game 2.
Analysis: It appears like Nene will be fine for the rest of this series and the playoffs barring any setbacks. Hopefully he will be OK going into next season because he is a solid Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Denver PF Nene was able to play in Wednesday's Game 2 against the Hornets, scoring eight points and grabbing eight rebounds in a 108-93 win. Nene had been poked in the eye in Game 1 of the series but was expected to play in Wednesday's game.
Analysis: This was obviously not a serious injury and it did not keep Nene out for any time. Nene is a solid forward option across the board and should retain that value on Draft Day 2009.
News: Nene briefly left Sunday's playoff game against New Orleans after getting poked in his left eye by Devin Brown late in the third quarter. He finished with 12 points, 14 rebounds and three assists in 33 minutes.
Analysis: It appears like Nene will be OK for the rest of the playoffs. When healthy, Nene is a quality Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Denver forward Nene had 13 points, five rebounds and two assists Monday against Sacramento. The Denver Post reports Nene chipped a tooth, but he returned to action. He finished with 33 minutes of action.
Analysis: Nene will be fine for the rest of the season. Keep him active in all leagues.
News: Denver forward Nene had 17 points, 10 rebounds and one assist. It was his second double-double in as many games, and he has three double-doubles in his past seven outings.
Analysis: Nene remains a quality Fantasy option in all leagues. Keep him active at this time and hope for more prodcution like this to close the season.
News: Denver PF Nene was able to play in Thursday's game against the Jazz after sustaining a mild ankle sprain on Tuesday against the Knicks. Nene was expected to be active for the game amnd finished with 13 points, four rebounds and one assist in 36 minutes.
Analysis: Nene had been averaging 14.5 points and 7.7 rebounds coming into Thursday's contest and has made for a quality option at both forward and center (in leagues that allow multiple eligibility). He will likely continue to play with the injury and should be active in all formats.
News: Denver PF Nene was back playing a high level on Tuesday against the Knicks. He scored 18 points and grabbed 12 rebounds with three blocks and four steals. But Nene sustained a mild sprain of his right ankle and is probable for Denver's showdown against Utah on Thursday night.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 14.5 points and 7.7 rebounds and has made for a quality option at both forward and center (in leagues that allow multiple eligibility). He can record a double-double at any time for Fantasy owners and that makes him attractive in all leagues. Hopefully this injury is just minor, and he will be in the lineup against the Jazz, so check back before setting your lineup in daily leagues Thursday.
News: Denver PF Nene returned from a two-game suspension on Saturday night against the Warriors. Nene played 24 minutes and shot 4-of-5 from the field. He scored eight points and grabbed seven rebounds. He also had two steals and two blocked shots.
Analysis: It was a decent game for Nene, who is averaging 10 points, five boards, 1.3 steals and 1.3 blocks over his last three. Nene continues to play like a quality option at both forward and center (in leagues that allow multiple eligibility).
News: The Denver Post reports Nuggets center Nene said Thursday that he would appeal his two-game suspension by the NBA for his role in an altercation Monday night at Phoenix. Nene was ejected from the game against the Suns after head-butting Suns forward Louis Amundson. Denver coach George Karl said he was "shocked" that his center was suspended two games.
Analysis: Nene was out Wednesday against New Orleans and is expected to miss Friday's game at Dallas. Nene is expected to return to the court Saturday against Golden State.
News: The Denver Nuggets' Nene has been suspended two games without pay by the NBA after head-butting an opposing player and making contact with an official. He served the first game of his suspension Wednesday night against New Orleans. He would be eligible to return March 28 against Golden State.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 14.6 points and 7.8 rebounds and has made for a quality option at both forward and center (in leagues that allow multiple eligibility). He will wind up playing just two of the four games he was slated for in Fantasy Week 22 (March 23-29).
News: The Denver Post reports the Nuggets anticipate they won't have center Nene in Wednesday night's matchup against the Hornets. Though the NBA has not officially suspended Nene for his actions in the Nuggets' previous game, coach George Karl was told by someone in the league to prepare without Nene. At the morning shootaround at New Orleans Arena, Nene sat on the bench, while reserve Johan Petro practiced with the first team. Nene, who averages 14.6 points and 7.8 rebounds, was ejected in the fourth quarter of Monday's game at Phoenix. He threw an elbow toward the Suns' Louis Amundson, and when Nene was leaving the court, it appeared he had slight physical contact with the official Bill Spooner.
Analysis: We should get final word before the suspension, but go into daily leagues with the expectation that Nene will be out. That's unfortunate because when he's active he's a solid Fantasy option.
News: Nuggets F/C Nene had 10 points with four rebounds and two assists in Monday's game in Phoenix. He was called for a flagrant foul 2 and ejected with 7:25 remaining when he grabbed Suns center Louis Amundson and threw him to the floor under the Suns' basket. The Denver Post also notes that Nene may have bumped into an official.
Analysis: Often times, flagrant fouls of this variety result in suspensions. There is no indication yet that will happen in this case, but Fantasy owners should be aware that it is a possibility in the near future that Nene will be forced to sit out a game. Otherwise, he continues to be a solid No. 3 forward or No. 2 center where he is eligible at the position.
News: The Denver Post reports Nuggets forward Nene has just once tallied 10 or more rebounds in the last 13 games, and that night he got 10 at Indiana. For the season, Nene averages 7.9 rebounds per game and has totaled 10 or more rebounds 17 times.
Analysis: While his scoring is down, Nene still is able to score and shoot a high percentage. He is averaging 14.6 points and shooting 59.8 percent from the field. Continue to keep Nene active in all leagues and hope his rebounding increases as the season goes on.
News: The Denver Post reports Sunday that Nuggets forward Nene said his right knee, which caused him to miss two games in February because of a bone bruise, still isn't completely healed. "It's sore," he said. "It's going to take a while." Going into Sunday, in the five games since he returned, Nene averaged 13.2 points and 6.8 rebounds and shot .568 from the field. Those totals are under his season averages. Playing nine games in the last 15 days hasn't helped. "It's a lot of games in so short days," Nene said. "After (this back-to-back), we get a couple of days to rest. It's going to make all of the players' bodies feel good." Nene had 14 points, nine rebounds and two assists Sunday against the Kings.
Analysis: Nene will continue to play through the pain, which is a good sign. Continue to keep him active in all leagues and consider him a solid Fantasy option as long as he doesn't suffer a setback.
News: Nuggets F/C Nene scored 16 points with six rebounds and five assists in Thursday's game against Portland. He also blocked to shots. He is averaging 14.0 points and 7.5 rebounds in four games since returning from a two-game absence due to a knee injury.
Analysis: Nene seems to be back on track. He is on his season averages (14.8 points, 7.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game) and should once again be considered a decent low-end No. 1 center or a solid No. 2 in any format where he is eligible at the position. Among forwards, he is more of a No. 3 or 4 option, depending on the size of your league.
News: Denver forward Nene had his best scoring game since missing two games last week with a bad knee. Nene had 20 points, seven rebounds, one assist, two steals and one block Tuesday at Detroit.
Analysis: Nene should continue to play well now that his knee is healthy. Continue to start him in all leagues and hope he doesn't suffer any setbacks with his knee.
News: Denver F Nene made his return to the Nuggets' lineup on Friday after missing the past two games with a bruised knee. He came in off the bench instead of starting, scoring eight points and grabbing five rebounds in 16 minutes of work.
Analysis: Johan Petro got the start over Nene on Friday as he battles his way back from a knee bruise that kept him out for two games. Nene will obviously retake the starting role in the coming days and return to being a solid option across the board.
News: The Denver Post reports Nuggets center Nene will play Friday night against the Los Angeles Lakers. Nene hasn't played in Denver's past two games after suffering a knee bruise in Sunday's game at Milwaukee. "I want to help, I don't want to do nothing - that is me," Nene said at the morning shootaround. "This is a very important victory we need here, to get confidence and be in a good position for the playoffs." Nuggets coach George Karl said that Nene will play 20-25 minutes and will come off the bench. Johan Petro will get the start.
Analysis: Nene leads the NBA with a 60.9 field-goal percentage, while averaging 14.9 points and 7.9 rebounds. Hopefully he will be OK and not suffer any setbacks. It appears safe to keep him active in daily leagues.
News: The Denver Post is reporting that Nuggets F/C Nene (knee) said he will try to play Friday against the Los Angeles Lakers. Nene suffered a right knee bone bruise in Sunday's game. He sat out Monday and Wednesday, but is hoping that will be enough rest. "I'm hoping (for Friday), said Nene, who leads the NBA in shooting percentage with 60.9. "I'll do the therapy, do the exercise and try to feel comfortable. ... There's been a lot of progress. Day-by-day it's getting better."
Analysis: Nuggets athletic trainer Jim Gillen said Nene worked out in the pool on Wednesday afternoon, jumping and running. This is good news as it appeared Nene would be out until early March. Fantasy owners will get a chance to see where he is at over the weekend before determining if he is healthy enough to activate for Week 18. In daily leagues, consider him a somewhat risky play for Friday's game as he may or may not be fully recovered.
News: The Nuggets, losers of three in a row, were without center Nene for the second straight game. He bruised his right knee in a game at Milwaukee on Sunday night and is expected to be sidelined for a week.
Analysis: It's looking like Nene won't likely be back until at least March 3 when the Nuggets take on the Pistons. The team needs him back as soon as possible considering their recent struggles. He should be considered doubtful for the rest of the current scoring period and likely won't be recommended for the next scoring period unless he returns. When healthy, Nene is a solid option in all formats.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nuggets forward Nene, who has a bone bruise in his right knee, will miss Wednesday's game against Atlanta. Nene will have missed both games against the Hawks this season. Of the two games he's missed this season coming into Wednesday night, one was the Dec. 29 meeting between the two teams. The paper also reports that Nene's personal manager said Nene could return for Friday's game against the L.A. Lakers depending on how he responds to treatment.
Analysis: Keep Nene reserved against the Hawks and hope he can return soon, possibly against the Lakers. It sounds like he will take time in coming back from the injury, so be patient. When healthy, Nene is a solid Fantasy option in all scoring formats.
News: The Rocky Mountain News reports that the Nuggets might not have forward Nene for two weeks instead of the one week as originally thought. Coach George Karl already ruled Nene out for this week with a bone bruise on his right knee. He is listed as day-to-day, but the paper suggests Nene could be out longer to rest. He already missed Monday's game against Boston.
Analysis: For now, keep Nene reserved and hope some rest will allow him to return sooner rather than later. When healthy, Nene is a solid Fantasy option and hopefully won't be out longer than the one week as originally thought.
News: Denver Nuggets coach George Karl expects to be without forward Nene for a week because of a bone bruise on his right knee. Tests on Monday showed that his knee has no structural damage. He is listed day-to-day. "I haven't gotten a prediction, but I definitely think he's out this week," Karl said before the Nuggets' game against the Boston Celtics on Monday night.
Analysis: If that timetable proves correct, Nene will miss four games and be back when the Nuggets travel to Detroit on March 3. Consider him doubtful for the rest of Fantasy Week 18 (Feb. 23-March 1). Nene was injured in the final minute of Denver's 120-117 loss at Milwaukee on Sunday night when he banged knees with Bucks forward Richard Jefferson. The Nuggets were worried at first because Nene, who tore the ACL in the same knee in 2005, was in a lot of pain afterward and limped out of the Bradley Center on crutches. The sixth-year Brazilian big man is having a breakout season and has earned strong consideration for the NBA's most improved player award. He ranks first in the league with a .609 field goal percentage and is averaging career-bests with 14.9 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. Nene is a solid Fantasy option when healthy and this injury doesn't appear to be long-term.
News: Denver Nuggets forward Nene has a bone bruise on his right knee and won't play in Monday night's game against the Boston Celtics. The tests showed that his knee has no structural damage. He is listed day-to-day. Nene was injured in the final minute of Denver's 120-117 loss at Milwaukee on Sunday night when he banged knees with Bucks forward Richard Jefferson.
Analysis: Keep Nene reserved in all leagues for Monday against the Celtics and hope he can return later this week. The Nuggets have four games this scoring period, but the safe option is to be cautious when setting your lineup in case Nene takes his time in coming back. When healthy, Nene is a solid Fantasy option so hopefully this injury doesn't keep him out for long.
News: The Denver Post reports Nuggets forward Nene, who left Sunday's game against Milwaukee with a bruised right knee and left the game on crutches, will visit a doctor in Denver on Monday and could miss Monday's game against Boston. "It doesn't look like anything structural, but it's hard to evaluate when it's so sore," Nuggets athletic trainer Jim Gillen said. The injury happened when Nene bumped knees with Richard Jefferson. After the Nuggets' 120-117 loss to Milwaukee, Nene said while standing on crutches: "It hurts ... a lot. It happened so fast. But he bumped me good. I can't straighten my leg. It's going to hurt, but it's nothing crazy, no big thing. I'll put ice on it and we'll see."
Analysis: Keep an eye on Nene's status and hopefully we'll know more following his visit to the doctor. The safe bet with Nene in all leagues for this scoring period is to keep him reserved and hope he is OK. When healthy, he is a No. 2 Fantasy forward and a No. 1 center in leagues that allow for dual eligibility.
News: Denver lost a narrow contest against the Bucks on Sunday as PF Nene scored 17 points and grabbed seven rebounds. The Nuggets may have also lost Nene. Nene was 6-of-11 from the floor but turned the ball over five times and was in foul trouble most of the night before leaving to injury. The Nuggets' thin frontline possibly got even thinner when Richard Jefferson and Nene collided with less than a minute to play. The two appeared to bang their knees together. Nene left with a right knee contusion and needed crutches to get to the team bus. He'll be evaluated by team doctor Steve Traina in Denver on Monday.
Analysis: Denver's big man wasn't great on Sunday but he's averaging 14 points, five boards and almost a block per night over his last five games. Those numbers are definitely coming in below his season averages and that means he's struggling but he remains someone to use in most Fantasy formats, when healthy. He won't be healthy at least to start Week 18 as Denver plays four times and that makes him a big-time injury risk for the period.
News: According to The Sports Xchange, Denver C Nene is attracting so much more attention now that Nuggets coach George Karl said he can be an offensive asset even when he doesn't put up big numbers. "There's awareness," Karl said. "I think he sees more bodies." Even though Nene scored just six points Tuesday at Miami, Karl said he "was a major factor in us winning that game" because the defense collapsed on Nene in the fourth quarter, and enabled the Nuggets to hit some key three-pointers.
Analysis: Nene has been one of the best stories in the league this season and is having a breakout campaign. Hopefully all this added defensive attention doesn't hurt his numbers too much and he'll continue playing like a No. 1 center. Keep him active in all formats after the All-Star break.
News: Nuggets coach George Karl is campaigning already for center Nene to win an award. "Anybody at this time last year having cancer surgery and is now playing at an all-star level, this man should be given an award for everything he's done," Karl said in the Denver Post. The coach said Nene should win "comeback player of the year," which makes sense. Nene averaged 5.3 points and 5.5 rebounds in 16 games last season, and this season those averages are 14.9 and 8.2 while playing in 50 of Denver's 51 games.
Analysis: Nene goes into the All-Star break as one of the best breakout players this season. He should be considered a low-end No. 1 option at this time and should remain active in all scoring formats.
News: Notching his second straight double-double on Tuesday night in a win over the star-less Spurs, Denver PF Nene scored 17 points and added 11 rebounds. Nene also stole two balls and swatted five shots in the game as he shot 7-of-14 from the field.
Analysis: The five blocks were a relatively new trick for Nene but he's been averaging over one a game for the season. Right now he's playing at an extremely high level with 18 points, nine boards and two blocks per night with two steals as well and he should be starting in all Fantasy formats.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nuggets forward Nene has slimmed down this season, which has helped his shooting percentage and pushed him into All-Star consideration. Nene has slimmed down to 248 pounds with 6.8 percent body fat. That's down 16 pounds from the start of training camp. It has already been a breakout season for Nene, who leads the NBA in field-goal percentage (.613) and is well ahead of pace to shatter the Nuggets' season field-goal percentage record, by Kiki Vandeweghe (.580). Nene was 12-for-12 in the Nuggets' win on Sunday over Utah, tying a single-game team record. "I'm surprised at Nene's consistency," coach George Karl said. "I think his fundamental responsibility to this team has grown every month and has been consistent. He's a guy that kind of goes out and does a little bit better every game, gets a little stronger every month. You're looking at a guy that in a lot of ways is as responsible for our record as anybody."
Analysis: Nene has turned into a solid Fantasy option this year and should continue to post solid stats. Hopefully he will keep his weight down and remain at this level for the rest of the season.
News: Nene tied his career high with 28 points leading the Denver Nuggets past the Utah Jazz 117-97 Sunday night. Nene, who made all 12 of his shots, took a seat with six minutes left and the Nuggets comfortably ahead by 22. His 28 points tied his career high set against Sacramento on April 4, 2007. His previous high this season was 27 against Oklahoma City on Jan. 2. Nene added nine rebounds and failed to get a double-double for the first time in three games. He also had four steals and a block.
Analysis: It was almost a perfect Sunday for Nene. The Nuggets have a tough schedule in Week 14 (Jan. 26-Feb. 1) and that could make a man who has been averaging 17 and 11 over his last five games someone to consider keeping inactive.
News: The Rocky Mountain News reports Nuggets coach George Karl said Nene should be in the All-Star Game this year. Nene, who leads the NBA in field-goal percentage and is averaging career-highs in points (14.2) and rebounds (8.1), wasn't listed on the All-Star ballot. "He's had an All-Star-type of year," Karl said of Nene. "Probably won't make the All-Star team but should get some observations that he's close to being that type of player."
Analysis: Nene has become an All-Star for Fantasy owners, and hopefully he continues to play at this level. Continue to start him in all leagues at this time.
News: Denver PF Nene recorded a double-double on Tuesday night against the Kings with 13 points and 12 rebounds. He shot 4-of-9 from the field.
Analysis: Nene's double-double was his 13th of the season, which is his single-season high. He had 12 in 2003-04. He's averaging 15-10 over his last five games and that is just above his season averages. He's playing as well as he has in his career and is playing like a No. 2 Fantasy forward or high-end center.
News: Nuggets F/C Nene had 17 points with 14 rebounds in Thursday's game against Phoenix. It was his first double-double in five games.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 17.9 points and 8.7 rebounds per game in January and is enjoying a breakout season at the NBA level. Fantasy owners should not expect him to crack 10 boards on a regular basis, though he did have a four-game streak in December. His overall production, though, makes him useful as a No. 1 center in leagues where he is eligible at the position. As a forward, he is more of a No. 2 option, but he is really outperforming his draft value in either situation.
News: Denver PF Nene shot 7-of-10 from the floor on Tuesday night in a win over Dallas and scored 20 points with six boards. Nene led the Nuggets with 16 points in the first half, nine in the first quarter alone.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 16 points and seven rebounds with two assists, 1.4 blocks, 1.2 steals and solid percentages over his last five games. He's hot right now for Denver and is worth using as a solid No. 2 option in Fantasy play.
News: Nuggets Head Coach George Karl praised his frontcourt tandem of Kenyon Martin and Nene, who have allowed the team to overcome the offseason departures of Marcus Camby and Eduardo Najera. "I think one of the fuzzy, good-feeling things about this team is Kenyon and Nene," Karl said. "We had four good big guys last year and we vacated, we gave two away for contractual purposes. And we still, I don't think we've lost much there."
Analysis: Karl has special feelings for Nene, who went into the new year averaging career highs of 14.3 points and 7.8 rebounds while shooting an NBA-best 60.9 percent from the field. The center from Brazil missed 37 games last season after a bout with testicular cancer. Karl is a prostate cancer survivor, and son Coby has had two cancer-related surgeries. As long as Nene is in Karl's good graces, he'll continue to be a solid No. 2 option in Fantasy play.
News: Nuggets PF Nene returned to Denver's starting lineup Wednesday against the Raptors after missing his first game of the season Monday because of a stiff neck caused by a fall in Sunday's win at New York. He led the way for the Nuggets with 21 points and added seven boards, three assists and a block. He also hit a three.
Analysis: Nene has been one of the better feel-good stories of 2008-09 after missing most of the 2007-08 season with cancer. He is playing more than 33 minutes per night, while averaging 14.1 points and 7.8 rebounds. He has developed into a nice No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Nuggets PF Nene was held out Monday against the Hawks with a stiff neck following a fall in Sunday's win at New York. He was not in uniform and coach George Karl said he didn't know when the forward-center would return.
Analysis: Nene has been one of the better feel-good stories of 2008-09 after missing most of the 2007-08 season with cancer. He is playing more than 33 minutes per night, while averaging 14.1 points and 7.8 rebounds. He has developed into a nice No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy option when healthy.
News: The Denver Nuggets didn't need Carmelo Anthony's offense to beat Portland on Monday. Nene scored 19 points and had 11 rebounds. Anthony sat out with what the Nuggets called a right elbow contusion, which has bothered him since training camp. He will also miss Tuesday's game in Portland and Friday's home game against Philadelphia. Without their leading scorer the Nuggets spread out the offense. Five players scored in double figures, and four had at least 15 points.
Analysis: Nene will likely play better without Anthony since he will be asked to score more. Continue to start Nene as a No. 2 Fantasy option in all formats and hope for more outings like this.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Denver C Nene has shot under 50 percent in a game just four times all season, but two have come in the past three games. Nene shot 4-of-10 Monday at Dallas while scoring 12 points and grabbing nine rebounds. But Nene still leads the NBA in field-goal percentage at 62.2 percent.
Analysis: Let's hope this doesn't continue because Fantasy owners -- and the Nuggets -- have been waiting very patiently for this kind of season from the man with one name. His numbers have taken a slight drop in the last five games from his season averages and his shooting has gone down despite still leading the league. Hopefully he can bounce back because he's been a very useful option -- especially in leagues where he qualifies at center -- all year. Let's hope that doesn't change.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Nene shot 6-of-12 from the field Thursday against San Antonio. For him, that's a bad game. Nene leads the NBA in field-goal percentage, but dropped his percentage to 63.2 percent.
Analysis: Nene is seeking to have the NBA's best field-goal percentage since Artis Gilmore shot 65.2 percent for Chicago in 1981-82. He has become a very useful option -- especially in leagues where he qualifies at center.
News: Nuggets F/C Nene had nine points with just two rebounds in Thursday's game against the Hornets. It was the first time in 12 games that he was held under 10 points.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 14.9 points and 7.0 rebounds in November and has become a very useful option -- especially in leagues where he qualifies at center. He had one slow game, but don't let this setback keep you from using him.
News: Nuggets F/C Nene scored 16 points with nine rebounds and two blocks Wednesday at San Antonio. He added an assist in 33 minutes of action. Over his last five games, he is averaging 13.4 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.2 blocks. He is also averaging 1.6 steals.
Analysis: We would like to see more consistency out of Nene in the rebounding area, especially for Rotisserie purposes considering he is a center. But overall, he is playing at a level that should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy center -- especially in head-to-head play in leagues where he is eligible at the position.
News: Denver PF Nene went 6-for-6 from the free throw line and scored 12 points in a loss to Cleveland on Thursday night. Nene added three rebounds and two blocks.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 16 points and nine rebounds, not to mention 2.6 blocks, over his last five games for the Nuggets in the starting lineup. In CBSSports.com leagues that allow for multiple positions, Nene should be considered a viable No. 2 Fantasy center in weeks with favorable matchups. As a forward, he is more of a No. 3 or 4.
News: Nuggets F/C Nene had his most productive game of the young season Wednesday at Golden State with 19 points and 15 rebounds against the Warriors. He shot 6-for-8 from the field and was 7-for-7 from the free throw line. He also added three blocks, an assist and a steal. He'd scored just eight points with five rebounds in his previous game against the Lakers.
Analysis: Nene has had two big games and two mediocre ones so far to start the season. He had 22 points and 11 rebounds against the Clippers on Halloween night and has shown some flashes of being a breakout candidate. The lack of depth the Nuggets have in the front court this season with Marcus Camby in L.A. has given Nene a chance for bigger minutes as a starter. It also helps he's as healthy as he has been in quite some time. In CBSSports.com leagues that allow for multiple positions, Nene should be considered a viable No. 2 Fantasy center in weeks with favorable matchups. As a forward, he is more of a No. 3 or 4.
News: The Detroit Pistons shook the NBA in a big way Monday - landing former MVP Allen Iverson from the Denver Nuggets. The Pistons gave up All-Star point guard and former NBA finals MVP Chauncey Billups and top reserve Antonio McDyess. The blockbuster deal comes two games into the season for Detroit. The Pistons have been a model of consistency in recent years, but they were determined to change their core following a third straight exit from the Eastern Conference finals last summer. Billups returns to familiar surroundings - he was born in Denver and played in college at Colorado. McDyess also will be enjoying a homecoming of sorts, having been a Nugget from 1995-97 and 1998-02.
Analysis: The big men for the Nuggets who are most affected by the trade are Kenyon Martin and Nene. Both shouldn't see much of an impact with McDyess coming on board. Continue to start Martin as a No. 3 Fantasy option, and use Nene as a No. 2 center at best. McDyess might even find himself with a buy out from the Nuggets, which means he could end up on another team.
News: Nuggets F/C Nene had 11 points and four rebounds in Wednesday's season opener at Utah before fouling out. He played 26 minutes and also added a steal and two assists.
Analysis: Nene is getting a shot to start at center with Marcus Camby out of town and this can be the type of serviceable performance Fantasy owners should expect from him. He'll crack double figures every now and then with a handful of rebounds, making him useful as an occasional No. 2 Fantasy center. His value as a forward is limited.
News:Carmelo Anthony will be serving a team-imposed two-game suspension in Fantasy Week 1 (Oct. 27-Nov. 2) as punishment for an arrest back in April. Dahntay Jones is expected to start in his place, but his upside is very limited in Fantasy. Allen Iverson should play in the opener, but has been at far less than 100 percent in the preseason, averaging just 5.3 points in three appearances. The Nuggets play three games, which is good news this week for Denver's second-tier players considering the situations of Anthony and Iverson.
Analysis: Kenyon Martin will start at power forward and Anthony Carter should start at the point. With 'Melo out for the first two games, it means more minutes and more touches for J.R. Smith and Linas Kleiza. Both have some appeal as stopgap options this week in deeper formats. Chris Andersen, Renaldo Balkman and Juwan Howard are players to monitor early this season. They could become nice additions in Rotisserie leagues for rebounding help due to the absence of Marcus Camby in Denver this season. They aren't recommended starts yet, though. Nene will begin the season as the team's starting center, but he'll have to prove he can be productive before he ascends from the ranks of No. 3 centers in Fantasy.
News: Nuggets F Nene (groin) missed the final six games of the regular season, but did play in three games of the first-round playoff series loss to the Lakers. He played in 16 games during the 2007-08 regular season as he missed a good portion of the season while battling testicular cancer.
Analysis: Nene appeared in just 16 regular season games, averaging 5.3 points and 5.4 rebounds. He's expected to be back at full strength by the start of next season, but Fantasy owners have been unable to count on him for a full and productive season. This makes him worth no more than a late-round flier in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Nuggets PF Nene (groin) didn't play in Game 1 of the team's playoff series at the Lakers. The Nuggets haven't ruled him out for the entire series, however.
Analysis: Nene appeared in just 16 regular season games, averaging 5.3 points and 5.4 rebounds. He's expected to be back at full strength by the start of next season, but Fantasy owners have been unable to count on him for a full and productive season. This makes him worth no more than a late-round flier in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Nuggets F Nene (groin) missed the final six games of the regular season, but did play in three games of the first-round playoff series loss to the Lakers. He played in 16 games during the 2007-08 regular season as he missed a good portion of the season while battling testicular cancer.
Analysis: Nene appeared in just 16 regular season games, averaging 5.3 points and 5.4 rebounds. He's expected to be back at full strength by the start of next season, but Fantasy owners have been unable to count on him for a full and productive season. This makes him worth no more than a late-round flier in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Denver F Nene missed Sunday's game vs. Houston with a groin injury. He is considered day to day.
Analysis: Nene has played in four games since returning from a long layoff as he battled cancer. He did play more than 10 minutes in his last two games, but he is still just a reserve and trying to build up his stamina. He has little to no Fantasy value down the stretch
News: Denver F Nene missed Saturday's game at Utah with a groin injury. He is considered day to day.
Analysis: Nene has played in four games since returning from a long layoff as he battled cancer. He did play more than 10 minutes in his last two games, but he is still just a reserve and trying to build up his stamina. He has little to no Fantasy value down the stretch.
News: Denver F Nene missed Thursday's game at Golden State with a groin injury.
Analysis: Nene has played in four games since returning from a long layoff as he battled cancer. Nene did play more than 10 minutes in his last two games, but he is still just a reserve and trying to build up his stamina. He has little to no Fantasy value down the stretch.
News: Nuggets PF Nene (groin) was out of the lineup Tuesday against the Clippers. He has missed the last two games and is questionable for Thursday against the Warriors.
Analysis: Nene has played in four games since returning from a long layoff as he battled cancer. Nene did play more than 10 minutes in his last two games, but he is still just a reserve and trying to build up his stamina. He has little to no Fantasy value down the stretch.
News: Nuggets forward Nene, who has played four games since missing 2.5 months because of testicular cancer, has had a minor setback. Nene missed the game Sunday at Seattle because of a right groin strain, but it's not believed to be a long-term injury. "It's OK. It's OK," said Nene in the Rocky Mountain News. Nene's groin tightened up after Denver's 118-115 loss to Sacramento on Saturday. "I think it's hard to get training camp ... at the end of the season trying to get himself in shape," Nuggets coach George Karl said of Nene suddenly having much activity after a long layoff. "He probably tweaked it a little bit."
Analysis: It appears Nene won't be able to make much of an impact on your Fantasy team this year. For now, keep him reserved in all leagues.
News: The minutes didn't matter. The Denver Nuggets were just encouraged to see a uniform draping Nene's beefy body again, and that great smile splashed across his face once more. The big Brazilian forward played the final 77 seconds of the Nuggets' 118-105 win over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night, marking his return to the court 2 1/2 months after surgery to remove a malignant testicular tumor. "Everybody was excited to see Nene back out there, just to see him back in his uniform, seeing him smile again after the stuff he's been through," said Carmelo Anthony. Nene had been out since Jan. 11, and it's been just over a month since he underwent chemotherapy. In the locker room afterward, Nene never stopped smiling. "I survived, I'm still here," he said. "I'm a new man, stronger than ever, I just say, 'Thank you, everybody.'"
Analysis: Nuggets coach George Karl said he wanted to cry when Nene got into the game. "It's worthy of tears," Karl said. "To see him come back, he's a hell of a person and to help him through this, if we can help him play this year, it will be a great story, it'll be a great feeling, it will be a great building block for the character and chemistry of our team." Allen Iverson said this was a night he'll remember forever. "He's a teammate, and he's somebody we care about and we want around, but life is so much bigger than basketball," Iverson said. Nene stole the show Thursday and no one cared he didn't post a stat. Nene might not be much of a help on the court down the stretch for the Nuggets (so Fantasy owners can leave him on waivers), but he sure will be an inspiration.
News: Denver Nuggets forward Nene is returning to the court, 2 1/2 months after surgery to remove a malignant testicular tumor. He plans to play about 5 minutes against the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night. He underwent a single dose of chemotherapy last month. He averaged 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds before his illness.
Analysis: Nene participated in a full scrimmage Wednesday and in the team's shootaround Thursday. Before that, he had been limited to shooting, light running and 1-on-1 drills. While this is certainly great news, Nene doesn't figure to have much of a chance to make a Fantasy impact down the stretch and can be left on the waiver wire.
News: Last week, the Nuggets hoped Nene could participate in five-on-five practices this week. But the forward said Monday that won't be the case, according to the Denver Post. "Your body says you can go a little, but not much," said Nene, who is working on a comeback after the January removal of a testicular tumor. Of late, Nene has participated in running drills, weightlifting and one-on-one play. But Nene said, "I can't do much or else I'll start shaking." Nene, 25, underwent a single chemotherapy session on Feb. 26. He said he needs to increase his ability to run well enough to stay on the court while strengthening his muscles before he starts five-on- five work.
Analysis: It appears Nene won't be able to make much of an impact on your Fantasy team this year. For now, keep him reserved in all leagues.
News: According to the Rocky Mountain News, Nuggets coach George Karl hopes Denver can get Nene, recovering from testicular cancer, "back on the court in a week or two weeks" and he's hoping for him to be a "10-minute player." Asked if that meant games or practice, Karl said "both" but then backed off a bit. Nene, accompanying the team on the trip, wouldn't speculate. "I don't know nothing about it," he said. "I'm just thinking about getting better. I'm just trying to get back in shape."
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Nene and hopefully he can return soon. When healthy, Nene is a No. 4 Fantasy option at forward now that Kenyon Martin has returned to health.
News: According to the Rocky Mountain News, it soon will be known whether Nuggets forward Nene again will return this season. "The gut feeling is this week's going to be kind of important," Nuggets coach George Karl said. "We're hoping to get him on the court some this week, touching the basketball and playing the basketball a little bit. I don't know how much physical contact we'll do, but we're moving him toward playing basketball as quick as he possibly can." Nene sat on the Nuggets bench during Friday's home win against San Antonio but has not practiced with the team since taking leave Jan. 11 after being diagnosed with a testicular tumor, which has been treated. Karl said he could not guess the likelihood of Nene's return, saying only he remained "hopeful."
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Nene and hopefully he can return soon. When healthy, Nene is a No. 4 Fantasy option at forward now that Kenyon Martin has returned to health.
News: Nuggets power forward Nene will undergo one chemotherapy session next week as part of his recovery from testicular cancer, according to the Rocky Mountain News. In a medical update released Thursday, the team said Tuesday's treatment is a preventative measure aimed at eliminating the possibility of the cancer recurring.
Analysis: There is no timetable for Nene's return, but center Marcus Camby said earlier this week Nuggets players are operating under the assumption he will not return this season. Nuggets coach George Karl said essentially the same thing Thursday but reiterated his hope Nene could be back on the court sometime in the next two months.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Nuggets forward Nene, recovering from testicular cancer surgery, was in Denver's locker room before Wednesday's game against Utah. Nuggets coach George Karl remains optimistic he'll play again this season. "I'm still hopeful," said Karl, who said the Nuggets are awaiting decisions made by Nene's camp. "Basically, I'm playing amateur doctor. I have some information and I'm hoping."
Analysis: Karl hopes Nene, deciding whether to undergo chemotherapy, feels likewise. Nene, who watched the Jan. 25 New Jersey game in a Pepsi Center suite, declined comment. "He went through a second opinion on a couple of situations," Karl said. "They're moving in a direction on the next treatment." No timetable has been set for Nene's return, although the Nuggets are hoping he'll be back on the court in April. Nene is averaging 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds.
News: Nuggets forward Nene, who is recovering from testicular cancer, issued an apology and a thank you Sunday. In his first public comments since discovering he had cancer, Nene said he's sorry that his Web site posted an incorrect statement saying his tumor was benign when it was actually malignant and added that he's thankful for an outpouring of support from across the world. "I would like to apologize for the incorrect information that was disclosed. There was no bad-faith or intention to fool anyone upon the announcement of a wrong result for the biopsy," Nene said in a statement Sunday that blamed a miscommunication for the error. "But the worst part is over, I am very happy with the result of the exams, happy for feeling better."
Analysis: The Brazilian forward took an indefinite leave of absence from the team on Jan. 11 and underwent surgery in Denver. Shortly afterward, his Web site posted a statement saying the tumor was benign. But that announcement quickly was removed, and doctors later said it was cancerous but isolated and that Nene is expected to make a full recovery. No timetable has been set for Nene's return, although the Nuggets are hoping he'll be back on the court in April. Nene is averaging 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds. He missed 22 games earlier this season after an operation on his left thumb. He was out for all but one game of the 2005-06 season after tearing a knee ligament, and he was sidelined for 27 games the season before with a variety of ailments after signing a six-year, $60 million contract.
News: Nuggets F Nene stopped by to visit with teammates Thursday, according to the Denver Post. Head coach George Karl said there was no talk about when Nene might play again, and in fact there are still more tests to be run, as early as next week.
Analysis: Initial tests showed the tumor to be malignant and the cancer did not spread. Nene has been away from the team since Jan. 11 and Fantasy owners should leave him reserved until further notice.
News: George Karl is hoping to entice Nene to attend an upcoming practice. The Nuggets coach thinks it would be therapeutic for the Brazilian forward to hang out with his teammates. Nene found out Tuesday that a testicular tumor removed Jan. 14 was malignant. The team said the tumor was discovered early, and tests showed the cancer was isolated. "I want him to come back and be with the team, and understand basketball is a little bit family," Karl said Wednesday before the Nuggets' game with Atlanta. "So many of us stay in basketball because of the spirit of basketball, and the spirit of friendship is stronger and deeper ... and loving. We want to share that with him."The team said there's no timetable yet for his return, but Karl has a suspicion Nene will return this season.
Analysis: Nene, who is averaging 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds, missed 22 games earlier this season after undergoing surgery on his left thumb. He was out for all but one game of the 2005-06 season after tearing a knee ligament. Fantasy owners should only stash him away in deeper Fantasy leagues for now.
News: A testicular tumor removed from Denver Nuggets forward Nene was malignant. The team said Tuesday the tumor was discovered early, and tests showed the cancer was isolated. "The recovery rate is extremely high," the Nuggets said in a written statement. "In addition, the odds of a recurrence are very small." The Brazilian player underwent surgery Jan. 14 to remove the tumor. The team said he was doing well, but there was no timetable for his return. Nene's Web site had posted a statement last week saying the tumor was benign, but that announcement later was removed.
Analysis: The Brazilian news magazine, Epoca, reported on its Web site the tumor was small and was completely removed in surgery, citing Nene's Brazilian urologist Dr. Fernando Kim. Examinations of his blood, lungs, pelvis and abdomen showed there was no other tumor in his body. "There is no sign the disease has spread," Kim told the magazine, adding the player was recovering "physically and psychologically extremely well." Nene, who is averaging 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds, missed 22 games earlier this season after undergoing surgery on his left thumb. He was out for all but one game of the 2005-06 season after tearing a knee ligament. Fantasy owners should only stash him away in deeper Fantasy leagues for now.
News: Even if Nene's testicular tumor is not cancerous, there's no guarantee he'll be back playing any time soon for the Nuggets, according to the Rocky Mountain News. The Nuggets aren't at the point where they're counting on a quick return by Nene, a native of Brazil granted an indefinite leave of absence Jan. 11. "Even without it being cancerous, he's going to be out a significant amount of time," center Marcus Camby said.
Analysis: Camby would be happy to see Nene return any time this season. "They just say, 'Indefinitely,'" Camby said. "Indefinitely is not like seven to 10 days. I think it's going to be way longer than that. ... I just hope he comes back, hopefully, this season." Fantasy owners should only stash him away in deeper Fantasy leagues for now.
News: The testicular tumor removed from Denver Nuggets forward Nene was benign, according to a statement posted Thursday on the player's Web site. The tumor was removed Monday at a Denver hospital. Nene took an indefinite leave of absence Friday. There is no timetable for the Brazilian's return.
Analysis: The tumor was found last week in an exam by team physician Dr. Saurabh Mangalik. Nene had said the tumor was found at an early stage and indicated he expected to recover. He is averaging 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds. He missed 22 games earlier this season after undergoing left thumb surgery. He was out for all but one game of the 2005-06 season after tearing a knee ligament, and he was sidelined for 27 games the season before with a variety of ailments. He's only worth stashing away in deeper Fantasy leagues for now.
News: Denver Nuggets forward Nene underwent surgery Monday to remove a testicular tumor, and a biopsy will determine if it was cancerous. The Brazilian player took an indefinite leave of absence Friday, and there is no timetable for his return. "Nene is recovering well and in good condition," Dr. Fernando J. Kim said. The operation was done at Denver Health Medical Center. Kim said a "right testicular mass was found incidentally and it was managed surgically." The tumor was found last week in an exam by team physician Dr. Saurabh Mangalik. "I want to thank my fans, my teammates, the Nuggets organization and everyone that's been supporting me," Nene said in a statement released by the team before Tuesday night's game at Atlanta.
Analysis: Denver coach George Karl said he first talked with team captains Carmelo Anthony, Allen Iverson and Marcus Camby about Nene's condition on Friday, before the team's home game against Orlando. "I can't deny that talking about Nene was more emotional than some other circumstances I've been presented," Karl said. "I think the team, I don't know what the word is, but it was a very quiet day. The game that night, the personality was introverted, introspective." Nene is averaging 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds. He missed 22 games earlier this season after undergoing left thumb surgery. He was out for all but one game of the 2005-06 season after tearing a knee ligament, and he was sidelined for 27 games the season before with a variety of ailments. For now, keep Nene reserved in all leagues.
News: Doctors removed a tumor from Nuggets forward Nene, according to the player's Web site Tuesday. The statement said the surgery was done Monday at a Denver hospital, but it did not indicate whether the tumor was cancerous or where it was located. Nene's medical team will discuss what to do next after getting test results expected by the end of the week, the statement said. Nene, who is from Brazil, took an indefinite leave of absence Friday. The team hasn't released any information about his condition. Nene is averaging 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds. He missed 22 games earlier this season after undergoing left thumb surgery. He missed all but one game of the 2005-06 season after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, and he missed 27 games the season before with a variety of ailments.
Analysis: Hopefully Nene is OK and return to 100 percent health. When he's on the court, Nene is a solid Fantasy contributor, but he could be out for a significant amount of time following the surgery. For now, keep Nene reserved in all leagues.
News: The specifics of Nene's health problem remain unknown, but indications are the Nuggets forward will have surgery sometime this week, according to the Rocky Mountain News. Nene's mother reportedly told a radio station in Brazil that her son was set to have surgery Tuesday in Denver. An NBA source acknowledged that surgery might be required but said it would not be performed Tuesday.
Analysis: Because Nene has requested privacy while he takes a leave of absence from the team, speculation about his illness has been rampant, particularly in his native Brazil. Nuggets coach George Karl said the team expects to have more information in the next few days. Keep Nene stashed away in deeper leagues until his ailment is disclosed. With Nene out indefinitely, backup big man Steven Hunter could become more valuable.
News: Nuggets forward Nene took an indefinite leave of absence from the team Friday to take care of a personal medical issue. "I'm very upset that I have to put a little delay on being with the team to take care of my health," Nene said in a statement. "It's hard to go through when things seem to be going so well. ... I want to get back on the court as soon as possible to help my teammates."
Analysis: The Nuggets wouldn't comment further on what was wrong with Nene, who missed 22 games earlier this season after surgery on his left thumb. The news of his absence arrived 30 minutes before the Nuggets hosted the Orlando Magic. "Our thoughts and prayers are with Nene and his family," Nuggets coach George Karl said in a statement. Nene is averaging 6.4 points and 6.4 rebounds in 12 games this season, giving him decent value in Fantasy. Obviously, he should remain reserved until the extent of his medical problems becomes known.
News: Nuggets F Nene, who missed nearly two months early in the season with a thumb injury, had his best game of the season Monday at Phoenix. He totaled 12 points and nine rebounds.
Analysis: Hopefully Nene starts to pick things up. When healthy, he is a solid No. 3 Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Nuggets F Nene scored six points with six rebounds in Thursday's win over San Antonio. He played 20 minutes off the bench for the first time since Nov. 6.
Analysis: Nene has played just four games since returning from his six-week absence due to a thumb injury and he's not yet in a big enough role to matter in Fantasy leagues. Keep him stashed in larger leagues as a possible 10-and-8 guy down the stretch.
News: Nuggets F Nene (thumb) returned from a six-week absence to score 11 points and grab seven rebounds in 17 minutes off the bench Wednesday against the Bucks.
Analysis: Nene could emerge as a solid scorer and rebounder off the bench once his minutes start increasing. Give him a look on waivers now that he's made his return.
News: Nuggets forward Nene has been cleared by team doctors to begin ballhandling and shooting drills and can participate in full practices beginning Friday. Nene, who has appeared in five games this season, tore the ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb in a game at Boston on Nov. 7.
Analysis: Nene is still not likely to be back until after Christmas, so we certainly wouldn't consider starting him in Fantasy Week 9. Unless you need serious help at the PF position, leave him on the wire or your bench for at least another week to 10 days or so.
News: Denver Nuggets power forward Nene is expected to miss up to six weeks because of a torn ligament in his left thumb. Nene was injured in Denver's 119-93 loss at Boston on Wednesday night. He saw a hand specialist in Denver on Thursday, and the team said Dr. Carlton Clinkscale will operate on the thumb Friday.
Analysis: Nene made a successful comeback last season from a knee injury that wiped out almost his entire 2005-06 season. Nene was splitting time in the frontcourt with Kenyon Martin at power forward. He can also serve as a viable backup center to Marcus Camby when healthy. However, he will likely do most of his work off the bench this season. He is a very low-end backup Fantasy forward at this point and should only be starting in very deep leagues when he returns to the active lineup. It appears as though we might not see Nene until late December.
News: Nuggets PF Nene left Wednesday's game against the Celtics with a thumb injury and did not return. He had two points, one rebound and one assist in 11 minutes. He is being listed as day-to-day.
Analysis: Nene continues to split time in the frontcourt with Kenyon Martin at power forward and can also serve as a viable backup center to Marcus Camby. However, he will likely do most of his work off the bench this season. He is a very low-end backup Fantasy forward at this point and should only be starting in very deep leagues when healthy.
News: Nuggets PF Nene started Tuesday night's 119-112 loss to the Knicks, but was held to only eight points in 26 minutes.
Analysis: Nene has been dumped in a ton of Fantasy leagues in the first week of this season as it appears his role is diminishing in Denver. He is a very low-end backup F at this point and should only be starting in very deep leagues.
News: Nuggets PF Kenyon Martin had seven points and five rebounds while Eduardo Najera scored 14 points off the bench in Wednesday's season opener vs. Seattle. Nene played just 16minutes and finished with four points and five rebounds.
Analysis: Najera played the most minutes as the backup to Kenyon Martin, outplaying Nene. This likely won't be the case all season, but it's a situation worth monitoring early on.
News: Nuggets PF Nene missed his second straight preseason game Friday vs. Portland because of a strained right calf.
Analysis: Nene is not considered at risk of missing any regular season time. The injury that has the most impact on Nene's Fantasy appeal is the banged up knee of Kenyon Martin. Martin and Nene will battle each other for minutes while both are healthy this season. At this time, Nene should be viewed as a very low-end starter in Fantasy, worth a pick in the later rounds.
News: Denver Nuggets forward Nene says he will be released to play for Brazil in the Americas Olympic qualifying tournament in Las Vegas later this month. Nene's participation had been in doubt as the Nuggets and the Brazilian Basketball Confederation negotiated an insurance policy in case the forward gets injured in Las Vegas.
Analysis: Nene admitted the insurance contract wasn't finalized yet, but said Nuggets officials guaranteed he will be released. "I asked them: 'Will I be able to play?' And they said yes," Nene told the Estado de S. Paulo newspaper and other local media on Sunday. "That's why I am here." Consider him a solid selection as a No. 3 or 4 forward in Fantasy drafts, but don't invest too highly in him as injuries are still a concern with him.
News: Nuggets F Nene averaged career highs in scoring (12.2 ppg) and rebounding (7.0 rpg) during the 2006-07 regular season in 24 appearances (42 starts).
Analysis: Nene had a solid season after missing all but one game in 2005-06 due to injury and has established himself as a double-digit scorer and above-average scorer when healthy. Consider him a solid selection as a No. 3 or 4 forward in Fantasy drafts, but don't invest too highly in him as injuries are still a concern with him.
News: Nuggets forward Nene continues to step up with his rebounding. He grabbed 10 boards in Friday's 75-71 win over Dallas and has averaged 10.0 in his past seven games.
Analysis: Nene has been great this season and should be started in all formats.
News: Nuggets big man Nene scored a career-high 28 points and grabbed a team-high 12 rebounds Wednesday against Sacramento.
Analysis: Nene has led or tied for the team lead this season 14 times in rebounding, with 10 coming in the past 19 games. He's worth using in all leagues down the stretch.
News: Nuggets forward Nene has been a terror on the boards the past two games. He got 13 Wednesday against Seattle, giving him 30 in the past two games.
Analysis: Nene remains a solid Fantasy option in all leagues for help in the scoring and rebounding categories. If you've got him on your bench, consider him a viable option once again down the stretch.
News: Marcus Camby led the Nuggets with 24 points and added 13 rebounds, while Nene had 21 points and 17 rebounds in Monday's game at Detroit.
Analysis: Nene has managed 11 rebounds over the past six games. He remains a solid Fantasy option in all leagues for help in the scoring and rebounding categories.
News: Denver forward Nene's points are nice, but the Nuggets love to see him rebound. Nene has averaged 9.8 rebounds in the past five games. He had 21 points and nine rebounds Sunday against Cleveland.
Analysis: Nene has played well recently and should be started in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Denver forward Nene totaled 18 points and 12 rebounds Thursday at Chicago. But he had seven turnovers, including two late bad passes, in a 109-108 loss.
Analysis: Nene has played well this year and stayed healthy for the most part. Continue to use him as a No. 3 Fantasy option.
News: Nuggets big man Nene broke out of a slump Saturday against Phoenix with 14 points and 10 rebounds.
Analysis: It marked just the sixth time in 47 games this season Nene has grabbed 10 or more boards. He should be used as No. 3 or 4 Fantasy option at this time. Hopefully his scoring will pick up again.
News: Nuggets big man Nene's scoring has leveled off. After scoring in double-figures in 15 of 17 games, he's reached double digits just once in the past five games. He had eight against the Lakers on Thursday.
Analysis: Nene should be used as No. 3 or 4 Fantasy option at this time. Hopefully his scoring will pick up again.
News: Nuggets forward Nene has been criticized at times for not rebounding well. But the Nuggets' big man came up big with 14 boards Tuesday against the Hornets. He also added 15 points.
Analysis: The last time Nene had double figures in rebounds was Feb. 10 against Milwaukee when he had 11. Nene should be considered a No. 2 option in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Nuggets forward Nene played his first game in San Antonio since being lost for the season in the 2005-06 opener with a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Nene didn't seem spooked by the return, scoring 13 points and grabbing four rebounds.
Analysis: Nene has now reached double figures in all nine games played in February. Consider him a No. 2 forward option at this time.
News: Nuggets F Nene enters the All-Star break on a roll to start February. He has reached double-figures in all eight games this month and is averaging 18.9 points per game. He is also averaging 7.1 rebounds this month.
Analysis: Nene has been bothered by injury the first couple of months this season, but perhaps his injury problems are behind him with the good start to the month. His scoring could go down once Allen Iverson returns from injury, but Nene has emerged as a useful Fantasy option once again -- especially since he has dual eligibility.
News: Nuggets big man Nene continued his strong play with 18 points Wednesday at Minnesota. But he was frustrated that just six came after the first quarter.
Analysis: Consider Nene a low-end No. 2 forward and hope these types of performances continue after the All-Star break.
News: Power forward Nene continues to be productive while playing big minutes in the middle. With his surgically repaired right knee getting better by the day, Nene is averaging 18.4 points and 7.6 rebounds in the past five games.
Analysis: With starting center Marcus Camby a little banged up, he's been able to anchor the team in the paint and build some much needed confidence. We don't know how long this will last, but he's worth adding in all leagues as a possible second-half Fantasy hero.
News: Nuggets F Nene had 14 points, seven rebounds and two assists in a win over the Pacers Friday.
Analysis: With starting center Marcus Camby a little banged up, Nene has been able to anchor the team in the paint and build some much needed confidence. We don't know how long this will last, but he's worth adding in all leagues as a possible second-half Fantasy hero.
News: Nuggets F Nene is averaging 18.4 ppg and 7.0 rpg over his last five contests.
Analysis: With starting center Marcus Camby a little banged up, he's been able to anchor the team in the paint and build some much needed confidence. We don't know how long this will last, but he's worth adding in all leagues as a possible second-half Fantasy hero.
News: Despite some strong recent play, Nuggets big man Nene said he's still hurting. "There's no more swelling," said Nene, not fully recovered from right knee surgery in November 2005. "It's just pain." He tore his right anterior cruciate ligament in the first game of the 2005-06 campaign and missed the rest of the season. He was in and out of the lineup earlier this season with soreness in the knee.
Analysis: Nene is making an effort to play through it. He has averaged 11.5 points and 5.3 rebounds the past four games. "He's getting better and stronger every day," said Nuggets coach George Karl. "He's got a better bounce to his step. His confidence (is up)." It appears Nene is doing OK with his knee problems, and it's safe to put him back in your lineup. Consider him a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Nuggets F Nene has been bothered all season by knee problems. But he had a most encouraging outing with a season-high 17 points Tuesday at Seattle. He also had seven rebounds in the game.
Analysis: Nene has reached double-figures in four of his last five games, but he almost had five of five since he was one-point away from 10 on Jan. 19. It appears Nene is doing OK with his knee problems, and it's safe to put him back in your lineup. Consider him a low-end Fantasy option.
News: Nuggets forward Nene, battling his way back from knee problems, continues to impress. He's averaged 11.5 points in 20.8 minutes his past four games.
Analysis: It appears Nene is doing OK with his knee problems, and it's safe to put him back in your lineup. Consider him a low-end Fantasy option.
News: So much for having difficulty on the second game of a back-to-back situation for Nuggets big man Nene, bothered all season by a sore right knee. Nene scored 14 points and grabbed five rebounds Saturday at Houston.
Analysis: It's been a tough road for Nene since he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in November 2005 and underwent surgery. He's been in and out of the lineup this season, often complaining about soreness. He is averaging just 7.3 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. He's got the size and the talent to be a big Fantasy talent, but isn't yet a recommended Fantasy starter. Continue to use him as a low-end reserve.
News: Nuggets F Nene has battled knee problems all season. But Nene, helped by the Nuggets not having played since the previous Sunday, totaled nine points and five rebounds in 22 minutes Friday against Cleveland.
Analysis: It's been a tough road for Nene since he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in November 2005 and underwent surgery. He's been in and out of the lineup this season, often complaining about soreness. He is averaging just 7.3 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. He's got the size and the talent to be a big Fantasy talent, but isn't yet a recommended Fantasy starter. Not getting a vote of confidence from his coach doesn't help his Fantasy value either.
News: Nuggets coach George Karl isn't optimistic about big man Nene, bothered by soreness in his surgically repaired right knee, playing big minutes by season's end. "I'm hoping we get Nene by the end of the year to be a 28-to-30 minute player," Karl said. "It would be fantastic, but the odds say that probably won't get done." Karl said it's difficult to improve conditioning during the season. Nene said he needs to "get in better condition" and "gain confidence."
Analysis: It's been a tough road for Nene since he suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in November 2005 and underwent surgery. He's been in and out of the lineup this season, often complaining about soreness. He is averaging just 7.2 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. He's got the size and the talent to be a big Fantasy talent, but isn't yet a recommended Fantasy starter. Not getting a vote of confidence from his coach doesn't help his Fantasy value either.
News: Nuggets F Nene managed 12 points off 3-for-6 shooting from the floor Sunday at Portland. He played just over 23 minutes off the bench.
Analysis: Nene has been battling himself and injuries all season. He's got the size and the talent to be a big Fantasy talent, but isn't yet a recommended Fantasy starter.
News: Nuggets F Nene has grown increasingly frustrated with his inability to contribute on a regular basis this season. "It is embarrassing for me, because I cannot do much," Nene told the Denver Post. "It's in my mind. I don't feel well. I feel weak. I feel embarrassed."
Analysis: It may be just in his mind, but it's clearly also appearing in the box score. Nene hasn't been a player worth starting in Fantasy leagues at this time, but would easily become a useful option in all leagues if he can get his act together.
News: Playing the second game of a back-to-back is tough on forward Nene, who has a bum right knee. After scoring 14 points on 7-of-12 shooting Friday against the Lakers, Nene scored just four points Saturday against Utah on 2-of-9 shooting. He also had seven rebounds.
Analysis: Nene is one of those players the Nuggets have been hoping on to breakout during his five-year stint in the league, but it has yet to happen. He shows signs of stardom sometimes, but more than not he struggles on a consistent basis. For that, he makes for a reserve F/C in most Fantasy leagues.
News: After missing four games in a row because of pain and swelling in his right knee, forward Nene returned to the lineup Friday and had 14 points and six rebounds in 17 minutes. Nene said he still has swelling in his surgically repaired knee but less pain. The plan is for him to play no more than 20 minutes per game until his knee improves. "We learn from mistakes," said Nene, who was sidelined after playing 30 and 29 minutes on Dec. 22 and 26. "We need to stay 20 minutes."
Analysis: The fact that he resigned to playing around 20 minutes per game will limit his Fantasy value. He won't be able to put up lines like Friday's on a constant basis if that is all he will play. Consider him a low-end Fantasy forward at this time.
News: Nuggets F/C Nene (knee) returned to the team's lineup on Friday against the Lakers.
Analysis: Now that Marcus Camby is back from an injury, Nene's Fantasy value is once again lowered. Consider him a low-end Fantasy forward at the time.
News: Nuggets F/C Nene (knee) was inactive on Tuesday against the 76ers.
Analysis: Nene was supposed to play on Tuesday, but it appears he is not ready to make his return. Continue to keep him reserved in all Fantasy formats. Nene missed 12 games earlier in the season with knee problems.
News: Nene missed his third straight game with a sore right knee on Sunday, but George Karl expects him back Tuesday against Philadelphia.
Analysis: Marcus Camby, who was doubtful to play, gave it a go on Sunday and Nene, who was probable, didn't. Camby said Nene being out put "a lot of pressure" on him to play. That could mean that the Nuggets could opt to rest Camby with a healthy Nene around this week, but he is not as great a start as once thought with Camby back in action.
News: According to the Rocky Mountain News, the Nuggets expect to get Nene (knee) back for Sunday's game vs. Dallas.
Analysis: With Marcus Camby sidelined by a broken finger, the Nuggets will turn to fifth-year power forward Nene to handle duties at center. He does not have the shot-blocking abilities that Camby possesses, but did make a smooth transition into the starting lineup. Nene has posted back-to-back double-doubles in Camby's absence, including a 12-point, 14-rebound showing last Tuesday. Consider Nene a nice stopgap Fantasy option with Camby out.
News: With Marcus Camby sidelined by a broken finger, the Nuggets have turned to fifth-year power forward Nene to handle duties at center. Nene does not have the shot-blocking abilities that Camby possesses, but he has made a smooth transition into the starting lineup. Nene has posted back-to-back double-doubles in Camby's absence, including a 12-point, 14-rebound showing on Thuesday. More importantly, his surgically repaired right knee seems to be getting stronger by the day.
Analysis: Consider Nene a nice stopgap Fantasy option with Camby out until the New Year.
News: Nuggets center Nene played 30 minutes Friday against Sacramento after having been limited to not over 20 due to a recent sore knee. Nene shot just 4-of-12, but grabbed 15 rebounds.
Analysis: Nene is the team's starting center while Marcus Camby is out with a finger injury. He probably won't get you a lot of points, but those 15 boards are a nice touch in any Fantasy format. Consider Nene a nice stopgap Fantasy option with Camby out until the New Year.
News: Marcus Camby of the Denver Nuggets expects to be sidelined 'a couple of weeks' after breaking a finger on his shooting hand during a game against the Washington Wizards.
Analysis: This will leave the Nuggets very thin at the center position. Once Nene returns from his one game suspension for leaving the bench during last week's brawl vs. the Knicks, he'll likely be used as the starting center for the next couple of weeks. He isn't eligible at that position in most leagues, but the added responsibility and a boost in rebounding will make him a nice No. 4 Fantasy forward in any league a la Al Jefferson.
News: Nuggets F Nene was suspended Monday for one game for leaving the bench in Saturday's brawl at Madison Sqaure Garden.
Analysis: Nene should be reserved for the upcoming scoring period as a result, but he hasn't been a particularly attractive Fantasy option even when he has played this season.
News: Nene's offense has been slow to return after he missed 12 games with a bruised right knee. In the two games since his return, the Nuggets forward has grabbed nine rebounds, but scored just five points in 29 minutes.
Analysis: Give Nene a couple of games to get his legs back under him. He'll be a possible No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward down the line.
News: Forward Nene finally returned Friday against Miami after missing 12 games with a bruised right knee. Nene was injured in the fourth game of the season, and it looked to be a short-term setback. But Nene, who was surprised it took so long to heal, ended up being out four weeks. In his return, Nene totaled four points and five rebounds in 14 minutes. "I'm happy," said Nene, who said before Friday's game he was a "little nervous." "Now I need to get confidence. I need to get in shape... I need to (stay) patient, work hard."
Analysis: Give Nene a couple of games to get his legs back under him. He'll be a possible No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward down the line.
News: Out since Nov. 15, Nuggets F Nene (knee) finally returned to action on Friday against the Heat.
Analysis: He's missed 12 straight games with a right knee contusion, but appears ready to be a vital part of the Nuggets frontcourt. Give him a couple of games to get his legs back under him. He'll be a possible No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward down the line.
News: According to the Denver Post Nuggets F Nene (knee) has targeted Friday night's game vs. Miami as a possible return date.
Analysis: He's missed 12 straight games with a right knee contusion, but has become more confident in the joint over the past week. When he returns, give him a couple of games to get his legs back under him. He'll be a possible No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward down the line.
News: Nene (knee) was unable to play in Wednesday's game against the Hawks, remaining on the inactive list. He has now missed 11 games.
Analysis: Continue to keep Nene reserved until he officially returns and proves his health.
News: Nene (knee) was unable to play in Saturday's game against the Pacers, remaining on the inactive list. He has now missed 10 games.
Analysis: While he missed his 10th game, there is a bit of good news coming out of Denver. Nene practiced on Thursday and could be ready to return next week. Keep him reserved until he officially returns and proves his health.
News: Nene (knee) was unable to play in Friday's game against the T-Wolves, remaining on the inactive list.
Analysis: Nene remains day to day. Keep him sidelined in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Nene (knee) was unable to play in Tuesday's game against the Grizzlies, remaining on the inactive list.
Analysis: Nene remains day to day. Keep him sidelined in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Nene missed his seventh straight game Friday vs. Golden State with a right knee contusion.
Analysis: Keep Nene reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health. When healthy, he can be useful as a No. 4 forward in larger leagues.
News: Nuggets F Nene (knee) did not play Wednesday at Golden State. He missed his sixth consecutive game with a bruised right knee.
Analysis: Keep Nene reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health. When healthy, he can be useful as a No. 4 forward in larger leagues.
News: Nene missed his fifth consecutive game with a bruised right knee Tuesday vs. Chicago.
Analysis: Keep Nene reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Nene missed his fourth consecutive game with a bruised right knee Saturday vs. Toronto.
Analysis: The Nuggets are continuing to be cautious with Nene, who missed the final 81 games last season after suffering a torn right anterior cruciate ligament in that season's opener. Nene said he is getting better. But he is unsure whether he will play Saturday against Toronto. Keep Nene reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Nene missed his third consecutive game with a bruised right knee Wednesday at Orlando.
Analysis: The Nuggets are continuing to be cautious with Nene, who missed the final 81 games last season after suffering a torn right anterior cruciate ligament in that season's opener. Nene said he is getting better. But he is unsure whether he will play Saturday against Toronto. Keep Nene reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Nuggets F Nene, sidelined since Friday with a bruised knee, remained inactive on Wednesday against the Magic.
Analysis: Keep Nene reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Nene (knee) was inactive for Tuesday's game at Miami and he is questionable for Wednesday's game at Orlando.
Analysis: Keep Nene reserved in all Fantasy leagues until he can officially return and prove his health.
News: Nuggets forward Nene sat out Sunday's 108-101 win at Charlotte with a bruised right knee, but he is hopeful of returning Tuesday at Miami. He wants to battle Heat center Shaquille O'Neal.
Analysis: Nene should be able to start on Tuesday. The Nuggets will play three games in the upcoming week and Fantasy owners could use him as a No. 2 center or No. 4 forward.
News: The Nuggets received a scare when forward Nene, who missed the final 81 games last season due to a torn right anterior cruciate ligament, went down in the first half of Friday's 108-101 win at Philadelphia. But athletic trainer Jim Gillen says not to worry about Nene, who suffered a right knee contusion. "He bruised it a little bit," said Gillen, unsure if Nene will play Sunday at Charlotte. "He hyper-extended it a bit. But the doctor said the surgery is fine. He'll be sore for a day or two."
Analysis: Marcus Camby took a charge and fell on Nene's knee. Nene did not play in the second half. If he doesn't play on Sunday, consider not using him for the upcoming Fantasy scoring period.
News: Denver forward Nene left the Nuggets' game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night with a bruised right knee and will not return. Nene was hurt after he collided with Marcus Camby in the second quarter.
Analysis: Nene, who came in averaging 9.3 points, scored four points in the first half on 2-for-5 shooting. The Nuggets have only called it a bruised knee, but consider Nene questionable for Nov. 12 at Charlotte. If he doesn't play on Sunday, consider not using him for the upcoming Fantasy scoring period.
News: Carmelo Anthony didn't see action for Denver in their preseason finale after getting 32 Thursday night in a victory over the Lakers. Neither did Nene Hilario, who rested his right knee after playing on Thursday.
Analysis: Nene is still recovering from a torn right anterior cruciate ligament suffered in the team's opening game on Nov. 1. He's worth owning in leagues of 10 or more teams, but we recommend reserving him until we know what he's capable of -- sore knee and all.
News: Nuggets forward Nene made a long-term commitment with the team by signing a six-year, $60 million contract to stay in Denver on Thursday. Nene, a 23-year-old center with career averages of 10.7 points and 6.2 rebounds, played just three minutes last year before blowing out a knee in the season opener.
Analysis: Nene is still recovering from a torn right anterior cruciate ligament suffered in the team's opening game on Nov. 1. He is worth a look in the later rounds on Draft Day, as he is expected to be ready for training camp.
News: The Nuggets and the agent for Brazilian power forward Nene are putting the finishing touches on a six-year, $60 million contract extension which is expected to be completed on Thursday. The Nuggets and agent Dan Fegan agreed to a deal this month when Nene was on his honeymoon in Brazil.
Analysis: Nene is still recovering from a torn right anterior cruciate ligament suffered in the team's opening game on Nov. 1. He is worth a look in the later rounds on Draft Day, as he is expected to be ready for training camp.
News: Nene re-signed for six seasons with the Denver Nuggets on Monday, as he stays put.
Analysis: Nene is still recovering from a torn right anterior cruciate ligament suffered in the team's opening game on Nov. 1. He is worth a look in the later rounds on Draft Day, as he is expected to be ready for training camp.
News: According to the Rocky Mountain News, Nene, a Denver Nuggets big man who suffered a torn right anterior cruciate ligament in the Nov. 1 opener, said Monday he does not plan to return this season, even if the team makes a deep playoff run. "I'll wait for the next (season)," he said. "I (can't) do what I want to do because I prepare so good in the summer. Now, I miss four months, and I don't play. ... I want to be productive. I don't think if I play (this season), I'll be like (that)."
Analysis: His comeback was actually going well lately, but it makes sense that he wants to come back at 100 percent. Fantasy owners that were expecting to score a solid big man for the late stretch run should look elsewhere.
News: Backup center Nene has begun light running drills. He has been out since the season opener with a torn anterior cruciate ligament. There is still no timetable for his return.
Analysis: Nene will have very little Fantasy impact, if any, this season.
News: According to the Denver Post, Nene (ACL) might end up playing again at some point this season.
Analysis: "We get weekly reports, and most of the reports are optimistic that he can probably play basketball before the end of the season," Nuggets coach George Karl said. "Will he play NBA basketball? Will he be on an NBA court? ... Is his knee strong, is it swelling, is it capable of handling 10 minutes? Nene is a strong person. He wants to rehab quickly. I think right now people are optimistic, but it's two months in." Don't count on him helping Fantasy teams this season.
News: Nene suffered tears to his right anterior cruciate ligament and lateral meniscus in Tuesday's opener at San Antonio. He also sprained his medial collateral ligament.
Analysis: Nene is likely out for the regular season. It is unfortunate for the free agent to be, who was likely to command a big pay day at season's end as one of the premier big men in the league. Eduardo Najera is the player who will benefit most by his absence in terms of playing time.
News: Nene left Tuesday's opener at San Antonio in the first quarter after suffering a right knee injury. According to televised reports, he was taken to the locker room on a wheelchair and the San Antonio team doctor said he has at least a strained right anterior cruciate ligament and perhaps more.
Analysis: Nene will return back to Denver on Wednesday with the team and will be re-evaluated further. It is possible he suffered a serious injury, which would mean the Nuggets face a loss in their opener for the second consecutive season (Voshon Lenard, 2004).
News: Nene told the Denver Post that he would be ready for Tuesday's opener in San Antonio. He took a knee to his right thigh during Friday's preseason game against the Jazz and is feeling a little sore.
Analysis: Nene is expected to come off of the bench. He should see 20-25 minutes per game and is a decent play in larger Fantasy leagues since the Nuggets start the regular season with four games in the first scoring period.
News: Nene missed Tuesday's preseason game at Sacramento due to a hamstring strain.
Analysis: Nene is considered day to day. He will be fine for the start of the regular season.
News: Nene had 14 points and eight rebounds in 21 minutes against the Hornets on Wednesday.
Analysis: Nene is averaging 8.2 PPG in 14 games since coming off the I-L.
News: The Nuggets activated Nene (sprained left knee) from the injured list on Sunday.
Analysis: Nene has missed the past five weeks with the knee injury. He should see regular minutes down the home stretch with Kenyon Martin and Marcus Camby both dealing with lingering injuries.
News: The Denver Post reports Nene said he expects to play before the month ends. He has been on the injured list since Feb. 13 with a sprained left knee. Trainer Jim Gillen said Nene took part in 5-on-5 drills at Tuesday's practice with no problems. Nene, who ran sprints Wednesday, said he still struggles moving side to side. "I can't exactly say what day," Nene said about his return. "Soon. Very soon."
Analysis: Francisco Elson received a start on Wednesday because Kenyon Martin was unable to play. Marcus Camby is also suffering from hamstring injury, so Denver desperatly needs Nene to get back. Once he regains his conditioning, he'll be a good postion to see regular minutes.
News: The Denver Post reports Nene, who has been on the injured list since Feb. 13 with a sprained left knee, took part in scoring drills after practice. He might be ready to play by week's end. "I'm not really going to get into evaluation until I see him probably play 3-on-3," coach George Karl said. "Two days away? A week away? I don't know when that is. But I need to see him play him play against bodies with impact and make moves."
Analysis: With Kenyon Martin and Marcus Camby both suffering from knee injuries, Nene could see more minutes once he regains his conditioning. He's worth adding in deeper leagues.
News: The Denver Post reports coach George Karl said his "amateur observation" is Nene (sprained left knee) could start playing 5-on-5 games in practice in two to three weeks.
Analysis: Nene is a decent third or fourth Fantasy forward when healthy. The presence of Marcus Camby and Kenyon Martin has definitely hurt his Fantasy appeal this season though.
News: The Denver Post reports coach George Karl said he would be surprised if Nene (sprained left knee) returned by Saturday's game at San Antonio, but that he could begin fuller practices Wednesday.
Analysis: Nene is probably about two weeks or so from returning to game action. Keep the Brazilian import reserved until then.
News: The Rocky Mountain News reports Nene (knee) is still at least two weeks away from returning to the floor.
Analysis: Nene's rehab has gone extremely well, but the team is being cautious with the forward. He will likely see his minutes limited when he first returns.
News: The Denver Post reports coach George Karl said Nene (knee)would be out with a sprained left knee "at least another week, maybe two, maybe three." ...
Analysis: With Nene out of action, Edjuardo Najera is seeing increased playing time with Kenyon Martin and Marcus Camby in the Nuggets' frontcourt.
News: The Denver Post reports Nene (knee) is eligible to come off the injured list March 1. Coach George Karl said his return the first week of March would be the best-case scenario.
Analysis: With Nene out of action, Marcus Camby and Kenyon Martin will see the majority of minutes at center and power forward.
News: The Denver Post reports Denver placed Nene on the injured list Monday after an MRI found he has a second-degree sprain of the left medial collateral ligament. He was injured Sunday in the second quarter of his team's loss at New Jersey. The test found no bone bruise or meniscus damage and he will begin rehabilitating Tuesday. "This season has been filled with numerous unfortunate incidents," Nene said. "This is added to the list. But I'm still going to work as hard as I have to to get back on the court and help the Nuggets get into the playoffs."
Analysis: But Nene, who has already missed 10 games this season to injury and four to a suspension, will be out for at least the rest of February. The earliest he could return is a March 1 home game against Atlanta, but his recovery could take longer.
News: The Nuggets placed Nene on the injured list Monday due to his sprained left knee.
Analysis: Nene will be eligible to return on March 3 when the Pacers visit Denver.
News: The Denver Post reports Nene missed the second half of Sunday's game against the Nets with a sprained left knee that will force him to miss at least the final two games of the Nuggets' road trip heading into the All-Star break.
Analysis: General manager Kiki Vandeweghe said he did not yet know if Nene needed a stint on the injured list. If that happens, the GM said coach George Karl would dictate whether the Nuggets added a forward or guard. The team likely would wait to sign any 10-day contracts until after the all-star break.
News: Nene suffered an injury to his knee in the second quarter of Sunday's game at New Jersey and was unable to return.
Analysis: Nene is considered day to day. Keep him reserved if you have healthier alternatives for the upcoming week.
News: The Denver Post reports strength and conditioning coach Steve Hess said Nene became better conditioned during the suspension. He finished serving his four-game penalty on Sunday when the Nuggets played Dallas. "Nene is disappointed and realizes he can't do what he did," Nuggets general manager Kiki Vandeweghe said. "The NBA made that abundantly clear."
Analysis: With Marcus Camby listed as questionable for Tuesday's game, Nene could see more playing time. The Nuggets are slated for four games in Week 13, so Nene is worth using in deeper leagues regardless of Camby's situation.
News: The league suspended Nene four games Saturday for fighting. He squared off with Michael Olowokandi on Friday night.
Analysis: Nene will start serving his suspension on Monday. Denver is slated for four games in Week 12, so Nene will miss them all. He'll return for a four-game week in Week 13.
News: Nene continued his solid play on Monday night, posting 20 points and 13 rebounds against L.A. Clippers.
Analysis: Nene has posted four straight solid stat lines, averaging 17.8 PPG and 11.3 RPG during the span.
News: Nene scored 16 points to go along with 11 rebounds in Sunday's game at L.A. Lakers.
Analysis: Nene has averaged 17.0 PPG and 10.7 RPG over his past three games.
News: Nene (hip) was able to play in Friday's game with Miami. He scored five points with four rebounds in 16 minutes.
Analysis: Nene has struggled with injuries all season. If he can get healthy, he could provide some Fantasy value later in the season.
News: Nene (bruised right hip) was unable to play in Tuesday's game at Philadelphia.
Analysis: Nene is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in daily leagues if you have healthier alternatives.
News: Nene (bruised right hip) is listed as doubtful for Tuesday's game at Philadelphia. "We'll take it day by day and I'll hear from [trainers] and Nene and see where we need to go," coach Jeff Bzdelik told the Denver Post.
Analysis: Nene was unable to practice on Monday. Keep him reserved in all daily Fantasy leagues.
News: Nene bruised his right hip in the second quarter of Sunday's game against New York. He left and was unable to return.
Analysis: Nene is questionable for Tuesday's game at Philadelphia.
News: Nene left Sunday's game against the Nuggets with a bruised hip. He is currently day-to-day on the injury report.
Analysis: Nene will be re-evaluated later Sunday. He is questionable for Tuesday's matchup with the Sixers.
News: Nene (hamstring) was able to play in Sunday's game against Dallas. He came off the bench and scored four points in 17 minutes.
Analysis: Nene will need a few games to get back into game shape, but should be a decent Fantasy option within time.
News: Nene (hamstring) sat out another game Friday when the Nuggets played the Bulls. He remains day to day.
Analysis: Nene is questionable for Nov. 21 vs. Dallas.
News: Nene (hamstring) was sidelined again on Wednesday.
Analysis: Nene remains day to day. He is nearing a return, but should remain reserved until he can officially play.
News: The Denver Post reports Nene is not expected to play Wednesday against the Raptors because of an injured hamstring.
Analysis: Francisco Elson, Kenyon Martin and Nikoloz Tskitishvili should get the brunt of the frontcourt minutes.
News: Nene (hamstring) was not available for Tuesday's game against Seattle.
Analysis: Nene remains doubtful for Denver's next game on Thursday against the Pistons.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nene's strained hamstring injury is progressing slowly and he will likely miss Tuesday's game against Seattle.
Analysis: Nene is not in the team's good graces and he doesn't deserve starting consideration in Fantasy leagues when healthy at this point.
News: The Denver Post reports Nene (hamstring) will miss Monday, Nov. 8 game against the Jazz. "I would rather lose him for a couple of games now than lose him for two months," general manager Kiki Vandeweghe said. "I told him to take care of himself now, and 'Don't come back until you do feel good."
Analysis: There remains no timetable for Nene's return. Avoid starting him this week because of the uncertainty of his injury.
News: The Denver Post reports Nuggets coach Jeff Bzdelik expressed concern over Nene's hamstring injury. The ailment has forced Nene to miss all but two or three practices. "It's hurt him and it's hurt us," Bzdelik said. Calling himself "frustrated," Nene said he aggravated the hamstring on Tuesday. "When I grabbed the ball in the high post, I did a strong step, a hard step. I felt it," he said.
Analysis: Nene missed Thursday's game against the Timberwolves and is questionable for Nov. 6 against the Jazz. Consider other options until Nene is healthy enough to play at full speed.
News: Nene was unable to play in Thursday's home opener against Minnesota due to a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Nene is considered day to day. The Nuggets host the Jazz on Saturday night.
News: The Nuggets have picked up the $3.04 million 2005-06 option on Nene. "Nene was an easy decision," Vandeweghe told the Rocky Mountain News. "Skita was a very difficult decision. I believe he's going to be a good player, but we haven't seen him play very much."
Analysis: Nene is expected to play both power forward and center this season.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nene (hamstring) was 3-for-6 from the field for six points against Toronto in a preseason game Tuesday.
Analysis: Nene will back up Kenyon Martin this season. He is worth starting as a No. 3 or 4 forward in all leagues.
News: The Denver Post reports that Nene said he talked with head coach Jeff Bzdelik about not starting and he feels comfortable now with the minutes he will get off the bench. "A lot of people think it's important to start," said Nene. "It's not going to change my game."
Analysis: Kenyon Martin replaces Nene as the starting power forward. Draft the third-year player in the middle rounds of all drafts this season.
News: The Rocky Mountain News reports Nene (hamstring) will miss Thursday's preseason game with the Bucks and could miss Saturday's game at Milwaukee as well. "Nene for sure won't play," Nuggets coach Jeff Bzdelik said. "There's no sense (in taking a risk)."
Analysis: Marcus Camby will start at center with Nene sidelined. The two are competing with each other for the starting role this year.
News: According to the Denver Post, X-rays on the bruised right hand of Nene revealed no major damage. The Nuggets list him as probable for Monday's game against Sacramento.
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Nene active on Fantasy teams.
News: Nene suffered a bruised right hand in the fourth quarter of Saturday's game.
Analysis: Nene's status is uncertain. He will have X-rays on Sunday to determine the severity of his injury. Keep him reserved in all daily leagues if you have healthier alternatives.
News: According to the Rocky Mountain News, Nene (ankle) Nene will be a gametime decision Friday at Detroit. "It's nothing serious," coach Jeff Bzdelik said. "He's doing much better (Thursday)."
Analysis: If Nene is unable to play, Michael Doleac will start at center with Marcus Camby moving to power forward.
News: According to the Rocky Mountain News, Nene (ankle) is listed as day to day. "It's a little sore," Nene said. "But I'll play Friday (at Detroit)."
Analysis: Barring any setbacks, it appears safe to keep Nene active on active teams.
News: Nene (thumb) was in the lineup on Monday. He scored four points in 20 minutes.
Analysis: Keep Nene reserved until he is 100 percent and able to contribute more consistently.
News: Nene had 12 rebounds to go with 12 points and four assists at Philadelphia Friday.
Analysis: Nene is no longer one of the only focal points of the Nuggets' offense, but he remains a valuable No. 2 or 3 forward in all leagues.
News: The Rocky Mountain News reports that Nene is disappointed he is not getting more offensive opportunities. "I'm not happy the last two games," said Nene. "I have the space in the low post. A lot of times I'm open." He adds that his teammates "have cotton in their ears. They don't hear me."
Analysis: Nene is seeing less opportunities than he did last season because the Nuggets added Andre Miller and Carmelo Anthony, while Marcus Camby has been healthier than he was last season. But Fantasy owners shouldn't be worried, especially Rotisserie owners. He is averaging more than one point and one rebound higher than he did all of last season. His free-throw and field-goal percentages are higher as well.
News: Nene was held to only 10 points and five rebounds in 34 minutes of play Sunday against Boston.
Analysis: Nene's presence down low makes him an excellent option as a No. 3 forward.
News: The Rocky Mountain News reports that Nene (groin) is expected to play against Dallas Friday.
Analysis: Consider keeping Nene reserved for one more day until he shows he can play without lingering effects from the injury.
News: The Rocky Mountain News reports that Nene (groin) is expected to practice Monday. Nuggets head coach Jeff Bzdelik is hopeful he can play Tuesday against Phoenix.
Analysis: Nene should remain active in leagues that have weekly lineup deadlines.
News: The Rocky Mountain News reports that Nene (groin) was unable to practice Thursday and is listed as questionable for Friday's game against Washington.
Analysis: Nene should be reserved in daily leagues until he is able to play consistently without lingering effects from the injury.
News: According to reports, Nene (groin) is optimistic he will return Nov. 21 against Washington.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status over the weekend before activating him.
News: Nene (groin) missed his second consecutive game on Wednesday.
Analysis: Nene is considered day to day. Keep him reserved in all leagues until he can officially return.
News: Nene (groin) was unable to play on Tuesday at Minnesota.
Analysis: Nene is doubtful for Wednesday's game against Milwaukee. He will likely return Friday against Washington. Keep him reserved in daily leagues.
News: According to the Rocky Mountain News, Nene probably will not play in Tuesday's game at Minnesota because of a groin strain suffered in practice Sunday. He reported improvement Monday but is still listed as questionable. "We'll see how he is (Tuesday)," coach Jeff Bzdelik said. "We'll err on the side of caution."
Analysis: Marcus Camby and Francisco Elson will see more playing time if Nene is unable to play.
News: The Rocky Mountain News reports that Nene left Sunday's practice early with a left groin strain. The injury is not considered serious enough to keep him from playing Tuesday at Minnesota. He will be re-evaluated Monday. "It's my understanding it's just a slight tweak in his leg," said nuggets head coach Jeff Bzdelik.
Analysis: Nene has had three triple-doubles this season. Keep him active in all Fantasy formats as he provides plenty of rebounds and adequate scoring.
News: Hilario (back) is questionable for Tuesday's game in Los Angeles against the Lakers. He missed a game this past Saturday due to the injury.
Analysis:
News: Hilario did not play on Saturday due to a lower back strain. According to the Denver Post, he is probable for Tuesday's game in Los Angeles against the Lakers.
Analysis:
News: Hilario started at center Saturday and scored 15 points. Consider picking him up now that he is a starter. He should be a good second Fantasy option at center.
Analysis:
News: Hilario scored a career-high 23 points Monday. He doesn't score consistently enough to use as a starter, but is a good player to use as a Fantasy reserve.
Analysis:
News: Hilario (neck) played in Saturday's game. He was limited to three points in 12 minutes of play against Indiana. Fantasy owners should keep Hilario on the bench until he is 100 percent healthy.
Analysis:
News: Hilario sat out Friday's game with a strained neck. He'll be re-evaluated on Saturday before Denver's home game against Indiana. Check his status in the next few days before adjusting your lineup.
Analysis:
News: Hilario played well in his regular-season debut Wednesday. He scored 10 points and had 11 rebounds. Consider picking him up if he plays well in his next game.
Analysis:
