Fantasy News

Knecht is dealing with an undisclosed contusion. His next opportunity to take the floor will come in Tuesday's preseason meeting with the Warriors.

Sexton has been battling a lower-body injury and will miss his third matchup of the preseason. However, the team isn't overly concerned at this point for what coach JJ Redick is deeming a minor injury for the 27-year-old guard, per Daniel Starkand of LakersNation.com.

Kessler will miss a third consecutive contest due to a finger injury, though head coach JJ Redick isn't concerned that it's a long-term issue, per Daniel Starkand of LakersNation.com. The big man's next opportunity to play in the preseason will come Tuesday against the Warriors.

Kaluma is set to miss a third straight preseason game, and while head coach JJ Redick said he's not worried about any long-term injury, it's concerning that Kaluma hasn't logged a single minute in the preseason. His next chance to suit up will come against the Warriors on Tuesday.

Head coach JJ Redick confirmed Reaves' availability, meaning the Lakers will have one of their go-to offensive options on the hardwood for this preseason contest. As a result, Reaves will get some much-needed reps and playing time as the regular season approaches.

Williams was also held out for the second half of a preseason back-to-back Tuesday, and he'll take a seat again Thursday with coach JJ Redick indicating a number of Lakers are dealing with minor injuries, per Daniel Starkand of LakersNation.com. Williams' next opportunity to return will arrive Tuesday against Golden State.

Carr and several other players are reportedly dealing with minor injuries, per Daniel Starkand of LakersNation.com, but the Lakers aren't concerned about him missing any regular-season action. His next chance to play will arrive Tuesday against the Warriors.

Terms of the contract were not disclosed, but it seems likely that Wague will eventually be waived so that he can suit up for Utah's G League affiliate, the Salt Lake City Stars. The 26-year-old averaged 6.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.5 blocks over 37 appearances during his final season of collegiate play at Oklahoma.

Wiggins' preseason debut was cut short after he suffered a lip laceration and was downgraded to out, but he's in line for a larger role Thursday evening. The 27-year-old will draw the start at power forward with Jalen Johnson set for a night off.

The rookie started Monday against the Grizzlies and notched 11 points (4-11 FG, 2-6 3Pt, 1-4 FT) and two assists across 25 minutes. However, he'll head to the bench for this one, with Aaron Wiggins starting instead. Flemings is likely to see minutes off the bench anyway, as the preseason is the perfect time to see how he'll fare against NBA-caliber opponents with the regular season just right around the corner.

It's unclear exactly what is bothering Fox, though he was a late scratch due to soreness. His next chance to play in the preseason will come Saturday against the Suns.

The Spurs initially released a starting lineup that didn't include Champagnie, but the team has since reported that De'Aaron Fox has been downgraded to out due to soreness. This opens up a slot in the starting five for Champagnie, who is expected to play a key role this season for San Antonio after averaging 11.1 points, 5.8 rebounds and 1.5 assists in 82 regular-season appearances a year ago.

The Nets will be without Day'Ron Sharpe (shoulder) for this preseason contest, meaning Wagner will get the nod at center. It will be an opportunity to see how Wagner plays alongside Julius Randle, who will get the nod at power forward.

The Nets will be without Day'Ron Sharpe (shoulder) for this preseason contest, meaning Wagner will get the nod at center. It will be an opportunity to see how Wagner plays alongside Julius Randle, who will get the nod at power forward.

Clowney is expected to be a bench option in the regular season, but he'll get the starting nod Thursday because Michael Porter (wrist) won't start. Clowney is coming off a career-best 2025-26 season, averaging 12.3 points per game in 66 regular-season appearances, including 60 starts.

Mathurin impressed during the preseason opener, finishing with 13 points in just 17 minutes of action off the bench. He'll have a chance to show what he can do with the first unit Thursday while Dejounte Murray (toe) sits and Herbert Jones rotates to the bench.

Fears is getting the nod at point guard as the Pelicans are changing their lineup again for this preseason contest. The former Oklahoma star is coming off a rookie season in which he averaged 14.3 points, 3.7 rebounds and 3.4 assists per game across 82 regular-season appearances in 2025-26.

Jones got the starting nod in the Pelicans' preseason-opening win over the Thunder on Tuesday, though he'll slide to the second unit Thursday. Bennedict Mathurin will enter the first unit in Jones' place.

Wade drew the start in the preseason opener with the Sixers electing to rest several key contributors. However, he'll retreat to the bench Thursday with LeBron James, Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey all back in action.

Caldwell-Pope started Monday against the Knicks, but the veteran will head back to the bench Thursday. That's because the 76ers will open the game with their regular starting lineup featuring Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecombe, Jaylen Brown, LeBron James and Joel Embiid. Caldwell-Pope is expected to operate as a three-point shooting threat off the bench for the 76ers in the regular season.

Larsson was previously expected to play after missing Wednesday's practice with an illness, though he's since been ruled out. His next opportunity to suit up in the preseason will come Saturday against Minnesota.

Ayton will get a look with the first unit while Alex Sarr continues to recover from offseason foot surgery. He'll start alongside Trae Young, Kyshawn George, AJ Dybantsa and Anthony Davis.

Williams won't be an option for this contest, but the big man isn't likely to play a big role with the Spurs anytime soon. He's expected to play for the Austin Spurs in the G League in the 2026-27 campaign. His next chance to play in the preseason will come against the Suns on Saturday.

Harper won't suit up for Boston's preseason opener due to a shoulder injury. His next opportunity to play will come in Saturday's preseason game against Philadelphia.

This appears to be a scheduled rest day for Pritchard, as the Celtics are sitting a number of their regular rotation players. He'll have an opportunity to suit up for Saturday's exhibition against the 76ers.

The Celtics are resting several players ahead of this preseason game, and that includes Hauser, who's expected to have a sizable role in the rotation this season. His next chance to play will come against the 76ers on Saturday.

Wiggins left the preseason opener with a lip laceration but is set to play Thursday. He's expected to occupy a key role off the bench in his debut season with the Hawks.

Robinson will join several other rotation players on the sidelines for Boston's preseason opener. The big man's next chance to play in the preseason will come Saturday against the 76ers.

McKneeley is available off the bench Thursday. He's competing for a roster spot under a non-guaranteed contract.

The Celtics are expected to rest several rotation players Thursday, opening the door for Garza to step into the first unit. The 27-year-old center faces an uphill battle for steady minutes during the regular season.

The veteran guard is slated for some reps Thursday after missing the preseason opener. McCollum should see action in the first half before Atlanta flips things over to their younger players in the second half.

Walsh will get the start to begin the preseason. The 22-year-old is coming off his best season in 2025-26, and in 25 starts, he averaged 7.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.1 steals over 22.7 minutes per game.

Diop will sit out the Cavaliers' preseason opener for undisclosed reasons. His next chance to play in the preseason will come Sunday against the Magic.

Boston seems to be holding out their expected starters for this exhibition. Luka Garza is getting a chance to start at center for the Celtics on Thursday.

Tomlin is dealing with lower-back soreness and will be held out of Cleveland's preseason opener. His next chance to suit up in the preseason will come Sunday against Orlando.

Gonzalez is auditioning for a prominent role in the rotation, so he will need to be at his best during the preseason. The 20-year-old started three times during the 2025-26 campaign, averaging 6.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.0 blocks and 1.7 steals over 22.0 minutes per contest in those appearances.

With James Harden (ankle) unavailable, Tyson will enter the starting five in the Cavaliers' preseason opener. He'll be joined in the first unit by Donovan Mitchell, Peyton Watson, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

Watson is likely to begin the regular season in a starting role, and he will get the starting nod in Cleveland's preseason opener. He'll be joined in the first unit by Donovan Mitchell, Jaylon Tyson, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen.

The Celtics are holding several key contributors out of the starting lineup Thursday. Jordan Walsh is drawing the start at power forward.

Conley signed a one-year deal with the Celtics in July and will get the start in Boston's first preseason game of the 2026-27 campaign. The 2007 No. 4 overall pick started in 15 games for the Timberwolves in 2025-26, averaging 7.5 points, 3.9 assists, 2.2 rebounds and 1.1 steals over 24.1 minutes per contest in those appearances.

Harden is dealing with right ankle soreness and will be held out of Cleveland's preseason opener. With the veteran guard sidelined, Jaylon Tyson will join Donovan Mitchell, Peyton Watson, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen in the starting five.

Boston looks to be resting their starters for this exhibition. Hugo Gonzalez is starting at small forward Thursday.

The Celtics appear to be resting their starters for this exhibition. Mike Conley is starting at point guard Thursday.

Dort will remain on the shelf for a second straight preseason game due to a right knee contusion. His next opportunity to suit up in the preseason will come against the Pacers on Saturday.

Dylan Harper is getting the nod over Champagnie in the first unit. The two are battling for San Antonio's final starting position while Tobias Harris (calf) is sidelined.

Johnson will sit out Atlanta's second preseason game after posting eight points (1-7 FG, 0-3 3Pt, 6-6 FT), five rebounds, three assists and one steal in 18 minutes during Monday's loss to Memphis. His next chance to play in the preseason will come against Indiana on Saturday.

The Spurs are getting a look at a three-guard lineup with De'Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle. It looks like Harper has a chance to start Opening Night with Tobias Harris (calf) injured.

Murray is dealing with a right toe contusion, though head coach Jamahl Mosley said his absence Thursday is precautionary. The veteran point guard's next chance to play in the preseason will come Wednesday against Dallas.

Head coach Brian Keefe believes Sarr is close to returning from offseason foot surgery. Saturday's game against the Pistons marks his next chance to make his preseason debut.

Middleton is ramping up for game action. His next chance to play is Saturday against the Pistons.

McCullar will join Ochai Agbaji, Drew Eubanks and Tony Bradley on the sidelines, though all of them are expected to play Monday. The two-way player is once again expected to spend most of his time with the G League's Westchester Knicks in 2026-27.

The Knicks plan to keep Bradley out Thursday. His next chance to play would be Monday against Minnesota.

The Knicks are holding out some of their players on non-guaranteed deals Thursday. According to Bondy, Agbaji will play in Monday's preseason game against the Timberwolves.

The Knicks plan to hold Eubanks out Thursday. His next chance to play would be Monday against Minnesota.

Larsson didn't participate in Wednesday's practice due to an illness, though he's set to play in Miami's second preseason matchup. Over 11 minutes in Saturday's preseason-opening win over Toronto, the 25-year-old swingman posted 13 points, two rebounds, two assists and two steals.

Wiggins has overcome an illness that bothered him earlier this week, costing him some practice time. His status for the start of the regular season is not in question.

It's unclear how much of Thursday's practice Jones took part in, though it's encouraging to see him doing on-court work. The 25-year-old forward tweaked his hamstring early in training camp and has missed each of the team's first two preseason games. Although Jones is considered day-to-day, the Nuggets may continue exercising caution ahead of their regular-season opener against the Thunder on Thursday, Oct. 22.

Wednesday's signing goes down as a procedural step in seizing control of Mitchell's G League rights. He's set to join the Stockton Kings.

The veteran big man sat out Wednesday's exhibition versus Portland for rest purposes. Horford should receive some burn Saturday before the Warriors turn to some of their younger players in the second half.

The 76ers are getting their first look at their star-studded lineup Thursday. Maxey, Joel Embiid, LeBron James and Jaylen Brown are all set to take the floor together for the first time.

The 76ers are planning to have their entire Opening Night starting lineup available Thursday. Embiid, who sat out the preseason opener, should get some run in the first half while Philadelphia gets its first look at its new-look roster.

After sitting out the preseason opener, the future Hall of Famer will make his first appearance in a 76ers uniform Thursday. James should get some reps in the first half before handing things off to Philadelphia's younger players in the second half.

This was the expected outcome after Martin agreed to an Exhibit 10 deal with team earlier this fall. The forward is set to report to the G League's Rip City Remix.

Portland didn't allow Potter to pass through waivers unclaimed over the summer, so he figures to have a decent chance of making the final roster. He's set to provide frontcourt depth and may not occupy an Opening Night role, though.

Camara made his preseason debut Wednesday. The fourth-year forward has been a full-time starter for Portland in back-to-back seasons and should retain that role in 2026-27, especially given that Shaedon Sharpe (knee) is likely to be sidelined until March.

Although most of the attention is on Ja Morant and Damian Lillard in Portland's revamped backcourt, Henderson should continue to play a prominent role off the bench this season. Henderson averaged a career-high 14.2 points despite playing a career-low 24.9 minutes per game last regular season.

Clingan had a hard time finding the bottom of the basket in the preseason opener, but he collected a team-high 10 boards to go with a full stat line. The 2024 first-rounder added a respectable three-point shot to his arsenal and improved as a free-throw shooter a year ago, and there's still room for growth for Clingan in his third season.

Ike saw significant run off the bench on a night the Warriors were short on available bodies. A two-way player, Ike is likely to be sent to the G League's Santa Cruz Warriors once the preseason is finished.

After undergoing ankle surgery in February, Jones Garcia apparently has a clean bill of health ahead of the 2026-27 campaign. He's on a two-way contract with the Spurs and is likely to see a lot of G League reps.

The Warriors were short on healthy bodies Wednesday, allowing Richard to handle a featured role. He's competing mainly with Gary Payton and Brandon Williams for an Opening Night role off the bench.

Brown is dealing with some tightness, so this sounds like a precaution. The No. 44 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft is not expected to crack the rotation on Opening Night.

The rookie first-rounder impressed in the preseason opener, leading the second unit in dimes. Swain appears likely to have an Opening Night role off the bench, but his fantasy value should be limited while the Bulls are healthy.

Miller delivered an efficient offensive performance off the bench while adding two steals and committing no turnovers. The 22-year-old forward will look to build on the encouraging showing as he competes for minutes in Chicago's frontcourt, although his regular-season role remains uncertain.

Powell made an immediate impact in his first preseason appearance with Chicago, connecting on three triples while requiring just four field-goal attempts. The veteran wing appears poised to provide the Bulls with an established perimeter scoring threat alongside Josh Giddey, though his offensive role will become clearer as the preseason progresses.

Giddey struggled with his shot but remained effective as a facilitator, leading Chicago in assists during the preseason opener. The 24-year-old guard should continue serving as the Bulls' primary playmaker, with his contributions in assists and rebounds providing fantasy value even when his scoring is limited.

Spencer made both of his field goals from beyond the arc and avoided committing a turnover. The veteran guard will look to build on his perimeter shooting as he competes for playing time in Phoenix's crowded backcourt, though his regular-season fantasy outlook remains limited.

Bouyea provided an efficient scoring spark in limited action, although he also committed three turnovers. With Devin Booker and Collin Gillespie among Phoenix's backcourt options, Bouyea faces considerable competition for regular-season minutes.

Dunn made his presence felt defensively, leading Phoenix's reserves in playing time while contributing across several statistical categories. His defensive versatility could help him secure a consistent rotation role, though limited offensive production may restrict his fantasy upside.

Kennard contributed as a secondary playmaker despite attempting just one three-pointer. The veteran sharpshooter figures to provide Phoenix with perimeter spacing and offensive versatility off the bench, though his fantasy value will depend largely on his playing time and three-point production.

LeVert was among several Milwaukee veterans who did not suit up Wednesday. There is no indication that his absence was injury-related, and he will have another opportunity to play Sunday against Charlotte.

Green joined several Milwaukee rotation players on the inactive list Wednesday. His absence was not attributed to an injury, and his next opportunity to take the floor will come Sunday against Charlotte.

Porter did not suit up as Milwaukee continued its preseason evaluations. The veteran guard's next opportunity to play will come Sunday against Charlotte, assuming he is available.

Trent's absence wasn't listed as injury-related, and Milwaukee may simply be evaluating other backcourt options during the preseason. His next opportunity to play will come Sunday against Charlotte.

Turner delivered an efficient offensive performance while providing his usual rim protection. The veteran center's combination of perimeter shooting and shot-blocking should continue to make him a valuable fantasy option heading into the regular season.

Prosper provided efficient scoring inside the arc while contributing a blocked shot in limited action. The former Mavericks forward will look to build on the performance as he competes for a consistent role in Memphis' frontcourt rotation ahead of the regular season.

Knox provided a scoring boost off the bench while finishing as one of Orlando's more productive rebounders. The veteran forward will look to build on the performance as he competes for a spot on the roster.

Wagner struggled with his shot but made a significant impact as a facilitator, leading Orlando in assists despite limited playing time. His ability to contribute across multiple categories should remain a key part of his fantasy appeal heading into the regular season.

Vucevic made all three of his attempts from beyond the arc, showcasing his floor-spacing ability in limited action. The veteran center could provide valuable offensive production off Orlando's bench, though his playing time will be worth monitoring in a crowded frontcourt.

Bitadze was efficient around the basket but saw limited playing time behind Orlando's other frontcourt options. With Nikola Vucevic also competing for minutes, Bitadze could face challenges securing a consistent rotation role.

Jefferson will miss his second consecutive preseason contest after sitting out Tuesday's win over Charlotte. The rookie forward's return timeline remains unclear, and the missed time could limit his opportunities to compete for a rotation role ahead of the regular season.

Brown also missed Tuesday's preseason opener against Charlotte and has been working his way back into basketball activities after suffering the injury during training camp. Brooklyn has been cautious with the rookie guard's recovery, and he remains without a firm timetable for his preseason debut.

The severity of Sharpe's shoulder issue remains unclear, though the team is likely being cautious for this exhibition. His absence could create additional frontcourt opportunities for Brooklyn's other big men during Thursday's contest.

Porter's absence comes after he scored 16 points in Tuesday's preseason win over Charlotte. The Nets haven't indicated whether the wrist issue will affect his availability beyond Thursday, though his next opportunity to play will come in Brooklyn's next exhibition contest.

Nembhard had a relatively quiet scoring performance while starting alongside Tyrese Haliburton. With Haliburton returning to action, Nembhard's preseason usage will provide an early indication of how Indiana plans to distribute backcourt responsibilities.

Oubre made his only field-goal attempt and contributed defensively during his brief appearance. The veteran wing will look to establish a consistent role in Indiana's rotation as a key part of the second unit.

Toppin provided efficient scoring off the bench as Indiana continued evaluating its frontcourt rotation. The veteran forward should remain a source of scoring and athleticism for the second unit, though his fantasy value will depend on his playing time.

McDaniels delivered an efficient performance from beyond the arc while contributing defensively. His ability to provide perimeter shooting alongside his usual defensive production should help maintain his value in Minnesota's starting lineup.

Edwards was efficient from beyond the arc, connecting on four of five three-point attempts while playing limited minutes. The star guard continues to benefit from Minnesota's revamped offensive attack, with LaMelo Ball providing another playmaking option in the backcourt.

It was an impressive defensive showing from Williams, who should form an intriguing tandem in the paint with Donovan Clingan if he can stay healthy. Williams' 59 regular-season games played last season represented his highest total since 2021-22 with the Celtics, and he was on the court for only 26 total contests the two seasons prior.

Only four Trail Blazers scored in double digits as 17 different players got court time, but Avdija provided some stability to the shifting lineup around him. Even after the offseason additions of Ja Morant and Damian Lillard to remake the backcourt, Avdija figures to be one of the focal points of Portland's offense after a breakout 2025-26 that saw him average 24.2 points, 6.9 boards, 6.7 assists, 1.9 threes and 1.4 combined steals and blocks over 66 regular-season games.

The 24-year-old forward got a big opportunity as the Warriors rested most of their key rotation players, and Terry took advantage. He faces an uphill battle to crack the NBA roster, but the 2022 first-round pick offers some experience if injuries create an opening. Terry split last season between the Bulls and Sixers, averaging 11.5 minutes over 48 regular-season contests.

The 23-year-old guard is only on a training camp deal and is expected to begin the season in the G League, but Kelly may have given the Warriors something to think about with Wednesday's strong performance. He made his NBA debut with the Mavericks last season after going undrafted out of Auburn, averaging 9.6 minutes over 14 regular-season games.

Golden State rested most of its key rotation players, leaving Williams as one of the more experienced members of the starting five, and the 26-year-old guard stepped up with an efficient performance. The former Maverick is expected to be a consistent part of the second unit after signing a one-year deal with the Warriors in August.

The third-year forward couldn't find his shot from beyond the arc, but Buzelis made up for it with a strong defensive effort. Buzelis took a big step forward in his second NBA campaign, nearly doubling his scoring average to 16.3 points and delivering 5.8 boards, 2.2 threes, 2.1 assists, 1.5 blocks and 0.7 steals over 77 regular-season contests, and further improvement seems likely for the 21-year-old as the Chicago roster gets better around him.

The Bulls got balanced scoring up and down the lineup, as six different players delivered 13 or more points, but Wilson's 15 led the way. The fourth overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft is set to be Chicago's starting power forward Opening Night, and while his willingness to chuck it up from long range is encouraging for his long-term fantasy outlook, it's likely to be a drag on his scoring efficiency as a rookie.

The star guard couldn't get his shot to fall, but shaking off any summer rust is what the preseason is for. Booker heads into his 12th season with the Suns as the focal point of the offense and a reliable threat to average better than 25 points a game, but nagging injuries have been an issue for him in recent years. The 29-year-old has played 70 or more games only once in the last six seasons.

The former Rocket is heading into his second campaign with the Suns and is mainly hoping to stay healthy in 2026-27 after averaging 25.9 minutes over 32 regular-season games last season due to a hamstring issue. If Green can stay on the court, he should be one of Phoenix's primary offensive threats after topping 20.0 points per game in two of his last three seasons with Houston.

The journeyman guard has been a terror on the defensive end during the exhibition schedule, snagging nine steals in two games so far. Goodwin is coming off a career-best season in 2025-26, producing 8.7 points, 4.9 boards, 2.1 assists, 1.6 threes and 1.5 steals in 22.5 minutes over 70 regular-season games for the Suns, and he should be a key part of the second unit once again in 2026-27.

Stirtz capitalized on extended second-half opportunities and delivered another impressive showing, posting 15 points in 31 minutes in the preseason opener against the Pelicans on Tuesday. His shooting was particularly encouraging, although his minus-20 rating reflected the struggles of Oklahoma City's reserve-heavy lineup. Stirtz will need to build on these performances to earn consistent regular-season minutes in a competitive backcourt, but his first two preseason outings are certainly encouraging.

Williams was highly effective inside the arc, making eight of his 11 field-goal attempts while contributing six assists and two steals, but he missed all three of his three-point attempts. Long-range shooting woes aside, the star forward helped Oklahoma City build an 82-64 halftime lead before sitting out the second half alongside most of the Thunder's starters. Williams was limited to just 33 regular-season appearances in 2025-26, but if he stays healthy in 2026-27, he should operate as the team's No. 2 option on offense behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a flawless offensive performance in limited action, converting every field-goal and free-throw attempt while helping Oklahoma City establish a commanding first-half advantage. The Thunder rested their starters after halftime, and Milwaukee capitalized against Oklahoma City's reserves. His efficiency and playmaking were encouraging signs, although preseason shooting percentages carry limited predictive value given the restricted minutes and experimental rotations. If this game offered any sign ahead of the regular season, it's that Gilgeous-Alexander should be ready to roll after winning the MVP award in each of the last two seasons.

Burries played a pivotal role in Milwaukee's fourth-quarter comeback with several clutch plays in the second half. As good as he looked in this preseason win, however, the rookie guard looks set to open the 2026-27 regular season in a bench role since Ryan Rollins and Tyler Herro are expected to start in the backcourt Kevin Porter could also be ahead of Burries on the depth chart. Still, Burries has shown encouraging scoring instincts in two preseason appearances, and if he translates that to the regular season, he should be a player worth keeping close tabs on in most formats outside dynasty leagues.

Rollins followed his 15-point performance against Minnesota in the preseason opener with another encouraging outing, this time making a greater impact as a facilitator. He tied Ousmane Dieng for the team lead with seven assists while committing just one turnover and shooting efficiently from the field. Rollins has started both preseason contests alongside Tyler Herro, establishing himself as a reliable backcourt contributor heading into the regular season.

Herro bounced back from a relatively quiet preseason opener against Minnesota, connecting on three triples and shooting efficiently from the field. The guard started alongside Ryan Rollins and helped Milwaukee come back after the Bucks trailed by 18 points at halftime. Herro should remain a prominent perimeter scoring option for Milwaukee, and while the team's revamped rotation could require some adjustment as the regular season approaches, his role as one of the team's go-to scoring weapons shouldn't be at risk.

Hendricks gave Memphis an efficient boost off the bench, but his rebound totals paled in comparison to his preseason debut. After averaging 10.6 points, 4.7 rebounds and 1.4 steals in 26 games with Memphis last season, he's projected to play second fiddle to Cameron Boozer at the four spot.

The No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NBA draft possesses a superb all-around game that should earn him a spot in Memphis' starting lineup immediately. That kind of exposure should put him squarely in the Rookie of the Year conversation as the season gets underway.

Jackson followed up a strong preseason debut with another strong scoring night and contributed on the glass. He's in the final year of his contract and fighting for minutes in a crowded wing rotation that added Jerami Grant in the offseason, so continuing his steady preseason work is his best chance to move up the depth chart.

Banchero struggled from the field but got to the line 10 times and repeatedly set up Wendell Carter and Desmond Bane while playing only two quarters. The offense ran primarily through Franz Wagner, with Banchero often working off the ball, a scheme that could ultimately help the Duke product's bottom line after logging a regression in his scoring average last season.

Carter was Orlando's full-time starting center last season, averaging 11.8 points and 7.4 rebounds, but his outlook is complicated by Nikola Vucevic's return to Orlando. Carter's starting role isn't currently in jeopardy, but the situation is worth monitoring.

With starting center Ivica Zubac playing just 18 minutes, Huff made the most of his opportunities, putting up solid contributions across the board. Although Huff was somewhat of a fantasy darling last season, this season could tell a completely different story. While he could very well be the primary backup behind Zubac, it would appear as though Indiana is going to run with a lot of small-ball lineups, inserting either Pascal Siakam or Obi Toppin into the center position.

After a few late-season pops, Cain made a strong first impression this season with a great total off the bench. After spending most of last season on a two-way deal before converting to a standard contract in March, he's using the preseason to earn a spot in the regular rotation.

Despite coming off the bench, Walker logged a team-high 28 minutes, handing out 10 assists in the process. Injuries to other players last season allowed Walker to step into a sizeable role, particularly down the stretch. While he is almost certainly going to play a somewhat muted role when compared to his late-season heroics, Walker has likely done enough to at least earn himself a consistent spot in the rotation.

Haliburton returned to the court after last playing in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. He appeared fully healthy, showing no signs of hesitation on either end of the floor. Indiana as a whole looked much more cohesive with Haliburton at the helm, an encouraging sign for anyone considering Haliburton with their first- or second-round pick. While there could be some minor limitations to begin the season, all signs point to him being fully active and ready to attack the season head-on.

Hyland was used sparingly off the bench, although he did make the most of his time on the floor, ending as one of five Minnesota players to score double digits. Despite a proven ability to score the basketball, it would appear as though Hyland could struggle to carve out a meaningful role this season. At best, he should be on the streaming radar if and when those ahead of him in the rotation are struck down with injury or illness.

Beringer was the first big man off the bench once again, a role that he will presumably retain beyond the preseason. Although his production to this point has been modest, he should at least be on the radar as a speculative last-round pick for anyone needing boards and blocks. Should Rudy Gobert suffer an injury at any point during the season, Beringer could be a popular addition across all formats.

Kuminga got the starting nod for the second straight game, another indication that he is likely to hold onto that spot when the season proper begins. Although he attempted the second-most shots behind Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels, Kuminga's fantasy flaws were on full display, managing to connect on just one shot from nine attempts. Assuming he is given the green light to start on opening night, Kuminga is worth a look late in drafts, remembering that if and when his shot isn't falling, he has very little to fall back on in terms of peripheral production.

Bridges got tangled up fighting for a loose ball and tweaked his ankle, and while he initially tried to play through it, he retreated to the locker room a few possessions later. According to Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic, head coach Jordan Ott said after the game that he believes Bridges is "fine" and thinks there's a chance he could play in Saturday's exhibition against the Spurs.

This was Lillard's first game back on the court since tearing his Achilles on March 18, 2025, and he didn't skip a beat, scoring in a variety of ways and burying multiple triples. He didn't hesitate to get his shot up and looked comfortable sharing the backcourt with new addition Ja Morant. It was an encouraging first step for Lillard, who will look to build on his strong return Tuesday in Sacramento.

Bassey converted all six of his shot attempts and racked up six stocks in under 30 minutes. With Kristaps Porzingis (illness) out indefinitely, there could be a path to meaningful minutes for Bassey, so he's someone worth monitoring this preseason.

After posting 12 points on 5-of-5 shooting along with nine rebounds, three assists and three blocks in the front end of this back-to-back set, Mara remained highly productive Wednesday. The rookie big man led all players in scoring and showed off his ability as a lob threat while shooting a perfect 10-for-10 from the field. Although the 21-year-old has impressed in the preseason thus far, he figures to face significant competition for minutes during the regular season.

With Nic Claxton (hamstring) and Zach Collins (toe) already banged up, Awaka is an intriguing player to monitor this preseason. Though undersized, he's a superb rebounder, so he could earn minutes in the rotation if the Bulls' bigs aren't healthy to start the year.

Brooks had the hot hand early for Phoenix, and he missed only two shots in his 23 minutes of floor time. Brooks averaged a career-high 20.2 points per game last season, but it could be tough for him to replicate that scoring with Miles Bridges in town and both Devin Booker and Jalen Green healthy.

After posting 14 points and 12 rebounds over 24 minutes off the bench in Monday's preseason-opening loss to Minnesota, Ware got the starting nod Wednesday. The big man struggled from beyond the arc but still finished as Milwaukee's second-leading scorer behind Myles Turner (19 points). Ware also led all players in rebounds, securing his second double-double in as many preseason games thus far.

This was Peavy's second straight game on the sidelines, and it's unclear if he'll play during the preseason. His next chance to suit up will come Friday in Chicago.

Da Silva wasn't very efficient from two-point range but put together a solid performance from beyond the arc en route to a game-high 19 points. The 25-year-old forward also tied for third on the team in rebounds. Da Silva averaged 9.9 points, 3.7 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 0.9 steals across 24.7 minutes per game in 2025-26, and he figures to serve as Paolo Banchero's primary backup this season.

Jerome scored efficiently, did a nice job distributing the rock and finished without committing a single turnover. He's looked great as Memphis' starting point guard through the first two preseason games and could be primed for a breakout season.

Ament landed awkwardly on his left ankle and exited to the locker room near the end of the first half. His next opportunity to suit up in the preseason will come Sunday against the Hornets, though it wouldn't be surprising to see the Bucks exercise caution moving forward.

Nesmith was dialed in from deep, and he led his team in scoring and three-pointers made despite logging just 16 minutes. Nesmith should be a reliable source of points and triples this season, but he doesn't contribute much in the other statistical categories.