NBA Weekly Preview
If you’re still wondering if Marcus Thornton is for real or if Blake Griffin was really hitting a “rookie wall” it’s probably safe to say both questions have been answered. Thornton continues to make Sacramento fans forget about Tyreke Evans and Blake Griffin has returned to the scene of the “winning the rookie of the year” crime.
The point is, these are two monster performers when the ball gets rolling, and it’s time to stop doubting them. However, the worry that creeps in every daily fantasy gamer’s mind is well noted, and also pretty understandable. That’s why the NBA Weekly Preview is here, to get you a head-start on the week, in an effort to ease your worries as you build your daily lineup.
Read on for this week’s injury report and some daily fantasy basketball advice:
Injury Report
Speaking of forgetting about Tyreke Evans, the star Kings guard is expected back this Friday, according to reports. There have been rumors about a possible return for a month now, so take it with a grain of salt. However, monitor his comeback at the end of the week, as well as the impact on Marcus Thornton’s value.
Deron Williams could try to give it a go one last time on Friday, but should really be put on the shelf, both in real life and the fantasy realm. Even if he returns this week, refrain from using him until you know he’ll be at full health.
Tim Duncan went down in Monday night’s win against the Golden State Warriors. He messed up his ankle and injured it bad enough that early reports have him missing two weeks. If this report holds up, you can consider him useless in daily leagues for the remainder of the regular season.
Devin Harris left another game with an injury, once again dealing with a bad hamstring. He played just three minutes and gave way to Earl Watson. Stay clear of this mess until Harris proves he’s over the hammy issues.
Stephen Jackson missed practice on Monday and continues to battle a hamstring injury. Jackson claims he’s currently going to battle on the court at “55%”. That type of lag will keep his numbers inconsistent, so look elsewhere for your G/F help.
Raymond Felton missed Monday night’s action for the Nuggets and could possibly miss more time, while Arron Afflalo is chalked up to miss his next two games after sitting out Monday’s game, as well.
Portland’s Marcus Camby has X-rays on his injured ankle, and is questionable for Tuesday’s action. The injury isn’t overly worrisome, but his current role is. Take a trip down to Rotation Probation for more info.
Rotation Probation
As mentioned above, Marcus Camby’s bum ankle doesn’t do him any favors, but the once dominant inside man is getting less and less minutes these days, making him a paltry fantasy option in daily formats.
Kevin Love is probably the biggest name in question right now, as he exited his most recent contest with a groin injury and did not return. There is no time table for his return, and there is even speculation that he could get shutdown for the season, so monitor his status closely.
With Deron Williams sidelined with his wrist injury, Jordan Farmar should continue to see some major run, and could be a solid fill-in play. His 17 assists two games ago is a firm testament of that argument.
With Arron Afflalo missing action, look for both J.R. Smith and Danilo Gallinari to see extra minutes and put up better numbers than usual. Gallo’s return to full health over the past week is already paying off, but the extra time on the floor can only help.
Kevin Love’s potentially lengthy absence could also open up the fantasy doors for some nice talent, as Anthony Randolph and Anthony Tolliver could see some solid grind. Michael Beasley would see the biggest spike in fantasy value, as his shots would surely rise quite a bit.
Risers and Fallers
Paul Millsap – PF, Utah Jazz (Riser)
He’s still working his way back from injury, but if his first two performances are any indication, Millsap is making up for lost time. He put up a monster line in his return with 35 points and 10 rebounds, and while he came back down to earth a bit with 15 points in his second game back, both performances are promising. Look for him to establish some consistency over the next week and get back to dominating in fantasy.
Ramon Sessions – PG, Cleveland Cavaliers (Faller)
Remember when Sessions was tearing it up and was one of the hottest names in fantasy basketball? That was before Baron Davis got traded to Cleveland and we started hearing about Sessions’ hernia problems. Sessions can still drop in a solid performance here and there, but his injury and inconsistency (and the presence of Davis), has his fantasy value taking a hit.
Lock of the Week
Jordan Crawford – G, Washington Wizards
Crawford has been tearing it up while Josh Howard, Nick Young, Rashard Lewis, and Andray Blatche have missed time due to injury, topping 20 points in four of his last six games. With those guys not expected back this week (or maybe for the rest of the year), look for Crawford to continue his tear.
Sleeper of the Week
Trevor Booker – F, Washington Wizards (35k)
Here’s another Wizard for you to use. Yes, the Wizards aren’t a very good team, but their inability to win games still has translated into fantasy player success. Booker has been very solid amidst all the big injuries in Washington, and the best part is, he’s available for just $10 at FSL and $4,500 on FanDuel. Considering some of the top forward spots, you’re doing pretty well with Booker this week.
Matchup Special
Houston Rockets vs. Golden State Warriors
This week brings another classic matchup of two teams that stink at defense and excel at offense. The Rockets and Warriors combined for 233 points the last time they met, and there’s little doubt they’ll crack 200+ again. Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry should get back on track in this one, while Kyle Lowry and Kevin Martin should also be solid fantasy plays.