Daily Fantasy Basketball Injury Report: Thursday 12/15/16
It's a tricky night with injuries on Thursday's five game slate. While there aren't as many games, there are some big question marks heading into Thursday's 8 PM roster lock.
Notable Injuries
Denver Nuggets
It's a 10-days-to-Christmas miracle for the Denver Nuggets tonight as all of their players will be healthy and available for the first time this season. That means Gary Harris is back and starting for this team while Wilson Chandler is ready to play, too.
San Antonio Spurs
The San Antonio Spurs haven't announced any injuries or guys resting yet this afternoon, but after playing last night, anything is possible. LaMarcus Aldridge should be back after resting Wednesday, but that doesn't mean the Spurs won't rule out some other guys closer to tip off. After all, it's the Spurs.
New Orleans Pelicans
Tim Frazier has been playing well this season, but he is out tonight and for the next few games as he recovers from a bruised wrist. However, all is not lost for the New Orleans Pelicans as Tyreke Evans will make his return to the court tonight after missing nearly a year with a knee injury. Expect Evans to be on a strict minutes limit for the first several games, though, so Jrue Holiday should be busy tonight.
Carmelo Anthony and Derrick Rose, New York Knicks
We thought Derrick Rose was over his back spasms, but apparently they are acting up again as he is out Thursday night. Surprisingly, Carmelo Anthony is going to be on the sidelines, as well, with a shoulder issue. That's going to open up a lot of opportunity in the New York Knicks' offense. Brandon Jennings will likely be one of the more popular value plays of the night, and Kristaps Porzingis will probably shoulder a big load. Per NBAWowy, with Anthony and Rose off the floor, Porzingis's usage rate jumps to 29.4% while Guillermo Hernangomez has a 25% usage rate.
Rajon Rondo, Chicago Bulls
Rajon Rondo went through a light practice yesterday and is considered a game-time decision on Thursday night. Expect Jerian Grant and Isaiah Canaan to see a minutes boost if Rondo misses another game.
Brandon Knight, Phoenix Suns
According to the Phoenix Suns' game notes, Brandon Knight is questionable tonight with a sprained hand. If he misses tonight's game, Eric Bledsoe and Leandro Barbosa should each see a slight boost.
Alex Len, Phoenix Suns
Alex Len's bruised hip also has him listed as questionable tonight. If he were to miss, Tyson Chandler would likely play big minutes and would become a strong value play in both cash games and tournaments. Marquese Chriss could also see some more run coming off his big double-double.
Al-Farouq Aminu, Portland Trail Blazers
It looks like Al-Farouq Aminu is doubtful again on Thursday, but it's very hard to predict what Terry Stotts will do in the starting lineup. Noah Vonleh, Ed Davis and Meyers Leonard could all see boosts in minutes, but it's nearly impossible to tell which one will get the most run.
Zaza Pachulia, Golden State Warriors
Zaza Pachulia went through shootaround this morning, but it's still unclear what his status is after initially being ruled doubtful. He reportedly has a deep bruise in his wrist, so don't be surprised if Golden State holds him out to be safe. The ever-loved JaVale McGee got the start Tuesday and was serviceable in 16 minutes, totaling 9 points and 6 rebounds.
Rodney Stuckey, Indiana Pacers
Not only is Monta Ellis still out, but Rodney Stuckey is out Thursday night, as well. With both those guys down, C.J. Miles and Glenn Robinson III will be nice value plays tonight, while Paul George and Jeff Teague might see a few more minutes, too.
