FANTASY / PLAYER NEWS
Kevin Martin: No Lost Shot Opportunities
Update: Martin had 22 points (7-of-17 FG, 3-of-8 3-PT, 5-of-5 FT), six assists and three turnovers in the Kings' loss to Minnesota on Wednesday.
Analysis: He took his usual allotment of shots with Ron Artest (suspension) back in the lineup. Martin's scoring has been down in the past two games as opposing teams have geared up to stop him. He may need to get more inventive, creating shot opportunities, since that trend will persist. On Monday night, Martin scored 21 points against Utah on just 12 shots.
Tony Allen: Scores 13 Against Nets
Update: Allen had his best game of the season on Wednesday, scoring 13 points in the C's 91-69 win over the Nets.
Analysis: Allen's increased playing time (24 minutes) came as a direct result of Eddie House missing the game with a sprained ankle. With House expected to return soon, we wouldn't plan on Allen keeping this up.
Kendrick Perkins: Nears Double-Double Against Nets
Update: Perkins had 10 points, eight rebounds and four blocked shots in the Celtics' 91-69 win over the Nets on Wednesday.
Analysis: Wednesday may have been Perkins' best game of the season, though we expect him to fall back to his six-point/five-rebound/two-block pace.
Ray Allen: Fills Up Stat Sheet Against Nets
Update: Allen had 14 points, six assists, five rebounds and four steals in the C's 91-69 win over the Nets on Wednesday.
Analysis: Allen played 39 minutes on Wednesday, and has been playing heavy minutes in the early going this season. He may wear down if he continues to get this amount of run.
Paul Pierce: Scores 15 in Blowout Win
Update: Pierce had 15 points, three rebounds and three assists in the C's 91-69 win over the Nets on Tuesday.
Analysis: Pierce's lower production came more as a result of the game being out of hand early than anything else. However, a similar fate may befall Pierce Friday night, as the Celtics play the hapless Heat.
Kevin Garnett: Scores 16 Against Nets
Update: Garnett had 16 points, eight rebounds, three steals and two assists in the Celtics' 91-69 win over the Nets.
Analysis: Garnett's lower production came more as a result of the game being out of hand early than anything else. However, a similar fate may befall Garnett Friday night, as the Celtics play the hapless Heat.
Ron Artest: First Game Back
Update: Artest (domestic abuse) returned from his seven-game suspension and scored 17 points with six assists, three steals and five turnovers in the Kings' loss to Minnesota on Wednesday.
Analysis: Although he turned the ball over five times, he looked fairly fluid offensively, hitting 7-of-13 from the floor and playing hard-nosed defense. It's clear his presence will change the chemistry of the team and afford head coach Reggie Theus more options in the frontcourt. Artest started at small forward, but Theus has admitted he's currently experimenting with opening lineups.
Eddie House: Misses Game With Ankle Injury
Update: House (ankle) missed Wednesday's game against the Nets.
Analysis: The official word is that House's ankle is sprained, and his status for Friday's game against the Heat is uncertain.
Mehmet Okur: Three 3-Pointers Wednesday
Update: Okur scored 13 points on 5-of-9 shooting, including three 3-pointers Wednesday night in Utah's victory over Toronto.
Analysis: Okur's gotten off to a slow start this season and was 18-for-59 (30.5 percent) from the field entering the game. He's averaging below career levels in points, rebounds and shooting percentage.
Daniel Gibson: Gibson has Perfect Night Shooting
Update: Gibson scored 16 points on a perfect shooting night against the Magic.
Analysis: Shooting only five shots from the field, four them three-pointers, Gibson did not miss a shot. Gibson also connected on two free-throw attempts. Gibson, who contributed two steals, two rebounds and two assists, is playing well enough to maintain his 31 plus minutes per game average.
LeBron James: James has Monster Triple-Double
Update: James scored 39 points, dished out 14 assists and grabbed 13 rebounds in a loss against the Magic.
Analysis: Shooting 55% from the field, James poured in a season high 39 points in a losing effort at home. Completing the triple-double with 14 assists/13 rebounds and adding two blocks, James once again shows what he is capable of this season, and most importantly, what he will continue to do.
Zydrunas Ilgauskas: Ilgauskas Posts another Double-Double
Update: Ilgauskas scored 18 points and pulled down 11 rebounds against the Magic.
Analysis: Bouncing back from a poor performance in Denver, Ilgauskas posts yet another double-double for the season. Dealing with foul trouble throughout the game, Ilgauskas still managed to remain effective. You can expect these numbers to continue especially with the continued holdout of Anderson Varejao.
Acie Law: Leaves Game With Sprained Ankle
Update: Law suffered an sprained ankle in the third quarter of Wednesday's game against the Bobcats.
Analysis: He was replaced by Tyronn Lue. We'll check back on his status when the information is available.
Josh Smith: Leaves Game with Quad Strain
Update: Smith suffered a left quadriceps strain in the third quarter of the Wednesday's game.
Analysis: He was replaced by Al Horford. We'll let you know what Smith's status is for Friday's game when we know it.
Stephon Marbury: Will Suit Up For Wednesday's Game
Update: Marbury will rejoin the team and be active for the Knicks' game against the Clippers Wednesday night.
Analysis: The Knicks need a point guard after backup Mardy Collins sprained his foot in Tuesday's game. Marbury should be a decent fantasy play, but it remains to be seen how the Knicks' team chemistry will be affected by the previous couple of days' antics.
Brad Miller: Back from One Game Absence
Update: Miller (quadriceps) started at center Wednesday night against Minnesota.
Analysis: He missed Monday's game at Utah as Mikki Moore started in his place.
Ron Artest: Opens at Small Forward
Update: Artest (suspension) opened at small forward Wednesday at Minnesota.
Analysis: The game marks his return from a league-mandated seven-game suspension. There was speculation from the Kings' camp that Artest would start at power forward in order to keep John Salmons in the lineup at small forward, but Salmons began the game on the bench.
Matt Harpring: Misses Wednesday's Game With Illness
Update: Harpring (knee) was scratched from Wednesday's game against the Raptors because of an illness, the Associated Press reports.
Analysis: Coach Jerry Sloan said C.J. Miles may see more time in Harpring's absence.
Dwyane Wade: Activated Wednesday
Update: Wade (knee/shoulder) has been activated for Wednesday's game against Seattle, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports.
Analysis: Don't expect him to play his usual share of minutes, but it appears that Wade will be making his season debut against the Sonics on Wednesday. We'll keep a close eye on his role, and how his surgically repaired knee and shoulder respond.
Quentin Richardson: Probable Wednesday
Update: Richardson (elbow) is probable for Wednesday night's game against the Clippers, Newsday reports.
Analysis: Richardson missed Tuesday night's game against Phoenix because of the injury.
Renaldo Balkman: Doubtful for Wednesday
Update: Balkman (ankle) is considered doubtful for Wednesday night's game against the Clippers, Newsday reports.
Analysis: Balkman sprained his right ankle during the fourth quarter of Tuesday night's loss to Phoenix.
Zach Randolph: With the Knicks Wednesday
Update: Randolph (personal) is with New York for its game Wednesday night against the Clippers, Newsday reports.
Analysis: Randolph has missed two game because of a death in the family.
Sean Williams: Earns More Playing Time
Update: Williams has earned more playing time and will get minutes Wednesday night when the Nets play in Boston, the Bergen Record reports.
Analysis: "Sean's earned the right to continue to play," Nets coach Lawrence Frank said. "He gives us a dimension we don't have. The challenge is the consistency of it. You don't know it until you throw him out there. But the energy and athleticism he brought was game-changing." Williams had a productive 19 minutes Monday night against New Orleans, scoring six points with eight rebounds, four blocks and a steal. The rookie may have some growing pains this season, but he can put up some good blocked-shot and rebounding numbers in short minutes.
Vince Carter: Will Not Play Wednesday
Update: Carter (sprained right ankle) did not accompany the Nets to Boston for a game Wednesday night, the Newark Star-Ledger reports.
Analysis: Carter's walking without crutches and a walking a boot, but his return to action is not known at this time. "I don't want to put any pressure on myself," Carter replied, when the timetable question came up the first of four times. "I want to be 100 percent, since we're in the beginning of the season. When I come back, I don't want to keep worrying about the ankle bothering me, sore, stiffening up, whatever that means."
Joe Smith: Remaining on Second Unit
Update: Coach Scott Skiles said that even though he might shake up the Bulls' starting lineup, he has no intention of moving Smith up to the first unit, the Chicago Tribune reports. "He has played with a nice veteran poise that has been helpful with a couple of the younger bigs in that second unit," Skiles said. "I'm not looking to totally disrupt the team. I'm just looking for a spark."
Analysis: Andres Nocioni appears to be the one moving into the starting lineup, replacing either Tyrus Thomas or Ben Gordon. Smith's value remains the same as the lineup change should have little impact on his minutes.
Mardy Collins: Expects to Play Wednesday
Update: Collins (foot) expects to play Wednesday when the Knicks take on the Clippers, Newsday reports.
Analysis: Collins started in place of Stephon Marbury, who missed Tuesday's game against the Suns following a dispute with head coach Isiah Thomas. With the starting lineup bothered by injuries, and the uncertainty of Marbuy's status, Collins could be a starter Wednesday night for the second game in a row.
Grant Hill: Great Shooting Night Tuesday
Update: Hill scored 21 points on Tuesday, shooting 7-for-8 from the field, 3-for-4 from three point range and 4-for-4 from the free throw line.
Analysis: It's Hill's biggest offensive output as a Sun so far, and even though it came against the dysfunctional Knicks it's a good sign that he's starting to adjust to the Phoenix system.
Stephon Marbury: Bound for LA
Update: The New York Post is reporting that Marbury is in transit back to Los Angeles, where he plans to rejoin the Knicks before Wednesday night's game against the Clippers.
Analysis: Marbury reportedly contacted the Post, as well as the Stephen A. Smith radio show, to inform them of his plans. No reaction from the Knicks has been published as of yet, and there's no word as to if or how much Marbury will play in tonight's game.
Jason Maxiell: Likely Starter if McDyess is Out
Update: With Antonio McDyess questionable with a strained shoulder, Maxiell could start for the first time of the season Wednesday night.
Analysis: Maxiell has only averaged 14 minutes a game over his last four games, so he could use a boost in playing time.
Jamario Moon: Gets Another Start on Wednesday
Update: Moon will make his second start at small forward against the Jazz on Wednesday, the Toronto Sun reports.
Analysis: He's there for rebounding and defense but is capable of chipping in double digits in points, as he showed against the Bulls on Saturday.
Chauncey Billups: Banged Up
Update: Billups suffered two painful injuries in the third quarter Tuesday, taking a knee to a thigh before twisting his knee, the Detroit News reports.
Analysis: Billups was able to finish the game, but was clearly in pain. He should be able to play Wednesday against the Warriors, but he might be limited by the injuries.
Antonio McDyess: Shoulder Re-Aggravated
Update: McDyess left Tuesday's game in the fourth quarter after re-aggravating the stretched ligaments in his left shoulder, the Detroit News reports.
Analysis: The shoulder has been bothering him a bit over the last week, but it so far hasn't affected his play much. He's questionable for Wednesday's game with the Warriors.
Jermaine O'Neal: Minutes Increased
Update: The Pacers have increased the number of minutes that O'Neal (knee) can play per game up to 36, the Indianapolis Star reports.
Analysis: The Pacers have the long view in mind here with O'Neal, who is chomping at the bit to see more minutes. "It's been frustrating because when I came out of the game the last couple of games, teams have made their run, and not being able to get past that minute mark has really been tough for me," O'Neal said. "I'm pretty excited about getting the opportunity to play extended minutes."
Marquis Daniels: Sits Out With Knee Injury Again
Update: Daniels sat out Tuesday's loss to the Celtics with continuing knee soreness, the Indianapolis Star reports.
Analysis: Daniels has to pick his spots when he can play and when he can't - with the Pacers playing back-to-back on Tuesday and Wednesday, they chose to use him on Wednesday night. "I'm having irritation with my patella, but I'll get through it," Daniels said.
Brandon Roy: Continues Outstanding Shooting
Update: Roy scored 20 points (9-of-16 shooting) including two three-pointers and one steal Tuesday night against Detroit.
Analysis: After a rough season-opener, Roy has shaken off the rust averaging 22.8 points while shooting 54% from the field, 80% from the free throw line, and an incredible 56% from behind the three-point line. The best part is that he is taking 17 shots per game in that period and shooting a percentage like that will definitely solidify your field goal percentage category.
Joel Przybilla: Contributing Well off the Bench
Update: Przybilla scored eight points while collecting 10 rebounds, one steal, and one block in 23 minutes Tuesday night against Detroit.
Analysis: Since the move to the bench, Przybilla is averaging six points, nine rebounds, and just over one block in 20 minutes of play. Even as a starter, Przybilla barely eclipsed 20 minutes a game so it is doubtful that he will surpass that in a backup role. His playing time is also limited in the fact the Coach Nate McMillan is not going to play him when other teams want to play small ball. He is an effective rebounder and shot-blocker in limited minutes and will continue to do so.
Jarrett Jack: Continues Solid Play off the Bench
Update: Jack scored 20 points (7-of-10 shooting) including one three-pointer and four assists in 32 minutes Tuesday night against Detroit.
Analysis: Jack's recent move to the bench has done nothing but energize the Blazers. Since the move, he is averaging 17.5 points, 3.25 assists, and 3.25 rebounds while playing 28 minutes per game. More importantly, the Blazers are on a four game winning streak. He may slow down slightly in his scoring, but as long as they're winning, don't expect his role on the team to change.
Gilbert Arenas: MRI on Knee Reveals No Further Damage
Update: Arenas underwent an MRI Monday that revealed no further damage to his left knee, the Washington Post reports. "It's fine," said Arenas, who limited himself to shooting and ball-handling drills at practice Tuesday. "As long I take care of it, I'll be in good shape."
Analysis: Arenas has experienced swelling and stiffness in the knee and has had it drained twice since Oct. 17, but thus far he has played in all six games and the bumps in the road he has sustained thus far are considered an expected part of the recovery from his offseason knee surgery.
Chris Kaman: Experiencing Career Highs
Update: Kaman, averaging a double-double to start the season, is more confident than ever, the Orange County Register reports.
Analysis: "This is the best he's ever played," Clippers coach Mike Dunleavy said. "He's had great stretches at times before. But he's just playing like he knows that this is the way it's supposed to be." After six games, Kaman is averaging 18.8 points and 13.5 rebounds. Previously, his career-high marks were 11.9 points and 9.6 rebounds, in 2005-06. He should sustain his current numbers with Elton Brand (Achilles) missing in the frontcourt.
Trevor Ariza: Playing Time Increasing
Update: After head coach Stan Van Gundy said Tuesday that Ariza's minutes would increase, he played a season-high 26 minutes and recorded 11 points and 11 rebounds in Orlando's victory over Seattle.
Analysis: Ariza seems to be recovered from his foot injury and is now showing the explosiveness that got the Magic excited about him in the first place. Ariza has scored in double-digits two nights in a row and it looks like his playing time will be more consistent, but keep an eye on him to see if he can put up solid numbers each night before adding him to your team.
Jameer Nelson: Trying to Find Role in Orlando's Offense
Update: Nelson had eight points, six rebounds, and six assists in Orlando's victory over Seattle on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Nelson has only attempted six shots in each of the last two games and did not break double-digits in either contest. After signing a new contract on the season's first day, Nelson has struggled to get involved in the offense this season. His numbers aren't terrible, but Nelson is not yet meshing with his teammates and will continue to underperform until he finds his role.
Jason Terry: Scores 25 Against 76ers
Update: Terry had 25 points, four rebounds and two assists in the Mavs' 99-84 win over the 76ers on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Terry has been the star of the Mavericks in the season's first few weeks, and seems truly rejuvenated with his move to the bench.
Josh Howard: Scores 18 Against 76ers
Update: Howard had 18 points and one rebound in the Mavs' 99-84 win over Philadelphia on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Howard is usually a solid rebounder, and we expect his rebounding numbers to increase in coming games.
Devean George: Could Start Scrimmaging Next Week
Update: George (foot) could start scrimmaging next week, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: This injury has been slow to heal for Jones, and Mavs' coach Avery Johnson noted that "I haven't seen this type of injury take as long as it's taken." Healthy or injured, George shouldn't be much of a fantasy consideration at this point in his career.
Keith Bogans: Dialing In From Long Distance
Update: Coming off a sub-par game against Phoenix, Bogans played 32 minutes and scored 16 points in Orlando's victory over Seattle on Tuesday.
Analysis: Bogans had seven rebounds in the game and also nailed five threes, bringing his season total to 20. His numbers haven't been consistent, but they are better than expected; and Bogans could prove to be a valuable pick-up if he is still available on your league's waiver wire.
Sam Cassell: PossibleTime at Shooting Guard
Update: Cassell, who has shared playing time with Brevin Knight at point guard this season, may see minutes at shooting guard in the future, the Los Angeles Times reports.
Analysis: "It was a time to play Sam as a shooter out there on the court (against Cleveland)," Los Angeles coach Mike Dunleavy said. With Cuttino Mobley (groin) missing time at shooting guard, Dunleavy played Cassell and Knight simultaneously on Sunday night versus the Cavaliers. Cassell has made it known he wasn't pleased with the forecast of sharing time with Knight and it appears his coach may be trying to appease him.
Eddie Jones: Will Miss Time With Ankle Injury
Update: Jones will miss as much as two weeks with a lingering ankle injury, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Analysis: Jones tried to play on the ankle Tuesday night, but made it only five minutes before shutting down. Mavs' coach Avery Johnson noted that "we're going to shut him down for about two weeks in hopes of him getting healthy at some point in December."
Dwight Howard: Starting a New Double-Double Streak
Update: Howard recorded his third consecutive double-double on Tuesday, scoring 13 points and grabbing 12 rebounds in Orlando's victory over Seattle.
Analysis: Howard only made three shots from the field but did shoot 7-for-10 from the free throw line and also contributed three blocks. Howard has now posted a double-double in seven of Orlando's eight games this season.
DeSagana Diop: Has 10 Rebounds, Three Blocks in Win
Update: Diop had 10 rebounds and three blocked shots in the Mavs' 99-84 win over the 76ers on Tuesday night.
Analysis: Diop's days as a starter receiving huge minutes may be limited, as regular starter Erick Dampier (shoulder) returned Tuesday night. Look for Dampier to quickly regain his starting spot, and for Diop to return to last year's role as a sub.
Hedo Turkoglu: Playing Time Decreasing
Update: Turkoglu made seven of his 15 shots and scored 17 points in Orlando's victory over Seattle on Tuesday.
Analysis: Turkoglu had four rebounds and two assists but also had an astouding eight turnovers. He also played less than 30 minutes for the second consecutive game, allowing Trevor Ariza to step up and post his first double-double of the season. Turkoglu's value won't be higher than it is currently, so if you can still find another manager looking to take him off your hands, don't be afraid to sell Turkoglu now.
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