Fanscout News

Robert Williams and Matisse Thybulle showed progress by fully participating in the Trail Blazers’ Monday practice. While Williams is recovering from a knee procedure in March, both players’ involvement in a contact session signals potential readiness for Wednesday’s opener against the Timberwolves. However, given the team’s depth, their minutes might be limited, impacting their fantasy value.

Kris Dunn did not take part in the Clippers’ practice on Monday due to an illness, putting his participation in Wednesday’s season opener against the Jazz in question. With the additions of Bradley Beal and Kris Paul, Dunn’s role is expected to be reduced this season, despite starting in the majority of his games last year. The situation will be monitored closely as the team prepares to tip off the new season.

Houston Rockets head coach Ime Udoka has confirmed his starting lineup for Tuesday’s season opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder, featuring Jabari Smith Jr., Kevin Durant, Steven Adams, Amen Thompson, and Alperen Sengun. The lineup signals a larger configuration to possibly counter Oklahoma City’s size upfront with Chet Holmgren. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on the flexibility of roles outside Durant, Thompson, and Sengun as Udoka may adjust based on matchups throughout the season.

Miami Heat’s Jimmy Butler and Golden State’s Jonathan Kuminga are both listed as questionable for Tuesday’s game against the Lakers due to ankle issues. However, reports suggest optimism regarding their availability. Fantasy managers should monitor updates closely, as any absence could open up opportunities for other roster players like Trayce Jackson-Davis or Gui Santos.

The Memphis Grizzlies face a challenging situation as Scotty Pippen Jr. is set to undergo a sesamoidectomy to address a toe issue, sidelining him indefinitely. This comes as Ja Morant continues to recover from a sprained ankle, leaving a potential gap at point guard as the regular season approaches. With Ty Jerome also dealing with a calf injury, the Grizzlies may need to explore additional options to fortify their backcourt depth.

The Minnesota Timberwolves have signed Johnny Juzang to a two-way contract after his strong preseason performance, as reported by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. This allows Juzang to be active for up to 50 regular-season games. To finalize the move, the team may need to release either Tristen Newton, Enrique Freeman, or Rocco Zikarsky, with Zikarsky, whose contract extends over two years, being less likely to be waived.

The Dallas Mavericks have waived forward Jeremiah Robinson-Earl, who was initially signed on an Exhibit 10 contract for training camp. While Robinson-Earl is now a free agent, if he clears waivers, he could join the Texas Legends, the Mavericks’ G League affiliate, and benefit from a potential $85,300 bonus for committing 60 days with the team. His future remains to be determined as he navigates the waiver process.

Mo Bamba has been waived by the Utah Jazz, as reported by HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto. The former sixth overall pick in the 2018 draft had an uphill battle to secure a spot on the Jazz’s roster during training camp. Although Bamba has experience with several teams, including the Magic and Lakers, his departure is unlikely to influence fantasy basketball leagues significantly.

Lindy Waters III will miss the opening night against the Mavericks due to a recent laser eye procedure. Discovered during a preseason physical, the procedure’s timing ensures his absence is brief. Waters is anticipated to return for the Spurs’ matchup against the Pelicans on October 24.

Dennis Smith Jr. has been waived by the Dallas Mavericks, as reported by NBA insider Marc Stein. Despite being the team’s first-round pick in 2017, Smith was unable to secure a roster spot amid Dallas’s adjustments for Kyrie Irving’s knee absence. After 56 games with the Nets in 2023-24, Smith spent last season with EuroLeague powerhouse Real Madrid.

Ron Harper Jr. has signed a two-way contract with the Boston Celtics, per Shams Charania of ESPN. After joining the team on a training camp deal in August and displaying solid preseason performance, Harper Jr. secured a spot on the final roster. With roster transitions, including Tatum’s long-term injury, opportunities for Harper Jr. to contribute significantly in the rotation could arise, offering him a chance to capitalize on his recent momentum.

Dereck Lively II showcased his potential in fantasy basketball with a double-double performance against the Lakers, notching 12 points, 11 rebounds, and contributing defensively with a steal and two blocks. With Daniel Gafford out due to an ankle injury, Lively received extended minutes and capitalized on the opportunity, suggesting he could exceed his 10th round ADP in Yahoo! leagues if given consistent playing time.