News: The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that the agent for Andrew Bynum says he has not ruled out signing a contract with the 76ers once free agency begins July 1. “I don’t see why not,” Bynum’s agent, David Lee, said when asked whether or not Bynum would consider signing an extension with the 76ers this summer. “I still feel like the ball is in their court.” Bynum will be an unrestricted free agent this summer. He had arthroscopic surgery on both knees last month to remove debris. Teams can begin signing free agents on July 1. Lee said that Bynum is at least two weeks into his rehabilitation. He added that Bynum has not experienced any pain or swelling since the procedure. “This was a rough year on everyone involved," Lee said. "But Andrew is just 25 years old. We have every reason to believe that he will be back on the court next season.”
Analysis: Keep an eye on what happens with Bynum this offseason, not just where he plays but his recovery with his knees. He could still return as a No. 1 Fantasy center if healthy, even with the Sixers. If he's back at close to 100 percent he would be worth a pick as early as Round 2 or 3 in the majority of leagues.
News: Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum underwent arthroscopic surgeries on Tuesday to remove debris from both knees, reports the Delaware Journal. He will begin physical therapy on Friday. His season is over before it started as he never suited up for the 76ers this year.
Analysis: The 7-footer never ended up stepping on the court this season, which is a huge disappointment for Fantasy owners. However, it could be worse as the 76ers will have to decide on whether or not to keep Bynum this summer as he will be a free agent. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on where he winds up playing next season as he will once again be considered a high-end option heading into the 2013-14 campaign as long as he is healthy. However, Bynum should be dropped in all seasonal formats at this point.
News: The 76ers announced during halftime of Monday's game against the Trail Blazers that center Andrew Bynum will undergo season-ending arthroscopic surgery on both of his knees on Tuesday. Bynum, who has yet to play this season due to bone bruises and damaged cartilage in his knees, will have both of his knees cleaned out. “After many months of rehabilitation and consulting with numerous doctors, Andrew and the doctors treating him determined that this is the best course of action at this point,” general manager Tony DiLeo said. “We will continue to monitor and evaluate his status moving forward.”
Analysis: While we knew this was a possibility, Bynum has now been ruled out for the remainder of the season. The 7-footer never ended up stepping on the court this season, which is a huge disappointment for Fantasy owners. However, it could be worse as the 76ers will have to decide on whether or not to keep Bynum this summer as he will be a free agent. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on where he winds up playing next season as he will once again be considered a high-end option heading into the 2013-14 campaign as long as he is healthy. However, Bynum should be dropped in all seasonal formats at this point.
News: Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum continues to visit with doctors in an attempt to get over his season-long knee troubles, reports the Delaware News Journal Monday. Bynum has no official update on his condition, though he is weighing options at the moment. He's been sidelined by bone bruises and damaged cartilage in his knees since September.
Analysis: Bynum has reiterated that there is no surgical procedure that will be able to guarantee his knees will be repaired to the level they need to be for him to get back on the court. Bynum has also said he doesn't want to play in pain. It looks more and more like Bynum may never actually suit up to play for Philadelphia as he becomes a free agent in July. At this point, we would recommend leaving him stashed until a final decision can be made. Bynum can be considered a must-start option when healthy.
News: 76ers center Andrew Bynum (knee) is currently being examined by orthopedist Dr. David Altchek in New York, general manager Tony Di Leo told reporters prior to Tuesday's contest against the Celtics. Bynum, who has yet to play this season due to soreness in both of his knees, is considering undergoing arthroscopic surgery on his right knee, which would end his season. “He set it up. That’s his doctor,” DiLeo said. “I know it’s a late appointment, so I don’t know if we’ll hear [results] tonight or tomorrow. … [The swelling] has gone down. But the activity has gone down.”
Analysis: This is a pretty significant visit for Bynum and Fantasy owners as the 7-footer may decide to end his season before it even gets started. Unfortunately for owners, Bynum's pending return has dragged on way longer than most expected as he continued to suffer setbacks during his rehab work. With only a few weeks left in the Fantasy season in most leagues, owners may be forced to make a tough call on what to do about Bynum in the coming weeks. At this point, we would recommend leaving him stashed until the latest results from his most recent exam are known. Bynum can be considered a must-start option when healthy.
News: Just a few days after the Philadelphia Inquirer reported that 76ers center Andrew Bynum may be considering season-ending surgery on his right knee, general manager told Tony DiLeo told the Delaware County Daily Times that surgery still remains an option for 25-year-old. Bynum, who has not played in a game this year after being acquired by the 76ers last summer, suffered a setback in following a scrimmage last week.
Analysis: Bynum is expected to become an unrestricted free agent after the season, has not participated in basketball-related activities since last Friday and there is no indication when he will return to the court. At we approach the final stretch of the season, it appears as if his chances remain slim. We'll continue to keep an eye on his progress moving forward. Bynum has the potential to be a star, but his injury woes continue to create headaches. At this point in the season, Bynum is probably not worth hanging onto in shallow Fantasy formats.
News: For the first time during his lengthy recovery from a knee injury, Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum admitted the possibility that he might not return this season. Bynum, who has not played in a game this year after being acquired by the 76ers last summer, said Friday he has experienced some swelling in his knee following a scrimmage last week. "I played in one scrimmage and it’s a four- or five-day setback," he told reporters about his latest issue. "It's getting late. I don't know. ... I don't want to play in pain."
Analysis: Bynum, who is slated to become an unrestricted free agent after the season, has not participated in basketball-related activities since last Friday and there is no indication when he will return to the court. He is currently using ice to reduce the swelling in his knee, but is obviously running out of time to make his long-awaited season debut, let alone make an impact for the 76ers. And his long-term status is also murky as a recent MRI revealed degeneration in both his knees, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. Bynum has the potential to be a star, but his injury woes continue to create headaches. He's probably not worth holding onto in shallow Fantasy formats with just over a month to play in the season.
News: Philadelphia injured center Andrew Bynum participated in 5-on-5 practice with teammates on Friday, reports the Philadelphia Inquirer. Sources have called the practice "spirited" and it was a huge step in the right direction for the center. Often, 5-on-5 practice is the final step in a players' recovery before they begin playing in games again. Despite the step forward, Sixers coach Doug Collins expressed some concern over Bynum's conditioning in his first scrimmage. “He looked like a guy who had not played in nine months,” Collins said. "I think he felt good that he was able to get out there. But I don’t think that any bells and whistles should be set off right now that he’s close to playing.”
Analysis: Bynum has yet to step on the court for the 76ers but it sounds like he's closer than ever. The Sixers still don't want to put a timetable on his possible return, but at the very least, it is looking like we'll see Bynum this season. Bynum averaged 18.7 points, 11.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocks last season and can be considered a must-start option in all formats when healthy.
News: Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum (knee) worked out Tuesday before his teammates and said that he completed the entire 80-minute workout, reports the Philadelphia Inquirer. “It was painful but I did push through it," he said. "This is something I think I’ll just have to get used to.” Bynum has been ramping up his workouts but the Sixers still do not have a timetable for his return. “I don’t know,” Bynum said when asked when he will return. “Could be a week; maybe two. But soon.”
Analysis: Bynum, who has yet to play this season due to soreness in both of his knees, has also recently said he doesn't know if he'll be able to return before March. Now, he's singing a different tune. We think the bottom line is that nobody is really sure when he'll be able to debut for the Sixers. He's making some progress but coach Doug Collins said he's got to practice with contact before any decision is made. While the window for him to come back and be a productive force for owners in starting to shrink, it is not closed yet. Bynum averaged 18.7 points, 11.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocks last season and can be considered a must-start option in all formats when healthy.
News: 76ers center Andrew Bynum (knee) was able to partake in some halfcourt drills during Monday's practice session, but there is still no timetable for his return to the court, reports PhillyBurbs.com. Bynum, who has yet to play this season due to soreness in both of his knees, told reporters last week that he may not be ready to play until March. However, coach Doug Collins said that he is encouraged by Bynum's progress, but added that “the question’s going to be, at some point and time, of him getting out there. Right now, he has not done anything with contact.”
Analysis: Bynum has been saying all season long that he was targeting the All-Star break as a return date, but he changed his stance just days before the break. While the 7-footer has finally been able to start practicing with his teammates, he has done so in a limited fashion as he has yet to take part in any contact drills. That is going to be a true indicator of exactly where he stands, so owners should continue to monitor his status in the coming weeks. Bynum has certainly been testing Fantasy owners' patience for much of the year, but we would strongly recommend staying the course for at least another week. While the window for him to come back and be a productive force for owners in starting to shrink, it is not closed yet. Bynum averaged 18.7 points, 11.8 rebounds and 1.9 blocks last season and can be considered a must-start option in all formats when healthy.
News: Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum, who is out due to his knee injury, met with reporters Monday before the Sixers played the Clippers, reports NBA.com. Bynum was hoping to return and debut for the Sixers at some point in February but said Monday that may not happen now. "I’m not sure,” Bynum said. “It’s all going to depend if I have a setback.” Bynum said his left knee is still sore but there is not any swelling.
Analysis: We're not going to say this isn't expected. We knew that Bynum's idea of returning in February was a long shot and it appears that is going to be the case. Bynum has yet to practice with teammates and he is now likely not going to return before March. Bynum posted career highs in points (18.7) and rebounds (11.8) with the Lakers last season, and should remain stashed in all Fantasy formats. His progress is worth monitoring on a consistent basis.
News: Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum (knee) said Monday he is inching closer to making his season debut, although the target date may have shifted. Bynum was aiming for a return around the All-Star break, but offered a more vague estimate prior to the 76ers' game on Monday. "There is not a specific date but in February. That's the target, in February, I guess," said Bynum, who has been plagued by knee trouble since last September. "My doctor said it’s just a fear of a big bone bruise, so I have to nurse it all the back up to playable conditions without pain or a setback."
Analysis: Bynum received an injection of Synvisc -- a gel-like substance that sometimes provides relief for inflamed tissue -- last week. The natural substance is designed to lubricate and cushion the joint. The 7-footer said he still feels some pain in the left knee, but the right knee is "phenomenal." However, Bynum has yet to practice with teammates, which is viewed as one of the last remaining hurdles before he makes his debut. "I just want the first game to come," he said. "I definitely won't be nervous." Bynum posted career highs in points (18.7) and rebounds (11.8) with the Lakers last season, and should remain stashed in all Fantasy formats. His progress is worth monitoring on a consistent basis.
News: Sixers center Andrew Bynum traveled to New York Thursday to get scheduled injections into his injured knees, according to phillyburbs.com. Bynum is supposed to resume basketball-related activities next week, which could be as soon as Sunday.
Analysis: There is no firm timetable for Bynum's return to action, but he said earlier this week he will likely return "right after" the All-Star break. Bynum, who has been sidelined all season with bone bruises on both knees, has been running on anti-gravity treadmill and doing low-post offensive drills. He ran some sprints Monday and dunked on Sunday. If Bynum doesn't plan to return until after the All-Star break, then that means the first game he will be eligible to play in will be on Feb. 20 at Minnesota. Unfortunately, that's still a few weeks away. It's been unfortunate Bynum has been sidelined for so long. Hopefully, when Bynum is finally active, you won't be out of the hunt for a Fantasy championship and the high-end Fantasy center will still be a useful option.
News: 76ers center Andrew Bynum, who has been out all season with a knee injury, said prior to Monday's game against the Grizzlies he will likely return to action "right after" the All-Star break. “I talked about that for a while,” Bynum said, per phillyburbs.com. “I think giving myself a full other week of training camp is going to be better than trying to come back before that. To me, it doesn’t really matter when I come back.” 76ers general manager Tony DiLeo said Bynum could practice with the team as soon as Monday. “He’s finishing up the last phase and then he’ll start to do more and more basketball-related activities and slowly build up to where he can get out there and practice 5-on-5 with the team,” DiLeo said.
Analysis: Bynum, who has been sidelined all season with bone bruises on both knees, has been running on anti-gravity treadmill and doing low-post offensive drills. He ran some sprints Monday and dunked on Sunday. “We’re very encouraged,” coach Doug Collins said. “I think most important is he’s encouraged that he’s feeling better. You can always tell when guys start feeling better. When you’re hurt, you don’t feel like you’re part of the team.” If Bynum doesn't plan to return until after the All-Star break, then that means the first game he will be eligible to play in will be on Feb. 20 at Minnesota. Unfortunately, that's still several weeks away. It's been unfortunate Bynum has been sidelined for so long. Hopefully, when Bynum is finally active, you won't be out of the hunt for a Fantasy championship and the high-end Fantasy center will still be a useful option.
News: After months of uncertainty surrounding center Andrew Bynum (knee), the 76ers are beginning to show growing optimism about the big man finally making his season -- and team -- debut. Bynum, who has been sidelined all season with knee soreness, increased his activity on the anti-gravity treadmill Sunday after working on his low-post spin moves following the team's practice last Friday. "It’s encouraging as Andrew is doing more and more work," associate coach Michael Curry told the Philadelphia Daily News. "The fact that he’s starting to do some things in shootaround, his level of activity has picked up and he’s here working three hours or so, you’re going to get excited."
Analysis: Bynum continues to maintain he would like to return around the All-Star break in mid-February, a sentiment the team has been hesitant to fully support. But coaches can't hide the possibility of his presence on the court sparking a turnaround for Philadelphia, which is currently on the outside of the playoff picture. "It’s exciting," Curry said. "You deal a lot to get him. When he’s healthy and on the court, he’s one heck of a player." Bynum posted career highs in points (18.7) and rebounds (11.8) with the Lakers last season, and is worth keeping stashed in all Fantasy formats as he could return within the next month.
News: 76ers center Andrew Bynum (knee) said he is not feeling any pain in his knees and remains on track to return during the All-Star break, reports the Delaware County Daily Times. Bynum, who has yet to play this season due to chronic pain in both of his knees, also added he is ready to step up his rehab. “I still haven't done lateral movement. That'll be biggest test. Cutting is the last thing to do. I'm building to that slowly," he said.
Analysis: While we don't want to get to ahead of ourselves, this appears to be good news. Bynum seems to be finally making significant progress in his rehab and the fact that he is finally pain free is certainly a step in the right direction. However, the biggest test will come when he starts running and cutting on his knees, which he admitted will be his biggest hurdle. The 76ers' first game after the break is Feb. 20 at Minnesota, so owners should keep an eye on his status with that date circled on the calendar. As long he doesn't suffer another significant setback, Bynum is still worth holding onto in all formats.
News: Slowly but surely, 76ers center Andrew Bynum continues to display improvement from chronic knee pain that has kept him sidelined all season. His workouts this past week, including jumpers and jogging on the court, signaled the first serious progression in his recovery, especially to coach Doug Collins. "It's a huge lift," Collins told the Philadelphia Daily News on Thursday. "The thing I like is Andrew is a very hard worker. I sense a real trust he has with all of the people working with him on a daily basis. I think that's a very positive sign. When I worked out [Wednesday] on the elliptical he was working out and the guy was working his tail off."
Analysis: As has been the case since the beginning of the season, Collins was reluctant to offer a timetable for Bynum's return. Earlier this week, the 25-year-old said he was targeting a return near the All-Star break, which concludes in mid-February. The 76ers' first game after the break is Feb. 20 at Minnesota, just over a month after Bynum began increasing his workout regimen. Despite not having a set date for his return, Bynum is still worth reserving in all Fantasy formats after averaging 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds per game last season.
News: Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum said Monday the pain in his knees was "minimal" and he is hoping to return to action around the All-Star break, the Delaware News Journal reports. Bynum has advanced to running on a treadmill and practiced his jump shot after the team's practice Monday. "I feel much better, mentally. I wake up today and I'm ready to go, and I can work out, so that's good," he told reporters. "I just want to get back. I think, I'm hoping around the all-star break. That’s what I’m hoping. I have no idea exactly when I’ll be back."
Analysis: Bynum has been sidelined all season with weakened cartilage in his knees, leaving the 76ers hesitant to provide a timetable for his possible return. His declaration of returning near the All-Star break in mid-February is the first real hint at a possible return since the beginning of the season. "Timing I've yet to work on, lateral movement yet to work on," Bynum said about his conditioning. "We've still got quite a ways to go, but we're making good progress." Bynum still has plenty of work to accomplish once he's cleared for practice so he might not be able to assist Fantasy owners immediately upon his return. Still, as one of the premier centers in the league, he should be stashed in all Fantasy formats.
News: After nearly a month passed without an update on his status, 76ers center Andrew Bynum said his ailing left knee "is better," but there is still no timetable for his return to game action, the Bucks County Times reports. "It's really good," Bynum said Monday. "I feel good." The 25-year-old has been sidelined all season because of the troublesome issue while being limited to walking on a treadmill. He said he hopes to advance to running soon, and does not have any meetings with doctors scheduled. "It's possible, but the doctor says it's going to resolve itself," Bynum said of a setback.
Analysis: While Bynum continues to insist he will return before the end of the season, Philadelphia coach Doug Collins has been more reserved. Collins said having Bynum play "would be a great gift," but doesn't want to discuss the possibility until it becomes more realistic. That certainly isn't a positive indication for the big man's return as he could remain sidelined until after the All-Star break. Bynum still has plenty of work to accomplish once he's cleared for practice so he might not be able to assist Fantasy owners immediately upon his return. Still, as one of the premier centers in the league, he should be stashed in all Fantasy formats.
News: 76ers general manager Tony DiLeo told reporters prior to Friday's game against the Hawks that center Andrew Bynum has been cleared to increase his activity level. DiLeo also added there is a rehab plan in place for Bynum, but still no timetable for his return. Bynum has yet to play this season to issues in both of his knees.
Analysis: Bynum will began increasing his rehab and basketball related workouts over the next few days and the team will likely wait to see how that goes before announcing a timetable for his return. Fantasy owners should continue to stash Bynum in the meantime while keeping an eye on his status moving forward. However, a mid-to-late January return is most likely the best-case scenario for Bynum's return at this point.
News: 76ers center Andrew Bynum told reporters Sunday that the pain is gone in both of his knees. His left knee, which said was bothersome last week, is feeling much better, according to Bynum. He is still optimistic about playing this season and is planning on having an MRI Thursday. Bynum is still out indefinitely and there are no timetables for his return until he undergoes an MRI. “I’m going to have to work extremely hard to get back into form,” Bynum said. “Obviously, I've been off for quite some time now. It’s kind of ridiculous. … I don’t think it was avoidable; I just think it’s something that I have to go through.”
Analysis: Bynum has sat out the entire season thus far and it seems as if his knees are starting to feel better, which is a good sign for Fantasy owners. Still, we'd like to see his MRI results first before we become optimistic on his return this season. It's probably safe to rule him out for the remainder of December since his MRI is not until Thursday. There were some reports earlier in the month saying that he may not even return this season, so we'll continue monitor his progress moving forward. General Manager Tony DiLeo also denied an earlier Yahoo report that the Sixers are talking to other clubs about trading the big man. Bynum can be arguably the top Fantasy center, if he ever gets healthy, so keep him stashed in all formats until the Sixers announce his MRI results.
News: Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum said Monday that his left knee still bothers him while walking, though his right knee feels good, reports Phillyburbs.com. Bynum said he expects to play again this season for the Sixers. Bynum did acknowledge there is a chance doctors will tell him to shut it down for the year, but he's optimistic about his Dec. 20 MRI. "Worst-case scenario, it's another month [after the MRI]," said Bynum. "Best-case scenario, I can ramp it up."
Analysis: Bynum hopes to play again this season. Then again, he's not a doctor and he's obviously going to be optimistic in the hope he can get back on the court. We wouldn't be so sure at this point. All Fantasy owners can do is stash him and hope he does make a return before he is no longer useful.
News: Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum, out with injuries to his knees, still has no timetable to return to action, according to the USA Today Wednesday. Bynum will be out until at least the beginning of 2013 at this point and the Philadelphia Inquirer says he'll be re-examined Dec. 20.
Analysis: Some reports are saying Bynum may not return at all this season but it appears he's definitely out until at least the first of the year. He is still worth stashing, as Bynum can be arguably the top Fantasy center, if he ever gets healthy. Unfortunately, it looks like Fantasy owners are playing the same waiting game Philadelphia is with the big man.
News: ESPN.com reported Saturday that the 76ers have accepted that Andrew Bynum’s knees “are not the same” as when they acquired him via trade this offseason from the Lakers. General manager Tom DiLeo told reporters Friday that the team has no timetable for Bynum’s return. "Bottom line is Andrew is out indefinitely," DiLeo said. "There are no timelines, we just have to wait and see how he reacts." According to the report, the Sixers have discussed the possibility that Bynum might not be able to play at all this season, a prognosis they had not considered when they traded for the free-agent to be. "His knees now and the MRIs are not the same, it's a different type (of) situation," DiLeo said. "At the time of the trade we had four doctors look at his MRI; we knew it was a calculated risk. We also knew we were getting the second-best center in the league, a franchise-type player. We took that risk." Bynum has bone bruises in both of his knees and is dealing with cartilage issues as well.
Analysis: The team has not considered surgery for Bynum yet, so rest seems to be the only answer for the time being. Bynum is doing some low-impact rehabilitation work, but at this point there is no immediate plan for when he will take the floor again. Bynum has been told to avoid any possibly stressful activities, after he seemed to suffer a setback last week while bowling. For now, it looks like we are not going to end up seeing Bynum for a while, and Fantasy owners need to make other plans at the center position. He is still worth stashing, as Bynum can be arguably the top Fantasy center, if he ever gets healthy. Unfortunately, it looks like Fantasy owners are playing the same waiting game Philadelphia is with the big man.
News: The latest knee setback to befall Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum seems more likely to be classified as bizarre news. Bynum told ESPN on Sunday that he experienced swelling in his left knee after going bowling Nov. 10. He had already been sidelined with a right knee bruise that forced him to miss the 76ers' entire training camp and preseason. "I didn't twist it or fall or nothing," said Bynum, who had an MRI last Tuesday that revealed the new damage. "It kind of broke off cartilage and it made the bone bruise bigger. Obviously (how) is the question, it's relatively nothing, it's three steps (and roll). That's the most important thing and why everyone is being so cautious."
Analysis: Despite the latest injury, Philadelphia did not alter its timetable for Bynum and still plans to re-evaluate him in three weeks. Still, Bynum has yet to take part in contact drills with the team and has only participated in low-impact rehab work. (But apparently bowling falls somewhere in the middle.) "I just don't know what to expect," he said. "I have an issue with my knees and we're trying to resolve it. There's no surgical procedures that will really help or are safe to do at the moment. I've just got to bide my time." When healthy, Bynum is one of the most productive centers in the league so Fantasy owners should continue to keep him stashed in all formats until he can return.
News: 76ers center Andrew Bynum told reporters Friday that he has suffered another setback in his recovery from a knee injury, this time in his other knee. Bynum said that he now has "cartilage degradation" in both knees, along with bone bruises. He said that he was overcompensating from the injury in his right knee while working out and suffered damage in the left knee. It is not clear whether Bynum's timeline for recovery has been pushed back, however he did say that he just has to rest in order to get better.
Analysis: Earlier in the week, we found out that Bynum would not be able to begin conditioning for at least another three weeks, so it is not clear how Bynum suffered this latest injury. Bynum has not played since last May, so even if his knees recover quickly, he is probably not in game shape. Bynum’s previous timetable was a return to the court by Dec. 10, followed by 1-4 weeks of additional work to get into game shape, but this news makes that look doubtful. Bynum is one of the most productive centers in the league, when healthy, so Fantasy owners just have to keep him stashed in all formats until he can return.
News: The 76ers released a statement Monday indicating they continue to be cautious projection the on-court date return of center Andrew Bynum, who is recovering from a right knee bone bruise he sustained in mid-September. "We know that Sixers fans are eager to see Andrew Bynum play and shine in a 76ers uniform," 76ers general manager Tony DiLeo said in a statement. "We also know that no one is more eager to see Andrew play for the Sixers than Andrew himself. He fully realizes the key contribution he can make to the team. Hopefully, that day is coming soon." Bynum continues to be monitored by Dr. David Altchek, who after a Nov. 5 evaluation recommended Bynum refrain from basketball activities for another three weeks. However, Altchek indicated Bynum could resume low-impact exercise immediately. He is expected to conduct low-impact exercise for two weeks, which will be followed by three weeks of conditioning on an anti-gravity treadmill. Upon successful completion of the five-week regimen, Bynum is then expected to resume basketball activities.
Analysis: If Bynum continues on his current trajectory, then he might be cleared for normal basketball activities around Dec. 10. The team estimates Bynum will then need an additional 1-4 weeks for conditioning, training and practice before being able to play in a game. It's not a conclusive timetable, but at least it's a rough timeframe for a potential return for Bynum, who was a key acquisition in the offseason. Fantasy owners should continue to keep the high-end Fantasy center reserved in all formats.
News: Philadelphia general manager Tony DiLeo said Monday the team has no update on injured center Andrew Bynum (knee) and there remains no timetable for his return. Bynum has yet to play this season because of a knee bone bruise and is not expected to resume basketball-related activities until he is pain-free. "He’s improving, but it’s still the same situation," DiLeo told the Bucks County Courier Times. Analysis: DiLeo said Bynum has started low-impact conditioning, but that certainly doesn't help impatient Fantasy owners. At this point, it would be safe to assume Bynum will not return for the remainder of Fantasy Week 2 (Nov. 5-11) and his status for the next scoring period is also in serious doubt. Bynum also missed the entire preseason with the issue, but Fantasy owners should hold tight with the big man in the hopes he can return soon.
News: Philadelphia general manager Tony DiLeo said last week that center Andrew Bynum is still experiencing discomfort in his right knee and won't participate "in any basketball-related activities until he is pain-free," the Bucks County Courier Times reports. The team confirmed his status Tuesday and also added that he will miss Wednesday's season opener. Coach Doug Collins also offered a bleak picture for Bynum's return. "I have no idea," he said. "It’s all hypothetical. We’re not going to look over at (Bynum as) a lifeline. If this team feels like we can’t win without him, we won’t win."
Analysis: Long considered a fragile player during his tenure with the Lakers, Bynum is certainly not endearing himself to his new team while missing all of training camp and the preseason schedule with his latest setback. "I think pain and swelling are indications of what’s going on," Bynum said. "I don’t feel pressure, but psychologically it stinks. It’s tough. I want to come in and help out." At this point, Bynum is certainly an injury risk for Fantasy Week 1 (Oct. 30-Nov. 4) and should remain on the bench in all Fantasy formats as Philadelphia plays only two games during the period.
News: 76ers center Andrew Bynum was expected to practice with the team for the first time Wednesday, but his recovery from knee soreness continues to be sluggish. He was forced to sit out the practice session. Bynum has yet to be cleared to run, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. "Andrew is out until he is pain-free," 76ers general manager Tony DiLeo said. The team is being cautious with their big offseason acquisition’s health, and his status for the team’s opener Oct. 31 against Denver remains a question.
Analysis: Bynum is expected to be the focal point of an offense for the first time in his career, so he could be able to post huge numbers this season. Unfortunately, after his first healthy season in years last year, it looks like this may be a lingering issue. Bynum has received two knee injections to handle the pain, and he has another scheduled for the All-Star break, so it looks like they expect this to continue to be an issue. He posted 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds last season and was one of the breakout stars of the league. His ceiling is even higher this year, but he needs to get on the court. Continue to consider him an elite Fantasy option, but the knee might be enough to knock him down a few notches down in the first round on Draft Day.
News: Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum is expected to receive another Synvisc injection in his right knee Monday, according to the team's official website. Bynum has been doing conditioning drills as a precaution related to the Orthokine treatment he received back in September. He is also dealing with a knee bruise but is hoping to ready for the start of the regular season. The Sixers open the regular season Oct. 31 at home against the Nuggets.
Analysis: Bynum's injury actually sound worse than they are and most are expecting him to be ready to roll once late October rolls around. The injections he has been receiving are same ones he had done over the last two seasons as they help lubricate the joints in the knees. As far as the bone bruise is concerned, Bynum said it is getting better and is hoping to start going full-go at practice sometime next week. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status moving forward. The 7-footer is coming off his best NBA season after averaging career highs with 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds while making his first All-Star team. He was also ranked sixth in the association with 1.9 blocked shots per game and most feel he still hasn't reached his ceiling yet. As long as he is healthy, Bynum should be one of the first 12 players selected on Draft Day.
News: Philadelphia center Andrew Bynum is expected to miss three weeks as a precaution after feeling some discomfort in his knee, reports ESPN.com. Bynum had injections in both of his knees of plasma-rich platelets in Germany last week, which are expected to help stimulate healing in the arthritis-affected areas in his knees. The team also said Monday that Bynum has a knee bruise but he will participate in low-impact conditioning drills. "I'm going to do everything in my power to get back," Bynum said. The Sixers open the regular season Oct. 31 at home against the Nuggets.
Analysis: After finally staying healthy for an entire season last year, it looked like Bynum may have finally put his injury troubles behind him. However, the 24-year-old is now dealing with more knee issues just days into the start of training camp. The good news is the team said that the decision to shut Bynum down was strictly precautionary and he is expected to be ready for the start of the regular season. Bynum had a procedure done in Germany called Orthokine, which was recommended by his doctors and is actually supposed to help keep him on the court this season. The 7-footer is coming off his best NBA season after averaging career highs with 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds while making his first All-Star team. He was also ranked sixth in the association with 1.9 blocked shots per game and most feel he still hasn't reached his ceiling yet. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status over the next few weeks to see when he will be able to get back on the court. Bynum is one of the top Fantasy options at all positions and should be taken in the first round as long as he is healthy at the start of the season.
News: The biggest blockbuster of the offseason finally went down Friday, as the Magic completed the long-rumored Dwight Howard-to-Los Angeles trade. The deal featured 12 players and four teams overall, with plenty of moving parts: the Lakers sent center Andrew Bynum to Philadelphia and forwards Christian Eyenga and Josh McRoberts to Orlando; The 76ers sent Andre Iguodala to Denver, while first-round pick Maurice Harkless headed to Orlando with center Nikola Vucevic; the Nuggets shipped both Al Harrington and Arron Afflalo to Orlando; while the Magic sent Jason Richardson to Philadelphia, Chris Duhon and Earl Clark to Los Angelez and received an assortment of draft picks.
Analysis: With so many pieces moving, it is difficult to keep track of everything, so here's what you need to know, as far as Bynum is concerned; he just got even more valuable. Bynum moves from a plodding offense that centered around Kobe Bryant to one that will feature him as the number one option. And probably the number two option as well. The 76ers got the superstar they've been looking for, and they certainly will not shy away from featuring him heavily. Bynum averaged 19.1 points per game on 13.6 shots last season, and it is hard to see him not making vast improvements across the board as the key to the offense. He has a history of injuries, but Bynum was fully healthy last season, so those concerns should be behind him. Bynum was already going to be one of the top centers in all of Fantasy, but this trade probably cements him as the clear-cut No. 2, right behind Howard, and a sure-fire first round pick.
News: As expected, the Lakers picked up center Andrew Bynum's option for the 2012-13 season on Monday, meaning he will make $16.5 million in the final season of his contract. Bynum is coming off a season in which he posted career highs of 18.7 points and 11.8 rebounds per game while missing just six games, his fewest since his second year in the league.
Analysis: The book on Bynum throughout his career has long been that he had dominant potential if he could only stay healthy, and he finally proved that this season by emerging as one of the best centers in the game. He was consistent and productive all year long, and at 24 years of age, should only get better. The Lakers continue to ask him to carry more of the load than ever, which should only lead to better production. There continue to be questions about his maturity level, however that did not prove to be an issue last season. Bynum is one of the top Fantasy options heading into a contract year, and should be gone by the second round in all Fantasy leagues on Draft Day.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum took just seven shots in Sunday’s Game 1 win over the Nuggets, however he still managed to thoroughly control the game with his postseason-record tying 10 blocks. He also added 13 rebounds while adding 10 points for the first Lakers’ postseason triple-double since 1991. Bynum played 36 minutes in the game, and the Lakers outscored the Nuggets by 23 in his time on the floor, while winning, 103-88.
Analysis: If one criticism of Bynum’s play remains despite his breakout season, it is that he has yet to develop into an elite help defender; however he certainly looked as good as it gets on Sunday. Bynum also had five blocks in his final game of the regular season the previous Sunday against the Thunder, so he is on some kind of roll right now. He should be considered a must-start Fantasy center in all postseason Fantasy formats.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum has gotten more attention for his antics on the court than his play recently, so he took the court on Wednesday and reminded everyone that his play can make just as much noise, as he pulled down a career-high 30 rebounds against the Spurs. Bynum controlled the boards from the very beginning, grabbing 10 in the first quarter en route to his NBA season-high number, while also adding 16 points on 7 of 20 shooting in 37 minutes, as the Lakers defeated the Spurs, 98-84.
Analysis: Bynum almost out-rebounded the entire Spurs team in this game, showing just how dominant he can be when he plays without distraction. He has dealt with ejections and fines recently while being a target for criticism, so Fantasy owners have to be happy with him putting his head down and playing ball in a big game. Bynum remains one of the most talented and productive centers in all of basketball, and a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: For the second time in three weeks, Lakers center Andrew Bynum earned himself an ejection from a game, after picking up a pair of technical fouls during the third and fourth quarters of Friday's game against the Rockets. Bynum had scored 19 points on 6 of 11 before the ejection, and was on his way to challenging for 30 points for the second game in a row. Wound up playing 31 minutes in the game, with seven rebounds and two blocks. When he left the game, the Lakers were down by just one point.
Analysis: For most of his career, the only question about Bynum as a Fantasy option was whether he would be able to stay healthy enough to live up to his considerable potential. That has not been the case this season, as he has exceeded expectations on the floor by staying healthy and dominating. However over the last few weeks, a troubling pattern has begun to emerge, as he has started to get on everyone from his coach to the referee's bad sides. So far it has not seriously affected his Fantasy value, however he has been forced to miss time in three games recently because of his actions. Late in the Fantasy season, owners could really use that extra quarter of Bynum's production. Still, despite all of the distractions, Bynum has to remain a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum got back on the floor against the Clippers on Wednesday after missing the team’s previous game with a sprained ankle. If the ankle was bothering him on Wednesday, he didn’t show any signs of it, as he thoroughly controlled the game from the beginning. Playing a team-high 39 minutes, Bynum was able to put in 36 points on 13 of 20 shooting, while also grabbing eight rebounds and rejecting four shots. Bynum was efficient in all facets of the game, shooting 10 of 12 from the free-throw line while making it through the entire game without a turnover, for just the seventh time this season, as the Lakers won 113-108.
Analysis: It looks like there is nothing to worry about with the oft-injured big man’s ankle, as he had one of his best games of the season after missing his first for injury. Fantasy owners should feel confident getting Bynum back into the starting lineup now, as he continues to play at an incredibly high level. Bynum is enjoying the healthiest season of his career, so it is good to see that this injury doesn’t seem like it will linger. Continue to consider him a must-start Fantasy center in all formats.
News: The Lakers announced that center Andrew Bynum will be in the starting lineup on Wednesday against the Clippers, after missing Tuesday’s game against the Nets with a sprained ankle.
Analysis: Fantasy owners can breathe a sigh of relief, as Bynum appears to be fine after missing most of the last two games. Now that you know he is healthy, Bynum is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, assuming he does not suffer a set back.
News: The Lakers report Wednesday that center Andrew Bynum (ankle) will be a game-time decision for Wednesday's game against the Clippers. Bynum missed Tuesday's game against the Nets after he suffered a sprained left ankle during Sunday's game against Golden State. Bynum told the Orange County Register that he would "try" to play after leaving the locker room on Tuesday.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues should use caution with Bynum in case he's out again. When healthy and active, Bynum is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues, and hopefully he can return against the Clippers.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum (ankle) missed Tuesday's game against the Nets, reports ESPN.com. Bynum himself reported that he would be unable to play in the game against New Jersey. "I can't play," Bynum said while wearing tape around his left ankle. "Hopefully (Wednesday against the Clippers)." ESPN.com has also learned that Bynum was fined by the Lakers for committing "numerous infractions." The amount of the fine is unknown.
Analysis: Bynum played just 10 minutes against Golden State before hurting himself in his last game on Sunday. And he was doing so well in avoiding injuries to this point, too. Bynum could end up missing some more games before all is said and done, especially as the Lakers need him healthy for the playoffs. This is definitely hurting Fantasy owners in the playoffs, but it has to be done. As for the disciplinary issues, the Lakers can keep fining him, but they aren't going to sit him in crunch time. Bynum is a must-start Fantasy option, when healthy.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum is officially listed as day to day after receiving treatment on his sprained left ankle Monday, according to the Los Angeles Times. Bynum, who will not require a follow-up MRI exam, is hoping to play during Tuesday's game against New Jersey. His treatments -- administered by the team's trainer -- included electro-stimulation, ice and manual therapy, according to the Lakers.
Analysis: X-rays taken Sunday on Bynum's ailing ankle returned negative, an encouraging sign as the Lakers big man looks to stay in the lineup. The fragile Bynum has not missed a game this season due to injury, but was banned four games at the beginning of the season because of a suspension. He is still listed as questionable for Tuesday's contest, but should be considered a must-start in all Fantasy formats when active.
News: Lakers coach Mike Brown said he does not expect center Andrew Bynum to be sidelined for long after he suffered a sprained left ankle during Sunday's game against Golden State and did not return. X-rays returned negative and Bynum did not need crutches when he left the arena. "I think it's OK," Brown told ESPN.com. "He was able to walk out, and I just saw him as he left. ... I don't think it's going to be long-term." Bynum told reporters Monday that he "definitely" expects to play during Los Angeles' next game on Tuesday.
Analysis: Bynum suffered the injury -- the latest setback in a long line of issues throughout his career -- when he landed awkwardly on a teammate's foot in the first quarter. He is expected to be re-evaluated later Monday, and is currently listed as questionable for Tuesday's game against New Jersey. Bynum has stayed relatively healthy this season so Fantasy owners should keep tabs on his status for Week 15 (April 2-8).
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum left Sunday’s game against the Warriors after just eight minutes, after stepping on a teammate’s foot while going for a rebound. Bynum left for the locker room, where he was diagnosed with a moderate left ankle sprain. X-rays came back negative, and he will be re-evaluated on Monday.
Analysis: After a career filled with injuries, Bynum has been surprisingly healthy this season, as he has only missed four games due to a suspension. Fantasy owners will obviously want to see if this injury is going to cost him a significant amount of time, as Bynum has finally been playing up to his considerable potential, despite some distractions. Obviously, we will keep you updated on his status whenever we find more, which will hopefully come Monday. Bynum is a must-start center when healthy.
News: Despite some issues with coach Mike Brown following an ill-advised three-point attempt on Tuesday, Lakers center Andrew Bynum was the team’s focal point on Thursday against the Thunder, scoring a team-high 25 points on 10 of 15 shooting. While the team did go to him often, Bynum also did great work to get his own shots, grabbing seven offensive rebounds and 13 total, while also blocking four shots, however his efforts were not enough, as the Lakers fell, 102-93.
Analysis: Bynum has been utterly dominant at times this season, as he was on Thursday and last Sunday, when he scored 30 points; having said that, he is still prone to moments of youthful indiscretion, as Tuesday showed. Despite that, Bynum has taken a huge leap this season, emerging as one of the top big men in the league and a must-start Fantasy center, so keep him in the lineup in all leagues.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum got ejected from Tuesday's game against the Rockets after he picked up two technical fouls. He saw 23 minutes of court time before he had to leave the game. Bynum shot 7 for 11 from the field and knocked down both his foul shots, finishing with 16 points. He also grabbed a team-high seven rebounds and blocked two shots for the Lakers. Los Angeles would go on to lose the game, 107-104.
Analysis: Bynum shouldn't get suspended for this ejection, but it comes on a day when the Lakers picked up his $16.1 million option. He entered Tuesday averaging 24.0 points and 13.1 boards per contest in March, while shooting 65.7 percent from the field. Bynum has also been able to stay healthy for the Lakers this season, playing in every game for them. Fantasy owners should keep Bynum active in all formats as long as he's 100 percent and on the court.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that the Lakers plan to exercise their team option on center Andrew Bynum. "He's the starting center on the West All-Star team. Why wouldn't we do everything we could to keep him here?" Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak said. "We're ecstatic to have him on the team." The Lakers have until June 30 to exercise the $16.1-million option they have for the last year of Bynum's contract. After next season, however, he becomes a free agent unless they negotiate an extension between now and then. Bynum, 24, has been getting steadily better this season, topping out this month with some eye-catching numbers. In March he is averaging 24.0 points and 13.1 rebounds while shooting 65.7 percent in 10 games. He is also averaging 41 minutes this month.
Analysis: Of equal importance to the Lakers and Fantasy owners, Bynum has played all 41 games he has been eligible for this season, a solid start for a player who logged an entire 82-game slate only once in his first six seasons, missing large swaths of time in the past because of knee problems. Keep him active in all leagues, and hopefully he doesn't get hurt to end the season.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum is fine going forward after bruising his right knee in Sunday's game against Boston. Bynum left the game but later returned and confirmed before the game that he was fine to play Tuesday in Memphis. He then showed just how fine he was with one of his best games of the season. Bynum played 49 minutes in the double overtime win and put the Lakers on his back with a game-high 37 points and 16 rebounds. Bynum went 15 of 18 from the field and added a block for the Lakers.
Analysis: Bynum has had knee issues in the past so Fantasy owners were understandably skeptical after he left Sunday but later returned. It seems he's out of the woods for this latest knee scare after his monster effort on Tuesday. Bynum is averaging 26.4 points, 12.0 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game over his last five. He should remain active in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum briefly left Sunday’s game against the Celtics with a bruised right knee, however he returned and did not look any worse for the wear, logging 41 minutes en route to a 20-point, 14-rebound performance. The last of his two points sealed the game for the Lakers, as he put them up 97-94, where the score would end up when the game finished. Teammate Kobe Bryant, who dished it to Bynum for the score, had this to say after the game: "Andrew is too big. You can't teach that. I knew it was going to be a high-percentage shot." Bynum shot a high percentage from the field for the whole game as well, hitting 9 of 16 while dishing out two assists in the game.
Analysis: With Bynum’s injury history, him leaving a game with a knee injury is obviously not something Fantasy owners want to see. Fortunately, he didn’t seem bothered by the injury at all, and at this point it doesn’t look like something to worry about. Still, we’ll keep an eye on it and pass on anything that might make it seem as if he’ll miss time. When healthy, as he has been all season, Bynum is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum played quite well on Tuesday night despite L.A. taking an overtime loss against the Pistons. Bynum held Greg Monroe to just 1 of 10 shooting in the game as he himself scored a team-high 30 points. Bynum went 13 of 18 from the field and grabbed 14 rebounds for the double-double. He also blocked three shots in the overtime loss.
Analysis: The 24-year-old Bynum is having a monster stretch right now averaging 18.4 points and 13.4 rebounds per game over his last five. That comes with 3.0 blocks and makes Bynum a must-start Fantasy option. Bynum is one of the best centers in the NBA right now in terms of Fantasy production.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum, who received a lubricating injection last Friday to his right knee and played just six minutes in the All-Star game, showed no ill-effects on Wednesday against the Timberwolves. Bynum grabbed his 22nd double-double of the season in the game, scoring 13 points on just 9 shots while grabbing 13 rebounds in only 31 minutes. He also had three blocks, a steal and an assist in the Lakers’ 104-85 win over Minnesota.
Analysis: Bynum has had a history of injury, so the fact that he needed the injection might have been somewhat worrisome for his Fantasy owners. Wednesday’s results should go far to alleviate those concerns, as got his stats without much trouble while also playing stout defense. Bynum remains a must-star Fantasy option in all formats when healthy.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum, who played only the first 5:31 of the All-Star Game on Sunday, is expected to be fine. Bynum, who was unsuccessful on three shots, said that it was part of the plan that he would only play the opening rotation. He received an injection on Saturday to help his troublesome knee. "It was planned," Bynum said. "It was just the way we had to do it for this to work. I'm getting the first plane out of here tonight and we have Monday off." Byum said he plans to play Wednesday against Minnesota.
Analysis: We expect Bynum to be fine heading into Wednesday's game, and he should remain active in all leagues. When healthy, Bynum is a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum left Sunday's All-Star contest due to soreness in his right knee. Bynum, who received a lubricating injection to his right knee Friday, logged just six minutes prior to leaving the contest. However, Bynum was only scheduled to play six or seven minutes anyway.
Analysis: Bynum's injury doesn't appear to be anything more than some normal soreness, but obviously everyone wanted to err on the side of caution with the 24-year-old. Most were surprised he even played, considering the injection he received on Friday, so Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status heading into Fantasy Week 10 (Feb. 27-March 4). Bynum can be considered a No. 1 Fantasy center in all formats, when healthy.
News: The Sports Xchange reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum will sit out All-Star practice Saturday because he is scheduled to receive a lubricating injection to his right knee Friday. The injection is standard maintenance that was prescribed by Bynum's personal doctor, David Altchek.
Analysis: Bynum, who has a history of knee trouble, has stayed healthy all season, and he wants to finish the year strong. We hope he can stay healthy because he is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum registered 16 points and 10 rebounds during Los Angeles' 102-90 loss to Phoenix on Sunday night. Bynum drilled 7 of 12 attempts from the field as he posted his third consecutive double-double. It was his 17th overall double-double of the season as he remains among the league leaders. Bynum also contributed four blocks and two assists while logging 28 minutes of playing time.
Analysis: Bynum has remained steady with his accuracy and made seven field goals in each of his past four games. He has also sank at least 53 percent of his shots during that stretch to boost his scoring average to 16.0 points per game during the month of February. The 24-year-old has been an imposing figure in the paint and has a double-double in all but two of his nine games this month. Consider him a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum failed to recorded a double-double in his previous two games but he was able to get back on track Tuesday night against the Hawks. He scored 15 points and hauled in 15 rebounds in the 86-78 win. He went 7 for 10 from the floor and made his lone free throw while playing 31 minutes. Bynum also chipped in with two blocked shots in the victory.
Analysis: Bynum had a three-point performance a couple of games ago but other than that he continues to have a solid campaign for the Lakers. He is averaging 16.3 points with 12.6 rebounds through 25 games, and is also blocking over two shots per game. Not many teams have been able to slow down the 24-year-old thus far so as long as he is active, consider Bynum a must-start Fantasy C.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum was having trouble getting his shots to fall on Thursday against the Celtics defense, so he went to work on the glass, grabbing seven offensive rebounds and 17 total in the Lakers’ 88-87 overtime win over Boston. Bynum still finished with 16 points, however it came on 6 of 15 shooting with four free throws; he added a steal and three blocks in 41 minutes.
Analysis: Bynum had a 20-20 game in the Lakers’ previous game, so he’s hitting the boards as hard as he ever has in recent games. Of course, that’s a trend that has been in place all season, as the seventh-year seven footer is averaging 12.3 rebounds per game this season, by far his career best. He is also scoring 17.1 points per game and has taken the leap to become a No. 1 Fantasy center this season as his role in the team becomes bigger. Fantasy owners should consider the All Star a must-start option in most formats right now.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum posted his 10th double-double of January on Tuesday night against the Bobcats. He scored 20 points and hauled in 11 rebounds in the 106-73 win. He was an efficient 8 for 11 from the floor and made all four of his free throws while playing 32 minutes. Bynum also chipped in with two blocks and an assist in the victory.
Analysis: Bynum is having the campaign owners have been waiting for as he is averaging career highs in both scoring and rebounding thus far. He has put up 18.2 points with 8.2 rebounds and 1.8 blocks in his last five contests, and is shooting a solid 58 percent over that span. He should be able to keep up his production with Denver and Utah left on the schedule for Week 6 (Jan. 30-Feb. 5) so be sure to have Bynum active in all Fantasy formats.
News:The Orange County Register reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum has been seeing plenty of double teams since a Jan. 5 matchup against the Trail Blazers. After scoring 20 or more points in three of his first four games, Bynum hasn't scored more than 19 points in his last 11 games. Coach Mike Brown said Bynum needs to learn how to be more efficient around double teams. "That process takes awhile, it doesn't happen overnight," Brown said. "But I think he's ahead of the curve in trying to figure it out. It's going to take some time for him to get used to it and for us to get used to it, too."
Analysis: Bynum spent the offseason working on getting leaner and stronger. He has established himself as a force inside, which is forcing teams to show him respect. Bynum is still averaging a career-high 16.1 points and 12.7 rebounds per game. While the double teams have dropped his scoring a bit since his hot start, Bynum is still racking up Fantasy points. Continue to roll with him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum has recorded five straight double-doubles (10 on the year), but barely got the job done on Friday night against the Magic. He finished the night with 10 points and 12 boards in 26 minutes of action. Bynum shot 4 of 6 from the floor and converted 2 of his 5 foul shots. He had a tough time matching up with Dwight Howard all night as he got the better of the battle of the big men. Bynum did record two blocks in the 92-80 loss to the Magic.
Analysis: Bynum has been playing well this year for the Lakers. He's averaging 13.8 points and 13.2 rebounds over his current double-double streak. He's also tallying 2.2 assists and 1.6 blocks per outing. The 24-year-old is finally giving Fantasy owners what they have been waiting for over the years as it's looking like he's going to post a breakout campaign. Fantasy owners should continue to keep him active in all formats heading into Week 5 (Jan. 23-29).
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum notched his third straight double-double during Monday night's contest against the Mavericks. Bynum finished with 17 points and 15 rebounds in the 73-70 victory, on 8 of 13 shooting from the field. He went 1 of 2 from the charity stripe and also chipped in with two assists, one steal and a block, while logging 36 minutes of game action.
Analysis: Bynum has been red-hot to start the season as he has now recorded a double-double in eight of the 11 games he has played in. The 24-year-old is finally giving Fantasy owners what they have been waiting for over the years, so this could finally be the year he breaks out. As long as he can stay healthy, Bynum should remain active in all formats moving forward.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum appeared to tweak his ankle during Friday's win over Cleveland. The injury happened early on and Bynum did not leave. Instead, he played 33 minutes and shot 7 of 9 from the field to score 15 points. Bynum had a double-double with 11 rebounds and he added three blocked shots and a steal with three assists in a solid all-around performance.
Analysis: Bynum has two double-doubles in his last five games but has been right around that plateau in all of them as he's averaging 13 points and 12 boards over that span with 2.2 blocks. Bynum is having a big year thus far in nine games and is a solid start in all Fantasy formats. The ankle could come back to bite him, but he appears to have avoided injury for now.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum continued his dominance on the boards in Sunday's game against the Grizzles. He hauled in 15 rebounds, including six on the offensive glass, and scored 15 points in the 90-82 win. He went 5 for 14 from the floor and made 5 of 7 free throws while playing 34 minutes. Bynum also collected two steals but committed five turnovers in the victory.
Analysis: Bynum has looked solid early on and is becoming a force on the boards. He is posting 15.7 rebounds per game while putting up 18.8 points. He is also a decent option for his defensive numbers and could be in line for a breakout campaign as long as he can stay healthy. His health remains to be seen so keep an eye on his progress going forward. But as long as he is producing like this, continue to roll with Bynum as a solid option in most Fantasy formats.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum posted his first career 20-20 game in Tuesday night's 108-99 win over the Rockets. Bynum finished with 21 points and 22 rebounds in the victory, on 8 of 15 shooting from the field. He made five of his eight free-throw attempts and also chipped in with three blocks, while logging 38 minutes of game action. Bynum is averaging 22.6 points, 17 rebounds and 3.0 blocks over his first three games.
Analysis: Bynum apparently got the memo last season about needing to mature, because he has been putting up monster numbers during his first three games thus far. While we do expect his production to level off a bit, the 24-year-old looks poised for a monster year, if he can stay healthy. This is what Fantasy owners have been waiting for over the years and many are wondering if this will finally be the year he breaks out. However, Bynum's injury history has been well documented over the years, so there is some out there who feel he is a perfect sell-high candidate. While that certainly is an option, we would recommend holding on to Bynum at this point in the season.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had his first shot attempt blocked in his return from a four-game suspension. It was just about the only time Timofey Mozgov and the Nuggets would be able to stop Bynum as he scored 29 points and grabbed 13 rebounds in his season debut on 13-of-18 shooting. Bynum, who had 17 double doubles last season, started off the season strong, leading the Lakers in scoring and rebounds while blocking two shots in 32 minutes. "I really didn't have the highest expectations," said Bynum, who totaled 41 points and 23 rebounds in two preseason games against the Clippers. "I just wanted to come out and be aggressive. I wanted to get it down low, and when I got it, I made shots."
Analysis: Coach Mike Brown had made it clear he wanted Bynum to begin playing about 34 minutes per game right away after he came back from suspension, and though he fell a little short, it’s clear that Bynum is going to be a full-time player this season. Bynum has averaged 30 minutes per game just once in his career, during 2009-10, but he looks assured of besting that with how Brown has discussed his plans. If he’s playing full time and looks as good as he did Saturday, Bynum is going to put himself on the short list for best Fantasy centers in the game. Consider him a must-start option whenever he’s in the lineup.
News: With the original length of his suspension reduced from five games to four, Lakers C Andrew Bynum is ready to return to the court, and will be eligible to do so when the Lakers take on Denver on Saturday.
Analysis: Bynum is expected to see increased minutes this season so Fantasy owners can be glad that he is coming back. He has said both of his knees feel good and he is ready to handle an increased workload this season. While Fantasy owners will have to keep one eye on Bynum's health throughout the entire season, he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy center now that he's ready to return.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum has his suspension reduced from five to four games on Friday. The league made the decision based on the lockout-shortened 66-game regular season. Bynum was suspended for his flagrant foul on Dallas guard Jose Juan Barea in Los Angeles' final playoff game last season.
Analysis: Bynum is expected to see increased minutes this season so Fantasy owners can be glad that he will be back a game earlier than expected. He has said both of his knees feel good and he is ready to handle an increased workload this season. While Fantasy owners will have to keep one eye on Bynum's health throughout the entire season, he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy C, even though he will miss the first four games.
News: Lakers coach Mike Brown told reporters on Sunday that is planning on giving C Andrew Bynum around 34 minutes per game next season. Bynum averaged 11.3 points, 9.4 boards, while seeing just over 27 minutes per game last year.
Analysis: Bynum said both of his knees feel good and he is ready to handle an increased workload this season. With the Lakers' depleted frontcourt, he might have too, although it will be interesting to see if his knees can hold up with the NBA's condensed schedule. While Fantasy owners will have to keep one eye on Bynum's health throughout the entire season, he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy C. Just remember he will miss the first five games of the year as he serves his suspension.
News: The last time we reported on Andrew Bynum, prior to the lockout, the Lakers' vice president Jim Buss was reportedly unwillingly to consider any trades that would include the 24-year-old center. A lot can change in six months though, and apparently Buss' hard line stance has changed in that time. CBSSports.com's Ken Berger reported Thursday that the Lakers' executive who personally selected Bynum has softened his position, with sources saying that he'd be willing to move Bynum "for the right deal." Berger takes this as code for "a deal for Dwight Howard."
Analysis: Bynum's talent cannot be denied, but his Fantasy value has been hurt by his health issues and by being the third option in Los Angeles. New head coach Mike Brown has made it clear that he would hope to get Bynum more involved in the offense, which would bode well for his value. However, a trade to another situation could reap even bigger awards for him. If he found himself in Orlando, for instance, he would likely immediately become the focal point of their offense, and he does have the tools to become a top notch offensive center. Obviously, if Bynum is moved, it would be in a high profile move, so you'll hear plenty about it. Consider Bynum a mid-round draft pick on Draft Day if he stays in Los Angeles, with the potential to move up boards if he moves to a better situation.
News: According to Yahoo! Sports, Lakers vice president Jim Buss is not open to trading center Andrew Bynum. The report says even if the Magic are willing to trade Dwight Howard to the Lakers in exchange for Bynum, Buss might not be willing to make such a trade. The report says "Bynum was Jim Buss’ discovery, his pet project and believes Bynum will ultimately resonate as his personal Lakers legacy."
Analysis: We'd be surprised if the Lakers would be unwilling to trade Bynum for Howard, but the Lakers are entering a new era with Mike Brown as the coach and Phil Jackson gone. We still expect Bynum to be in Los Angeles in 2011-12, and he will open the season with a five-game suspension for his flagrant foul on Dallas guard Jose Juan Barea in Los Angeles' final playoff game. Despite missing the first five games of the year, Bynum will still be worth taking in the middle rounds on Draft Day in the fall. He averaged 11.3 points, 9.4 boards and shot 57.4 percent from the field during the regular season. Consider him a No. 1 center in all leagues.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum has been suspended for the first five games of next season for his flagrant foul on Dallas guard Jose Juan Barea in Los Angeles' final playoff game. The NBA announced the suspension Tuesday, two days after Bynum was ejected for the foul in the two-time defending champions' 36-point loss to the Mavericks in Game 4. The NBA also fined Bynum $25,000 for ripping off his jersey while heading to the locker room. Bynum hit Barea with an elbow while the Dallas guard drove to the basket in the fourth quarter. Barea wasn't seriously hurt, but stayed on the court for an extended time. Bynum expressed remorse for his actions Tuesday, saying his actions were terrible and unacceptable.
Analysis: Bynum only saw action in 54 games during the regular season as he continues to deal with knee problems. When he was healthy enough to take the court and not be immature, Bynum was an effective player. Unfortunately this action in Game 4 just shows his immaturity, which has already cost him the first five games of next season. He does have potential, but injuries and his maturity are two big concerns. There are rumors of the Lakers trading the big man during the offseason, but as of now that is just speculation. Despite missing the first five games of the year, Bynum will still be worth taking in the middle rounds on Draft Day in the fall. He averaged 11.3 points, 9.4 boards and shot 57.4 percent from the field during the regular season.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum was ejected during Game 4 of Sunday's Western Conference playoff series against the Mavericks. Bynum was tossed in the fourth quarter after hitting Jose Juan Barea with a forearm in the chest while the Mavericks' guard was attempting a layup. The 7-footer was immediately ejected and then proceeded to take his jersey off while being escorted off the floor. "No, I'm not disappointed in myself," he said after the game. "We got embarrassed, so that's what happened." Bynum finished with six points and six rebounds in the contest while logging 31 minutes.
Analysis: Some of Bynum's critics have pointed out 23-year-old needs can be a bit immature at times on the court and boy did he prove those people right on Sunday. Not only did Bynum forget to show up and play during Game 4, but he then decided to take a cheap shot at defenseless player after he felt the game was out of reach. Then to make matters worse, he took his shirt off while leaving the court and stuck his foot in his mouth when he offered a very non-remorseful explanation of his actions. Now he will be almost certainly be suspended for a few games to start next season -- if there is one -- and he put a damper on what had been a pretty productive playoff run for him. As far as the regular season goes it was pretty much the same old story for Bynum. He once again missed a significant amount of time because of injuries but showed flashes of his awesome potential when he was able to stay on the court. Fantasy owners should once again consider spending a middle-round pick on Bynum on Draft Day next season, but plan on also drafting a quality backup in case he gets bitten by the injury bug again. Owners should also monitor what penalty Stu Jackson and the league office will levy against him in the coming weeks. When healthy, Bynum can be considered a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: As expected, Lakers center Andrew Bynum was able to play through the bone bruise on his right knee during Sunday's Game 1 matchup against the Hornets. Bynum, who sustained the injury in the second to last regular season game against the Spurs, finished with 13 points in the 109-100 loss, on 4 of 7 shooting from the field. He went 5 of 7 from the charity stripe and also added two blocks to his statline while logging 26 minutes.
Analysis: Bynum's injury healed much quicker than anticipated and the 7-footer didn't seem to be slowed by his injury in Game 1. However, New Orleans was able to limit his production on Sunday by implementing a solid game plan on both ends of the court. The Hornets packed the paint with constant double teams, which forced Bynum to kick the ball out rather than go to work in the post. The Lakers will have to make some major adjustments prior to Game 2 in order to get Bynum more involved. Continue to monitor the 23-year-old's status moving forward just to be on the safe side, but it appears he should be fine for Game 2. Bynum can be considered a must-start in all formats, when healthy.
News: According to The Orange County Register, Lakers center Andrew Bynum practiced with no restrictions on Friday as the team prepares for Sunday's Game 1 matchup with the Hornets. He's dealing with a bone bruise on his right knee. Kobe Bryant said Bynum looked good during practice. “He felt like knee was a little loose (at the start of practice), a little different, but he proceeded and played fine," Jackson said of Bynum.
Analysis: Bynum has been upgraded to probable, which is a good sign. He was injured on Tuesday versus the Spurs, but seems like he'll be fine in the playoffs. He may get some time off during the postseason depending on how the series goes. The sooner the Lakers can take out the Hornets, the more rest Bynum will be able to get. When healthy, Bynum is a high-end center option.
News: The Orange County Register reports that Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Thursday that center Andrew Bynum is expected to join the team for practice before Sunday's Game 1 of the playoffs against the Hornets. Bynum is dealing with a bone bruise on his troublesome knee, but “He has assured me he’s going to be OK,” Jackson added.
Analysis: Bynum's status remains up in the air for Game 1against New Orleans, but it is certainly more promising than originally thought when he went down with the injury on Tuesday against the Spurs. Monitor his practice situation whenever he does get back on the court, as his status will become clearer at that point. When healthy, Bynum is a high-end option in all formats for his potential to dominate the paint on the way to consistent double-doubles.
News: The Orange County Register reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum has a bone bruise based on his MRI but not any serious injury to his knee and is projected by the Lakers to be ready for the playoff opener. He will not play in Wednesday's game at Sacramento. Bynum injured his knee Tuesday against San Antonio.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in daily leagues should keep Bynum reserved for Wednesday's game, and it appears like he will be ready for the playoff opener in Round 1. Bynum is a must-start Fantasy option in all leagues when healthy, and we hope he doesn't suffer a setback with his knee in the postseason. He will enter 2011-12 as a No. 1 Fantasy center worth an early-round selection in all formats as long as he's 100 percent healthy, which is something that's been hard for him to do.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum left Tuesday's game against the Spurs after suffering a hyperextended right knee during the second quarter. Bynum stepped on the foot of San Antonio’s DeJuan Blair while running back on defense, overstretching his right leg to the point it buckled. He did not return to the contest, finishing with four points and four rebounds prior to leaving with his injury. The Lakers announced he is scheduled for an MRI on his knee Wednesday morning and will not play in Wednesday night's season finale against the Kings. "Yes sir. It's not really that bad. It was painful right when it happened but it's not that bad right now," Bynum told the Los Angeles Times after the game.
Analysis: The knee is the same one Bynum had surgery on in the offseason to have cartilage reattached, so this injury is definitely a concern for the Lakers. Fantasy owners in daily formats should continue check back for more updates once the results of the MRI are released, which will likely be sometime on Wednesday. However, even if Bynum's MRI comes back clean the Lakers have another issue to worry about. Steve Blake has come down with the chicken pox, putting everyone at risk to catch the ailment who has not yet had them yet. Bynum is one of three Lakers' not yet to have the chicken pox, which is something else to monitor. Bynum can be considered a must-stat in the majority of formats, when healthy.
News: After admittedly eating uncooked fish, Lakers center Andrew Bynum missed shootaround Friday morning before the game against the Blazers began. He would give it a go in the game eventually, but never made a substantial impact while seeing 31 minutes of playing time. Bynum scored three points on 1 of 2 shooting, and added six rebounds before fouling out with 2:46 left. He was able to play fairly well defensively, recording a pair of steals and blocks before the early exit.
Analysis: Bynum didn't seem like he was 100 percent after the food poisining, but he should be fine moving forward. He reportedly sipped hot tea and plenty of water to try and play Friday night. He was playing his best ball of the season before the stomach-churning night, averaging about 13 points and 13 rebounds in March, upping the rebounds even more once April hit. Even though Friday was a downturn, Bynum's knee seems healthy enough to finish the season. Fantasy owners should look to him as a high-end option in all formats as long as he suits up for the suddenly-struggling Lakers.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum will be in the starting lineup for Friday's game against the Blazers, despite dealing with a mild case of food poising. Bynum told the Los Angeles Times that he thinks he might have gotten sick from eating raw fish. "It wasn't done but I ate it anyway," he said.
Analysis: Bynum will play against Portland, but he clearly is still not feeling at 100 percent. Still, Fantasy owners in daily formats should feel free to get the big man active if you need too. Bynum can be considered a must-start Fantasy option in all formats, when in the lineup.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum missed Friday's shootaround due to intestinal flu symptoms. He is being considers a game-time decision at this point.
Analysis: Bynum has been on top of his game as of late, pulling down 56 rebounds over his last three games. He has dealt with on and off knee issues for the majority of the season yet again, and appeared to tweak the injury last week. Fantasy owners should stay atop the situation moving forward to see if the big man can give it a go. When healthy and playing, Bynum is a high-end option in all formats because of his potential to control the paint.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum was back on the court on Tuesday against the Jazz after he tweaked his knee on Sunday. Bynum would go on to grab a career-high 23 rebounds and scored 12 points. He shot 5 for 13 from the floor and connected on both his foul shots. His previous career high was 18 rebounds, which he matched on March 14. Bynum added an assist and four blocks in his 39 minutes of action, but the Lakers would still fall to the Jazz, 86-85.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 12.4 points, 12.4 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per contest over his last five games, while shooting 57.1 percent from the field. He did give Fantasy owners a scare after tweaking his knee, because that is what cost him games at the beginning of the year. When he's healthy, Bynum is a must-start center option in all Fantasy formats. Owners should keep him active as Los Angeles fights for the top spot in the Western Conference.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum will be on the court for Tuesday's contest against the Jazz. Bynum was listed on the injury report entering the game after tweaking his knee during Sunday's contest against the Nuggets.
Analysis: Bynum will play against the Jazz as expected, so owners in daily formats who were waiting for his status become official can go ahead and get him active. However, monitor on how he fares against in the game, just to make sure he doesn't suffer a setback. Bynum can be considered a must-start Fantasy option in all formats, when healthy.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum, as expected, will play Tuesday against Utah. Bynum left Sunday's game against Denver with a knee injury, but that was more as a precaution.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should consider Bynum a safe start as long as he's healthy enough to play against the Jazz. The Lakers are clearly going to be cautious with his health to make sure he's 100 percent for the playoffs, but with Los Angeles still chasing San Antonio for the top spot in the Western Conference, Bynum will play his fair share of minutes. Consider him a quality Fantasy option in all scoring formats.
News: The Lakers report the center Andrew Bynum is fine after tweaking his knee in Sunday's game against Denver. He practiced in full Monda. Bynum didn't seem concerned at all about his knee, though he offered an assist to the big, bulky brace he always wears. "I'm all right. I'm good," he said. "It's crazy. I had the brace on. That's what saved it."
Analysis: Bynum is expected to play Tuesday against the Jazz. Fantasy owners should keep him active in all leagues, and he's a must-start Fantasy option in all formats when healthy.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum was held out out of latter part of the fourth quarter during Sunday's 95-90 loss to the Nuggets after tweaking his knee. According to the Los Angeles Times, Bynum did not suffer a new injury and was held out for precautionary reasons. He finished with eight points and 16 rebounds while logging 31 minutes off the bench.
Analysis: Just to be clear, Bynum did not suffer a new knee injury, but apparently tweaked his surgically right knee sometime during the fourth quarter. The team pulled him late in the game as a precautionary reason, but he should be fine moving forward. However, Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his status heading into Week 24 (April 4-13), just to be on the safe side. Bynum can be considered a high-end Fantasy option in all formats, when healthy.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum had 11 points and 12 rebounds in his return from a two-game suspension on Friday night versus the Clippers. Bynum missed the Lakers' wins over Portland and Phoenix for a flagrant foul against Minnesota's Michael Beasley a week ago. He shot 4 for 6 from the field and convert 3 of his 4 foul shots. The big man also added two assists and three block in his 33 minutes of action. The Lakers would go on to win the game, 112-104.
Analysis: Bynum picked up where he left off for the Lakers before he got suspended. He was averaging 13.0 points, 13.7 rebounds and 2.7 blocked shots over the last 10 games before he had to sit out. Fantasy owners should keep him active as the season winds down. He's a high-end center option when healthy.
News: Los Angeles center Andrew Bynum was back in the lineup on Friday as the Lakers faced the Clippers. Bynum has missed the last two games due to a suspension.
Analysis: Owners in daily formats should get Bynum active as is a good play in all formats. He has been playing extremely well for the Lakers -- 13 points, 13.7 rebounds and 2.7 blocked shots over the last 10 games. Then he got suspended so it should be interesting how he comes out on Friday. Fantasy owners should continue to view him as a high-end option when healthy and on the court.
News: Now that he's served his two-game suspension for the Flagrant-2 foul he committed on Timberwolves F Michael Beasley last week, Lakers C Andrew Bynum got some days off to reflect on what he did -- though he still feels like the punishment was excessive -- and gear up for his return Friday against the Clippers. "I didn't think what I did was deserving of it," he told the Los Angeles TimesThursday after practice. "I don't think I really did anything too wrong. It was unfortunate that the guy fell the way he did and got hurt. But at the end of the day, sometimes fouls happen." Bynum did take the week off to rest his ever-ailing knees, more importantly. "My knee's feeling all right," he said. "I'm ready to go."
Analysis: Bynum got suspended in the midst of his best stretch of basketball this season, as he averaged 13 points, 13.7 rebounds and 2.7 blocked shots over the last 10 games before sitting out. We expect him to pick up right where he left off, for the most part. The Lakers were on a roll with him, and their defense suffered a bit without him. Fantasy owners should take advantage of the big man's return and get him activated in all formats as a high-end option whenever healthy.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum received a two-game suspension from the NBA on Tuesday as a result of the Flagrant-2 foul he committed on Timberwolves F Michael Beasley on Friday. The foul resulted in his ejection from that game. Bynum's suspension is set to for Sunday's game against Portland and Tuesday's game against Phoenix. He is eligible to return on March 25 against the Clippers.
Analysis: The Lakers had not heard word from the league as of Sunday morning, but the ban came down on the same day the Lakers were slated to host the Trail Blazers. Fantasy owners will at least know exactly what the deal is prior to the start of Fantasy Week 22 (March 21-27), allowing them to make an informed decision for the upcoming scoring period. Bynum will be available for just two games in the scoring period. Expect to see Lamar Odom play an increased role in Bynum's absence.
News: The Orange County Register reports that the Lakers have yet to be notified by the league about any possible suspension for C Andrew Bynum. Bynum is awaiting the league's ruling after he was ejected on Friday for a forearm against Timberwolves F Michael Beasley. Bynum was given a Flagrant-2 technical foul, which can carry a one-game suspension. "Ten, 15 years ago that's something you would see all the time," Lakers' Lamar Odom said after Saturday's light practice. "But it's a different game now. ... Instant replay makes it worse because they can slow things down."
Analysis: On Saturday, coach Phil Jackson reminded reporters that the NBA has been known to suspend players on the day of games before. For the moment, Bynum is eligible to continue playing. However, Fantasy owners should be aware that a one-game suspension is still a distinct possibility for Bynum. Continue to monitor his situation.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum was ejected fro Friday's game against the Timberwolves after leading his elbow into Michael Beasley when he drove to the basket. He finished the night with 10 points on 4 of 8 shooting. Bynum was able to pull down 14 rebounds -- seven on each end of the floor -- before the early exit. He saw 33 minutes of playing time before committing the flagrant 2, chipping in a pair of blocks and an assist on the night.
Analysis: Bynum was playing fairly well after admitting to being less than 100 percent healthy, but his knee issues were overshadowed by his surprisingly-aggressive play. There was no doubting Bynum's motives when Beasley was in the air near the rim, and he looked more like an NFL safety hitting a defenseless wide receiver than a center protecting the basket. Fantasy owners should monitor the situation just in case a suspension is in order, though it seems unlikely. Bynum remains a high-end big man in all formats when healthy.
News: The Orange County Register reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum said Thursday he is not “fully healthy,” citing some fluid on his right knee that he takes anti-inflammatory medication to treat. But Bynum said it’s “fun” to play the way he is now, including his goal to “block as many shots as possible.”
Analysis: We don't expect Bynum to miss any time going forward, but this is something to keep an eye on. Still, as long as Bynum is active, keep him in your lineup in all scoring formats. He is a No. 1 Fantasy center heading into Fantasy Week 22 when the Lakers have three games.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum turned in another solid performance in Saturday's 96-91 win over the Mavericks. Bynum notched his third straight double-double in the contest, finishing with 22 points and 15 rebounds. He shot 9 of 12 from the field in the contest and also chipped in with a steal and one assist while logging 37 minutes. Bynum is averaging 12.8 points and 15.4 rebounds over his last five contests.
Analysis: Bynum has really started to hit his stride of late and is playing his best basketball of the year at the moment. Fantasy owners couldn't be happier about the timing as the playoffs are just about to kick off in the majority of formats. The 23-year has scored in double-figures in five straight outings and has once again proved he can still be a solid contributor playing alongside Pau Gasol. Keep him active in all formats heading into Fantasy Week 21 (March 14-21).
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum, who had 13 points and 12 rebounds Thursday at Miami, avoided a serious injury. Bynum landed on the foot of a Heat player in the second quarter and said he tweaked his right ankle. "I'm lucky," he said. "I might not have good knees, but I'm sure I have good ankles." Bynum said he would be fine for Saturday's game in Dallas.
Analysis: It appears like Bynum will be fine against the Mavericks, but keep an eye on his status in case something develops prior to the game. When healthy, Bynum is a must-start Fantasy center in all leagues.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum made his presence felt in the paint during Sunday's 99-83 win over the Spurs. Bynum scored just four points in the victory, but made both of his shot attempts from the field. He also grabbed 17 rebounds -- for the second consecutive game -- to go along with three blocks while logging 27 minutes. Bynum is averaging 11.8 points, 12.4 rebounds and 3.4 blocks over his last five contests.
Analysis: Bynum has been putting up some pretty scary numbers of late and it would appear the 23-year-old is finally starting to hit his stride after missing some time in the beginning of the year following offseason knee surgery. While he has failed to score in double figures in each of his last two contests, Bynum has made up the difference with his blocks and rebounding totals. With the playoffs vast approaching in most Fantasy leagues, Bynum should be starting in the majority of Fantasy leagues. Get him active heading into Week 20 (March 7-13).
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum recorded 16 points and 11 rebounds in Los Angeles' 108-95 victory over the Clippers on Friday night. Bynum knocked down 6 of his 10 attempts from the field as he completed his sixth double-double of the season. It was his best point-rebound total since Jan. 25 against Utah when he posted 19 points and 11 rebounds. Bynum contributed four assists and matched a season-high with two steals while playing 32 minutes in the Lakers' third straight win.
Analysis: Bynum busted out of an offensive rut that had plagued him in his four previous game prior to Friday's contest and finished with his first double-double since Feb. 3 against San Antonio. The Los Angeles big man had scored in single digits in his last four games and was averaging just 6.5 points in that span. He could be in line for continued success against upcoming opponents Oklahoma City, Minnesota and Charlotte. Keep him active as a must-start in all Fantasy formats while he's playing well.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum is not happy. The 7-foot center was not in a good mood after the Lakers 109-89 loss to the Bobcats on Monday night, and didn't hold back when he was asked about his team's effort. "I was out there playing hard, man," Bynum told the Los Angeles Times . "In the second half, I didn't really get in the game." Bynum played 23 minutes in the 20-point loss, but did not see the court in the fourth quarter. "I felt like I went out in the first half and played well," he said. "In the second half, I got just about six minutes and no touches and no opportunities." Bynum finished with nine points in the contest, but only took one shot after halftime. The Lakers have now lost two straight games by double-digits.
Analysis: Bynum was very upset after Monday's loss to the Bobcats, but you probably would be too if your team just by 20-points to Charlotte. The 23-year-old has been seeing around 30 minutes a game in the month of February, and his lack of touches against the Bobcats looks to be the result of just some bad offensive execution on his team's part. Also keep in mind that Bynum is not the first or second scoring option for the Lakers. Those roles are left for Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and sometimes even Lamar Odom. Still, he is averaging 12.4 points and 8.1 rebounds this month and should remain active in most formats at the weak center position.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 17 points with nine rebounds in Sunday's game at Orlando. He finished tied for the team lead in scoring with Kobe Bryant on an afternoon where the Magic limited the Lakers to 75 points. Bynum attempted 15 shots, his highest total of the season.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 30.0 minutes per game in February and looks to be as close to full strength as he has all season. He is averaging 13.6 points and 8.2 rebounds over his last five games to go with over a block per contest in that span. He should continue to get better as the season wears on and remains a great play at the weak center position.
News: Despite not going full speed because of an ongoing knee issue, Lakers C Andrew Bynum was a solid contributor inside in Thursday's win over the Celtics. He scored 16 points -- his most in the last six games -- on 6 of 10 shooting. "It's always fun to beat Boston," Bynum said. He pulled down nine rebounds on the night as well, blocking a shot in the process. He also chipped in an assist in a season-high 34 minutes of action.
Analysis: Bynum's knee didn't seem to be an issue in the first quarter, as he and Pau Gasol dominated the paint against the under-manned Celtics frontline. His minutes followed the same suit, as he played more Thursday than in any other game this year. The 23-year-old continues to play fairly well in the middle alongside Pau Gasol despite swirling trade rumors that could have distracted the "project" player. Owners should roll with him in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: The Orange County Register reports that Lakers C Andrew Bynum is still not going full speed because of the bone bruise on his left knee. “The doc basically said it’ll go away in time,” Bynum said. “That’s all they gave me."
Analysis: Bynum's name has been in the news over the last couple days because of the rumored deal between the Lakers and Nuggets for Carmelo Anthony that would involve Bynum coming the other way. While Bynum's poor knees have taken a beating lately, he is capable of doing more than the 11.3 and 7.4 he's averaging this season, and thus is worth using in the majority of Fantasy formats.
News: After missing one game with a bone bruise in his knee, Lakers center Andrew Bynum returned to the starting lineup in Thursday's game against the Spurs and finished with a double-double. He scored 10 points on 4 of 7 shooting from the field while pulling down 10 rebounds in the process. Bynum even got in the distribution act in the loss, assisting on a career-high six baskets. He added three blocked shots in 29 minutes of action.
Analysis: Bynum saw more playing time Thursday than in any of the five games the Lakers have played since January 19. He scored in double-figures for the eighth straight game he's played in while reaching the career-mark in assists. Look for his minutes to slowly increase in the next few games, and he should be able to rest the knee during the All-Star break in a couple of weeks. It appears safe to keep Bynum active in all daily leagues unless he misses more games with the knee issue.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that it became apparent during the morning shootaround that Lakers center Andrew Bynum would play Thursday night against San Antonio after sitting out Tuesday's game against Houston because of a bone bruise in his left knee. "He has every intention of going tonight," Lakers coach Phil Jackson said. "He went through shootaround."
Analysis: It appears safe to keep Bynum active in all daily leagues. Bynum has pressed on through the knee pain enough to average 13.8 points and 7.0 rebounds over his last five games to go with 1.4 blocks per contest. He is worth using in most Fantasy leagues when healthy.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Lakers C Andrew Bynum (knee) plans to play Thursday against the Spurs. "It's good," Bynum said. "I should be back." Bynum, however, did not practice on Wednesday. He is day to day.
Analysis: Bynum is dealing with a bone bruise in his knee at the moment, and it will be interesting to see if he practices on Wednesday. Bynum has pressed on through knee pain enough to average 13.8 points and 7.0 rebounds over his last five games to go with 1.4 blocks per contest. He is worth using in most Fantasy leagues when healthy.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum (knee bone bruise) could not play Tuesday against the Rockets. The Los Angeles Times reports that Bynum may not play on Thursday against the Spurs, either, as he's dealing with an aggravated bone bruise on his knee. "I'm not so sure it's going to be only one game," said coach Phil Jackson.
Analysis: Bynum sat out practice on Monday, and that rest clearly didn't do his knee enough good for him to be able to suit up Tuesday. Bynum has pressed on through knee pain enough to average 13.8 points and 7.0 rebounds over his last five games to go with 1.4 blocks per contest. He is worth using in most Fantasy leagues when healthy.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum missed practice on Monday after having soreness in his left knee during Sunday's loss to the Boston Celtics, reports the Los Angeles Times. Bynum was sidelined for part of the third quarter due to soreness in the knee and missed practice in order to receive further treatment. That said, Los Angeles does not consider the injury to be too serious, especially as Bynum did finish the game on Sunday. "We're hopeful tomorrow," Lakers Coach Phil Jackson said on whether Bynum will play in Tuesday's game against the Houston Rockets. "He says he'll play."
Analysis: Fantasy owners in weekly formats have a tough call to make with Bynum for Week 15 (Jan. 31-Feb. 6). The Lakers are slated for three games and there is a very real chance that Bynum could miss a game or two or be restricted if he does play. Fantasy owners who are a bit squeamish about activating players who are banged up might want to play it safe here. Bynum has pressed on through knee pain enough to average 13.8 points and 7.0 rebounds over his last five games to go with 1.4 blocks per contest.
News: The Lakers have yet to update the status of Andrew Bynum, who was seen receiving medical attention on his left knee in Sunday's game against the Celtics. Bynum, who had offseason knee surgery on his left knee, finished with 11 points in the contest on 3 of 6 shooting from the field. He did grab six rebounds in the contest, but was seen massaging his knee while on the bench. The Lakers next play on Tuesday against Houston.
Analysis: Fantasy owners in weekly formats have a tough call to make with Bynum for Week 15 (Jan. 31-Feb. 6). The Lakers are slated for three games and there is a very real chance that Bynum could miss a game or two or be restricted if he does play. The fact the Lakers have kept quiet on the injury is certainly not helping matters, so Fantasy owners who are a bit squeamish about activating players who are banged up might want to play it safe here. Bynum as pressed on through knee pain enough to average 13.8 points and 7.0 rebounds over his last five games to go with 1.4 blocks per contest.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum was hindered by a sore left knee in Sunday's 109-96 loss to the Celtics. Bynum, who had offseason knee surgery on his left knee, finished with 11 points in the contest on 3 of 6 shooting from the field. He did grab six rebounds in the contest, but was seen massaging his knee while on the bench.
Analysis: Bynum left the arena on Sunday without receiving treatment, but with his injury history, Fantasy owners will definitely have to an eye on the situation moving forward. He had a hard time getting up and down the court against Boston and even had his knee wrapped up at one point on the bench. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his status before setting lineups for Fantasy Week 15 (Jan. 31-Feb. 6). Hopefully, this will turn out to be nothing serious enough that would force Bynum to miss an extedned amount of time. He can be considered a No. 2 Fantasy center, when healthy.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum was able to go on Friday against the Nuggets despite having a sore elbow. He did get tangled up with Nene late in the game, but no technicals were handed out. Bynum would shoot 7 for 11 from the field and convert 3 of his 4 foul shots in 27 minutes of action, finishing with 17 points. He added seven rebounds, an assist and two blocks for the Lakers. Los Angeles would go on to win the game, 107-97.
Analysis: Bynum missed a month and a half to start the season after he had offseason knee surgery and is finally posting solid numbers. He's averaging 11.4 points and 8.4 rebounds over his last five games. He's logging about 26 minutes per contest, so his minutes are increasing as the season goes on. Fantasy owners should be happy to Bynum staying on the court, so it seems like he'll be fine moving forward. Consider him a solid start at the center position in most Fantasy leagues.
News: The Lakers announced Thursday that C Andrew Bynum practiced Thursday and is probable for Friday's contest with the Nuggets.
Analysis: After missing the first month and a half of the season injured, it took Bynum a couple of weeks to get his feet back underneath him, but he's been very effective in January, averaging 12.5 points and 8.3 rebounds in 26.9 minutes. It's good to see this elbow injury isn't anything too serious, so continue to start Bynum in the majority of Fantasy leagues.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum suffered a hyper-extended right elbow and bruise on his ulnar nerve Wednesday against the Dallas Mavericks. Bynum played 30 minutes and shot 4 of 6 from the field in the game. He scored 10 points with seven rebounds and a block. Bynum could have returned to action, but Phil Jackson kept him out as the injury occurred late with the game out of reach for the Lakers.
Analysis: Bynum doesn't sound as if he'll miss any time, at least preliminarily. Still, you never know how he'll feel when he wakes up in the morning. The Lakers' center certainly wants to avoid further injury so we wouldn't be surprised to see him take his time getting back on the court. He's got three double-doubles in his last five games and is averaging a double-double over that span. Clearly, when healthy he's worth using in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum only played 22 minutes, shot 1 for 5 and scored just two points with five rebounds on Friday against New Jersey. He was a different player against the Clippers Sunday. Despite the Lakers dropping the contest, Bynum scored 18 points and grabbed 13 rebounds over 32 minutes. He shot 7 for 11 from the field and added three blocked shots.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 13 points per game over his last five and that comes with nine rebounds and 2.8 blocks. What owners have to understand, is that this is Bynum as he's trying to get back into shape and rhythm. He will soon get back to both and will be an excellent Fantasy option and easily a No. 1 center. For now, he can still be active in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum started in the middle against the Nets, but he did not last as long as he should have. He was forced to see limited minutes -- just 22 -- because of foul trouble. Bynum was not efficient when he was in there, either. He shot just 1 of 5 from the floor and failed to make a trip to the charity stripe, finishing with just two points. Still, the Lakers were able to earn their seventh straight victory, and ninth in 10 tries since Bynum returned to the starting lineup from knee surgery. The big man chipped in with five rebounds and two blocks on the night.
Analysis: Bynum racked up five fouls for the second time in five games Friday, just five days after being ejected from a game for contacting a referee (although the tech was rescinded). The effects of all the fouls has caused his minutes to fluctuate, despite him starting each of the last 10 games. He has just one double-double in 17 games played this year while dealing with the limited time and continuing to ease back into the lineup after surgery. Bynum should be considered a middle-ground starting option in most Fantasy formats. L.A. takes on three formidable Western Conference opponents (Thunder, Mavericks, Nuggets) in Week 13 (Jan. 16-23).
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum hadn't been ejected from a game in more than three years prior to Sunday and it turns out he shouldn't have been ejected then either. According to the Los Angeles Times, the NBA has rescinded the second technical foul called against Bynum in the fourth quarter of the Lakers' 109-87 victory at Staples Center. Bynum was ejected after briefly making contact with referee Leon Wood while arguing a call. After the game, Bynum was still shaking his head about the call. “I said, ‘Are you serious?’ I don’t know if it really warrants a technical or a double technical at that,” Bynum said. “I’m pretty surprised. You can watch the telecast. You can read my lips. I’m saying, ‘Are you serious?’ He’s a grown man so I don’t know if I showed him up or not.” Bynum's last ejection came back in December of 2007 against the Spurs.
Analysis: Bynum continues to progress after offseason knee surgery caused him to miss the beginning of the year and has scored in double figures in each of his last four games. He is averaging 15.5 points with 6.2 rebounds over that stretch and has been seeing around 25 minutes a game. It appears Bynum is still getting back in shape and should continue to improve his stats as he gets more and more comfortable on the court. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy center heading into Fantasy Week 12 (Jan. 10-16) when the Lakers face Cleveland, Golden State, New Jersey and the Clippers.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum was ejected for just the second time in his career in Sunday's 109-87 win over the Knicks. Bynum was tossed after a foul called against him by referee Leon Wood while defending Amar'e Stoudemire. Bynum stepped into Wood's path with his arms outstretched while the official walked toward the scorers' table, earning the first technical foul -- and when Bynum kept arguing, Wood tossed him. He finished with 18 points on 8 of 15 shooting and grabbed seven rebounds in 25 minutes.
Analysis: Bynum continues to progress after offseason knee surgery caused him to miss the beginning of the year and has scored in double figures in each of his last four games. He is averaging 15.5 points with 6.2 rebounds over that stretch and has been seeing around 25 minutes a game. He appears to be getting into game shape and should continue to improve his stats as he gets more and more comfortable on the court. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy center heading into Fantasy Week 12 (Jan. 10-16) when the Lakers face Cleveland, Golden State, New Jersey and the Clippers.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum got the start on Friday night against the Hornets and had another productive game. He scored 17 points and hauled in five rebounds in the 101-97 win. He went 7 of 13 from the field and converted all three of his free throws while playing 31 minutes. Bynum also recorded three blocked shots and one steal in the victory.
Analysis: Bynum continues to progress after offseason knee sugery caused him to miss the beginning of the year and has scored in double figures in each of his last three games. He is averaging 12.2 points with 8.8 rebounds and 2.4 blocks over the last five games and has seen 27.6 minutes during that span. He appears to be getting into game shape and should continue to improve his stats as he gets more and more comfortable on the court. Coach Phil Jackson might given him some rest on given nights but as long as Bynum is starting and producing, continue to view the 23-year-old as a solid option in most Fantasy leagues.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum started for the second straight game on Friday against the 76ers and had his best night on the boards. Bynum pulled down a game-high and season-best 15 rebounds in 31 minutes. Thirteen of his rebounds came on the defensive end. Bynum also had eight points, one assist and one blocked shot. Bynum has 26 points and 21 rebounds in two games as a starter.
Analysis: It's only fitting that in the two games since Bynum moved into the starting lineup that the Lakers won both and have begun to put a three-game losing skid in their rearview mirror. Bynum finally seems to be rounding into shape after needing some conditioning games coming off knee surgery. Now appears to be the time to start considering inserting Bynum into your Fantasy lineup.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum started for the first time this season and scored 18 points in Los Angeles' 103-88 victory over New Orleans on Wednesday night. Bynum, who had played a reserve role in his first seven games since returning from knee surgery, started in place of Lamar Odom and connected on 8 of 12 shots from the field. Bynum also tallied six rebounds and registered a block for the fifth game in a row while playing a season-high 30 minutes.
Analysis: Odom had started all 31 of the Lakers' previous games before Bynum replaced him and scored a season high in points. It's unclear if Bynum will stay in the starting lineup while he continues to get back into game shape but he will undoubtedly contribute whether as a starter or reserve. He has now posted double digits in back-to-back games and has grabbed at least five rebounds in four of his last five games. He should be considered a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum is reportedly still over a week away from logging heavy minutes against for Los Angeles, according to coach Phil Jackson, reports ESPN.com. Bynum is averaging just seven points and 4.6 rebounds over 17 minutes since returning from his right knee surgery.
Analysis: Bynum's presence on the floor for the Lakers has proven crucial and the team has won four of the five games he's played with them thus far. He's shooting alright and getting nice rebounds and blocks for the minutes he's playing. Once the Lakers let him go, he's going to be back at must-start status shortly.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum didn't start on Tuesday night against the Milwaukee Bucks, but was able to play through his knee soreness for 17 minutes. Bynum played well during his time on the floor as he shot 3 of 4 for six points and three rebounds. He added two assists and two blocks and the Lakers were better than the Bucks with him on the floor, despite losing the game.
Analysis: Bynum continues to have soreness in that surgically-repaired knee and we doubt this issue is going to go away anytime soon. The moral of the story is that Bynum has averaged just under 17 minutes per game for five straight games now and isn't doing enough to be active in most Fantasy leagues just yet. He's shown some flashes and we believe he'll get there eventually.
News: According to the team's official website, Lakers C Andrew Bynum said on Monday that his knee felt fine when the team landed in Los Angeles on Sunday night. He had complained of soreness in his surgically repaired knee following the team's game in Toronto.
Analysis: The report noted that the important thing for Bynum is that his knee does not swell. To this point, it has not. Bynum expects there to be some soreness initially, but Fantasy owners should allow him to put together a couple of games without lingering effects of the injury before activating him again. He is headed back to the team's starting lineup eventually, but we recommend playing it cautiously with the injury-prone big man where possible.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Andrew Bynum said after Sunday's game in Toronto that he felt a "twinge" in his surgically-repaired knee. "Actually, my knee is a little bit sore today," Bynum said after the game. "I kind of felt a little bit of a twinge when I double jumped when I missed the layup and I went back up with the rebound. But it will be all right. There is no swelling. I'll just ice it all the way home and it should be goo
Analysis: Bynum, who had successful arthroscopic surgery for a torn cartilage in his right knee, said he wasn't nervous about the pain in his knee. Fantasy owners, however, should take this as another sign that he may night be ready to activate yet. He finished Sunday's game with 16 points and seven rebounds, but with the Lakers playing just two games in Week 9 (Dec. 20-26) Bynum remains far from a safe bet. Play it cautiously where possible.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, who has come off the bench in back-to-back games since returning from knee surgery, will return to the starting lineup once he's back up to speed, according to the Los Angeles Times, forcing Lamar Odom to the bench. "We want Andrew to be in the starting lineup and give us that impact, that size that sometimes is imposing on other teams," coach Phil Jackson said. "When we function in a running flow, we're probably better with Lamar out there because we have more ballhandlers, but our size and length is pretty daunting with [Bynum and Pau Gasol] out there."
Analysis: The Lakers don't have a clear timetable for when Bynum will return to the starting lineup. He wasn't quite his usual self Wednesday at Indiana. "Some of his activity is still limited," Jackson said. "He missed a couple of shots I thought he could block defensively. He [got] tired, and that's going to happen, but we're happy he made it through this game and we can move forward." When healthy, Bynum is an excellent source of points, rebounds and blocks and a No. 1 Fantasy center, but you wouldn't want to activate him until he's at least back to playing 25-30 minutes per game.
News: Lakers center Andre Bynum played off the bench again Wednesday night, posting 18 minutes and scoring three points in Los Angeles' victory at Indiana. Bynum, who made his season debut Tuesday night after offseason surgery to repair a partially torn ligament his knee, also added five rebounds and two assists. Bynum's minutes total Wednesday was a minute more than he played Tuesday and he has now recorded 35 minutes in his two games back.
Analysis: As planned, the Lakers are certainly easing Bynum back into game shape. Los Angeles, which has one of the NBA's best records, don't want to rush its star center with others playing well this season. Once he returns to full speed consider Bynum, who is a career 10.3 points and and 6.7 rebounds per game performer, a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored seven points in his season debut Tuesday night as Los Angeles Lakers beat the undermanned Washington Wizards 103-89. Bynum, who had offseason surgery to repair a partially torn ligament in his right knee, came off the bench and played 17 minutes, shooting 1 for 5 from the field and 5 for 8 from the free throw line. He entered the game with 6:09 left in the first quarter and had himself his first blocked shot not 55 seconds later. His first points came from the free throw line. Bynum blocked four shots and grabbed four rebounds in the performance.
Analysis: Bynum came off the bench in his debut but he played well enough to make a case to start immediately. His shot wasn't exactly on against the Wizards, but he was as active as can be expected after missing so much time. Fantasy owners might want to remain cautious with the big man for his first few games back. Still, if he keeps performing well, he'll be back to must-start status in no time.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Lamar Odom remained in the starting lineup posted for Tuesday's game against the Wizards, with Andrew Bynum making his season debut off the bench.
Analysis: Bynum is set to make his season debut after taking a lot longer to recover from offseason knee surgery than anticipated. He may be limited upon his return, so his Fantasy appeal could also be restricted in the early going. He may also have to earn his playing time with Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol playing so well together. Fantasy owners should be cautious when activating Bynum -- at least initially. In the long-term, he still has the upside of a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that while Lakers C Andrew Bynum (knee) will certainly play on Tuesday night in Washington for the first time all season, it is still unclear whether or not he will start. Lakers Coach Phil Jackson was asked at the team's shootaround Tuesday morning if he had decided to start Bynum or bring him off the bench. "Yes," Jackson responded. When asked what the decision was, Jackson would not divulge the information. "Well, we'll see what it's like a game-time, won't we?" Jackson said.
Analysis: Bynum is set to make his season debut after taking a lot longer to recover from offseason knee surgery than anticipated. He may be limited upon his return, so his Fantasy appeal could also be restricted in the early going. He may also have to earn his playing time with Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol playing so well together. Fantasy owners should be cautious when activating Bynum -- at least initially. In the long-term, he still has the upside of a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Andrew Bynum remains ready to debut on Tuesday against the Wizards. He underwent a final successful practice on Monday. “I’m definitely playing tomorrow,” Bynum said. "I don't know how long. The practice felt very good. Obviously I’m not myself yet, but I can definitely go out there and help the team, and I’m going to go do that.”
Analysis: Bynum seems officially ready to play a full Week 8 (Dec. 13-19) but Fantasy owners might want to continue to keep him inactive for one more week. There is the definite possibility he struggles or his minutes are limited immediately. When healthy and playing at the level of which he's capable, Bynum is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum (knee) went through his second practice of the season on Saturday, reports the Press-Enterprise. Bynum is expected to play Tuesday in Washington.
Analysis: The good news is that Bynum appears to be more solid to return on Tuesday against the Wizards. However, we are still a little skeptical and it might be the best bet for Fantasy owners to keep him inactive for Week 8 (Dec. 13-19) since he'll likely need some time to get back up to speed. When healthy, he's one of the top centers in Fantasy and an above-average contributor in points, rebounds and blocks. He should be owned in all leagues.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, who was originally aiming to return from knee surgery Dec. 19 at Toronto, will instead try to return Tuesday at Washington, but he told the Los Angeles Times it had nothing to do with the recent injury to Derrick Caracter. "It wasn't pressure," Bynum said. "They just feel like I'm ready to go more than [I do]. But, I think I'm almost there. So I agree. Obviously, I'm not going to come back and be playing 35 minutes. I'm going to come back in limited minutes. So, I should be all right. Hopefully I have good days and see how things go."
Analysis: For now, you should expect Bynum to return Tuesday as expected, but you might not want to activate him for Fantasy Week 8 (Dec. 13-19) since he'll likely need some time to get back up to speed. When healthy, he's one of the top centers in Fantasy and an above-average contributor in points, rebounds and blocks. He should be owned in all leagues.
News: ESPN reports that Andrew Bynum (knee) is targeting his team's Dec. 14 game in Washington against the Wizards to make his regular-season debut. Bynum told ESPN of his anticipated return date after an on-court workout before the Lakers played the Wizards at Staples Center Tuesday night in Los Angeles. When asked if that Bynum might play against the Wizards next week, coach Phil Jackson said, "Maybe, hopefully."
Analysis: Bynum has been ramping up his workouts in practice recently. This news puts him in play for a full scoring period in Fantasy Week 8 (Dec. 13-19), but there is a possibility that he could play with some restrictions early on. Our recommendation would be to reserve him until he can prove healthy, but it seems like Bynum could be very close to being a viable starting option in Fantasy hoops leagues very soon, barring setbacks.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum was able to go through the entire practice on Monday, reports the Orange County Register. Bynum reported no problems and his surgically repaired knee responded well. Bynum is closing on a return to the court.
Analysis: Bynum should not be counted on for Week 7 (Dec. 6-12) but the road is beginning to shorten on his recovery time. He should be back with the Lakers by the end of December at the latest. The center should continue to be stashed in most Fantasy formats. He should become a solid option in all leagues as soon as he's 100 percent healthy again.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum , who is working his way back from offseason knee surgery, played in his first game of 5-on-5 with teammates at practice on Saturday, according to the team's official website. Coach Phil Jackson said Bynum's knee was fine after the workout but he needs to work on his conditioning and timing. “He said he tired, which is natural, that’s going to happen,” said Jackson. “He said there was just one moment where he had a little twinge, but other than that he was OK … His conditioning is kind of the issue right now, and it’s timing more than anything else.” There is still no timetable for his return.
Analysis: Bynum continues to make strides in his rehab and Saturday was another big step. The Lakers have a scheduled day off on Sunday, but if Bynum doesn’t have any set backs, soreness or swelling on Monday, he will be right back on the practice floor. Fantasy owners should continue to keep tabs on Bynum's status moving forward. It is possible he could return at some point during the team's six-game road trip, but there remains no definitive timetable. Continue to stash him in all formats.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, who is working his way back from offseason knee surgery, is aiming to return for the last game of a six-game road trip Dec. 19 at Toronto, according to the Los Angeles Times. He had previously said he hoped to return at some point during the trip. He has been participating in half-court, four-on-four scrimmages during practice but has yet to finish a full-court scrimmage. "He seems to be playing OK in the half court, but we haven't had him run full court yet," coach Phil Jackson said. "So there's that whole other aspect of the game he has to cover -- running, turning around and playing defense. So that's next."
Analysis: Bynum has been unable to stay healthy over the last couple seasons, but when he has played, he has had no trouble fitting in with Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom. He averaged 15.0 points, 8.3 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 65 games last year. His potential as a No. 1 Fantasy center makes him worth stashing in all leagues, especially with his return now on the horizon.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum (knee) was able to participate in 4 on 4 drills on Monday, reports the Los Angeles Times. Bynum is hoping to return at some point during the Lakers' trip from Dec. 10 through the 19th. That would make him 2-3 weeks away from returning.
Analysis: The Lakers are certainly not sweating Bynum's absence. The team continues to win without the big man. They will only be more dangerous upon his return, but they can wait until he's completely healthy. Expect Bynum and the Lakers to milk his recovery time. Expect the worst but continue to stash Bynum in most Fantasy formats.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum (knee) practiced on Saturday, reports the Los Angeles Times. Bynum said he wants to play with the Lakers by the middle of December. He also said that is a personal goal and not a medical timetable. "That's just me," said Bynum, who went through through a pregame workout before the Lakers' game Friday against Utah. "The training staff and other people may see things differently. I don't have a target. I just want to be back within three weeks. That's my personal goal."
Analysis: The results on an MRI Bynum underwent last week were positive and his injury appears to be slowly, finally coming to an end. That said, it won't be until at least the middle of December that he's back. Bynum remains worth stashing in most Fantasy formats.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that the results of Andrew Bynum’s MRI exam were satisfactory, as expected, to clear him to move on to jumping and lateral-movement exercises this week. The report adds that Bynum isn’t having any pain. Coach Phil Jackson said last week that Bynum could return on Dec. 10 against Chicago.
Analysis: The timetable is by no means definitive, but there was initially some hope that Bynum might return in late November or even the first week of December. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his progress and we'll obviously keep you updated as developments in his rehab occur. But do not count on activating him for at least a few more weeks.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum is still not ready to practice as of Monday, reports the Los Angeles Times. Bynum pushed back his anticipated return from off-season knee surgery yet again. "I don't think I'm ready yet," he said as teammates practiced. Bynum believes he's going to need "another week or two" of off-court workouts before he can begin practicing. He's expected to undergo an MRI on Tuesday. "It feels pretty good, actually," he said. "Make sure everything's still good, and I can kick it up again."
Analysis: The Lakers are winning without Bynum and are in no hurry to rush the center back. Bynum is doing the safe, albeit frustrating to Fantasy owners, thing by waiting until he feels 100 percent to get back on the court. He should be back by the middle of December, at this point. Still, continue paying attention to the latest in this injury saga.
News: Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Thursday that he believes the team's road trip beginning on Dec. 10 in Chicago may be a more realistic target for the regular season debut of C Andrew Bynum (knee). Bynum, who said Wednesday that he hopes to be back by the end of November, also said he only hopes to be practicing by Thanksgiving, not playing in games. He had not given an actual timetable as to when he'll be able to play in games. Jackson provided some light on that Wednesday.
Analysis: This timetable is by no means definitive, but it does end the speculation that Bynum might return in late November or even the first week of December. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor his progress and we'll obviously keep you updated as developments in his rehab occur. But do not count on activating him for at least a few more weeks.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum clarified his hopeful return date of Thanksgiving on Wednesday, reports the team's official site. Bynum, who said he hopes to be back by the end of November, said he only hopes to be practicing by Thanksgiving, not playing in games. He has no clue when he'll be able to play in games.
Analysis: If Bynum is only beginning to practice by Turkey Day, playing in games won't happen until at least into December. The Lakers having been playing just fine without him but Fantasy owners must continue to stash the 23-year-old on their bench. Jackson will likely ease Bynum back into the lineup even when he does return, so you wouldn't necessarily want to activate him in he starts getting into the flow of the game. He's a good enough scorer, rebounder and shot blocker to serve as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy C, when healthy.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum said on Tuesday that he hopes Thanksgiving will continue to be his target return date, reports the team's official site. The Lakers still have no official date he'll begin practicing, however. Bynum is expected to talk more extensively about his rehab and possible return on Monday when the team returns to L.A.
Analysis: Bynum still believes Thanksgiving is a good target date but coach Phil Jackson has said that early December is probably more correct. The Lakers having been playing just fine without him but Fantasy owners must continue to stash the 23-year-old on their bench. Jackson will likely ease Bynum back into the lineup even when he does return, so you wouldn't necessarily want to activate him in he starts getting into the flow of the game. He's a good enough scorer, rebounder and shot blocker to serve as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy C, when healthy.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum said on Tuesday that he hopes Thanksgiving will continue to be his target return date, reports the team's official site. The Lakers still have no official date he'll begin practicing, however. Bynum is expected to talk more extensively about his rehab and possible return on Monday when the team returns to L.A.
Analysis: Bynum still believes Thanksgiving is a good target date but coach Phil Jackson has said that early December is probably more correct. The Lakers having been playing just fine without him but Fantasy owners must continue to stash the 23-year-old on their bench. Jackson will likely ease Bynum back into the lineup even when he does return, so you wouldn't necessarily want to activate him in he starts getting into the flow of the game. He's a good enough scorer, rebounder and shot blocker to serve as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy C, when healthy.
News: Lakers coach Phil Jackson had previous said that he thought C Andrew Bynum (knee) would be able to return by Thanksgiving. But on Saturday he told The Orange County Register that he doesn't expect the 7-footer to start fully practicing with the team until they return from their three-game roadtrip next week, leaving Bynum with his original early-December timetable.
Analysis: Bynum’s only activity over the past week has been limited shooting exercises and leg strengthening exercises. The Lakers having been playing just fine without him but Fantasy owners must continue to stash the 23-year-old on their bench. Jackson will likely ease Bynum back into the lineup even when he does return, so you wouldn't necessarily want to activate him in he starts getting into the flow of the game. He's a good enough scorer, rebounder and shot blocker to serve as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy C, when healthy.
News: Lakers coach Phil Jackson told the team's official website Thursday that C Andrew Bynum could return to practice next week. He wouldn't be full speed yet as he works his way back from knee surgery.
Analysis: Jackson said Wednesday that Bynum could return before the end of November. In order to meet that timetable, he has to return to practice soon. The Lakers will likely ease Bynum back into the lineup even when he does return, so you wouldn't necessarily want to activate him in late November. He's a good enough scorer, rebounder and shot blocker to serve as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy C when healthy.
News: The Orange County Register reports that Andrew Bynum (knee) could make his season debut before the end of November. “It might be reachable,” Phil Jackson said Wednesday night. Jackson said Bynum is running on a track but not the basketball court yet.
Analysis: The report notes that Bynum remains far enough away that Jackson doesn’t really know exactly when he will return, but the fact that he has not been ruled out through November yet is promising. Jackson went on to note that he will return to a starting role whenever he does return. There had been some concern that his role would be limited given his history of injuries. Bynum should be a solid Fantasy center when healthy and deserves to be stashed in all formats where that is possible.
News: According to NBA.com, Lakers C Andrew Bynum will be out a "few more weeks" due to his knee injury. Bynum had been sticking with elliptical and bike machines last week, but on Sunday Phil Jackson said Bynum graduated to running on a regular treadmill. “He went through some activity that was accelerated,” said Jackson. “I think he wants to ramp it up a bit faster than we want him to. We want him to be able to go in and sustain that effort when he does get back, so he needs to have a real base, a foundation when he comes back.”
Analysis: Jackson thinks that Bynum will be able to re-acclimate rather easily to the basketball side of things, but may take a bit more time with conditioning, strengthening and reaction time. There remains no actual target date for Bynum’s potential first game, but Jackson did identify Thanksgiving (Thursday, Nov. 25) as a potential return window.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum has been cleared for non-basketball activities, reports the Los Angeles Times on Monday. "I can start running next week, and then maybe start practicing in two to three weeks," said Bynum. "But the important thing is the doctor cleared me."
Analysis: Bynum is hoping to play in competitive games by late November and that means he is still at least a month away from returning to action. He has the ability to put up high-end Fantasy numbers when healthy, but has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. That makes him a serious injury risk and somebody to avoid drafting as a No. 1 center despite the fact he has that type of upside.
News: In a televised interview on NBA TV, Lakers coach Phil Jackson said C Andrew Bynum (knee) will not be able to start any weight-bearing activity until at least the end of October. "My feeling is that it's probably going to take him until the end of December until he's really the Andrew that is as active and as dominating in the middle as he can be, so we have to prepare ourselves for that," Jackson said in the interview. Lakers spokesman John Black said Thursday that Bynum will not participate in basketball activities at the start of camp and that he would not be playing in preseason games. Bynum has noted that he thinks he may not play until late November at the earliest.
Analysis: It seems that the decision by Bynum to postpone surgery will have serious ramifications as he is already talking about missing the first month of the season. And that is if he doesn't suffer any other setbacks. He has the ability to put up high-end Fantasy numbers when healthy, but has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. That makes him a serious injury risk and somebody to avoid drafting as a No. 1 center despite the fact he has that type of upside. This news moves Bynum back into the realm of reserve center options in Fantasy drafts.
News: Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum is unlikely to play in the preseason while finishing rehabilitation from surgery on his right knee. Lakers spokesman John Black said Thursday that Bynum will not participate in basketball activities at the start of camp. The 7-foot center will be involved in team meetings and film study, but will concentrate on his recovery from arthroscopic surgery nearly two months ago. The Lakers open training camp on Saturday.
Analysis: Bynum delayed his surgery to participate in the Lakers' run to their second straight NBA title, averaging 8.6 points and 6.9 rebounds while starting all 23 playoff games. He then made a trip to South Africa for the World Cup, postponing his surgery for several more weeks. He has the ability to put up high-end Fantasy numbers when healthy, but has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. That makes him a serious injury risk and somebody to avoid drafting as a No. 1 center despite the fact he has that type of upside.
News: Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum has postponed his knee surgery. Lakers spokesman John Black said Tuesday that Bynum pushed back the date of his surgery to correct a meniscus tear in his right knee to July 28. He had originally scheduled the surgery for July 18.
Analysis: Bynum injured his knee in Game 6 of the Lakers' playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder. He had fluid drained from the knee but the swelling returned. The injury cut into his playing time but Bynum didn't miss any playoff games and averaged 8.6 points and 6.9 rebounds during the Lakers' run to the NBA title. Bynum has the ability to put up high-end Fantasy numbers when healthy, but has been plagued by injuries throughout his career.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum managed only four points while playing shakily on his sore knee Monday night in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against the Suns. Bynum played 19 minutes and grabbed four rebounds.
Analysis: Bynum has battled numerous injuries all season, but he should be fine for the remainder of the playoffs barring a setback. Hopefully he can be 100 percent for the start of the 2010-11 season, and we like Bynum as a solid Fantasy center in all leagues when healthy.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum continues to deal with a right knee injury, but he's expected to play in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against the Suns. Bynum practiced only once since the conference semifinals ended and said the torn cartilage in his right knee was "getting a little worse" after making it through Saturday's scrimmage. "I thought he played well [Saturday] and we're hopeful that he's going to be at that level," coach Phil Jackson said.
Analysis: Bynum has battled numerous injuries all season, but he should be able to play against the Suns in Game 1 and stay active for the remainder of the playoffs. Hopefully he can be 100 percent for the start of the 2010-11 season, and we like Bynum as a solid Fantasy center in all leagues when healthy.
News: The Orange County Register reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum again sat out practice Friday because he was resting his injured right knee. Bynum missed practice Wednesday also, but he is expected to play in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against the Suns.
Analysis: Bynum has battled numerous injuries all season, but he should be able to play against the Suns in Game 1 and stay active for the remainder of the playoffs. Hopefully he can be 100 percent for the start of the 2010-11 season, and we like Bynum as a solid Fantasy center in all leagues when healthy.
News: The Orange County Register reports Lakers guard Kobe Bryant and center Andrew Bynum sat out practice Wednesday to rest their right knees. This was likely a precaution with the Lakers having time to rest before Game 1 of the Western Conference finals against the Suns on Monday.
Analysis: Bynum has battled numerous injuries all season, but he should be able to play against the Suns in Game 1 and stay active for the remainder of the playoffs. Hopefully he can be 100 percent for the start of the 2010-11 season, and we like Bynum as a solid Fantasy center in all leagues when healthy.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum (knee) played just 20 minutes of L.A.'s Game 3 Western Conference semifinals win over the Jazz on Saturday night.
Analysis: The Lakers are taking things easy with Bynum and his troublesome knee, and now they're up 3-0 on the Jazz they might use him even more sparingly in Game 4. When healthy, he is a quality Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: The Lakers official team website reports that coach Phil Jackson said center Andrew Bynum will play lesser minutes than usual because of his injured right knee, which has a small tear in the meniscus. Bynum played 24 minutes in Game 1 against Utah. Jackson said a key to Bynum's continuing to play is that no further damage can be done to his knee.
Analysis: Continue to monitor his status throughout the playoffs and what happens prior to next season to see if Bynum is 100 percent. When healthy, he is a quality Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum started Sunday and played 24 minutes against Utah in Game 1 of the second-round series against Utah after discovering a small tear in the meniscus of his right knee Saturday. The 7-footer wore a large brace on his knee, but said it didn't limit him much while collecting eight points and 10 rebounds.
Analysis: Bynum should be fine for the rest of the playoffs as long as he doesn't suffer any setbacks. The key will be what happens in the offseason if needs surgery or not. Continue to monitor his status throughout the playoffs and what happens prior to next season to see if Bynum is 100 percent. When healthy, he is a quality Fantasy option in all leagues.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum (Achilles') scored 13 points in a loss to the Thunder in Game 3 of the Western Conference quarterfinals. Bynum shot 6 of 9 from the field while bringing in seven boards and blocking a shot. He has scored 13 points in two of the three playoff games.
Analysis: When healthy, Bynum is a double-double threat. He averaged 15 points and 8.3 rebounds per game for the season. He can be a very solid No. 1 Fantasy center in all formats for his help in points, rebounds and blocks. He just can't be counted on to play a full season and should be backed up with a suitable handcuff option as a result.
News: Starting forward Andrew Bynum missed the Los Angeles Lakers' practice Wednesday to get treatment on his sore right Achilles' tendon but he's expected to be in the starting lineup Thursday night for Game 3 against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Analysis: Bynum missed the Lakers' final 13 games of the regular season after straining the tendon, but returned for the start of the playoffs. He has averaged 9.5 points and 11 rebounds as Los Angeles took a 2-0 lead in the first-round series. The Lakers were 6-7 without their 7-foot center in the final month of the regular season. Bynum will be a No. 1 Fantasy center heading into next season.
News: Other than being out of breath, C Andrew Bynum displayed little rust in teaming with Pau Gasol to dominate the middle in the Los Angeles Lakers' 87-79 victory against the Oklahoma City Thunder in their playoff series opener Sunday. Bynum, who missed the final month of the regular season with an Achilles' injury, ignited the Staples Center crowd with a monster one-handed dunk over a defenseless Nenad Krstic in the second quarter that pushed the Lakers' lead to 17. "It kind of got me going," Bynum said. "It hyped the team up. That's the kind of player I can be -- exciting." Bynum finished the day with 13 points on 6 of 10 shooting. He also hauled in 12 rebounds while controlling the paint with a career playoff-high four blocks. "I had a couple little twinges, but nothing serious," he said. "Conditioning in the first quarter was tough. The more I keep playing with this aggressive nature, I'll get better."
Analysis: The addition of Bynum is huge for the Lakers and Fantasy owners should be excited for next season. When healthy, Bynum is a double-double threat. He averaged 15 points and 8.3 rebounds per game for the season. He can be a very solid No. 1 Fantasy center in all formats for his help in points, rebounds and blocks. He just can't be counted on to play a full season and should be backed up with a suitable handcuff option as a result.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times, Lakers C Andrew Bynum (Achilles') was able to take part in Wednesday's morning shootaround prior to the team's regular season finale against the Clippers. He has yet to practice, but is hoping to get on the floor within the next few days. He remains questionable for Game 1 of the team's first-round playoff series against Oklahoma City.
Analysis: Bynum missed the final month of the regular season after getting hurt on March 19 against Minnesota. He appeared in 65 games, which is actually his highest total since he played in all 82 games in the 2006-07 season. When he's healthy, he can be a very solid No. 1 Fantasy center in all formats for his help in points, rebounds and blocks. He just can't be counted on to play a full season and should be backed up with a suitable handcuff option as a result.
News: According to the official team Web site, Lakers center Andrew Bynum said Monday that he's not going to play in the team's final two regular season games against the Kings on Tuesday or at the Clippers on Wednesday. But Bynum, who has a strained left Achilles' tendon, expects to be ready for the Lakers' first playoff game. "There was no pain," Bynum said after a workout where he ran on a machine. Bynum said his primary concern isn't for his left Achilles tendon but on his game shape and conditioning, which he recognizes will take a bit of time to return.
Analysis: Keep Bynum reserved in all daily leagues for the rest of the regular season and hope he returns at 100 percent for the playoffs. When healthy, Bynum is a quality center in all scoring formats, and hopefully he can have a strong playoff run heading into 2010-11.
News: The Los Angeles Daily News reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum said Tuesday that his strained left Achilles' tendon was "about the same." Bynum has been sidelined for eight games and there is no timetable for his return to the practice court or games. The Lakers have five regular-season games remaining, and it's possible he could miss them all. "I'm just not holding my breath on a timetable," Lakers coach Phil Jackson said. "We haven't put a timetable on it because it's going to take some time. We just don't know when."
Analysis: Bynum was injured during the Lakers' victory March 19 over the Timberwolves. It's the third consecutive season he's suffered a significant injury that's kept him from playing for an extended period down the stretch. Last season, he sat out for 32 games because of a torn ligament in his right knee, but returned to play before the end of the regular season. Two seasons ago, he missed the final 46 regular-season games plus the playoffs because of an injured left kneecap. Keep Bynum reserved in all leagues and hope he can return before the year ends, but it sounds like he could be out for the rest of the season. When healthy, Bynum is a quality center in all scoring formats.
News: According to the Orange Country Register, Lakers C Andrew Bynum (Achilles') underwent an MRI on Monday and was not cleared to play. There remains no date for his return.
Analysis: Bynum, who is recovering from a strained left Achilles' tendon, had hoped to be back by the end of last week but it seems more likely he won't be able return until the Lakers' final three games at Staples Center, beginning April 11 against the Portland Trailblazers. If and when he returns, he will be looking to build up his conditioning for the playoffs in the team's final games and will not be his usual productive self. Look for healthy alternatives.
News: According to the team's official Web site, Lakers C Andrew Bynum (Achilles') underwent an MRI on Monday and is awaiting the results. He has been diagnosed with a strain and there remains no concrete timetable for a return.
Analysis: Bynum, who is recovering from a strained left Achilles' tendon, had hoped to be back by the end of last week but it seems more likely he won't be able return until the Lakers' final three games at Staples Center, beginning April 11 against the Portland Trailblazers. If and when he returns, he will be looking to build up his conditioning for the playoffs in the team's final games and will not be his usual productive self. Look for healthy alternatives.
News: According to ESPN Los Angeles, Lakers C Andrew Bynum will be re-evaluated by doctors on Friday. "They will do an assessment tomorrow and we'll find out more about it," Jackson said. "They were going to do some diagnostic tests but they decided it wasn't really necessary because his pain is just localized. They say it's progressing and according to my crack training staff they say it's right on schedule. My schedule is not like that but it's right on their schedule."
Analysis: Bynum, who is recovering from a strained left Achilles' tendon, had hoped to be back by the end of the week but it seems more likely he won't be able return until the Lakers' final three games at Staples Center, beginning April 11 against the Portland Trailblazers. The Lakers will look to get him some minutes to get him into some sort of shape prior to the playoffs, but he is not going to be playing full tilt and thus is not a player we recommend in Fantasy. His Fantasy season has just about come to an end.
News: Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Wednesday that SF Luke Walton (pinched nerve, back) hopes to play Sunday when the Lakers host the Spurs, but added that C Andrew Bynum (Achilles' strain) could be out another 10 days.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 15 points and 8.3 rebounds a game. He is a quality Fantasy center when healthy, but this injury is ruining the end of his season. Continue to monitor his progress, but keep him reserved in all leagues while he's out.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum does not expect to return any time soon. Bynum, who is dealing with a strained left Achilles' tendon, is no longer wearing a walking boot, but he isn't expected to return this week as previously hoped. "I was hoping to, but I don't think it's going to happen," Bynum said. "I'm able to walk with minimal pain. I can't really walk very fast without feeling something. I'm just resting it, trying to stay off it as much as possible." On Monday, Bynum missed his fifth consecutive game with the injury, which was sustained while running downcourt in a March 19 game against Minnesota. Bynum said he would be re-evaluated Friday, but the earliest he could return would be April 8 against Denver. The Lakers have only four regular-season games left after that.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 15 points and 8.3 rebounds a game. He is a quality Fantasy center when healthy, but this injury is ruining the end of his season. Continue to monitor his progress, but keep him reserved in all leagues while he's out.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum told the team Thursday that his injured Achilles' tendon is feeling better, but coach Phil Jackson said he isn't counting on Bynum coming back before the road trip ends March 31. Bynum strained the tendon last week and was expected to miss two weeks.
Analysis: With the Lakers securely in the playoffs, they might give Bynum as much rest as necessary for their playoff run. It is a good sign that his Achilles' is feeling better, but the lack of a concrete return date makes him a player you can't start in most formats. When healthy, Bynum is a must-start Fantasy option. He could return at some point in Week 23 (March 29-April 4), but unless the team announces a return date, continue to sit him.
News: C Andrew Bynum's left Achilles' tendon is not torn, and the Los Angeles Lakers are cautiously optimistic their starting center can return from his latest injury in two weeks. Yet Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Sunday he can't predict a return timetable for Bynum, who strained his tendon early in the third quarter of the defending NBA champions' win over Minnesota on Friday night. "We really have nothing definitive about it," Jackson said. "We really don't know how this therapy is going to come out. The best thing I heard today is that he felt better from day one to day two." An MRI on Saturday showed the injury wasn't as serious as the Lakers initially feared, revealing no tears in Bynum's heel. Yet Jackson acknowledged Bynum's lost conditioning and the Lakers' overall cautiousness with their oft-injured center could keep him out until shortly before the playoffs in mid-April. "An Achilles' or a leg injury is something you can't really stay in great shape with," Jackson said. "Taking off and landing, all your power moves, are something you're going to have to adjust."
Analysis: Bynum was inactive for the Lakers' home game against Washington on Sunday, and he won't play on Los Angeles' ensuing five-game road trip. He is averaging 15 points and 8.3 rebounds this season, third on the Lakers in both categories. Bynum said he has pain and swelling in his heel, but can get around easily in a plastic walking boot. He's hoping to recover well enough to play in the Lakers' next home game against Utah on April 2, but knows he might not be in game shape by the time they return from the road. Major injuries are nothing new for Bynum, the prep-to-pro center who has emerged as a talented NBA big man during the past three seasons. He missed 46 games during the 2007-08 season with a dislocated left knee, and he sat out 32 games last season with a torn ligament in his right knee. "Fortunately, this year we got two more months of playing time out of Drew," Jackson said. "Hopefully this (injury) is a short duration." If Bynum is able to come back healthy in the next few weeks, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum's MRI results confirmed he had a strained left Achilles' tendon. While Bynum did not have a tear, he is expected to miss at least six games recovering from the injury. He will be reevaluated in one week and will make the five-game road trip that begins in San Antonio. Bynum was injured in the third quarter of Friday's game with Minnesota.
Analysis: Bynum had been playing solid basketball prior to the injury and was averaging 18.2 points and 9.2 rebounds over his last five games. Fantasy owners will have keep tabs on Bynum's status. With the Lakers in a secure playoff position, they might take their time bringing him back. When he does return, he makes for a solid Fantasy option in any format. In his absence, expect Pau Gasol and Lamar Odom to see a boost in statistical production.
News: Lakers center Pau Gasol had 28 points and 11 rebounds Tuesday at Sacramento. Andrew Bynum added 21 points and 12 rebounds, and the Lakers finished with 60 points in the paint. Gasol and Bynum combined to make 21 of 28 shots. "I think we're tightening it up and playing better defensively," Gasol said. "We know there are only 14 games left in the regular season. It's a good time to step it up and play at our highest level."
Analysis: Bynum now has at least 18 points over his past four games with two double-doubles over that span. Keep him active in all leagues while he's playing at this level and hope for more production like this.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum had 22 points, six rebounds and two blocks Tuesday night against Toronto. It was Bynum's first 20-point game since Feb. 26 against Philadelphia, a span of six games. He had 19 points in his past two games combined prior to playing the Raptors.
Analysis: Bynum's play has been inconsistent of late, but he still is capable of quality scoring nights like this. Continue to start him in all leagues as a No. 2 Fantasy center.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum was held to just five points and six rebounds in Sunday's game in Orlando. He played 20 minutes and was held to 1 for 5 shooting from the field. He manage four blocks, however. The game snapped a string of back-to-back double-doubles.
Analysis: Bynum was in foul trouble all night and found the matchup against Dwight Howard to be very difficult on this particular afternoon. Expect him to get back on track here with excellent matchups in the next couple of scoring periods, although Fantasy owners in weekly formats should be aware that he plays just two games in Week 20 (March 8-14).
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum had 16 points, eight rebounds and one block Tuesday against the Pacers. He was back in double figures in points after scoring just six points with six rebounds Sunday against Denver. Bynum is averaging 13.4 points and 8.4 rebounds in his past five games.
Analysis: Bynum remains a quality Fantasy center in all formats. He's obviously a better option when his scoring is up, but he's capable of solid stat lines almost every night. Keep him active in all leagues.
News:Kobe Bryant was perfectly content to let Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol do the heavy lifting in a grind-it-out victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. It had more to do with matchups than Bryant's left ankle, though. Gasol had 23 points and 11 assists, and the Los Angeles Lakers held the 76ers to one field goal over the final 3:40 of a 99-90 victory Friday night. Bynum, who was fined $25,000 by the NBA earlier in the day for publicly criticizing the officiating following Wednesday's 101-96 loss at Dallas, finished with 20 points and 13 rebounds. He added a block.
Analysis: Bynum now has recorded two consecutive double-doubles and is averaging 16 points, 8.8 rebounds and a steal and block per game over his last five. Bynum has recently called out the refs but on Friday, he took things in his own hands. He should continue to do that and remains a solid Fantasy option in all leagues. The Lakers play four games in Week 19 (March 1-7).
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum recorded a double-double in a loss at Dallas on Wednesday. The Lakers center shot 5 for 8 from the field to score 10 points and he added 11 rebounds and two blocks.
Analysis: Bynum has not been rebounding well of late and has just 7.8 per game over his last five, despite Wednesday's double-digit effort. He needs to begin to play bigger for the Lakers but he can still be utilized in most Fantasy leagues at a weak center position.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 21 points against the Warriors on Tuesday, after sitting out two games due to hip and knee injuries. In 30 minutes he shot 8 of 11 from the field, adding seven rebounds and three steals.
Analysis: Bynum was impressive in his return Tuesday, which is good news for Fantasy owners. He bounced back from a sup-par December (11.6 points, 6.1 rebounds) with a solid January (16.9 points, 8.8 rebounds). Now that he appears to be healthy again he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum will play on Tuesday night at home against Golden State despite dealing with hip and knee issues and not being to run at full speed, reports the official Lakers Web site.
Analysis: Bynum missed the team's final two games prior to the All-Star break and is clearly not yet fully healthy. He remains a solid Fantasy play in all leagues when he is healthy, however.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum (hip, knee) was able to practice Monday, according to the Los Angeles Times. He is expected to play Tuesday against the Warriors. He missed the team's final two games prior to the All-Star break.
Analysis: According to the Orange County Register, the Lakers have explored the possibility of supplanting Andrew Bynum in the starting lineup with Lamar Odom, even once the injured big man returns from hip and knee injuries. However, no such move has been announced. Bynum should remain a viable No. 1 center option when healthy enough to play, but Fantasy owners in weekly lineup leagues should keep in mind the Lakers play only twice in Week 17.
News: According to the Orange County Register, the Lakers are exploring the possibility of supplanting Andrew Bynum in the starting lineup with Lamar Odom, even once the injured big man returns from hip and knee injuries. Phil Jackson acknowledged late Wednesday night that his trusted assistants are already lobbying him to make the change to start Odom over Bynum – and he’s going to contemplate it when the Lakers reconvene after the All-Star break. “My coaches are kind of pushing me in that direction, but I’m not ready yet to do that,” Jackson said.
Analysis: This move is by no means a certainty, but it does have the possibility of having major Fantasy ramifications. The way the rotation is currently run, when Bynum is healthy, has Odom coming off the bench and producing at a reduced rate of what he has proven he is capable of whenever Bynum or Pau Gasol is hurt. Such a move has the possibility of giving Odom a huge boost while knocking Bynum from the ranks of No. 1 Fantasy centers to a No. 2. Monitor this situation closely as it develops, though it sounds like just a possibility that the team is mulling. They are playing well as it is and may not want to fix something that may not be broken, in a sense.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum did not practice on Tuesday due to his nagging hip and knee injuries and coach Phil Jackson said after practice that he would not be available to play on Wednesday at Utah, reports the team's official Web site.
Analysis: With the Lakers having no more games remaining until after the All-Star break, Bynum's first half of the season is over now. Over 50 games, Bynum averaged 15.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and half a steal per night. He is a solid Fantasy center for use in all leagues, when healthy. Stay tuned for news to follow but most indications point to him being healthy to begin the second half of the year.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum could not play on Monday against the Spurs because of a hip injury. Bynum is also dealing with swelling in his left knee that has forced him to wear a brace. He is considered day to day and questionable for Wednesday's game against the Jazz.
Analysis: Since he is suffering from a couple of injuries, Fantasy owners should consider waiting until Fantasy Week 17 (Feb. 15-21) to insert Bynum back into their lineup. He would be available for only one game during Fantasy Week 16 (Feb. 8-14), and Lamar Odom has been playing well as of late, so the Lakers might just hold off Bynum until after the All-Star break.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times, Lakers C Andrew Bynum will not play Monday because of a hip injury. Bynum is also dealing with swelling in his left knee that has forced him to wear a brace.
Analysis: Since he is suffering from a couple of injuries, Fantasy owners should consider waiting until Fantasy Week 17 (Feb. 15-21) to insert Bynum back into their lineup. He would be available for only one game during Fantasy Week 16 (Feb. 8-14), and Lamar Odom has been playing well as of late, so the Lakers might just hold off Bynum until after the All-Star break.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times, Lakers C Andrew Bynum (hip) is considered "more doubtful" than injured teammate Kobe Bryant (ankle) for Monday night's game against San Antonio. Bynum is also dealing with swelling in his left knee that has forced him to wear a brace.
Analysis: The Lakers decided to take Sunday off after Saturday's game and that could allow both Bryant and Bynum a little extra rest before Monday's game. But with the shortened scoring period and the Lakers slated for just two games, Fantasy owners should consider Bynum a very risky play for Fantasy Week 16 (Feb. 8-14). If Bynum does not play, Lamar Odom would have a chance at a significant Fantasy boost.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum gave the team a scare when he left early in Saturday's game against Portland with a hip injury. He returned, but then sat out the second half. His condition was unclear. He only played 10 minutes and finished with just three points.
Analysis: Fantasy owners will have to keep track of Bynum's status for Fantasy Week 16 (Feb. 8-14). When healthy, Bynum has averaged 15.1 points and 8.2 rebounds per game this season. He also contributes 1.5 blocks for game. Fantasy owners should insert him into their lineup if he is healthy.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 19 points and ripped down 11 rebounds in a 90-89 win over the Celtics in Boston on Sunday. Bynum went 7 of 13 from the field and added two steals and two blocks in the win.
Analysis: The Lakers center is averaging 17 points, eight boards and 1.4 blocks per game over his last five. He is clearly playing like a No. 1 Fantasy C at the moment and should be used as such entering Week 15 (Feb. 1-7). The Lakers play a favorable four-game schedule.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum recorded a new season high for points on Wednesday in a win at Indiana. Bynum scores 27 points on 12 of 14 shooting and grabbed 12 rebounds. Bynum added a steal and two assists.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 17.2 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game over his last five. He's scored at least 19 points in three of his last four and is playing at a high level once again for the Lakers. As a big man, Bynum can be active in all Fantasy leagues.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 21 points, including 11 during the second quarter, as the Lakers fell to the Raptors 106-105 on Sunday. Bynum played 40 minutes shooting 9 of 15 from the floor, adding nine rebounds and two assists. This was the first game in his last four that Bynum has eclipsed the 20-point mark.
Analysis: Other than the time that Bynum spent dealing with the flu in the last week, Bynum has been very productive on the court for the Lakers reaching double figures in every game during the month of January. Accompany that with his ability to grab rebounds and that makes Bynum a definite starter during Fantasy Week 14 (Jan. 25-31) where the Lakers have a favorable four game schedule.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum took the court Thursday against Cleveland, scoring seven points and grabbing eight rebounds. His status for the game was up in the air after being sent home from practice Tuesday due to intestinal flu symptoms. Bynum was well enough to play 27 minutes, adding one assist and two blocks.
Analysis: The flu might have slowed Bynum down the past two games, but he scored in double figures in his previous 11 games with four double-doubles in that span. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy center for use in all leagues.
News: Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Thursday afternoon that C Andrew Bynum "is feeling fine" after he was sent home from practice Tuesday. Bynum, suffering from intestinal flu symptoms, should play Thursday night against the Cavaliers.
Analysis: Bynum appears to be a safe play for Thursday night in daily lineup leagues. Fantasy owners can continue to view him as a steady No. 1 center option while healthy.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum, suffering from intestinal flu symptoms, was sent home from practice Tuesday after attending a team video session. He is expected to travel on the team plane this morning and is listed as questionable for Thursday's game at Cleveland.
Analysis: We should know by Thursday what Bynum's status will be against the Cavaliers. We expect him to play, and he should be considered a solid starting option in all formats.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 20 points and grabbed seven rebounds with two blocks on Friday in a win over the Clippers. He shot 8 of 13 from the field and added two dimes.
Analysis: Bynum has scored at least 20 points in three straight now and has double-doubles in four of his last six contests. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy center for use in all leagues and is really beginning to play consistently well again.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had 17 points and a career-high 18 rebounds in a victory over Portland on Sunday. In 33 minutes, Bynum was 7 of 14 from the field.
Analysis: Bynum continues dominating in the post in Pau Gasol's absence, nothching his third double-double in as many games. He is beginning to play well once again and seeing more minutes because of it. He can be active in all Fantasy leagues once again.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 13 points and added 12 rebounds on Friday at Portland. Bynum had a second straight double-double as he shot 6 of 13 from the field and blocked one shot.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 17.4 points and 8.6 rebounds per game over his last five contests, both numbers better than his season averages. He's beginning to play well once again and seeing more minutes because of it. He can be active in all Fantasy leagues once again.
News: The Orange County Register reports that Andrew Bynum has been dealing with pain in his right knee, a possible explanation for his drop in production recently. After receiving treatment on the knee, Bynum said the discomfort in the top of his right kneecap felt better Monday.
Analysis: The report also added that Bynum also said he is past the two-week-old upper respiratory problem that Phil Jackson has been throwing out publicly as an excuse for Bynum's sluggish efforts. At least there is some kind of explanation for his recent dip in production and it should serve as comfort to his Fantasy owners that there are better days ahead as he gets healthier.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored just three points and grabbed nine rebounds Saturday at Sacramento. He shot 1 of 9 from the field and blocked two shots. Bynum has scored four or fewer points in three of his last five games.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging just 7.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game in his last five contests, extremely lower than his season average of 15 points and over eight boards. It seems that Bynum has really taken a hit in Fantasy value since the return of Pau Gasol. He averaged 20.3 points and 11.8 boards before Gasol returned on Nov. 19 and his numbers have dropped to 12.9 and 6.1 since. They've only been worse of late and coach Phil Jackson says he needs more touches on the block. The Lakers play a favorable four-game schedule in Week 10 (Dec. 28-Jan. 3) but you might only want to use Bynum as a No. 2 or 3 Fantasy C until he can prove he's back to the way he played earlier in the year before Gasol came into the picture.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored just 4 points with 3 rebounds in Saturday's game at the Nets in 11 minutes of action. He has scored just 12 points with 6 rebounds combined over his last two games combined.
Analysis: Bynum played just 11 minutes Saturday due to foul trouble, which has plagued him in the last two games. Fantasy owners should not be too alarmed by this sudden downturn. Bynum, who is averaging 16.7 points, 8.5 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game this year, remains a solid No. 1 Fantasy center in any format.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 14 points Wednesday against the Jazz after scoring 13 points last time out. He's averaging 18.2 points for the season but only 14.9 points over his last seven games.
Analysis: Bynum's scoring has dipped with the return of Pau Gasol, and so has his rebounding. He hasn't had a double-double in nine games. He's still a No. 1 Fantasy center, but he's not performing like an elite option anymore.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, who had reached the 20-point mark only once in his last six games, returned to it with 21 against the Hornets on Tuesday. He also had nine rebounds and three assists.
Analysis: Bynum's numbers have taken a slight hit since the return of Pau Gasol from a hamstring injury, but he's averaging about 18 points, 10 rebounds and two blocks on the season and is still performing like a No. 1 Fantasy center. Keep him active.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, who didn't practice the previous two days after rolling his right ankle defending against Chicago's Brad Miller on Thursday, played 29 minutes Sunday against the Thunder, finishing with 25 points, nine rebounds and two blocks. He went to the bench for good in the final minute of the third quarter with the Lakers ahead 77-56.
Analysis: Bynum looked plenty healthy and likely wouldn't have stayed on the bench if the Lakers didn't have such a big lead. He continues to put up big numbers even with Pau Gasol back in the lineup, averaging around 19 points and 11 rebounds for the season. Think of him as a No. 1 center in Fantasy and get him active for Fantasy Week 5 (Nov. 23-29).
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Andrew Bynum suffered a jammed right ankle in Thursday's game against the Bulls. He is considered day to day, but expects to play in the team's next game Sunday against Oklahoma City.
Analysis: Bynum had 11 points and 8 rebounds in just 24 minutes Thursday and did not seem to be overly affected by the return of Pau Gasol. However, Gasol's return should have an impact on his overall numbers as it's unlikely he will be able to maintain his current averages of 19.4 points and 11.4 rebounds. He remains a No. 1 center, but temper expectations. The injury does not appear to be much of a concern at this point.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum played extremely well on Friday night in a loss to the Denver Nuggets. Bynum ripped down 15 rebounds in the game and tied for the team lead with 19 points. The double-double was his fourth straight. Bynum shot 8 for 13 in the game and blocked a shot.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 20.7 points and 11.9 rebounds on the season and that comes with over a block per contest. The Lakers play just three times in Week 4 (Nov. 16-22) but Bynum remains useful as a No. 1 Fantasy C.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, who missed the last two games with a strained right elbow, picked up right where he left off in his return Thursday against the Suns. He equaled a season-high with 26 points and also pulled down 15 rebounds, giving him his fifth double-double in six games. "I got my legs back, and I'm fresh," Bynum said. "As far as the elbow goes, I'm going to continue getting treatment. It hurts a little bit, but it's going to be that way for a little while."
Analysis: Bynum looked healthy and continues to dominate with Pau Gasol sidelined by a hamstring injury. He always had this kind of ability, but he disappeared into the talent around him last year, finishing with numbers more befitting a No. 2 Fantasy center than a No. 1. He's playing like a No. 1 now, though, and is a must-start in all leagues.
News: The Los Angeles Daily News reports that Andrew Bynum joined his teammates for Tuesday's practice, suffered no immediate setbacks and pronounced himself ready to play Thursday against the Phoenix Suns. A strained right elbow no longer was an issue for him.
Analysis: Bynum was injured in the closing seconds of the Lakers' overtime win over the Houston Rockets on Nov. 4. It appears anybody who took a chance on starting him in a weekly league will get rewarded for doing so. When healthy, he is a strong No. 1 Fantasy center and Pau Gasol will remain sidelined for at least one more game.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum, who were both ruled out for Sunday's game against New Orleans, but both players could return for the team's next game Thursday against Phoenix.
Analysis: Gasol, Bynum and the Lakers will have three days of no games following Sunday before they play in their first game of Week 3. The team hopes to have them both back for that game, but the lack of a guarantee makes both still a risky play for Week 3 (Nov. 9-15). Start them at your own risk, though, they do appear to be close. The Lakers have three games in Week 3.
News: Lakers big men Andrew Bynum and Pau Gasol are sitting out Los Angeles' meeting with the Grizzlies. Bynum has a strained right elbow after getting injured late in a victory at Houston on Wednesday, though he doesn't think it's serious.
Analysis: The Lakers' starting center is averaging 20 points and 10.6 rebounds in a strong start to his season. See if he plays on Sunday against New Orleans before making a decision on him for the upcoming scoring period. When healthy, he is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Andrew Bynum underwent an MRI exam Thursday which showed a strained right elbow. He is listed as doubtful for Friday's game against Memphis by the team. DJ Mbenga may start at center in his place with Pau Gasol also out Friday.
Analysis: Bynum was injured in overtime Wednesday against Houston when center Chuck Hayes fouled him hard across the arm. The report adds that his condition was bad enough after the game that he could use only one arm to get dressed, but he was able to lift his right arm a day later, albeit with pain. Bynum will have another chance to suit up Sunday against New Orleans. Otherwise, he would be a big injury risk for Week 3 (Nov. 9-15).
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Andrew Bynum was injured toward the end of Wednesday's overtime game at Houston. Bynum was fouled hard across his right arm while going up for a shot and sustained a sprained elbow with 24.7 seconds left in overtime. He will be re-evaluated Thursday in Los Angeles. "I can't even lift my arm right now," Bynum said after the game. "They just took a shot at me. That's that, I guess. It's not that bad. It just takes a little while to heal up."
Analysis: Bynum is being treated as day to day, but with Pau Gasol not ready to play yet for the Lakers they may need him to play through this injury if it's minor. After the game, the report says that Bynum could use only his left arm to pull a shirt and sweater over his head as he dressed in the locker room. Keep a close eye on this injury over the weekend, but it's not a bad idea to begin to make plans to go without Bynum in Week 3.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum posted a double-double in an overtime win over Houston on Wednesday. Bynum scored 17 points on 6 of 14 shooting and ripped down 17 rebounds. He also blocked three shots and dished out five assists.
Analysis: Bynum posted season highs for boards, assists and blocks on Wednesday and put together his fourth double-double in his last five games. He might just be a No. 1 Fantasy C even when Pau Gasol returns.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had 22 points with 10 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals in Tuesday's overtime win at Oklahoma City. He played just under 49 minutes in the game and shot 10 for 15 from the field. It was Bynum's third double-double in four games.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 20.8 points and 9.0 rebounds through the first four games of the season and while we do think of him as a solid No. 1 center in Fantasy leagues going forward, Fantasy owners should understand that these numbers are coming with Pau Gasol sidelined. Gasol will return soon and Bynum's scoring and rebounds could take a slight dip as a result.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, who missed much of last season with a knee injury and part of this preseason with various bumps and bruises, looked healthy as a horse in the season opener Tuesday against the Clippers, scoring 26 points and pulling down 13 rebounds in 38 minutes.
Analysis: Bynum had a huge preseason, averaging 20.3 points in six games, so he looks primed for his best numbers yet after injuries sidetracked him each of the last two seasons. He's already a good source of rebounds and blocks, so if he can start scoring consistently, he'll quickly jump from a No. 2 center in Fantasy to a No. 1.
News: The Los Angeles Daily News reports that Andrew Bynum said he would be ready to play in the Lakers' regular season opener Tuesday against the Clippers. He said his strained right rotator cuff no longer was troubling him Sunday. Neither was a sore left Achilles' tendon or his tight left hamstring. "Everything's good," he said. "I came in early and got treatment, so everything's good. I'm feeling good. The shoulder, I got over it in a few days. I also had something tender in my hamstring, but I took a couple of days off and it calmed down."
Analysis: It sounds like Bynum will be good to go for the opener and Fantasy owners should feel safe activating him for the upcoming week. Bynum had a big preseason, averaging 20.3 points in six games and is a player who averaged 14.3 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.8 blocks last season. When healthy, he's a very solid Fantasy center who should start in all leagues as a No. 1 option. The problem is keeping him healthy.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum missed Thursday's preseason game against the Nuggets with a strained right rotator cuff. He's day-to-day and could play in the Lakers' final exhibition game against Denver in San Diego on Friday. But Bynum said he will "definitely" be back for the season opener Tuesday against the Clippers.
Analysis: Bynum has had a big preseason, averaging 20.3 points in six games. He probably won't score that many when the Lakers have all their weapons on the court at once, but as long as he's healthy, his rebounds and blocks make him potentially a No. 1 Fantasy center. He's a value pick in the middle rounds.
News:Andrew Bynum overcame a cold-shooting start, scoring 20 points and grabbing 13 rebounds to help the Los Angeles Lakers overcome a 15-point deficit and beat the Clippers 114-108 on Sunday night in preseason action.
Analysis: The good news for Fantasy owners is that Bynum looks 100 percent healthy so far in the preseason. Injuries have been a problem throughout his brief NBA career, but he enters the season as a strong No. 1 center candidate in any Fantasy format.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, who missed more than two months last season with a knee injury, is showing plenty of offensive potential this preseason. He had 24 points and eight rebounds Thursday against the Kings and is averaging 22.3 points in three games.
Analysis: Even more impressive about Bynum's performance Thursday is the fact it came with both Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol in the lineup. He averaged 14.3 points per game last year, but if he can improve that number to go along with his rebounding and shot blocking, he'll be clear No. 1 center in Fantasy. Of course, he'll need to stay healthy as well.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum said his knee is "just not ready" for him to play at 100 percent as the team is into the second round of the playoffs against Houston. Bynum put his health and strength at about "85, 90" percent. He can't quite explode the way he'd like. "Not right now, but it's just part of coming back from injury," he said. "It takes a while." Bynum mentioned during the Utah series and over last week's resting period that he feels more physical therapy would speed the process of helping him find a better rhythm.
Analysis: Bynum might not get back to 100 percent until next season. He remains a tremendous Fantasy option when healthy, but he now has two knee injuries the past two seasons, which is a cause of concern for Fantasy owners. Still, he should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy center heading into next year.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum was out of sorts in Game 3 on Thursday against the Jazz. He ended up playing only seven minutes, getting his fifth foul of the game in the third quarter. He scored only four points on 1-for-2 shooting, grabbing two boards and committing two turnovers. Bynum was questionable for the game with aching knees.
Analysis: Bynum was complaining about his knee brace early on in the game and clearly was not comfortable out there on Thursday. Hopefully he'll turn it around and won't injure himself further during the playoff stretch. He is a top-notch center option when healthy, but knee injuries have certainly hampered his Fantasy stock.
News: The Press Enterprise reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum did not participate in a full practice Wednesday as a result of lingering pain in his right knee, but the Lakers don't expect it to prevent him from playing in Game 3 Thursday of their first-round series against Utah. Bynum revealed after Tuesday's game that he was experiencing discomfort in the same knee he injured in January, though he insisted it was not severe enough to worry about. Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Wednesday that the training staff did not believe it was anything structural, suggesting it could be due to the bulky knee brace Bynum has been wearing since he returned from injury. "I think it's all capable of working out, but he did not work much on the court today at all," Jackson said.
Analysis: Tuesday night's game marked Bynum's sixth game back since suffering a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee against Memphis on Jan. 31. He has struggled a bit offensively against Utah thus far, hampered by foul trouble in Game 1 before scoring all 10 of his points in the first quarter in Game 2. Hopefully for Fantasy owners, Bynum can make it through the playoffs without a setback to his knee. When healthy, Bynum is a No. 1 Fantasy center, but knee problems have derailed his production the past two years.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum scored 22 points in his best effort since returning from injury and the Lakers defeated the Utah Jazz 125-112 on Tuesday night to close the regular season as the third-winningest team in franchise history. They tied the 1986-87 team with their 65th victory, trailing only the 1971-72 team (69) and 1999-00 team (67). Bynum added four rebounds and three assists in his fourth game back after missing 32 games because of a torn right knee ligament. "I'm definitely excited," he said. "I think my adrenaline is going to carry me through the first game."
Analysis: Bynum continues to improve in his comeback and should do fine in the playoffs. This is a good sign that he made a full recovery and, barring a setback in the playoffs, he will enter next season as a No. 1 Fantasy center in all leagues.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum led the Lakers in scoring in Sunday's 92-75 win over the Grizzlies, putting in 18 points. The 7-foot Bynum, who missed 32 games after tearing the medial collateral ligament in his right knee Jan. 31, played 25:03 against the Grizzlies. He went 6-of-10 from the floor and had five rebounds and a blocked shot.
Analysis: The Lakers starting five is pretty intimidating at this point with Gasol, Bynum and Bryant all healthy going into the playoffs. If Bynum can continue playing like this into the playoff run, they will be tough to beat. Bynum is a No. 2 Fantasy option at the moment but will be a high-end option on Draft Day 2009.
News: The Lakers added a big component to their lineup before the playoffs, activating center Andrew Bynum for Thursday night's game against the Nuggets. Bynum returned for the first time since he tore the medial collateral ligament in his right knee Jan. 31 and the team welcomed the center back in a 116-102 win. Bynum, who started in place of Lamar Odom, didn't shy away from contact and bumped up against Denver's bigs throughout. It took him a while to get comfy in his first start, though, and he was 0-for-2 in the first quarter while losing the ball twice. He scored nine points in the third quarter and showed flashes of his old self when finishing shots, and wound up 7-for-11 from the field. Bynum's final line was 16 points, seven rebounds and one assist in 21 minutes.
Analysis: Coach Phil Jackson wants to see how Bynum and Pau Gasol work together before the playoffs. "They played really well together before. A big part is getting them both on the court together," Jackson said. Bynum was averaging 14 points and 8.2 rebounds before going down with the injury. The Lakers will likely limit Bynum's minutes in the final games to keep him fresh for the playoff run. Bynum can at best be considered a No. 2 center option now that he's back, but he should be a high-end option on Draft Day 2009.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum (knee) is expected to return to the lineup for the first time in 32 games Thursday night against Denver, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Analysis: Bynum likely will be limited and eased back into the team's rotation. He is not likely to play more than five minutes or so at a time and probably won't be playing more than 15 minutes at least for the first few games. The Lakers have everything wrapped up as the top seed in the West and will only be looking to get Bynum healthy for the playoffs. If you pick him up hoping for the 14.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.9 blocks he'd been averaging prior to getting hurt, you are due for a letdown.
News: The Orange County Register reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum will return Sunday against Memphis. That will give him two games before the end of the regular season. Bynum suffered a torn medial collateral ligament of the right knee Jan. 31 against the Grizzlies. After an absence of 31 games, Bynum is close to being ready to play again. His first game back will be the Lakers' second-to-the-last regular-season game. Bynum's teammates are relishing his anticipated return. "The biggest challenge will be for him individually in getting back within a team frameworkand a group situation," guard Derek Fisher said. "When you're out with an injury for a long time, you've done a ton of individual work. And then all of a sudden you find yourself back as part of a group, and you have to make that adjustment. So for us, as a team, I don't think we'll have to make any major adjustments and I think that's a benefit from the system that we run."
Analysis: This is great news for Lakers' fans, but it doesn't help Fantasy owners much. He might good for one game in the final scoring period next week, and owners in daily leagues might want to use Bynum on Sunday, but don't expect much as he tries to work his way back into form. At best, consider Bynum a No. 2 Fantasy center.
News: Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Sunday that there's an "outside chance" Andrew Bynum could return to the team's lineup this week. Bynum has been out since tearing a right knee ligament on Jan. 31 at Memphis. The third-year center has been working out and will do so again Monday, but Jackson said that Bynum won't travel with the team to Sacramento for its game Tuesday. "There's an outside chance he'll be activated by week's end," Jackson said before the Lakers played the Clippers on Sunday night. "He looks good; physically, he's strong." Bynum had contact in a 5-on-5 practice Saturday without starters Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol and Derek Fisher. "He stood out and was aggressive," Jackson said. "He was kind of a dominant force in there."
Analysis: This is excellent news for the Lakers but only marginally good news for Fantasy owners. There is still a lot of uncertainty here with Bynum's return so he'll still likely do his own team much more good than his Fantasy owners' teams. He's likely to return in a limited capacity, at least at first, and is surely still not advisable to start in Fantasy in Week 24 (April 6-12).
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum, who has missed 29 games recovering from a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee, said he was hopeful that he could play in the last two regular-season games, projecting the Memphis game April 12 as his first one. "I can't project," coach Phil Jackson said Thursday, "but there is a chance that he could play in a game before the season is over." Jackson watched Bynum play three-on-three and noted some progress. "He's got some hop in his legs," Jackson said. "He looked to block shots -- those type of things that you look for, reactive things and recovery things, both going up quickly and not thinking about it and coming down and containing his body balance and his strength."
Analysis: Bynum averaged 17.9 points on 58.8 percent shooting, 8.3 rebounds and 2.0 blocks in 31.4 minutes in 15 games in January before he was injured. Bynum will do more at practice Saturday, but as far as playing in five-on-five competition, Jackson said that might be "delayed" until next week. It sounds like you might have Bynum for the final scoring period, but that will be a risky play. The safe option is to ignore Bynum in all leagues for this year and hope he can return at 100 percent next season.
News: The Los Angeles Daily News reports that Lakers C Andrew Bynum is expected to participate in workouts with the team Thursday. Bynum has been playing in 2-on-2 and 3-on-3 games at home in Southern California while the team has been on its seven-game, cross-country trip. "We're hopeful that Andrew will be able to come back and play a game or two before the (regular) season is over," coach Phil Jackson said.
Analysis: As Bynum expressed confidence on his Web site this week that he'll return before the end of the season, coach Phil Jackson defended his center over pictures that have peppered the Internet showing Bynum at the Playboy Mansion last weekend posing with a girl on his shoulders. Bynum will likely be limited in his "game or two", so Fantasy owners should not be thinking about activating him at such a critical juncture of the Fantasy season.
News: In a question-and-answer session on Bynum's Web site Tuesday, he vowed to be back soon. "Yes, I am going to make a return this season," Bynum said. "I'm already doing strength and conditioning as well as playing 2 on 2 and 3 on 3, while waiting on the team to return."
Analysis: As Bynum expressed confidence on his Web site this week that he'll return before the end of the season, coach Phil Jackson defended his center over pictures that have peppered the Internet showing Bynum at the Playboy Mansion last weekend posing with a girl on his shoulders. Bynum could return for the playoffs, but Fantasy owners should not expect him to be back in time to help out in Fantasy playoffs. He is only worth owning in keeper leagues right now.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, who has been out since Jan. 31 with a torn ligament in his right knee, can run and do some basketball drills, but coach Phil Jackson said Thursday he's not close to even practicing with the team.
Analysis: It's safe to release Bynum in all leagues except keeper formats. He's not going to help your Fantasy team at any point this season because even when he does return there will be plenty of rust from the long layoff. Hopefully he can come back next season and be at 100 percent.
News: The L.A. Daily News reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum said Wednesday that he plans to begin basketball-related activities Friday, the next step in his recovery from a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee. "I'm going to increase my lateral movement come Friday and I'm going to try to get back on the court and do a little bit of drills on Friday as well," Bynum said during an interview with John Ireland and Steve Mason of radio station KSPN.
Analysis: The report adds that Bynum said his participation in a full practice with his teammates is still a few weeks away, and he remains hopeful of playing in an undetermined number of regular-season games next month. "As far as when I'm coming back, it'll be as soon as I'm ready, man," Bynum said. "It will definitely be some time in the middle of April." That would make him virtually useless in Fantasy play for the rest of this season considering the regular season ends on April 14 for the Lakers.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Andrew Bynum says he will be back this season. The Lakers center is feeling optimistic entering his seventh week since sustaining a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee Jan. 31. "It's been a good six weeks," he said Sunday afternoon. "I'm running on the treadmill, no pain, every day. I just hope that the lateral movement gets a little better in the next couple of weeks. That's what the doctor told me." Bynum said this wouldn't be a repeat of last season, when he went down with an injury to his other knee and never returned. "I'll definitely be back this season," he said."
Analysis: Bynum added that there is no concrete timetable for his return. "I went to get on the court and see what happens if I start trying to do some moves and things like that," Bynum said. "I don't have a [specific] date. I just know in a couple of weeks, hopefully, I'll be able to participate with the team a little bit more in practice, and a week after that, I should be back in game shape." That would put him out through at least the end of March and likely at least a week or two into April. Fantasy owners should no longer be expecting him to make any kind of contribution for Fantasy this season. He should really only be owned in keeper leagues at this point.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Lakers center Andrew Bynum will return between March 30 and April 27, within the original eight-to-12 week forecast released by the team after Bynum suffered a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee. "It feels fine, very little pain," Bynum said Thursday. "The swelling's all the way down. I'm optimistic. I just hope it keeps going the way it's going now." The paper also reports that with the way Lamar Odom and Pau Gasol have been playing down low, Bynum is almost a certainty to come off the bench when he returns.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 14 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.9 blocked shots in 29.1 minutes a game. Keep an eye on his progress and hope he can return in time and provide enough support that he can still be a useful Fantasy option in the playoffs.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum, out since Jan. 31 after he tore a ligament in his right knee, has been riding a bike and working out on an exercise machine the last several days. Bynum still is expected to be out another 4.5 to 8.5 weeks.
Analysis: Continue to monitor Bynum's progress and hope he can return soon. The Lakers will likely give Bynum plenty of time to heal to make sure he's 100 percent for the playoffs. That's not good news for Fantasy owners, but be patient in case he returns in time to help you with the Fantasy playoffs.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, out since Jan. 31 with a torn MCL, has done some shooting while rehabbing his right knee. "He's doing pretty well," coach Phil Jackson said Tuesday, declining to speculate on a return date for Bynum.
Analysis: Continue to monitor Bynum's progress and hope he can return soon. The Lakers will likely give Bynum plenty of time to heal to make sure he's 100 percent for the playoffs. That's not good news for Fantasy owners, but be patient in case he returns in time to help you with the Fantasy playoffs.
News: The Orange County Register reports that Lakers C Andrew Bynum (knee) won't start running – not even on weight resistance machines – until doctors give him a clean bill of health on the injury that the player described as a "medium to high level" tear of the MCL. Until then, Bynum's day consists of icing, laser treatments and range of motion exercises 3-5 times a day.
Analysis: Team trainer Sean Zarzana is sticking with the original assessment that Bynum will be out for 8-12 weeks. He will be out at least until the end of March, and it could take some time for him to get into shape when he does come back. For now, keep Bynum reserved and hope he can return sooner than expected.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports Lakers center Andrew Bynum appeared at practice Monday and gave coach Phil Jackson an update on his injury. Bynum suffered a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee Jan. 31 against Memphis and is out eight to 12 weeks. Jackson said Bynum informed him that he had flexibility in the knee and he showed off a brace he was wearing. "He said the swelling is minimum right now that he has," Jackson said. "He's walking without aid. So he feels pretty good about what he's doing. We know that this first two weeks is going to be kind of sketchy. As he starts healing, things will start changing a little bit."
Analysis: Bynum will be out at least until the end of March, and it could take some time for him to get into shape when he does come back. For now, keep Bynum reserved and hope he can return sooner than expected.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum will miss eight to 12 weeks after tearing the medial collateral ligament in his right knee. Bynum was hurt in the first quarter of Saturday night's win at Memphis. Kobe Bryant drove to the basket, missed the shot and crashed into Bynum's right leg. Bynum immediately grabbed his knee. Bynum is the Lakers' third-leading scorer and second-leading rebounder, averaging 14.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.9 blocks.
Analysis: The 7-0, 285-pound Bynum's injury brought back bad memories of last season for the Lakers. He went down in mid-January and was expected to be sidelined 8 to 12 weeks after bruising a bone in his knee and briefly dislocating his kneecap. Instead, he missed the final 46 games of the season, as the Lakers lost in the NBA finals. He underwent arthroscopic surgery May 21 to remove cartilage debris and smooth some rough spots on the underside of his kneecap. The injury came as Bynum seemed to be taking a major step forward in his fourth NBA season. In the five games before he was hurt, he was averaging 26.2 points, 13.8 rebounds and 3.2 blocks and shooting 65.3 percent from the field. For now, keep Bynum reserved and hope he can return sooner than expected.
News: The Los Angeles Lakers are still awaiting word on the severity of Andrew Bynum's right knee injury. The center visited the doctor Monday afternoon as the team prepared to play at the Knicks later Monday. He underwent an MRI on Sunday. Bynum was hurt in the first quarter of Saturday night's win at Memphis. Kobe Bryant drove to the basket, missed the shot and crashed into Bynum's right leg. Bynum immediately grabbed his knee. Bynum averages 14.0 points and 8.2 rebounds. He missed the final 46 games of last season with a left knee injury, and the Lakers lost in the NBA finals.
Analysis: Continue to monitor Bynum's status, but for now plan on being without him for the upcoming scoring period. When healthy, Bynum is a No. 1 Fantasy center in all formats.
News: The Lakers won't know the severity of C Andrew Bynum's right knee injury until Monday. Bynum underwent an MRI on Sunday, but spokesman John Black said the team wouldn't have the results until the next day. Bynum was hurt in the first quarter of Saturday night's win at Memphis. Kobe Bryant drove to the basket, missed the shot and crashed into Bynum's right leg. Bynum immediately grabbed his knee. "Everybody's just upset for him and disappointed for him," Bryant said before practice Sunday as the Lakers prepared to play at the Knicks on Monday night. "But hopefully everything will be OK. We're all optimistic about it."
Analysis: Bynum's injury brought back bad memories of last season for the Lakers. He went down in mid-January with a bruised bone in his knee and missed the rest of the season. Bynum is the Lakers' third-leading scorer and second-leading rebounder this season, averaging 14.0 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.9 blocks. He's an obvious must-start in Fantasy when healthy, but he looks like too much of a risk to start at this point.
News: The Orange County Register reports that the extent of the damage caused to Andrew Bynum's right knee Saturday night in Memphis will not be fully known until the results of an MRI are revealed. He is scheduled to undergo an MRI Sunday in New York. Former Grizzlies forward Pau Gasol had an opportunity to talk privately with the Grizzlies' doctors whom he knows. They examined Bynum and believed he likely averted major damage, telling Gasol: "It's probably nothing too serious."
Analysis: Gasol added that the doctors seemed pretty optimistic. However, judging by the amount of pain Bynum appeared to be in on the ground, it is very likely that he will need to miss at least a few games and possibly longer. Fantasy owners should keep him reserved in the upcoming scoring period and hope for as quick a recovery as possible. He has emerged as an elite No. 1 Fantasy center this season.
News: Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum left the game against the Memphis Grizzlies in the first quarter Saturday night with a sprained right knee. Lakers officials said X-rays were negative and further tests will be done Sunday in New York. The Lakers play the Knicks on Monday night. The injury occurred at about the 7-minute mark of the first quarter under the Lakers' basket. Kobe Bryant was drove to the basket, missed the shot and crashed into Bynum's right leg. Bynum immediately grabbed his knee. The two were on the ground under their basket as the Grizzlies went to the other end. After Los Angeles gained possession, they called time out. Bynum was helped to the locker room with Los Angeles leading 13-11.
Analysis: This is a horrible time for Bynum to get injured. He's been playing so well of late with 19 points, 11 rebounds and three blocks per game over his last five. He's a must-start across the and is breaking out for the Lakers so check back Sunday to find out how badly he's injured. He could be a major injury risk for Week 15 (Feb. 2-8) or longer so check back.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Andrew Bynum will not be suspended for the foul that sent Gerald Wallace to the hospital Tuesday night. The league upgraded the classification of the foul, but chose against suspending the Lakers' center.
Analysis: That is great news for Fantasy owners as Bynum dodged a big bullet. Bynum's hip check on Wallace was so hard that it broke one of his ribs and collapsed one of his lungs. As far as Bynum's Fantasy value is concerned, he is producing at the level of an elite No. 1 center right now, so it is good that his surge will not be halted by a suspension. He is averaging 23.6 points and 12.0 rebounds over his last five games.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum had his fourth-straight double-double Tuesday against Charlotte with 24 points and 14 rebounds. He also added one assist and six blocked shots. Bynum is now averaging 23.6 points, 12 rebounds and 3.2 blocks in his past five games.
Analysis: Bynum is becoming the No. 1 center in Fantasy leagues with his recent play. Hopefully it can continue for the rest of the season and Bynum can remain on his double-double streak for a while.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum has taken a big step backward since his 42 points and 15 rebounds against the Clippers three games ago. Of course, with 15 points and 11 boards on Sunday in a win over San Antonio and three straight double-doubles, that step back still makes him a great Fantasy play right now.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 22 points, 10 boards and two blocks per game over his last five contests and he's shooting almost 60 percent from the field. Hopefully for Fantasy owners, Bynum can continue this type of production for the rest of the season. He has emerged as a No. 1 Fantasy option based off this recent stretch and shows what he's capable when he's on top of his game.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum is the first to acknowledge that his two best games of the season came against two of the worst teams in the NBA. It's all about gaining confidence and strengthening his resolve for the postseason so that the 7-foot center can be a dynamic force for the Los Angeles Lakers -- something they decidedly lacked last year in the NBA Finals after he underwent season-ending knee surgery last January. Bynum had 23 points and 14 rebounds Thursday night in a 117-97 rout of the Washington Wizards, only 24 hours after he recorded a career-high 42 points and 15 boards against the Clippers. "I'm happy for him. If Andrew can continue to have that type of presence in the middle -- no matter who the other team is -- we're going to be a much better team," Lakers point guard Derek Fisher said. "He seems to just be getting more comfortable on the court, physically. He came into the season off a serious knee surgery and really hadn't played basketball since last January."
Analysis: Hopefully for Fantasy owners, Bynum can continue this type of production for the rest of the season. He has emerged as a No. 1 Fantasy option based off this recent stretch and shows what he's capable when he's on top of his game.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum wore a broad grin as he sat in front of his locker. Little wonder, because he had just finished playing the game of his life. Bynum scored a career-high 42 points and added 15 rebounds, and the Los Angeles Lakers beat the Clippers 108-97 Wednesday night. Bynum became the first Lakers player to reach 40 points other than Kobe Bryant since Shaquille O'Neal scored 48 against Boston on March 21, 2003. Bynum shot 17-of-24 from the floor and 8-of-11 from the foul line, and added 15 rebounds and four blocked shots. Bynum surpassed his previous career high of 28 points. Bynum shot 11-of-14 for 25 points and had 10 rebounds in the first half, which ended with the Lakers on top by just three points despite shooting 50 percent and committing only five turnovers.
Analysis: Now this is the type of production you hope for from Bynum on a nightly basis. While he's not going to score 40-plus points every game, he is capable of averaging 20 and 10. Bynum has reached double figures in points in his past eight games, but this was his first game with double figures in rebounds in his past seven outings. He remains a must-start Fantasy center, and hopefully this production will continue.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 18 points and had grabbed three rebounds in a 112-111 loss to the Spurs on Wednesday. Bynim has averaged 18.2 points over his last five games which is a vast improvement over 12.5 points per game average for the season.
Analysis: Bynum's recent scoring surge is a bonus for Fantasy owners who mostly rely on him for blocks and rebounds. He remains a No. 1 or 2 center and should be starting in most leagues.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, limited to less than 10 points in four of his previous five games, broke out with 18 points -- his most since Dec. 5 -- and 11 rebounds Wednesday at Golden State. He also had two blocks.
Analysis: Bynum averages less than a dozen points per game, so you mostly rely on him for blocks, rebounds and field-goal percentage. He's at least a No. 2 Fantasy center and, in some formats, a No. 1.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum continued his free fall in the scoring department on Sunday in a win over the Trail Blazers. Bynum played 35 minutes and managed just four points on 1-of-4 shooting. He did grab 10 boards and block a shot.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging just 9.4 points per game in his last five with 7.2 boards and two blocks. All those numbers are well below his averages for the season and those continue to decline as he's played poorly now since the middle of December after starting the year off hot. He's still worth using in most Fantasy leagues because of upside and the fact that he's a good source of boards and blocks but owners need Bynum to go back to the guy he was over the season's first month.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had nine points and seven rebounds in Thursday's game against Boston. He added two blocks and is averaging just 8.4 points and 5.0 rebounds over his last five games.
Analysis: Bynum has hit the skids a little bit over the last few games, but it is not something to be alarmed about if you own him in Fantasy. He is averaging two fewer rebounds in December than he did in November, but his scoring average is just about the same at 12 per game. Fantasy owners should expect him to get back to around 12 points and 10 boards real soon.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum played just 12 minutes in Saturday's loss to Orlando because of foul trouble and scored three points with one board. He was 1-of-4 from the field.
Analysis: Bynum is only averaging 8.4 points and 7.4 boards over his last five games despite being at 12.7 and 8.9 on the year. He's definitely hitting a bit of a wall right now as Christmas nears but he remains a Top 10 Fantasy center for the time being.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had 14 points and nine rebounds in Sunday's game against the Timberwolves. He is averaging 14.4 points and 8.8 rebounds in December.
Analysis: Bynum is also averaging 1.4 blocks and 1.8 assists over that span. He is fitting in just fine alongside Pau Gasol and is a top-10 Fantasy center. Continue to treat him as such as long as he remains healthy.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had 17 points with 11 rebounds in Wednesday's game against Phoenix, his third double-double in his last four games. He is averaging 15.2 points and 8.4 rebounds over his last five games.
Analysis: Bynum is also averaging 1.6 blocks and 2.0 assists over that span. He is fitting in just fine alongside Pau Gasol and is a top-10 Fantasy center. Continue to treat him as such as long as he remains healthy.
News: The Lakers bested the 76ers 114-102 on Wednesday night as Los Angeles center Andrew Bynum scored 18 points and added three rebounds. Bynum shot 7-for-11 from the floor and added four assists.
Analysis: Bynum has been Mr. Consistency over the past four games for the Lakers. He's scored 18, 18, 17 and 18 points in those games and pulled down 10, 10, 9 and 3 rebounds. Bynum has earned the label of a No. 2 Fantasy center worthy of starting in all Fantasy leagues with his play right now.
News:Andrew Bynum, playing on a sore right foot, had 18 points and 10 rebounds to help end Dallas' five-game winning streak during the Lakers 114-107 win Friday. Bynum also had three assists while playing 36 minutes. It was his third double-double in four games.
Analysis: Bynum has a bone spur in his right foot. An MRI exam and a CT scan showed that a small bone spur had chipped off Bynum's foot, resulting in pain and inflammation. By Friday's numbers you couldn't tell he was bothered by the injury. However, it will be interesting to see how his foot responds then next day. For now, it appears safe to keep Bynum active in Fantasy leagues, but continue to keep tabs on his progress leading up to Week 6 (Dec. 1-7).
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Lakers C Andrew Bynum has a bone spur in his right foot. He is questionable for Friday's game against Dallas and is currently considered day-to-day. An MRI exam and a CT scan showed that a small bone spur had chipped off Bynum's foot, resulting in pain and inflammation.
Analysis: The Lakers will update the 7-footer's status before tonight's game, so we should have a better idea about the length of recovery soon. As it stands, Fantasy owners should at least to begin to prepare for not having Bynum in the upcoming scoring period.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 10 points to help L.A. win in Phoenix on Thursday night. Bynum added seven rebounds and blocked a shot for the Lakers.
Analysis: Bynum has been averaging 12.5 points and 8.3 boards over his last four contests with just over two blocks. As expected, his numbers are down from where he left off last season when he got injured, but he's capable of averaging a double-double this season.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Andrew Bynum continues to wear a brace over the left knee he injured last January. Bynum scored eight points with nine rebounds, four assists and three blocks Friday against Detroit.
Analysis: Bynum's knee does not appear to be a major issue, but it is something to keep monitoring. Bynum is averaging 11 points and 10 rebounds over his last five games and is fitting in well alongside Pau Gasol. As expected, his numbers are down from where he left off last season when he got injured, but he's capable of averaging a double-double this season.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 14 points and grabbed eight rebounds with four blocks on Wednesday in a win over the Hornets. Bynum shot 6-of-10 from the floor.
Analysis: Bynum has improved his scoring over the past few games with double-digits in three straight. He's adding about nine rebounds per game and is getting a great amount of blocks. He's definitely worth starting in all Fantasy leagues but he should also get better as the season goes on.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum was able to overcome a shoulder injury and start on Wednesday against the Clippers. Bynum played 33 minutes and scored eight points. He added 17 rebounds and four blocks.
Analysis: Bynum still needs to pick up his scoring average but the 17 rebounds Wednesday shows his upside. This guy can be an absolute beast inside for the Lakers and should be a low-end No. 1 Fantasy C worthy of starting in all leagues.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Andrew Bynum suffered strained right rotator cuff in practice Monday, but he is expected to play Wednesday against the Clippers. "It's all right, it's just a little tight," Bynum said. "I put some ice on it and I'll have some treatment (Tuesday) to strengthen it up."
Analysis: Lakers coach Phil Jackson didn't seem all that concerned about Bynum. He said he believed Bynum would return to practice Tuesday without fail. Jackson also wasn't too worried about Bynum's foul-plagued performance in the Lakers' victory Saturday against the Denver Nuggets. Bynum had four points and eight rebounds. He missed his only field-goal attempt. He will take some time to return to form and adjust to playing with Pau Gasol, but consider Bynum a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center in all scoring formats while healthy.
News: The Lakers are the only NBA team to have just two games in Fantasy Week 2 (Nov. 3-9), making their players tough starts in Fantasy leagues with cumulative scoring. Center Andrew Bynum totaled just 16 points in two games in Week 1 (Oct. 27-Nov. 2).
Analysis: Bynum did have 17 rebounds, four blocks and three steals while playing around 25 minutes in each of the two games. But the presence of Pau Gasol and the fact that he'll play just two games makes him someone to at least consider replacing in Week 2. If there is an option on the waiver wire or your bench that can beat around 20 points and 20 rebounds with a few blocks and steals, that's the better play.
News: The Lakers signed Andrew Bynum to a contract extension Thursday, removing the possibility the 21-year-old center would become an unrestricted free agent next summer. "Andrew has shown a vast array of skills for a player his size and if he continues to stay dedicated and work hard to improve, he has an excellent chance to develop into one of the top players in the NBA," Lakers general manager Mitch Kupchak said in a statement. Bynum had 12 points, nine rebounds and three blocks Wednesday in a game at the Clippers.
Analysis: Bynum, a 7-foot, 285-pounder, established himself as one of the NBA's up-and-coming big men last season before having season-ending knee surgery Jan. 13. He averaged 13.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.06 blocked shots in 35 games, 25 of them starts. Bynum hasn't had monster numbers so far this season, but since the Lakers blasted their way through their first two opponents, they likely haven't needed so much from him. Keep him active in all leagues.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum played 25 minutes against the Clippers on Wednesday and scored 12 points. Bynum had a much better game against the other L.A. franchise than he did against Portland in the opener as he returns from last season's knee injury. He added nine rebounds and three blocks on Wednesday.
Analysis: Bynum managed just eight points and three rebounds against Portland. The Lakers have blasted away their first two opponents, however, and that could account for his lower numbers to start the year. Bynum has averaged three blocks per game over his first two and remains someone to start in Fantasy at all times as a center.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum played his first regular-season game since injuring his knee last year and finished with eight points, three rebounds, one assist and three blocks in 28 minutes against Portland. He was limited due to five fouls.
Analysis: Bynum averaged 13.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.1 blocks and shot a league-best 63.6 percent from the floor in 35 games before injuring his knee last January. He will take some time to return to form and adjust to playing with Pau Gasol, but consider Bynum a low-end No. 1 Fantasy center in all scoring formats.
News: The Lakers will face a tough Portland team to begin the season, but will take on a Clippers team that may be without its best two defensive players in Baron Davis and Marcus Camby and a Denver team that allowed the second most points in the NBA last season.
Analysis: That's great news for Kobe Bryant, who will be in the starting lineup to begin the season despite a lingering pinkie injury and a hyper-extended knee suffered in the preseason. Week 1 will give Fantasy owners their first real look at the dynamics of a front court consisting of Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum. Both are must starts until proven otherwise. The likely absence of Camby certainly helps matters for Week 1. Lamar Odom says he feels comfortable in his new role as the team's sixth man off the bench and the fact he'll get to be top dog with the second unit rather than play third fiddle with the ones should help. He remains a good start. Vladimir Radmanovic will get the starts for now at small forward, but most of the minutes will go to Odom there. Radmanovic is not yet a recommended Fantasy starter. Derek Fisher should serve as a viable No. 4 Fantasy guard in larger leagues due to the favorable matchups this week. Fringe players like Jordan Farmar, Sasha Vujacic, Luke Walton, Josh Powell, Sun Yue and Trevor Ariza should be reserved in Fantasy leagues until further notice.
News: Because of Pau Gasol joining the Lakers last season, center Andrew Bynum may be relegated to a reserve role instead of starting at center this season. "It has been mentioned," Lakers consultant Tex Winter said of the coaching staff's internal discussions. "We played pretty well last year without him." The slow start of the big boys was driven home by the decision not to start Bynum on Tuesday night in the Lakers' exhibition loss to Utah at Honda Center. Gasol started at center - which was a surprise to him during this intense power-forward tutorial. Bynum viewed it as Jackson just trying to push for more from him. "I think it has gone well," Bynum said. "I think he's trying to motivate people. I think I'm fine." Asked directly how much he wants Gasol to play center again this season, Jackson said: "It depends upon how well they work together."
Analysis: It sounds to us like Bynum may still start at center this season afterall. This could be a ploy by the Lakers to get the youngster to play harder and get more comfortable playing next to Gasol. He didn't start the preseason opener against the Jazz on Tuesday night but he did play very well over 24 minutes of action. Bynum tied for the team lead in points with 15 on 6-of-11 shooting. He pulled down eight rebounds, but did commit four turnovers. Bynum looks completely healthy after missing the tail end of last season after bruising a bone in his knee and briefly dislocating of his kneecap in the third quarter of a 100-99 victory over Memphis last Jan. 13. He was in the midst of a breakout season when injured, averaging 13.1 points and 10.1 rebounds. He is eligible for a contract extension that could pay him up to $80 million for five seasons, further driving him for a continuation of his breakout numbers. His injury could make him fall to you in the middle rounds, where he could become a steal as a No. 1 center.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum didn't start the preseason opener against the Jazz on Tuesday night but he did play very well over 24 minutes of action. Bynum tied for the team lead in points with 15 on 6-of-11 shooting. He pulled down eight rebounds, but did commit four turnovers.
Analysis: Bynum looks completely healthy after missing the tail end of last season after bruising a bone in his knee and briefly dislocating of his kneecap in the third quarter of a 100-99 victory over Memphis last Jan. 13. He was in the midst of a breakout season when injured, averaging 13.1 points and 10.1 rebounds. He is eligible for a contract extension that could pay him up to $80 million for five seasons, further driving him for a continuation of his breakout numbers. His injury could make him fall to you in the middle rounds, where he could become a steal as a No. 1 center.
News: Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum proclaimed himself completely healthy Friday, saying he expects to be better than ever when training camp begins Sept. 30. "I'm doing well, man," the 7-footer said during a news conference at the Lakers' practice facility. "The knee's good. Everything's ready to go, 100 percent. I've been training, getting stronger."
Analysis: The 20-year-old Bynum was expected to be sidelined 8 to 12 weeks after bruising a bone in his knee and briefly dislocating of his kneecap in the third quarter of a 100-99 victory over Memphis last Jan. 13. Instead, he was sidelined for the rest of the season, and underwent arthroscopic surgery May 21 to remove some cartilage debris and smooth some rough spots on the underside of his kneecap. He was in the midst of a breakout season when injured, averaging 13.1 points and 10.1 rebounds. He is eligible for a contract extension that could pay him up to $80 million for five seasons, further driving him for a continuation of his breakout numbers. His injury could make him fall to you in the middle rounds, where he could become a steal as a No. 1 center.
News: Center Andrew Bynum underwent arthroscopic knee surgery Wednesday in New York, and the Los Angeles Lakers said they expect him to make a full recovery by the start of training camp next fall. The 30-minute procedure, performed by Dr. David Altchek, consisted of removing some cartilage debris and smoothing some rough spots on the underside of Bynum's left kneecap, the team said.
Analysis: Bynum had the operation on the same day the Lakers opened the Western Conference finals against the San Antonio Spurs at Staples Center. He hasn't played since suffering a bone bruise in his knee and a subluxation of the kneecap - a brief dislocation that popped back into place - in the third quarter of a 100-99 victory over Memphis on Jan. 13. He was having a breakout season, averaging 13.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.1 blocked shots in 35 games. The Lakers estimated a day after the 20-year-old center was injured that he'd be sidelined eight to 12 weeks. But coach Phil Jackson said April 21 that a return this season was remote, and Bynum said much the same thing shortly thereafter. The talented young pivot seemed destined to become an elite No. 1 Fantasy center before going down with his knee injury.
News: Los Angeles Lakers center Andrew Bynum might undergo exploratory arthroscopic surgery on his injured left knee if there is no significant improvement in the next three to four weeks. Lakers spokesman John Black said Bynum was examined Wednesday by Dr. Steven Gecha in Princeton, N.J. Black said the team was told there had been some improvement in the 20-year-old center's knee, but Gecha's recommendation was exploratory surgery if there wasn't more in the upcoming weeks. "That's why the doctor said, `Let's wait three weeks,"' head coach Phil Jackson said before the Lakers faced the Utah Jazz in Game 2 of their Western Conference semifinal series Wednesday night. "It's still touch and go. We'll address this more later." Bynum hasn't played since injuring his knee Jan. 13 in the third quarter of a 100-99 victory over Memphis at Staples Center.
Analysis: Bynum averaged 13.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.1 blocked shots in 35 games this season before getting hurt. The Lakers estimated the day after Bynum was injured that he would be sidelined 8-to-12 weeks. But Jackson said on April 21 that a return this season was remote, and Bynum said much the same thing last week. A knee specialist examined Bynum in New York on April 10 and declined to clear him for practice. He is in a tricky situation this offseason as the Lakers were planning on offering him a long-term extension. Now, he's dealing with what appears to be a pretty serious knee injury that isn't healing as quickly as anticipated. Fantasy owners should keep close tabs on his progress in the offseason as it is now a question mark whether or not he'll be ready for the start of training camp. The talented young pivot seemed destined to become an elite No. 1 Fantasy center before going down with his knee injury.
News: According to the Long Beach Press Telegram, Andrew Bynum (knee) will have another specialist examine his injured knee. A determination on his status for the rest of the season and beyond will be made after Wednesday. "I doubt there's going to be a comeback this year," Bynum said. "I've got to get my knee straight. At this point, I'd have to train for a good month just to be able to go out there and play"
Analysis: Bynum is in a tricky situation this offseason as the Lakers were planning on offering him a long-term extension. Now, he's dealing with what appears to be a pretty serious knee injury that isn't healing as quickly as anticipated. Fantasy owners should keep close tabs on his progress in the offseason as it is now a question mark whether or not he'll be ready for the start of training camp. The talented young pivot seemed destined to become an elite No. 1 Fantasy center before going down with his knee injury.
News: The Lakers have determined that C Andrew Bynum will not play in the first-round playoff series against the Nuggets as he continues to recover from a dislocated left kneecap, according to the Los Angeles Times. "I don't think they've been looking over their shoulder at all for him," coach Phil Jackson said of the rest of the team. "I think they've been encouraging him and are very positive with him about, 'Get back, we're going to need you, we want to see you playing with us,' that type of thing. But I don't think they've been looking over their shoulder."
Analysis: Bynum was having a breakout season when he was injured, averaging 13.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.06 blocked shots in his third year. He was leading the NBA in field goal percentage (63.6 percent) and was among the best in rebounds and blocks. He'll likely be a No. 2 Fantasy center going into next season, but he has the upside to emerge as a No. 1 if he bounces back from injury.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, sidelined since injuring his left knee Jan. 13, said before Friday's game that he doesn't know when he'll return. "I guess I'll just play when I'm ready," he said. A knee specialist who examined Bynum on Wednesday wouldn't clear him for practice. Bynum said he didn't know when he'd be examined again. The playoffs begin next weekend.
Analysis: Bynum was having a breakout season when he was injured, averaging 13.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.06 blocked shots in his third year. He was leading the NBA in field goal percentage (63.6 percent) and was among the best in rebounds and blocks. It appears he won't play in the regular season.
News: Injured Lakers center Andrew Bynum saw a knee specialist in New York and still hasn't been cleared to practice, the team announced Thursday. Bynum has been out since Jan. 13, when he dislocated his left kneecap and bruised a bone landing on a teammate's foot while going for a rebound. No target date has been given for Bynum's return, though he has been widely expected to miss the team's final two regular-season games and return sometime during the playoffs. Coach Phil Jackson said Tuesday there was a chance Bynum might return for a Sunday game against the San Antonio Spurs, but called it a "long shot" and said it depended on his returning to practice by Saturday, which the team had hoped for.
Analysis: Bynum was having a breakout season when he was injured, averaging 13.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.06 blocked shots in his third year. He was leading the NBA in field goal percentage (63.6 percent) and was among the best in rebounds and blocks. It appears now he won't play in the regular season, so keep him reserved in all Fantasy leagues at this time.
News:Andrew Bynum might play Sunday against the San Antonio Spurs, Lakers coach Phil Jackson said Tuesday in the Los Angeles Daily News. "I'm not going to rule it out," Jackson said. "There's a chance. It would have to be under a situation in which he could practice on Saturday in a way that would convince me to play him on Sunday." Bynum has been sidelined since suffering a partially dislocated kneecap in the Lakers' victory Jan. 13 against the Memphis Grizzlies. He joined the team for its trip to Sacramento and Portland, but hasn't participated fully in a practice yet. In addition, Bynum must receive medical clearance before he can play.
Analysis: It appears like you might be able to use Bynum for the final week of the season. Keep an eye on what develops heading into the weekend. If Bynum is able to return he would be considered a No. 2 Fantasy center.
News:Andrew Bynum and Trevor Ariza, two Lakers still on the mend, won't play in any of the final six regular-season games, the team announced Friday.
Analysis: Bynum, sidelined for the last 40 games by an injured left knee, will accompany the team on its two-game road swing so that his progress can be monitored during practice. Fantasy owners thinking they'd be able to start him for the final scoring period can put that to rest.
News: A day after Lakers coach Phil Jackson announced Andrew Bynum wouldn't return from his knee injury until the playoffs, the Lakers head coach backed off from his statement. According to the Los Angeles Times, Jackson said Bynum could now return two weeks from Sunday.
Analysis: That would give Bynum no more than six games in this regular season. That makes his Fantasy appeal very limited, especially when you consider that he will now see a reduced role while regaining his stamina and adjusting to life with Pau Gasol in the low post.
News: The Lakers have finally put a timetable on the return of Andrew Bynum: probably the first round of the playoffs. Bynum has been out since Jan. 13, when he dislocated his left kneecap and bruised a bone landing on a teammate's foot while going for a rebound. The Lakers haven't been more specific about his recovery than saying he would be out for at least eight weeks. But before the Lakers played the Mavericks on Tuesday night, coach Phil Jackson said he's not expecting the 20-year-old center to return until the playoffs begin the weekend of April 18-19. "It's all about swelling, the pounding you take day to day," Jackson said. "He continually battles that. So it could be a couple, three weeks before he's doing some things on the court."
Analysis: Going into the Mavs game, Los Angeles was 20-10 without Bynum, helped by the addition of Pau Gasol. The Lakers would probably rather not wait until the postseason to get them playing together, but it looks like they might not have a choice. In his third year, Bynum is averaging 13.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.06 blocked shots. He was leading the NBA in field goal percentage (63.6 percent) and was among the best in rebounds and blocks when he got hurt. Fantasy owners finally could count on him as a must-start center. Now, it appears as though Fantasy owners won't get another chance to utilize Bynum's skills. Stay tuned, but it is not looking promising.
News: The Los Angeles Times reports that Andrew Bynum (knee) will bout until at least the second week of April.
Analysis: That leaves Bynum with a best-case scenario of five games to play this season. If you are strapped for a roster spot in a seasonal league, you can start thinking about letting him go.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum ran on a treadmill Tuesday for the first time since injuring his left knee two months ago. "He's coming along well. He's progressing," coach Phil Jackson said before Tuesday night's game against the Raptors. "It's not as fast as he'd like to, but we're looking at the big picture here." The Lakers hope the 20-year-old center will return before the playoffs begin the weekend of April 18-19. He has been rehabilitating by running in a swimming pool.
Analysis: Bynum ran for 20 minutes on a new $75,000 treadmill that simulates low gravity situations. A player can run without the pounding he would normally experience on a regular treadmill or on the court, which gives his legs a break. Black said Bynum ran at 60-65 percent of his body weight. Bynum, averaging 13.1 points and 10.2 rebounds, likely won't make much of an impact for the rest of the Fantasy season. For now, keep him reserved in all leagues and hope he can return in time for the Fantasy playoffs.
News: According to the Press Enterprise, Lakers coach Phil Jackson said injured center Andrew Bynum, who has been out about seven weeks with a knee injury, probably will come off the bench when he does return. "Probably, that's the way it's going to have to start, with Andrew going six, eight minutes at a time rather than stepping into a starter's role," Jackson said. Bynum is expected to return in mid-March.
Analysis: Bynum, averaging 13.1 points and 10.2 rebounds, could take time to come back to 100 percent. For now, keep Bynum reserved in all leagues and hope he can return in time for the Fantasy playoffs.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times, Lakers center Andrew Bynum said he hoped to begin running in a swimming pool later this week, the latest step in his rehabilitation from a left knee injury that has sidelined him for more than five weeks. The swelling is out of his knee and he has not had any setbacks in his recovery, although he will not return at the beginning of the timetable established by the Lakers of "at least eight weeks" from the time of the injury. Bynum theoretically would have to be on the practice court next week if he were to return exactly at the eight-week mark of March 10. A return at an unspecified date later in March was more reasonable, a team official said.
Analysis: Bynum, averaging 13.1 points and 10.2 rebounds, said he was eager to play with Pau Gasol and envisioned a scenario in which the two of them feed off each other. "I think we definitely will," Bynum said. "He likes to play outside and likes to shoot mid-range jump shots. We can pass back and forth to each other. We've got a nice 'twin tower' effect going on defense." For now, keep Bynum reserved in all leagues and hope he can return in time for the Fantasy playoffs.
News: Lakers coach Phil Jackson is not counting on Lakers center Andrew Bynum, who has been out with a knee injury for the past month, to return soon. "Andrew is still working hard, but there's progress to be made," said Jackson.
Analysis: With the addition of Pau Gasol, the Lakers can afford to rest their star big man until he is clearly 100 percent. There will be no need to rush him back the way the team is playing, having gone 7-2 since the addition of Gasol.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum, expected to be sidelined until at least the middle of March, expressed both disappointment and optimism in his first interview since injuring his left knee. "It's serious because I'm going to miss two months. At the same time, it's not because it's nothing that's going to affect my future," Bynum said. The 20-year-old Bynum, who leads the NBA in field-goal percentage, was injured early in the third quarter of Sunday night's 100-99 victory over Memphis when he landed on teammate Lamar Odom's left foot while going for a rebound. MRI tests and an examination Monday by team physician Dr. Steve Lombardo revealed Bynum had temporarily dislocated his kneecap and suffered a bone bruise.
Analysis: A third-year pro taken by the Lakers with the 10th overall pick in the 2005 draft, Bynum is averaging 13.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.06 blocked shots, and has made 189 of his 297 field-goal attempts (63.6 percent). He's the league's 11th-leading rebounder and ninth-best shot-blocker. "I can't do anything. It's terrible," Bynum said. "I have to sit on the couch all day. I have to take it one step at a time. I think I'll have about 10 games when I come back. If I can come back before that, it's great. It's going to take me a little bit of time to get into my rhythm." Bynum is expected to miss two months. He is a solid No. 1 Fantasy center when healthy.
News:Andrew Bynum, a big factor in the Los Angeles Lakers' strong start, will be out for at least eight weeks because of an injured left knee. MRI tests and an examination by team physician Dr. Steve Lombardo on Monday revealed Bynum injured his kneecap and suffered a bone bruise. Bynum is expected to make a full recovery, the Lakers said in a press release.
Analysis: Kwame Brown will start in Bynum's place for the time being, but we expect Lamar Odom to benefit most from this injury from a Fantasy standpoint. You'll want to stash Bynum in leagues with generous reserve slots or injury slots as he was enjoying a breakout year prior to the injury. A third-year pro taken by the Lakers with the 10th overall pick in the 2005 draft, Bynum is averaging 13.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 2.06 blocked shots, and has shot 189-for-297 (63.6 percent). He is the NBA's 11th-leading rebounder and ninth-leading shot-blocker.
News: According to broadcast reports, Andrew Bynum will miss at least eight weeks with a kneecap injury. He was helped off the court in the third quarter of Sunday's game against Memphis, but X-rays taken at the arena Sunday night had come out negative.
Analysis: Bynum was slated to undergo an MRI on Monday and obviously the results were not good. Kwame Brown will start in Bynum's place for the time being, but we expect Lamar Odom to benefit most from this injury from a Fantasy standpoint. You'll want to stash Bynum in leagues with generous reserve slots or injury slots as he was enjoying a breakout year prior to the injury.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum needed help off the court with a sprained left knee early in the third quarter of Sunday night's game against the Grizzlies. The 20-year-old Bynum, a key factor in the Lakers' excellent start this season, came down on teammate Lamar Odom's left foot while going for a rebound under the Memphis basket and dropped to the floor in obvious pain, clutching his knee. Lakers spokesman John Black said X-rays of Bynum's knee were negative, but an MRI would be taken Monday and Bynum wouldn't travel to Seattle for that night's game against the SuperSonics. Kwame Brown played 26 minutes in his absence.
Analysis: Bynum had 10 points, nine rebounds and three assists, and the Lakers led 66-55 when he was injured. Teammates Brown and Ronny Turiaf carried him to the locker room, and the 7-footer wasn't putting any weight on his left leg as he left the court. He entered the game tied with Golden State's Andris Biedrins for the NBA lead in field goal percentage at 63.4, and was the league's 11th-leading rebounder and ninth-leading shot-blocker. Though normally a must-start in Fantasy, Bynum should take a seat for the upcoming scoring period. The Lakers only play two games, and they've already announced he'll miss one.
News:Andrew Bynum had 25 points and a career-high 17 rebounds to help the Lakers beat the Milwaukee Bucks 110-105 Friday night. He added three blocks and two assists.
Analysis: Bynum continues to enjoy a breakout campaign this season and he's proven the Lakers were right for not trading him last year after all. He's goint to be an elite Fantasy center for years to come.
News:Andrew Bynum added 17 points and the Lakers won their fourth straight game, 109-80 over the New Orleans Hornets on Wednesday night. Bynum finished with nine rebounds and four assists. He has scored in double figures for four straight games and 12 of the last 13 games.
Analysis: Bynum is having his finest season as a pro as he continues to average a double-double. The 20-year-old is really coming into his own as a dominant center in his third season and now we can see why the Lakers drafted him in the first round. He has developed into a No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had 17 points and equaled his season high with 16 rebounds Friday against the 76ers. He now has 16 double-doubles this season.
Analysis: Bynum, in his third NBA season, has averaged a double-double per game this season. He has emerged as a must-start Fantasy center and looks like one of the NBA's biggest breakouts this season. Keep him active.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had a career day against the Suns on Tuesday, scoring a career-high 28 points. He also had 12 rebounds and a season-high four assists.
Analysis: Bynum, in his third NBA season, has now averaged 17.9 points and 11.0 rebounds over his last seven games. He has emerged as a must-start Fantasy center with Kwame Brown sidelined and looks like one of the NBA's biggest breakouts this season. Keep him active.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had 13 points with eight rebounds in Sunday's win at New York, snapping a streak of three straight double-doubles.
Analysis: Bynum has been a good source for double-doubles in what has been a breakout season for him. Continue to start him as at least a No. 2 center, if not a No. 1 at this point.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum recorded his third straight double-double with a season-high 24 points and 11 rebounds Friday at Philadelphia.
Analysis: Bynum has been a good source for double-doubles in what has been a breakout season for him. Continue to start him as at least a No. 2 center, if not a No. 1 at this point.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had 17 points and 11 rebounds in Thursday's loss at the Cavaliers. He shot 6-for-12 from the field and also had two blocks in the game.
Analysis: Bynum has been a good source for double-doubles in what has been a breakout season for him. Continue to start him as at least a No. 2 center, if not a No. 1 at this point.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had 17 points with 16 rebounds in Friday's loss at Golden State. He was 8-for-10 from the field. He's had at least 11 rebounds in three straight games.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging around 10 points and 10 rebounds this season, making him hard to sit as a Fantasy center, especially in leagues that require two of them. See, Kobe? This is why the Lakers were hesitant to trade Bynum for Jason Kidd last year.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum brought down 11 rebounds in back-to-back games in Thursday's win over the Spurs. He scored just six points, though, after scoring a season-high 20 points vs. Golden State in his previous game.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging around 10 points and 10 rebounds this season, making him hard to sit as a Fantasy center, especially in leagues that require two of them.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum returned to the lineup Wednesday against the Nuggets after missing Tuesday's game because of the stomach flu. He played 26 minutes off the bench, contributing two points, two rebounds and three assists.
Analysis: Bynum has nine double-doubles this season and is starting to look like a NBA player. He looked a little bit sluggish Wednesday returning from the minor illness, but should get going soon. He has developed into a solid low-end No. 1 Fantasy center.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum came down with a stomach illness while in Minnesota on Tuesday. He didn't dress for the game against the Timberwolves after spending some time during the day at a Minneapolis hospital to receive IV fluids. "I don't think it's life-threatening," Lakers coach Phil Jackson deadpanned.
Analysis: Bynum has averaged a double-double so far this season, and the 20-year-old has already emerged as a must-start Fantasy option. Considering SG Kobe Bryant went ahead and played while battling the same illness, we don't think Bynum's is Fantasy-threatening -- and we're not deadpanning. Expect him back on the court on Wednesday.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum picked up his ninth double double of the season Thursday vs. Denver. He scored 12 points with 13 rebounds.
Analysis: Bynum is averaging 11.1 ppg and 10.3 rpg, demonstrating some of the reasons why the Lakers were so opposed to trading him for Jason Kidd a season ago. The seven-footer is just 20 years old and has plenty of room to grow as he goes. He's emerged as a must-start Fantasy center.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored a season-high 17 points and pulled down 10 boards for his fifth double-double as L.A. out-gunned the Pacers 134-114 on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Bynum gets his minutes night in and night out, but his scoring impact will always remain minimal while Kobe Bryant is on his team. He remains a low-end No. 2 Fantasy center in all formats, and could move up the rankings if his numbers improve with Kwame Brown (sprained knee) out.
News: Lakers backup C Andrew Bynum is benefiting from the injury to Kwame Brown and is averaging 10.3 points and 10.2 rebounds in six games so far this season.
Analysis: Bynum is very young and obviously has plenty of raw talent, but is nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy center at the moment. He is worth having on your bench, however, as he could continue to see some nice minutes as the season rolls along.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum failed to make a big impact off the bench in the team's opener against the Rockets. That changed Friday against the Suns. Bynum scored 14 points and 13 rebounds in 23 minutes off the pine. He also dished out three assists and blocked one shot.
Analysis: Bynum continues to backup Kwame Brown, but continues to show flashes of serious potential. Remember, he is only 20-years-old and still has a lot of maturing to do. Right now, he is nothing more than a No. 2 Fantasy center, but has the potential to develop into much more.
News: Lakers backup C Andrew Bynum scored four points off the bench in Tuesday's opener vs. Houston. He logged 20 minutes off the bench and aded four boards and two assists. He also chipped in three steals and a block.
Analysis: Bynum is backing up Kwame Brown to start the season, but that could change quickly with Brown being the future of the franchise (considering the fact that the team didn't trade him for Jason Kidd last season and that Kobe Bryant seems closer to leaving every day). Keep Bynum stashed away in most formats. He's better suited for more patient Fantasy owners.
News: The Los Angeles Times is reporting that Lakers C Andrew Bynum enlisted the services of a personal trainer to become "the best Andrew Bynum" he can be. He was educated on nutrition, sleeping habits and overall wellness. His trainer designed a program that makes Bynum "more effective at his position." They worked out four to six hours, six to seven days a week in Atlanta.
Analysis: Bynum played all 82 games last season, averaging 7.8 points on 55.8 percent shooting, 5.9 rebounds and 1.5 blocked shots. Because of injuries to Kwame Brown and Chris Mihm, Bynum started the first 14 games, averaging 8.9 points and 5.9 rebounds. But there was a slow decline in his productivity, and his stamina and work ethic were questioned. He has begun to answer those critics with his dedication to improve and the future Fantasy stud could be in line for a breakout season. He's still a very raw product, though, and Fantasy owners in seasonal leagues should not draft him as a Fantasy starter to enter the season. View him as a No. 3 center with the ability to become a solid No. 2 during the season.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum averaged 7.8 ppg and 5.9 rpg in 82 appearances during the 2006-07 regular season.
Analysis: Bynum, 19, is still developing his game during what are college years for most kids his age. The hype, that has many considering him the next Shaquille O'Neal, has Fantasy owners salivating over him, but his best years are still about two or three seasons away. With that said, Bynum should begin to escalate his production in his third NBA season. He's a must-keep in keeper leagues and a serious sleeper in season leagues.
News: Second-year center Andrew Bynum, 19, has been struggling to break out of an extended slump the second half of the season. Bynum had just six points in 29 minutes Wednesday against the Clippers with starting center Kwame Brown (ankle) out.
Analysis: Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy center at this time. His value still remains highest in keeper formats.
News: The Lakers' Kwame Brown will replace Andrew Bynum at center in Thursday's starting lineup against Denver. Unhappy with Bynum's inconsistency, Jackson had been planning to make the switch for last Sunday's game against the Dallas Mavericks but decided not to reward Brown after he showed up late for the team's shoot around.
Analysis: Brown now has increased value since he's back in the starting lineup. Bynum's value will now be decreased, but continue to watch their minutes and production to see who plays better.
News: Kwame Brown is likely to replace Andrew Bynum as the Lakers' starting center in light of Andrew Bynum's recent malaise. Bynum has scored in double figures just once in his past five games. Brown, meanwhile, has scored in double figures in three straight games.
Analysis: It appears safe to start using Brown as a No. 3 or 4 Fantasy forward. It might be a good idea to keep Bynum reserved for now.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had nine points, 10 rebounds and two assists in a win over the Warriors Sunday. Bynum has not had a double-double since doing it on consecutive nights in early February.
Analysis: Bynum remains the starting center for the Lakers. He went into the All-Star break averaging 8.4 ppg, 6.6 rpg and 1.6 bpg and hopefully his development will continue. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy center at this time.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum will stay in Los Angeles now that Thursday's trade deadline has passed. Bynum was rumored in a deal with New Jersey for guard Jason Kidd, but nothing materialized.
Analysis: Bynum will remain the starting center for the Lakers. He went into the All-Star break averaging 8.4 ppg, 6.6 rpg and 1.6 bpg and hopefully his development will continue. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy center at this time.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum averaged 8.4 ppg, 6.6 rpg and 1.6 bpg heading into the All-Star break.
Analysis: With Kwame Brown still out, the center job is all his for the immediate future. The 19-year-old still has some growing up to do, but is one of the top up-and-comers at the position.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum is dealing with some mild tendinitis in his knees.
Analysis: As long as Bynum continues to play, he should be fine. Consider him a No. 2 Fantasy center.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum had just five points, five rebounds and three assists in a loss to the Pistons Thursday.
Analysis: Bynum was coming off back-to-back double-doubles before Thursday's game. He remains a low-end No. 2 Fantasy center.
News: Lakers center Kwame Brown flew back Wednesday to Los Angeles after seeing a specialist in Indianapolis for a second opinion on his severely sprained left ankle and is expected to be out at least another month, according to the Los Angeles Daily News.
Analysis: The loss of Brown has forced 19-year-old Andrew Bynum into the starting lineup, a spot he will hold for the foreseeable future. At this point, it's hard to see Bynum losing the starting job even upon Brown's return.
News: Lakers center Andrew Bynum had nine points and four rebounds in 23 minutes Tuesday against New York. Bynum was saddled with five fouls, which limited his production.
Analysis: Expect Bynum to bounce back Wednesday against Boston. Consider him a No. 2 center in all formats.
News: Andrew Bynum had career highs in blocks (seven) and rebounds (16) Friday night vs. Charlotte, although one of the blocks appeared to be credited to him when it was really performed by Lamar Odom.
Analysis: That's fine for his Fantasy owners. This is the first huge game for Bynum since a very great stretch at the beginning of the season. Consider Bynum a solid No. 2 Fantasy center at this time, with the ability of being a low-end No. 1 center soon.
News: Lakers G Smush Parker had 13 points against New Orleans on Saturday, snapping a string of single-digit scoring games. He managed only seven points in San Antonio and five points in Dallas on this trip.
Analysis: Bynum will be the Lakers starter for the next month while Kwame Brown is out with a severe ankle injury. Consider Bynum a solid No. 2 Fantasy center at this time, with the capability of being a low-end No. 1 center.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum continued to struggle with foul trouble Wednesday, fouling out in San Antonio on Wednesday with 3:05 left.
Analysis: Bynum will be the Lakers starter for the next month while Brown is out with a severe ankle injury. Consider Bynum a solid No. 2 Fantasy center at this time, with the capability of being a low-end No. 1 center. The foul trouble, however, is one of the reasons he fell out of favor with coach Phil Jackson earlier in the season.
News: Center Andrew Bynum credits some nutritional changes he has made in recent months for his more consistent energy.
Analysis: It looks as though Bynum will be the Lakers starter for the next month while Brown is out with a severe ankle injury. Consider Bynum a solid No. 2 Fantasy center at this time, with the capability of being a low-end No. 1 center.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, in light of Kwame Brown's injury, was put back into the starting lineup instead of Ronny Turiaf after Bynum said publicly he prefers to start. Bynum responded with a 15-point, 11-rebound performance against the Kings on Thursday.
Analysis: It looks as though Bynum will be the Lakers starter for the next month while Brown is out with a severe ankle injury. Consider Bynum as solid No. 2 Fantasy center at this time, with the capability of being a low-end No. 1 center.
News: According to the Los Angeles Daily News, Andrew Bynum practived with the first team again Wednesday. He still hasn't officially been told he is starting, though. He also has gotten the message from the coaching staff about staying out of foul trouble.
Analysis: Bynum said he watched tape of himself picking up fouls by exposing his body and letting guards collide with him while driving the lane. He said he's resolved to stay out of the restricted area and contest shots from a distance. Head coach Phil Jackson grew tired of his ongoing foul trouble and cut the young big man's minutes as a result after a hot start. Now, with Kwame Brown out, the Lakers will have to go to Bynum again in the paint.
News: Lakers C/F Kwame Brown will miss at least the Lakers' next three games with an ankle sprain, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Analysis: That puts him out for the upcoming scoring period and Kwame will have to be reserved in all leagues until further notice. When healthy, he's been a decent No. 2 Fantasy center in leagues of 10-plus teams. Expect Andrew Bynum to get a nice boost in the meantime, but head coach Phil Jackson has not named him the starter just yet.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum scored 13 points in Wednesday's game at Orlando in just over 13 minutes of action off the bench.
Analysis: Bynum is slowly regaining his early season form, but is not yet a recommended Fantasy option. Stash him away in larger formats and keeper leagues.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum, a New Jersey native, scored 10 points off the bench Friday at the Nets.
Analysis: Bynum has been up and down this season, but is currently not a solid Fantasy option. He a ton of upside, though, as he displayed in the first couple of weeks of the season and is worth owning in all keeper leagues and deeper Fantasy leagues.
News: Lakers F/C Kwame Brown had just five points and four rebounds in 30 minutes against Dallas Wednesday and was benched for Andrew Bynum for the last half of the fourth quarter.
Analysis: Brown was starting to become more of a consisent force in the Lakers starting lineup, but this can be considered a step back. We'd avoid starting him outside of leagues with 12-plus leagues. Even then, he should only be considered a No. 2 center or No. 4 forward. Bynum is worth owning in larger formats, but is no longer the solid start he was at the beginning of the season. Reserve him until he can regain a grip on the job.
News: According to the Los Angeles Times, Lakers head coach Phil Jackson said he was unhappy with Bynum's work ethic and his failure to be in uniform and on the court in a timely fashion.
Analysis: Bynum has recently lost his starting job and now it appears has lost the trust of his head coach for the moment. When asked about it before Monday night's victory over the Pacers, Lakers Hall of Fame center Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who has been serving as a personal coach to Bynum, minimized the incident. "I don't think we have a problem," Abdul-Jabbar said. "It was just a misunderstanding on [Bynum's] part. I don't see it as a long-term thing. He wants to play and he is working hard to earn his minutes. I don't think we will be talking about this again." He should be reserved at this point, but is worth keeping in larger leagues for his upside.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum did not start for the first time all season Friday vs. the Jazz. He finished with just six points in 14 minutes of action off the bench.
Analysis: After a terrific start to the season, Bynum's numbers have taken a significant dip in the last two weeks. He's averaging 4.4 ppg and 4.8 rpg over his last five games. He should be reserved at this point, but is worth keeping in larger leagues for his upside.
News: Center Andrew Bynum's double-double on Nov. 7 made him the youngest Laker to post a double-double. Bynum, 19, beat out Magic Johnson (20 years, 75 days).
Analysis: OK. So he's not really better than Magic, but it's a nice statistic. He's averaging 10.5 ppg this season and should be considered a nice No. 2 center in larger leagues. Kwame Brown made his return on Sunday, so we'll have to see how that affects his playint time.
News: Andrew Bynum had 20 points, 14 rebounds and some key plays down the stretch Tuesday night in Los Angeles' 95-88 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. "I had to pinch myself, but it was definitely really cool out there to get a home win in front of our fans and have them cheering for you," Bynum said. "That was the first time they were cheering my name, so that felt pretty good."
Analysis: Bynum, who has been working under the tutelage of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, had his career highs in points and rebounds, and he also blocked three shots -- including swatting away a shot under the basket by Mike James in the final minute. Bynum played 29 minutes and finished 6-of-9 from the field and 8-of-10 from the line, including 3-of-4 in the final 47 seconds as the Lakers held on. Bynum's three blocks matched a career high. His other previous highs were 18 points and nine rebounds in a 114-106 victory over Phoenix on opening night. For now, consider him a decent No. 2 Fantasy center in leagues that require that many.
News: Andrew Bynum (ankle) scored nine points while also bringing down eight rebounds in Friday's win over Seattle.
Analysis: Bynum has gotten off to a nice start, but will have to limit his turnovers (he had five on Friday) if he wants to continue to see regular minutes when Kwame Brown and Chris Mihm return from injury sometime later this month. For now, consider him a decent No. 2 Fantasy center in leagues that require that many.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum (ankle sprain) played on Friday against the Sonics. Through 3 1/2 quarters, he had nine points, seven rebounds and no assists.
Analysis: Bynum has been a trendy addition off the waiver wire, and with good reason. He has played well filling in for Chris Mihm and Kwame Brown. Consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy center for the time being.
News: Lakers C Andrew Bynum sprained his right foot in the first quarter of the opener Tuesday night, but said it was nothing serious. He finished Wednesday's game at Golden State with just five points and four rebounds after scoring 18 points with nine rebounds on Opening Night.
Analysis: The good news is that he doesn't have an injury that would keep him from establishing himself as the starting center while Kwame Brown and Chris Mihm are out with injuries. He's been a trendy addition off the waiver wire, and with good reason.
News: Andrew Bynum made the most of his first-career start in Tuesday's game against Phoenix. He scored 18 points and added nine rebounds in 24 minutes and he chipped in with five assists.
Analysis: Bynum was getting the start with Chris Mihm (ankle) on the inactive list. If he can replicate this start on Wednesday at Golden State, he might be worth a look in Fantasy Week 2 (Nov. 6-12).
News: Lakers centers Kwame Brown (right shoulder) and Chris Mihm (right ankle) and guard Aaron McKie (back) -- won't be ready by opening night against Phoenix Tuesday. Guard Shammond Williams (abdominal strain) is questionable for Tuesday's opener against Phoenix, and forward Vladimir Radmanovic (sprained right hand) is probable.
Analysis: With Brown and Mihm sidelined at least a couple more weeks, the 19-year-old Bynum will start at center against the Suns. Bynum didn't play much as a rookie last year, but looked like a different player during the preseason. "He's made strides - he's not a boy anymore," Jackson said. "I got a little bigger," Bynum said. "The goal is playing time, to earn time and help my team win this year." Bynum really is only someone to consider in larger leagues for the first couple weeks.
News: The Los Angeles Lakers exercised a fourth-year contract option on guard Sasha Vujacic on Friday and a third-year contract option on center Andrew Bynum.
Analysis: Bynum, who turned 19 Friday, was the 10th overall selection in the 2005 draft. He averaged 1.6 points and 1.7 rebounds in 46 games last season, but will likely start the season as the team's starting center thanks to injuries to Chris Mihm and Kwame Brown. Consider him as a potential sleeper this season and is worthy of a flier in deeper leagues.
News: Lakers coach Phil Jackson confirmed that centers Kwame Brown (right shoulder) and Chris Mihm (offseason right ankle surgery) will miss at least the first two weeks of the season, making Andrew Bynum, who turns 18 Friday, the starter.
Analysis: Bynum really is only someone to consider in larger leagues for the first couple weeks.
News: Los Angeles Lakers center Kwame Brown will be sidelined approximately three to four weeks because of a bruised rotator cuff and bursitis in his right shoulder, meaning he'll miss the start of the season. Lakers spokesman John Black said Thursday that Dr. Neal Elattrache, a shoulder specialist, examined Brown a day earlier and made the diagnosis. Brown became the team's starting center after Chris Mihm injured his right ankle March 12. Mihm played only one game after that, and is still recovering from offseason surgery on his ankle. "Chris won't be ready by opening night," Black said. The Lakers open the season Oct. 31 against the Phoenix Suns. With Brown and Mihm both sidelined, possible options at center to start the season are the 18-year-old Bynum, Ronny Turiaf and Brian Cook. Bynum was the team's first-round draft pick last year and Turiaf was the second-round selection. Neither played much as rookies, and Cook is a natural forward. "It's a coaching decision," Black said.
Analysis: Bynum and Turiaf are both healthy right now, while Cook is nursing a sore ankle. He will probably be ready for the start of the season and is the likely player to start for the Lakers. Fantasy owners who took a flier on Bynum would like to see him start, but it is a longshot to happen under Phil Jackson. Turiaf is also a nice option, but doesn't have the experience or physicality to start for the Lakers. Stay tuned to further news out of Los Angeles. As far as drafts are concerned, Cook managed 7.9 ppg and 3.4 rpg in 81 games for the Lakers in 2005-06. If those are numbers that appeal to you, by all means pick him up. Bynum should only be drafted in deep leagues as a No. 3 center with the potential to have a decent sophomore season. Turiaf is not a viable Fantasy option at this time.
News: The Lakers spent much of practice Friday talking trash, pushing and shoving each other on their fourth day of camp. "It was testy some times," Lamar Odom said. "Everybody wanted to prove that they could play. Right about this time, you don't really get to show your individual stuff."
Analysis: This is a good sign. A team that many believe to be overly dependant on Kobe Bryant is at least showing some signs of life in training camp. Under the guidance of Phil Jackson, walking cane and all, this team could provide more Fantasy useful players than it has in several years. Odom is the team's second most useful Fantasy option behind Bryant, but there is more to sift through. Kwame Brown is a trendy sleeper pick as a No. 2 center in larger leagues with Andrew Bynum turning heads as a super-sleeper in dynasty formats. Chris Mihm has gained recognition as a viable option in deeper formats and even players like Vladimir Radmanovic, Chris Mihm, Smush Parker and rookie Jordan Farmar could all have varying degrees of Fantasy value over the course of the season.
News: According to the Los Angeles Daily News, Bynum is battling a bone bruise in his right knee and will be sidelined for two weeks.
Analysis: He is expected to be healthy for training camp. The big man is a deep sleeper worthy of a look in the late rounds on Draft Day.
News: According to the Orange County Register, Andrew Bynum (ankle) is expected to miss several games after spraining his ankle against the Hornets on Sunday.
Analysis: With Bynum on the mend, fellow rookie Ronny Turiaf will likely see a few more minutes in his absence.
News: Andrew Bynum (ankle) was unable to play Thursday vs. San Antonio.
Analysis: With Bynum on the mend, fellow rookie Ronny Turiaf will likely see a few more minutes in his absence.
News: The Los Angeles Daily News reports Andrew Bynum is considered doubtful for Thursday's game against the Spurs due to an ankle injury.
Analysis: With Bynum on the mend, fellow rookie Ronny Turiaf will likely see a few more minutes in his absence.
News: Center Andrew Bynum had four forgettable minutes of action in Boston, missing all three shots -- one of which was blocked by Kendrick Perkins.
Analysis: Bynum has shown signs of brilliance during his brief playing time so far this season, but he is far from becoming a reliable Fantasy option in any format. He should be a keeper league prospect, but don't waste a roster spot on him in seasonal leagues at this point
News: Center Andrew Bynum's developmental playing time is a far secondary priority to winning games the rest of the season, according to Coach Phil Jackson.
Analysis: Bynum has shown signs of brilliance during his brief playing time so far this season, but he is far from becoming a reliable Fantasy option in any format. He should be a keeper league prospect, but don't waste a roster spot on him in seasonal leagues at this point.
News: Andrew Bynum did not play on Wednesday at Houston for the 21st time this season.
Analysis: Bynum has shown signs of brilliance during his brief playing time so far this season, but he is far from becoming a reliable Fantasy option in any format. He should be a keeper league prospect, but don't waste a roster spot on him in seasonal leagues at this point.
News: Rookie Andrew Bynum scored 16 points in just 12 minutes in Tuesday night's win in New York, hitting all seven of his shots from the floor. The 16 points were a career high.
Analysis: Don't get too excited just yet. He has been a DNP in seven of 10 games and will need to get consistent minutes before he can even be considered a Fantasy option.
News: Andrew Bynum scored two points in four minutes of action Monday vs. Miami.
Analysis: Bynum made the matchup between he and Shaq a bit of a sideshow by dunking on Shaq right after he was dunked on a possesion earlier. He does not warrant any Fantasy consideration at this point, but the rookie won over the L.A. crowd with his dunk and a brief scuffle with Shaq that resulted in double-technicals.
News: Lakers rookie Andrew Bynum played the final 4:11 of the second quarter on Monday vs. Indiana and scored six points to match his career high.
Analysis: Bynum is not much of a Fantasy option yet.
News: Andrew Bynum did not play in Sunday's game at Miami due to coach's decision.
Analysis: Bynum's playing time is far too sporadic to consider in any Fantasy league.
News: The Lakers have signed Andrew Bynum, the 10th overall selection in the NBA draft.
Analysis: Bynum's selection likely had NBA commissioner David Stern shaking his head, as he is the youngest player ever selected in the draft. He will turn 18 on Oct. 27. He is a prospect who will likely not make a splash in Fantasy leagues for at least a year or two.
