

Thu Mar 20 3:12am ET
Field Level Media
Luka Doncic scored 21 of his 31 points in the first quarter, Austin Reaves added 22 total and the Los Angeles Lakers turned a fast start into a 120-108 home victory over the short-handed Denver Nuggets on Wednesday.
The victory allowed the Lakers to tie the Nuggets for third place in the Western Conference standings. The teams split the season series with two victories each.
Dorian Finney-Smith scored 14 points as the Lakers earned their third straight win and ninth consecutive home victory despite playing without LeBron James (groin) and Rui Hachimura (knee).
Aaron Gordon tallied 26 points and 11 rebounds for the Nuggets, who were playing without Nikola Jokic (ankle/elbow) and Jamal Murray (ankle). Denver has alternated wins and losses for the past eight games.
Spurs 120, Knicks 105
Sandro Mamukelashvili scored a career-high 34 points, 21 in the fourth quarter, as host San Antonio ambushed New York.
Mamukelashvili shot 13-for-14 from the floor, including 7-for-7 from 3-point range. He had never previously made more than four 3-pointers in a game. Stephon Castle added 22 points for San Antonio. Chris Paul produced 12 points and nine assists.
Karl-Anthony Towns amassed 32 points and nine rebounds for the Knicks, who fell to 3-3 since Jalen Brunson was lost indefinitely with a sprained right ankle. Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby added 14 points apiece, and Mitchell Robinson tallied 13 points and 11 rebounds.
Kings 123, Cavaliers 119
Keegan Murray broke a late tie with a driving hoop, DeMar DeRozan dropped in a pair of clutch baskets in the final 1:35 and host Sacramento extended Cleveland's losing streak to three games.
DeRozan finished with a team-high 27 points, Malik Monk added 22 and rookie Devin Carter chipped in with a season-best 16 off the bench as the Kings moved three games ahead of the Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks in their duel for ninth place in the Western Conference.
Evan Mobley registered 31 points and 10 rebounds and Donovan Mitchell finished with 26 points for the Cavaliers. Ty Jerome added 14 points and six assists. Dean Wade and Max Strus chipped in with 12 points apiece, and Jarrett Allen had 10.
Trail Blazers 115, Grizzlies 99
Deni Avdija recorded 31 points, 16 rebounds and eight assists to lead Portland to a victory over visiting Memphis.
Avdija matched season highs for boards and 3-pointers (five) as Portland won its third straight game. Anfernee Simons scored 22 points, Shaedon Sharpe produced 17 points, seven rebounds and five assists and Toumani Camara had 15 points for the Trail Blazers. Duop Reath had 13 points and nine rebounds off the bench for Portland, which is two games behind the Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks in the battle for the final Western Conference play-in berth.
Desmond Bane scored 20 points and Scotty Pippen Jr. added 18 off the bench for the Grizzlies, who lost their second straight game. Santi Aldama had 16 points and Jaren Jackson Jr. tallied 14 but was just 5 of 18 from the field.
Suns 127, Bulls 121
Devin Booker scored 41 points, including 33 after halftime, as Phoenix beat visiting Chicago.
Kevin Durant added 26 points and Ryan Dunn contributed 16 as Phoenix moved past the Dallas Mavericks into 10th position in the race for the final play-in spot in the Western Conference.
Nikola Vucevic and Coby White both posted 24 points for Chicago, and Josh Giddey had 22 off the bench in his return from a three-game absence with an ankle injury.
Pistons 116, Heat 113
Cade Cunningham banked in a tiebreaking 3-pointer with 0.6 seconds left as visiting Detroit sent Miami to a ninth straight loss.
Cunningham finished with 25 points, 12 rebounds and a game-high 11 assists. Detroit also got 15 points and 11 rebounds from Jalen Duren. Malik Beasley scored 16 points, Ausar Thompson had 14 points and Tobias Harris added 13 points and a game-high five blocks.
Bam Adebayo scored 30 points and added nine rebounds and eight assists for Miami, which is in the midst of its longest losing streak since the 2007-08 season. Tyler Herro gave the Heat 29 points, and rookie Kel'el Ware added 14 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks.
Pacers 135, Mavericks 131
Bennedict Mathurin scored 16 points in the final 5:54 and Andrew Nembhard hit a 3-pointer with 14.7 seconds left as Indiana opened a five-game homestand by beating Dallas in Indianapolis.
Indiana's Pascal Siakam led all scorers with 29 points. Mathurin finished with 23 points. Nembhard added 22 points and doled out eight assists. Aaron Nesmith added 18 points and Obi Toppin 13.
P.J. Washington led Dallas with 26 points. Jaden Hardy added 24 points, Naji Marshall tallied 20 points and nine rebounds. Kai Jones had 18 points and 11 rebounds, Spencer Dinwiddie added 17 points and 12 assists, and Max Christie scored 17 points.
Pelicans 119, Timberwolves 115
Zion Williamson scored 29 points on 12-for-16 shooting and New Orleans outlasted Minnesota in Minneapolis.
Williamson added eight assists, five rebounds and three steals for New Orleans (19-51), which had lost seven of its previous eight games. CJ McCollum added 18 points.
Anthony Edwards scored 29 points but shot only 5-for-19 from the field for the Timberwolves, who have lost two in a row since winning eight straight. Julius Randle finished with 17 points.
Rockets 116, Magic 108
Jalen Green scored 26 points, Alperen Sengun had 22 points and 12 rebounds, and visiting Houston extended its season-best winning streak to eight games by beating Orlando.
Fred VanVleet added 19 points for the Rockets, who outscored the Magic 32-20 in the third quarter and never trailed in the second half.
Paolo Banchero scored 31 points to lead the Magic, who have lost eight of their past 11 games. Franz Wagner scored 20 points, and Goga Bitadze added 19 off the bench.
Jazz 128, Wizards 112
Kyle Filipowski scored 21 points and Keyonte George had 20 as Utah snapped a 10-game losing streak with a win over Washington in Salt Lake City.
The Jazz used a 14-0 run in the second half to build a 21-point lead en route to their first victory in March in a battle of the teams with the worst records in the NBA.
Colby Jones made 9 of 11 shots to lead all scorers with 24 points while Alex Sarr netted 22 points and grabbed nine rebounds for the Wizards, who held an early 11-point lead.
Thunder 133, 76ers 100
Aaron Wiggins scored 26 points and Jaylin Williams had his second career triple-double as host Oklahoma City knocked off Philadelphia.
The Thunder, headed toward the top seed in the Western Conference, clinched the Northwest Division. Williams finished with career highs in points (19) and rebounds (17) and added 11 assists on 7-of-11 shooting. Isaiah Joe added 21 points while Chet Holmgren scored 19 and Branden Carlson finished with a career-high 16.
Quentin Grimes led the 76ers with 28 points while Justin Edwards added 19. Chuma Okeke had 15 rebounds off the bench to go with 14 points.
Sacramento Kings' newly acquired forward De'Andre Hunter (eye) has been ruled out for Thursday's contest against the Orlando Magic. Hunter missed the previous three games with a left eye injury that began before the All-Star break. The forward was traded to Sacramento from the Cleveland Cavaliers during this season's trade deadline and has played just three games with the Kings. With him set to miss another game on Thursday, forward Precious Achiuwa should start, while rookies Maxime Raynaud and Nique Clifford should be major beneficiaries of the number of injuries affecting the Kings' lineup.
Golden State Warriors center Kristaps Porzingis (Achilles) is listed as questionable for Thursday's contest against the Boston Celtics, but he told reporters he plans to make his debut with the team. Porzingis was traded to the Warriors from the Atlanta Hawks at this season's trade deadline after playing just 17 games with them. Many expect Porzingis to be the perfect fit with the Warriors, barring health. The former fourth-overall pick has averaged 19.6 points per game in his career, shooting over 36% from three in each of the last four seasons. With Porzingis expected to play, centers Al Horford and Quinten Post should see fewer minutes moving forward, while Porzingis should be more of a factor from a fantasy perspective.
Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey (hamstring) is listed as questionable for Thursday's contest against the Toronto Raptors but practiced in full on Wednesday and expects to play. Giddey has missed the previous eight games with a strained left hamstring, and the team has struggled, losing seven of its last eight games without him. The former sixth-overall pick has had a career year in his fifth season, averaging 18.6 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.8 assists in 32 minutes per game. With Giddey expected to return on Thursday, expect guards Collin Sexton, Jaden Ivey, and Rob Dillingham to see fewer minutes and less offensive production moving forward.
New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby (toe) is listed as questionable for Thursday's game against the Detroit Pistons. Anunoby has missed the previous four games after having his toenail removed, but practiced in full on Wednesday, opening the door for a potential return on Thursday. In 41 games this season, Anunoby has averaged 16.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 33 minutes per game. A return seems likely, but Anunoby could face a minutes restriction despite facing the current first seed in the Eastern Conference. If he does, in fact, play on Thursday, look for Mohamed Diawara to see a reduced workload.
Charlotte Hornets guard Coby White (calf) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Houston Rockets, and head coach Charles Lee said there's no clear timeline for his return. White was acquired by the Hornets from the Chicago Bulls at this season's trade deadline but has yet to suit up for them. In 29 games this season with Chicago, White has averaged 18.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.7 assists in just over 29 minutes per game. With the newly acquired guard not ready to return from his calf injury, guards Sion James and Grant Williams should benefit from his absence. Fantasy managers should expect White to return in the coming weeks, as the Hornets enter playoff contention and no shutdown is expected.
Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro (ribs) is expected to practice Thursday as he works toward a return from a right costochondral injury that has sidelined him for 15 straight games. He is averaging 25.3 usage in 32.0 minutes this season and could be listed as questionable for Friday's matchup in Atlanta depending on how he responds. Until he is cleared, Kasparas Jakucionis, Myron Gardner, and Simone Fontecchio should continue seeing added run, though all remain fringe fantasy options. Herro's return would tighten the rotation and restore primary scoring duties alongside Bam Adebayo and Norman Powell.
Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga (knee) will be re-evaluated in approximately one week as he continues rehabbing a left knee bone bruise, the team announced Wednesday. The injury occurred Jan. 22, and Kuminga will miss at least the next stretch of games before another update. His delayed debut keeps minutes open on the wing. Corey Kispert has averaged 12.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.8 threes in 25.4 minutes over his last eight games, while Zaccharie Risacher is posting 10.5 points and 1.5 threes in 24.2 minutes across 42 contests. Both are viable deeper-league streamers but remain fringe options until Kuminga is cleared.
Cleveland Cavaliers forward/center Evan Mobley (calf) will make his first appearance since straining his left calf during a Jan. 26 win over Orlando when Cleveland faces Brooklyn on Thursday. He has missed seven straight games and may not immediately resume a full workload, with a potential minutes restriction in play. Mobley is averaging 17.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.0 blocks in 33.4 minutes this season and remains a must-start in all formats. His return should cut into the roles of Jaylon Tyson and Sam Merrill, both of whom saw expanded minutes during his absence.
Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (back) isn't listed on the injury report ahead of Thursday's game against Washington. He's battled nagging injuries throughout the campaign, so he got the night off versus the Nets in Indiana's final contest leading up to the All-Star break. With Pascal Siakam (personal) and Ivica Zubac (ankle) ruled out, and Aaron Nesmith (back) and T.J. McConnell (hamstring) questionable, Nembhard should receive plenty of chances to produce in a meeting with one of the worst defensive squads in the National Basketball Association.
Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray (ankle) said he is ready to return for Thursday's game against Orlando, according to James Ham of ESPN 1320 Sacramento. Murray has been out since early January but recently resumed full basketball activities. In 19 appearances this season, he is averaging 14.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.6 blocks, and 1.3 threes in 35.9 minutes. With Zach LaVine (hand) and Domantas Sabonis (knee) out for the year, Murray should absorb more offensive responsibility alongside DeMar DeRozan. The Kings could ease him back, but he's worth holding as his workload builds.
Indiana Pacers guard/forward Aaron Nesmith (back) is questionable for Thursday's matchup with the Wizards. He didn't suit up for the meeting with the Nets ahead of the All-Star break because of a lumbar strain. While Nesmith has a shot at playing on Thursday, it's also realistic to assume he won't be back on the court until Friday when these clubs meet again. With Pascal Siakam (personal) sidelined, Andrew Nembhard and Jarace Walker have the best chance of leading the way offensively if Nesmith doesn't suit up. Jay Huff could also be more involved on both ends of the floor, especially with Ivica Zubac (ankle) still on the shelf.
Washington Wizards guard Trae Young (knee) has not been cleared for contact and did not practice Wednesday, coach Brian Keefe said, via The Athletic. There is no timetable for his debut, and he can be considered week-to-week as he works back from a right knee MCL sprain and quad contusion. His absence keeps Bub Carrington in the starting role. Carrington is averaging 10.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 2.1 threes in 28.0 minutes across 53 games, though on 40.2 percent shooting. Tre Johnson remains a viable streamer after posting 12.9 points and 2.1 threes in 25.0 minutes over 40 games.
Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell (hamstring) is questionable for Thursday's game against Washington. He wasn't available versus the Nets in the Pacers' final contest before the All-Star break. Hopefully, the time off did him some good, although it's possible he may need another night off to recover from nagging hamstring soreness. With Pascal Siakam (personal) and Ivica Zubac (ankle) ruled out, and Aaron Nesmith (back) listed as questionable, McConnell might work his way into the starting lineup, assuming he gets the green light to play. At the same time, even if the 33-year-old comes off the bench, he'll be worth streaming in most fantasy setups.
Los Angeles Clippers guard Darius Garland (toe) is considered week-to-week and continues practicing on a limited basis while managing his surgically repaired left foot, according to Law Murray of The Athletic. The team expects him to return this season, but a debut is unlikely before March. Garland carries a 28.6 usage rate when active, so his absence keeps Kris Dunn entrenched as the starting point guard while Kawhi Leonard maintains primary offensive control with a 34.8 usage rate. Bennedict Mathurin and Kobe Sanders carry value in deeper formats, though both profile as fringe options. Garland remains a firm hold in all competitive leagues.
Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam (personal) won't play on Thursday against Washington. These clubs will meet again on Friday, so fantasy managers will need to wait and see if he'll be back for that one. The Pacers have a number of players listed on the injury report, specifically, T.J. McConnell (hamstring), Aaron Nesmith (back), Micah Potter (ankle), and Ivica Zubac (ankle). As a result, Kam Jones and Ben Sheppard could see more work. That may also apply to Quenton Jackson and Ethan Thompson, depending on if they get the bump from the G League. With that said, there's a chance McConnell, Nesmith, and Potter will play, so there are a lot of moving parts in this scenario.
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (shin) won't play on Thursday versus Atlanta. He reported soreness in his right shin during the All-Star break, so he'll miss at least one contest. However, the 31-year-old will be re-evaluated leading up to Philly's three-game road trip in New Orleans, Minnesota, and Indiana, meaning there is a chance he might miss more time. While Embiid is out of commission, Andre Drummond, averaging 8.9 points and 10.8 boards in 19 starts this season, will presumably replace him in the rotation. Adem Bona should also see additional action and would be worth streaming if Drummond sits out a game during the road trip.
Sacramento Kings forward/center Dylan Cardwell (ankle) sprained his left ankle at practice Tuesday and will be re-evaluated in four weeks, according to James Ham of ESPN 1320 Sacramento. The rookie was providing 5.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 21.2 minutes across 29 games, flashing strong per-minute rebounding. With Domantas Sabonis (knee) already out for the season, Maxime Raynaud is locked into heavy run. Raynaud is averaging 9.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 23.5 minutes over 48 games and now projects for 30-plus minutes. He is a must-add in standard leagues, while Precious Achiuwa gains deeper-league appeal.
Brooklyn Nets center Nicolas Claxton (ankle) won't play on Thursday versus Cleveland. He tweaked his ankle during practice on Wednesday, so it appears his absence might extend beyond Thursday's contest. While Claxton is sidelined, Day'Ron Sharpe will likely replace him in the starting lineup. Sharpe has averaged 13.8 points, 8.5 boards, 2.3 steals, and 1.3 blocks in four starts this season, meaning he needs to be featured in all fantasy lineups as long as Claxton remains on the shelf.
Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (ankle) will be sidelined indefinitely after further evaluation revealed he requires additional rehabilitation for soreness stemming from a left high ankle sprain, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. He will be re-evaluated in three weeks, leaving a significant usage gap in the interim. Wagner carries a 25.6 usage rate, and his absence elevates Anthony Black, who is averaging 16.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.7 threes in 31.1 minutes across 53 games. Paolo Banchero should handle more creation duties, while Tristan da Silva and Noah Penda profile as short-term streamers.
Sacramento Kings forward/center Domantas Sabonis (knee) underwent season-ending surgery Wednesday to repair a torn left meniscus. The 29-year-old was limited to 19 appearances this season, averaging 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 29.7 minutes before being shut down as the 12-44 Kings shift focus to development. With backup center Dylan Cardwell (ankle) also sidelined, rookie Maxime Raynaud is positioned to handle 30-plus minutes nightly. Raynaud is averaging 9.8 points and 6.6 rebounds in 23.5 minutes across 48 games and now profiles as a must-add in standard leagues. Precious Achiuwa should see a steadier run off the bench, while Keegan Murray and DeMar DeRozan gain modest usage bumps. Sabonis can be dropped in redraft formats.
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