FANTASY / PLAYER NEWS
Chris Kaman: Questionable for Tuesday
Update: Kaman sat out Monday's practice due to a bruised left leg and is listed as questionable for Tuesday's game in Chicago, the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis: He hurt his leg when he banged into Seattle center Robert Swift's steel knee brace during Sunday's game. It stiffened up on the plane flight to Chicago but Kaman believes he'll be ready. If he can't play, Aaron Williams (calf) would be a likely candidate to replace him in the starting lineup. Williams, who has been nursing a strained calf, was just cleared for action on Monday.
Pau Gasol: Sits Out Monday's Practice
Update: Gasol didn't practice Monday because of back stiffness, the Memphis Commercial Appeal reports.
Analysis: Gasol has not practiced since the regular season began, but is playing in games.
Dwyane Wade: Gets Through Full-Contact Practice Okay
Update: Wade reported no problems with either his left knee or left shoulder -- both of which were operated on May 15 -- after his first full-contact practice Monday, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: That's a step in the right direction obviously, but Wade still doesn't know when he'll be ready to return to the Miami lineup.
Ben Wallace: Limited by Sprained Left Ankle
Update: Wallace (sprained left ankle) has scored just 13 points while grabbing only 11 boards in the Bulls' first three games of the year, the Chicago Tribune reports.
Analysis: The injury that slowed Wallace late in preseason is preventing him from jumping and Wallace said he still is icing and using a stimulation device daily on his ankle. "When I stop and try to plant, it don't feel stable," he added. Look for Bulls to limit Wallace's minutes and possibly have him miss a game to two with Joakim Noah expected to return to action Tuesday.
Channing Frye: Move to Starting Lineup
Update: Portland head coach Nate McMillan is considering a shakeup to his starting lineup, including inserting Frye to start at center in place of Joel Przybilla, The Oregonian reports.
Analysis: This is not about Frye playing so well that a change is necessary, but rather McMillan feeling the second-unit pairing of Frye and Travis Outlaw leaves the team undersized at power forward and center. If Frye does become the starter, he'll be no better than the fourth scoring option behind Brandon Roy, LaMarcus Aldridge and Martell Webster.
Joel Przybilla: Coming off Bench?
Update: Portland head coach Nate McMillan is considering bringing Przybilla off the bench and starting Channing Frye at center, The Oregonian reports.
Analysis: Przybilla has done nothing to merit a demotion, but McMillan feels the second-unit pairing of Frye and Travis Outlaw leaves the team a bit undersized at the four and five.
Steve Blake: Headed to Starting Lineup
Update: Portland head coach Nate McMillan is considering starting Blake at point guard in place of Jarret Jack, The Oregonian reports.
Analysis: The difference between the two guards is minimal, but Jack hasn't performed well to open the season, so McMillan is looking to shake it up a bit. Blake is 9-of-14 from the field with nine assists and four turnovers through the first three games, while Jack is 3-of-15 with nine turnovers and eight assists.
Jarrett Jack: Replaced in Starting Lineup
Update: Blazers coach Nate McMillan is strongly considering changes to his starting lineup, including replacing Jack at point guard with Steve Blake, The Oregonian reports.
Analysis: Jack is no means the reason why Portland is 0-3 out of the gate, but he's played poorly on both offense and defense. He is 3-of-15 from the field and has more turnovers (nine) than points (seven) or assists (eight). In addition to his offensive struggles, Jack has been a sieve on defense, allowing opposing ballhandlers to penetrate the lane.
Brandon Bass: Sprained Ankle
Update: Bass suffered a sprained ankle during Saturday's victory over Sacramento, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: The injury doesn't appear to be serious, so we expect Bass to play Monday night against Houston. "I'll have to be in the hospital to not play," Bass said.
Devin Harris: Participates in Monday's Shootaround
Update: Harris (bruised thigh) participated in Monday's shootaround, the Dallas Morning News reports.
Analysis: Mavericks coach Avery Johnson said he wasn't sure if Harris would be available for Monday night's meeting with the Rockets. The fact that he participated in the shootaround is a good sign that he will play Monday night. If Harris isn't available or doesn't start the game, Jose Juan Barea will start for Dallas.
Joakim Noah: Practices Monday, May Play Tuesday
Update: Noah practiced Monday for the first time since spraining his right ankle in the Bulls' exhibition finale on October 26 and barring any setback at Tuesday's morning shootaround, he will be activated for that evening's game against the Clippers, the Chicago Tribune's Bulls blog reports.
Analysis: With Ben Wallace production down because of lingering pain in his left ankle, don't be surprised to see Noah in action. However, temper your expectations as Noah has struggled to pick up offensive sets. He's also had issues with focus and revealed on Monday that he's been fined by the coaching staff for arriving late for team functions. Noah's NBA career has not gotten off to a great start, so the pressure will be on him soon to prove that he was worthy of the high selection Chicago used on him in the draft.
Kirk Hinrich: In an Early-Season Shooting Slump
Update: Hinrich is shooting 34.3 percent, has had almost constant foul trouble and was beaten badly in a one-on-one matchup with Andre Miller Friday, the Chicago Tribune reports.
Analysis: Hinrich discounted the theory that opponents, mindful of the Bulls' minimal post presence, are sitting on the drive-and-kick offensive sets and forcing more contested jumpers. Chicago had much better ball movement Saturday but the team shot just 35 percent, leading to theory that they are just in a slump. Whatever the reason is for Hinrich's struggles, since he upped his shooting percentage each of the past three years, don't overeact and trade him for pennies on the dollar.
Ben Gordon: Early Struggles Related to Failed Contract Extension Talks?
Update: Gordon (sprained left ankle) is averaging a team-high 22.3 points but is shooting just 38.6 percent and 34.8 on three-pointers, the Chicago Tribune reports.
Analysis: It's impossible not to wonder if Gordon's struggles are related to his decisions to turn down a multimillion-dollar contract extension and his mention in frequent Kobe Bryant trade rumors. Also, a sprained left ankle limited Gordon's practice participation, which may have contributed to his early struggles. As things tend to balance out over the long NBA season, one would expect - given Gordon's history - that a rebound to form should be forthcoming shortly.
Luol Deng: Lack of Contract Extension, Kobe Trade Rumors Adversely Affecting His Game?
Update: Deng is second on the Bulls in scoring at 13.3 points per game through the first three games of the year, but he's shooting a very uncharacteristic 42.5 percent, far below his career mark of 48 percent, the Chicago Tribune reports.
Analysis: It's impossible not to wonder if Deng's struggles are related to his decisions to turn down a multimillion-dollar contract extension and his mention in frequent Kobe Bryant trade rumors. With confirmation that Deng turned down an increased five-year offer worth nearly $57.5 million, speculation about regrets is legitimate. However, things balance out in the long NBA season, so one would expect - given Deng's history - that a rebound to form should be forthcoming shortly.
Devin Harris: Game-Time Decision Monday
Update: Harris (brusied thigh) will be a game-time decision for Monday's game against Houston.
Analysis: Harris injured the thigh in Friday's game against the Hawks, and did not play in the second half. If he is good to go Monday, he is always a viable option on your fantasy roster, as he is averaging 12 points in his first two games this season.
Lamar Odom: Could Return This Week
Update: Coach Phil Jackson said Odom (shoulder) could return this week, the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis: He will probably take Brian Cook's spot in the rotation, and could eat into Vladimir Radmanovic's playing time once he returns.
Amar'e Stoudemire: Day-To-Day With Knee Discomfort
Update: Stoudemire will be evaluated on a day-to-day basis after missing Sunday's game with stiffness and discomfort in his right knee, the Arizona Republic reports.
Analysis: Stoudemire had arthroscopic surgery on the knee at the beginning of October. "[Not playing Sunday] was up to me," Stoudemire said. "I felt some discomfort. I wasn't ready to play on it. It was more discomfort than I expected." The Suns will play two sets of back-to-back games on their upcoming road trip, so be prepared for Stoudemire to miss at least a couple more games in the near future.
Jorge Garbajosa: Frustrated By Lack of Court Time
Update: Garbajosa is growing frustrated by the lack of action he's seen so far this season, the Toronto Sun reports.
Analysis: "I don't know," he said, when asked why he has averaged only seven minutes in the team's first three games. "I practise normally. I play in the European championships. I am fine. Everything is normal." Coach Sam Mitchell indicated that it was simply game situations that have kept Garbajosa on the bench, but we think it could be a while before the second-year NBA player starts getting regular minutes.
Brevin Knight: Bonked in the Nose
Update: Knight suffered a bruised nose in the third quarter on Sunday after he was inadvertently hit across the face by teammate Cuttino Mobley, who was fighting through a screen, the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis: The backup point guard did not return to the game. The injury is not considered serious.
Sam Cassell: Will Play in the 20s
Update: Although his minutes may increase depending on the opponent, it is likely Cassell will play mostly in the 20-minute range this season according to Clippers coach Mike Dunleavy, the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis: He was on the court 22 1/2 minutes in Sunday's win over Seattle. "I think that was definitely too low for me,'' Cassell said. "I know for a fact that I can play 30 minutes, easily. I worked out hard too hard this summer to play more than 20 minutes. I could have sat on my butt if I knew that I was only going to play 20 minutes.'' Brevin Knight has been splitting time with Cassell at the point so far. Dunleavy cited Cassell's age (he will 38 in two weeks) as the main factor in reducing his floor time.
Arron Afflalo: Returned to Bench
Update: After averaging 20 mpg over his first two games, Afflalo played just 5:35 on Sunday and failed to score.
Analysis: Afflalo's playing time will dwindle considerably now that Richard Hamilton is back from a two-game absence. When Rodney Stuckey returns next month, Afflalo can probably expect many DNP-CDs.
Jason Maxiell: All-Around Effort
Update: In just 26 minutes off the bench Sunday, Maxiell had 15 points, eight rebounds, and four blocks.
Analysis: Maxiell added two assist and a steal in what was easily his best game so far in the young season. The Pistons are looking good with the two-headed monster of Antonio McDyess and Maxiell in the frontcourt.
Beno Udrih: Finger Must Strengthen
Update: Udrih (broken finger) needs to further strengthen his finger and may miss the home opener on Tuesday, the Sacramento Bee reports.
Analysis: The point guard, who was recently signed by Sacramento, missed San Antonio's training camp because of the injury, then was subsequently traded to Minnesota and released the same day. At this juncture, there is no clear-cut starter at point guard for the Kings with Mike Bibby (thumb) out. Udrih may work his way into that role in the interim and it's possible he could see his first action Nov. 9 against Cleveland.
Spencer Hawes: Nearing a Return
Update: Hawes, who had arthroscopic knee surgery on Oct. 10, is close to returning, the Sacramento Bee reports.
Analysis: "It (knee) feels a lot better," Hawes said. "I'm able to cut on it. ... Now it's just a question of testing it out in practice-type, game-like situations and trying to see how it responds and then going from there. It shouldn't be that much longer." To write winless Sacramento needs the rookie after just three games is an understatement. Initially, it was believed he would be brought along slowly in his first season, but the team is desperate for frontline scoring and rebounding, meaning Hawes may see extended time once he is completely healthy. Hawes is not expected to play in Tuesday's home opener against Seattle.
Chauncey Billups: Fills Boxscore
Update: Billups led the Pistons with 22 points, five assists, four steals, and three three-pointers Sunday.
Analysis: Billups, who added three rebounds and two blocks, also made a key free throw to salt away the game. Billups is off to a strong start this year with 19.7 ppg and 7.7 apg.
Zach Randolph: Another Double-Double
Update: Randolph, playing in front of the home crowd for the first time this season, had 15 points and 10 rebounds in Sunday night's victory over the Timberwolves.
Analysis: Randolph also pulled down a key rebound at the end and his free throw iced the game for the Knicks. He is looking like a terrific option going forward.
Jamal Crawford: Another Big Night
Update: Crawford led the Knicks in scoring once again, with 24 points in 42 minutes Sunday night victory over the Timberwolves. He also dished out seven assists.
Analysis: Crawford looks aggressive and confident this year. What's even more exciting for his owners is his high shooting percentage. Consistency is the only thing this talented guard is missing from his game.
Quentin Richardson: Scoreless Night
Update: Richardson, who has been battling minor injuries, played almost 30 minutes Sunday night against Minnesota. He only took two shots, both misses from three point land, and was held scoreless.
Analysis: Another very quiet night for Richardson. With all of the Knicks' scoring options this season, Quentin's primary role in the early going seems to be on defense. Unless you're willing to wait for one of his occasional big offensive games, you should find a more reliable option for your fantasy squad.
Kenyon Martin: Continues to Start, Plays 21 Minutes
Update: Martin contributed nine points, seven rebounds and four blocks in 21 minutes during Denver's loss to New Orleans on Sunday night.
Analysis: Both Martin and Nene played 21 minutes and combined for 21 points, 13 rebounds, five blocks, two assists and two steals. We don't know how long head coach George Karl is going to go with the two headed PF monster but as long as they're splitting time neither will be a truly legitimate fantasy threat.
Marcus Camby: Has 2nd Consecutive 20+ Rebound Night
Update: Camby pulled down 21 rebounds for the 2nd straight game while adding eight points, five assists, two blocks and one steal Sunday night against New Orleans.
Analysis: While he'll always remain an injury risk, you just can't deny how dominant Camby can be when healthy.
Allen Iverson: Keeps Piling Up Solid Numbers
Update: Iverson had a team-high 23 points and eight assists during Denver's 93-88 loss to New Orleans on Sunday night.
Analysis: Iverson didn't shoot it particularly well (8-of-25 FG) but he did make 2-of-6 from 3-point range and also pulled down five boards. It also appears he'll continue to start at PG as back-up Mike Wilks went down with a hamstring injury and SG J.R. Smith is now eligible to return from his three game suspension starting Tuesday at New York.
Carmelo Anthony: Has Off Night
Update: Anthony was just 8-of-24 from the field and missed both of his 3-point attempts during Denver's 93-88 loss to New Orleans Sunday night.
Analysis: The rest of Anthony's stat line was just as bad as he only provided three boards, one assist and one steal in 40 minutes. Overall, it was just one of those nights. We expect Anthony to rebound in a big way on Tuesday at New York.
J.R. Smith: Suspension Ends
Update: Smith's three game, team ordered suspension ended on Sunday and he'll be available to play on Tuesday at New York, the Denver Post reports.
Analysis: With Anthony Carter, Chucky Atkins and now Mike Wilks all sidelined with injuries it's likely that Smith will see action right away. He's always been a decent 3-point threat but usually provides little else.
Michael Finley: Minutes Will Be Managed At Least For Now
Update: Finley, who has been averaging just 20 minutes per game, will continue to have his minutes managed, the San Antonio Express-News reports.
Analysis: "There aren't enough minutes to go around at this point," coach Gregg Popovich said. "I've got to figure out over the next 10, 20, 15 games what the rotation is going to be and how to rest certain people." With the depth of the Spurs bench, only Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Emmanuel Ginobili are going to contribute for fantasy owners regardless of the depth of the league.
Robert Horry: Return Could Be In Two to Three Weeks
Update: Horry (strained hamstring) says it will be around two or three weeks before he returns, the San Antonio Express-News reports. "I've got to basically get my rhythm back, get my shot back, get my basketball motion back and get the bio-mechanics going," Horry said. "It's going to take two or three weeks."
Analysis: The Spurs haven't needed Horry, who has been with an ill relative, so don't expect him to be rushed back. The Spurs have one of the deepest benches in the league and have gotten production from the likes of Emmanuel Ginobili, Matt Bonner, Francisco Elson, Brent Barry and Ime Udoka.
Tyronn Lue: Scores Just Six Points in Start
Update: Lue had six points (2-of-7 FG, 0-of-1 3-PT, 2-of-2 FT), and three assists in the Hawks' loss to the Pistons on Sunday.
Analysis: Lue got the start as Anthony Johnson left the team to return home for the birth of his son. Lue and Acie Law split time at the point and we expect that to happen for the time being. Law appeared to be more effective in this game, but this is a situation that could change on a nightly basis.
Al Horford: Has 11 Rebounds in Loss
Update: Horford had three points (1-of-6 FG, 1-of-2 FT), 11 rebounds, two assists and a steal in the Hawks' loss to Detroit on Sunday.
Analysis: Horford is going to have nights like this offensively. The important thing is that he is getting minutes and rebounding very well. When his offense comes around later in the season, look for Horford to have a near double-double almost every night.
Josh Smith: Continues to Struggle From the Floor
Update: Smith had 13 points (4-of-17 FG, 0-of-2 3-PT, 5-of-5 FT), 10 rebounds, two assists, two steals and five blocks in the Hawks' loss to the Pistons on Sunday.
Analysis: Smith struggled with his shot during preseason, and it has carried over to the regular season. Once Smith gets his shot back, he will be a dominant fantasy player, as he is already getting a high numbers of rebounds, steals and blocks.
Marvin Williams: Another Good Night From the Floor
Update: Williams had 22 points (8-of-12 FG, 1-of-1 3-PT, 5-of-6 FT), six rebounds, two assists and a steal in the Hawks' loss to the Pistons on Sunday.
Analysis: Williams has shot the ball well in his first two games for the Hawks. The big key for determining his overall fantasy value will be his rebounding. If Williams can rebound, he will greatly increase his fantasy value, as he will do well in scoring and all shooting-percentage categories.
Joe Johnson: Another Solid Performance in Loss
Update: Johnson had 23 points (9-of-17 FG, 2-of-5 3-PT, 3-of-4 FT), five rebounds and four assists in the Hawks' loss to Detroit on Sunday.
Analysis: These are the numbers you can expect all season from Johnson. He is the number one option at the offensive end for the Hawks and will give you good 3-point shooting in addition to some rebounds and assists.
Vince Carter: Sore Right Thumb
Update: Carter said he has a sore right thumb, the Newark Star-Ledger reports. "It's about getting used to the pain," Carter said. "As the game wears on, it gets better, strangely enough. It doesn't get worse."
Analysis: Carter insists it's not serious, but said the soreness affects his shot a bit. A thumb injury would certainly explain his 30.8 percent shooting (12-for-39) to start the season. "I don't know what to call it, just soreness. It's one of those things where you go, 'Ah, it's sore,' and you play, not tentative, but you kind of favor it," he said. As a result, Carter, who is averaging nearly seven shots per game less than his career average, has been concentrating on his playmaking (4.7 apg) and moving the ball when it comes through him.
Anderson Varejao: Out of Shape
Update: Varejao is out of shape and enjoying his extended vacation while on holdout from the Cavaliers, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: If the Cavaliers re-sign Varejao, they would like someone who can step in fairly immediately to help a beleaguered front line.
Donyell Marshall: Wrist in a Splint
Update: Marshall had his injured right wrist placed in a splint that he will wear at least a week before being re-evaluated, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Analysis: Marshall injured the wrist in the Cavs' season opener and tried to play against the Knicks on Friday, missing both of his shots. Although he's not a traditional big man, his injury leaves the Cavs short a player on an already thin front line.
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