Fanscout News

Trey Murphy showed promise in the Pelicans’ win over Melbourne United, contributing 18 points on 7-of-13 shooting, along with one rebound, three steals, and two three-pointers. With an average draft position comfortably within the top 50, fantasy managers are banking on Murphy’s potential. However, his injury history raises concerns, as he’s yet to play 60 games in each of the past two seasons. If he can stay healthy, he has the potential to deliver significant value this season.

In Friday’s preseason win over Melbourne United, Yves Missi contributed six points, eight rebounds, one assist, and three blocks off the bench, with Kevon Looney starting. Although Missi logged more minutes, his bench role raises questions for fantasy managers as regular season approaches. The presence of highly-touted rookie Derik Queen, post-recovery from wrist surgery, adds further complexity to the Pelicans’ rotation dynamics, signaling possible shifts in playing time distribution.

Breaking from the baseball diamonds, the Toronto Blue Jays have announced that Kevin Gausman will take the mound to start Game 1 of the ALDS against the Yankees this Saturday. Despite a rocky last outing against the Rays, Gausman’s consistent performance throughout the season has earned him the opening nod. The pitching lineup for the series will likely see Shane Bieber in Game 2, with rookie Trey Yesavage taking on Game 3 in New York. Depending on the series’ progression, either Chris Bassitt or Max Scherzer will handle Game 4, though the team might reconsider and opt for Gausman on short rest if necessary.

De’Anthony Melton is set to be re-evaluated in four weeks as he continues recovering from an ACL injury, as reported by ESPN’s Tim Bontemps. Having recently signed with the Warriors, Melton is unlikely to make the opening roster for the regular season starting October 21. Head coach Steve Kerr mentioned the hope for his return „in the next couple of months,” casting doubt on his reliability for fantasy managers and suggesting he should be avoided in drafts for now.

Kevin Porter Jr. is set to start at point guard for the Milwaukee Bucks, as confirmed by head coach Doc Rivers after the team’s first practice of training camp. Porter is seen as the best fit for the role, especially with limited point guard options. He proved his playmaking abilities with 5.4 assists per game against Indiana in the first-round series, but his shooting efficiency remains a concern. As the season progresses, Porter will need to refine his shooting to maximize his impact in the starter role.

Kevin Porter Jr. is expected to start at point guard for the Milwaukee Bucks, as announced by head coach Doc Rivers following the team’s initial training camp practice. Porter emerges as the leading choice due to limited options at the position, with offseason acquisition Cole Anthony and Ryan Rollins also in the mix. Porter aims to capitalize on the role by boosting his scoring and assisting figures, though improving his shooting efficiency remains a priority.

San Antonio Spurs’ draft prospect Juan Nuñez will face an extended absence after undergoing surgery to remove a meniscal cyst in his right knee. The 36th pick in the 2024 draft is currently with FC Barcelona and will be out for at least six months. This marks the second procedure on the same knee this year, casting uncertainty on his immediate return and development timeline. The situation will be closely monitored by the Spurs as they assess his long-term role within the franchise.

San Antonio Spurs prospect Juan Nuñez, currently with FC Barcelona, is set to be out for six months following surgery to remove a meniscal cyst from his right knee. The 36th pick of the 2024 draft, Nuñez is facing a challenging recovery as this marks his second procedure on the same knee this year. Barcelona confirmed the timeline, delaying Nuñez’s anticipated NBA debut as he focuses on rehabilitation.

Stephon Castle took on the role of primary ball-handler during the Spurs’ practice on Tuesday, amid injuries to De’Aaron Fox and Dylan Harper. With Fox potentially missing the season opener, Castle’s transition to lead guard could boost his early-season fantasy value if he maintains control over turnovers. Neither Castle nor coach Mitch Johnson have emphasized the shift, which Castle had anticipated since his pre-draft process in 2024.

Jaren Jackson Jr. has been cleared to ramp up basketball activities following surgery for a turf toe injury in July. Although he’s still projected to miss the start of the regular season, his anticipated return in four to six weeks is promising. With Zach Edey and Brandon Clarke sidelined, the Grizzlies are expected to lean on Santi Aldama, offering GG Jackson increased opportunities to make an impression early in the season.

The Los Angeles Lakers have extended head coach J.J. Redick’s contract, ensuring his continued leadership despite an initial four-year deal. After guiding the team to a 50-32 record and a first-round playoff exit against Minnesota, Redick’s strategic focus will be on maximizing the talents of recent acquisition Luka Doncic, alongside LeBron James and Austin Reaves. The terms of the extension have not been disclosed.

Nick Smith Jr., a former five-star prospect and first-round pick in 2023, has been waived by the Charlotte Hornets, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype. Despite demonstrating potential in his initial NBA seasons, Smith Jr. failed to establish a consistent role with the rebuilding team. As he navigates free agency, he faces the challenge of securing a meaningful role with a new team.