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Fantasy Week 3 | NBA Week 3

76ers star Joel Embiid suspended 3 games for shoving writer

Wed Nov 6 12:13pm ET
Field Level Media

The NBA suspended Philadelphia 76ers star center Joel Embiid for three games on Tuesday for shoving a columnist in the team's locker room.

After an investigation, the league confirmed reports that Embiid shoved a member of the media Saturday night during the media's post-game locker room access following a 76ers loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.

Embiid's suspension will begin with the next game "for which he is eligible and able to play," according to the NBA, pushing back his season debut even further.

"Mutual respect is paramount to the relationship between players and media in the NBA," Joe Dumars, the league's head of basketball operations, said in a news release. "While we understand Joel was offended by the personal nature of the original version of the reporter's column, interactions must remain professional on both sides and can never turn physical."


Embiid has yet to play this season while fighting pain in his surgically repaired left knee, yet he already has received a technical foul and a suspension. The post-game technical came for waving a towel in the air while an opponent was attempting a free throw.

Saturday's scenario was far more serious. Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes had taken aim at Embiid for his lack of availability, invoking Embiid's son and his late brother Arthur in saying the former league MVP is letting people down.

Embiid made clear before the game against the Grizzlies that he was unhappy with Hayes for the column. On Saturday, Hayes returned to the 76ers' locker room, and he and Embiid got into what one eyewitness called "a verbal back-and-forth" featuring profanity.

Another report from the locker room added that Embiid said, "The next time you bring up my dead brother and my son again, you are going to see what I'm going to do to you and I'm going to have to ... live with the consequences."

Embiid turned down Hayes' attempt at an apology, after which Embiid reportedly shoved Hayes on the shoulder.

Player Notes
Tari Eason Wed Nov 6 3:50pm

Houston Rockets forward Tari Eason (illness) is listed as questionable for Wednesday night's matchup against the San Antonio Spurs. Eason is dealing with an illness but has yet to miss any game action this season. Fellow forward Dillon Brooks is also listed as questionable with an illness, potentially forcing a depth issue for the Rockets if both were to miss tonight's game. Eason has been solid but volatile for the Rockets off the bench, averaging 10.9 PPG and 4.6 RPG. His offensive volume has ranged from three FGA to 19 FGA, making him harder to rely on. In his two matchups against the Spurs this season he's scored six points twice and recorded two assists twice with the only variation happening with his rebounds, going from two to five. Fantasy managers looking for rebounding help may want to consider the 23-year-old but otherwise he may be a risky option off the bench. If Brooks is out and Eason is healthy and gets the start then he becomes much more viable. If both Brooks and Eason are out, consider Amen Thompson who is averaging 10.0 PPG and 5.9 RPG.

Dillon Brooks Wed Nov 6 3:40pm

Houston Rockets forward Dillon Brooks (illness) is listed as questionable for Wednesday night's matchup with the San Antonio Spurs. Brooks is dealing with an illness. If forced to miss tonight's game it would be the first game he's missed all season. The 28-year-old is averaging 11.4 PPG and 4.0 RPG this season. His moderate offensive production won't be what's missed most, though, as Brooks' defensive presence will be the glaring issue for Houston if absent. Houston holds a 104.5 defensive rating with Brooks on the court and a 124.9 defensive rating with him off. If Brooks is unable to suit up, expect Amen Thompson to be inserted into the starting lineup with fellow forward Tari Eason also listed as questionable for tonight. Thompson is averaging 10.0 PPG and 5.9 RPG while the Rockets hold a 110.4 defensive rating with him on the floor, making him a suitable defensive replacement for Brooks.

Luke Kennard Wed Nov 6 3:30pm

Memphis Grizzlies guard Luke Kennard (foot) is listed as questionable for Wednesday night's game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Kennard has yet to make his 2024-2025 season debut due to a muscle strain in his foot he sustained during preseason action. The questionable tag marks progress for the 28-year-old, though, as it's the first time he's carried the questionable tag this season. Kennard was a full participant in Tuesday's practice as well, pointing to a positive sign that he may be able to give it a go on Wednesday. Kennard averaged 11.0 PPG while shooting 45% from three in his first full season with the Grizzlies and was brought back on a one-year $9.25 million contract this offseason. The sooner he can get on the court for the 4-4 Grizzlies, the better. Fantasy managers should temper their expectations if he's active for Wednesday night given it will be his first regular season game action in 2024. If he's ruled out, expect Scotty Pippen Jr. to continue to be the main threat off the bench for Memphis.

John Konchar Wed Nov 6 3:30pm

Memphis Grizzlies guard John Konchar (quad) is listed as doubtful for Wednesday night's matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. This will be Konchar's fourth straight game missed thanks to a right quad contusion he's been dealing with. The 28-year-old also missed two other games this season with a heel injury and has only been able to play in three games this season. He's averaged just five points per game this season while taking just six shots total in the three games he's played in. Fantasy managers with Konchar on their roster likely can cut bait until he gets on a hot streak given his lack of playing time so far. Those looking for an option off Memphis' bench should look to Scotty Pippen Jr. as the leader for the second unit. Jake LaRavia may be a sneaky second option also, averaging 7.4 PPG and 5.9 RPG.

Dean Wade Wed Nov 6 3:10pm

Cleveland Cavaliers forward Dean Wade (illness) will miss his second consecutive game on Wednesday night when the Cavaliers face off against the New Orleans Pelicans. Wade missed Monday night's win against the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday dealing with the same illness. Wade's averaged 6.9 PPG and 4.4 RPG this season. Wade's absence shouldn't scare Cleveland much given his minimal production and a matchup against a weakened New Orleans Pelicans team. Expect Isaac Okoro to start in his place as was the case on Monday night. Okoro is averaging 5.0 PPG this season. Though shooting 46.7% from three is appealing, his minimal volume in Cleveland's offense means there are better options available to fantasy managers on the waiver wire.

Cody Martin Wed Nov 6 3:00pm

Charlotte Hornets forward Cody Martin (illness) is listed as probable for Wednesday night's matchup against the Detroit Pistons. Martin had been dealing with a minor illness but hasn't missed any time. Expect the 29-year-old to continue coming off the bench for Charlotte. Martin's averaging 10.0 PPG this season while shooting 37% from three. While the three-point shooting percentage seems encouraging, fantasy managers shouldn't expect consistent production going forward as he's failed to play more than 20 minutes in each of the Hornets' last two games. Better options are likely available on the waiver wire that fantasy managers should prioritize until Martin either catches a hot streak or finds his way back into the starting lineup.

Cameron Payne Wed Nov 6 9:00am

New York Knicks guard Cameron Payne (hamstring) is considered questionable for Wednesday's game against Atlanta. Payne missed his first game of the season on Monday versus Houston due to a hamstring strain. The veteran has averaged 15.4 minutes as a backup in New York, posting 5.6 points and 3.2 assists. Tyler Kolek gets more of a look in the rotation without Payne, but he doesn't provide anything for fantasy managers. Miles McBride also has a chance to play more. However, he was a massive disappointment against the Rockets, with a 0-for-9 effort from the field and zero points across 26 minutes.

De'Andre Hunter Wed Nov 6 9:00am

Atlanta Hawks forward De'Andre Hunter (knee) could be back in action against the Knicks on Wednesday. He has been listed as questionable for the game. Hunter has been absent for the last six contests, which has given Zaccharie Risacher an opportunity to roll with the starters. The top pick of this year's draft has struggled for consistency and was largely ineffective coming off the bench at the start of the season. Hunter, on the other hand, was in fine form before getting hurt, averaging 18.0 points and 6.5 rebounds with 40 percent shooting from deep.

De'Anthony Melton Wed Nov 6 8:40am

Golden State Warriors guard De'Anthony Melton (back) will miss a fifth consecutive game on Wednesday versus Boston. He's battling a lower back problem, leaving the Warriors without a versatile backcourt option. Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, and Brandin Podziemski (illness) are all in a position to benefit. Hield, who has scored 20-plus points in four consecutive games, deserves the most attention from fantasy managers. Melton's next chance to return comes on Friday versus Cleveland.

Brandin Podziemski Wed Nov 6 8:40am

Golden State Warriors shooting guard Brandin Podziemski (illness) will be available for Wednesday's fascinating matchup against Boston. The 21-year-old couldn't complete Monday's meeting with Washington due to an illness but has recovered. Podziemski has been battling shooting woes at the start of the campaign, hitting less than 38 percent of his shots. He's nailed only 18.2 percent of his three-point attempts, averaging 9.3 points with 5.3 rebounds and 4.0 assists. Stephen Curry's return on Monday sent Podziemski back to the bench, where he has been inconsistent with his performances.

Andrew Nembhard Wed Nov 6 8:30am

Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (knee) is on the injury report as questionable ahead of Wednesday's contest against Orlando. Nembhard missed one game last week due to a knee issue and continues to nurse soreness in his left knee. Ben Sheppard and T.J. McConnell would see more minutes if Nembhard is unavailable. The latter is definitely the better fantasy option, although Sheppard has also looked good early in the campaign and put up 20 points against New Orleans when Nembhard was out last Friday.

Bradley Beal Wed Nov 6 8:20am

Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (elbow) will likely remain in the lineup on Wednesday versus Miami. The veteran has picked up a right elbow injury early in the season, but he's considered probable for Wednesday's game. Beal has provided solid production thus far with 17.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 1.6 steals. However, he's going to be in a bad spot Wednesday night, as the Heat play with the third-lowest pace in the league. Rookie Ryan Dunn would be in line for an extended role if Beal suffers a setback during the day and can't play.

D'Angelo Russell Tue Nov 5 10:30pm

Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (foot) is probable heading into Wednesday's game against the Grizzlies. The veteran has appeared on the injury report of late for various reasons. However, he hasn't missed a game so far during the 2024-;25 campaign. Unfortunately, Russell has struggled this season, averaging 12.0 points and 30.8% shooting from behind the arc. While he has an excellent chance of breaking out of his funk, fantasy managers should consider keeping him on the bench, especially category managers who have been negatively impacted by his three-point percentage.

Austin Reaves Tue Nov 5 10:20pm

Los Angeles Lakers guard Austin Reaves (ankle) is anticipated to play on Wednesday versus the Grizzlies. The ankle injury isn't anything new, so fantasy managers should expect to see him on the floor. The 26-year-old has played well this season, averaging 17.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 1.4 steals. Of course, assuming Reaves is available, he's a viable fantasy option in any format. But his potential could increase if Anthony Davis (foot) isn't available.

Anthony Davis Tue Nov 5 9:00pm

Los Angeles Lakers center Anthony Davis (foot) is questionable for Wednesday's game against the Memphis Grizzlies. AD has been dealing with a foot injury since the summer. However, he reinjured it in Monday's loss to the Detroit Pistons. Davis wants to play every game this season. But there's a chance he may not be out there versus the Grizzlies. If the veteran can't suit up, Jaxson Hayes would likely slide into his spot in the rotation and be worth adding to fantasy lineups, even if it's for one day.

Trae Young Tue Nov 5 8:50pm

Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (rib) is expected to play on Wednesday versus the visiting Knicks. The 26-year-old logged only 23 minutes in Monday's loss to the Boston Celtics, exiting the contest prematurely due to a rib injury. Fortunately, it looks like he'll be good to go. Young has averaged 23.9 points, 11.0 assists, and 1.3 steals this season. However, he's logged 4.9 turnovers per game and shot a career-low 30.7% from behind the arc. With that said, if Young ends up getting ruled out, Keaton Wallace, who had six points, four rebounds, two steals, and two blocks on Monday, could be worth a start for those in need of a streaming option.

Caris LeVert Tue Nov 5 8:50pm

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Caris LeVert (knee) is questionable for Wednesday's matchup with the Pelicans. The veteran has missed the last two games because of right knee soreness. But with Max Strus (ankle) and Dean Wade (illness) sidelined, LeVert could see some meaningful minutes if he plays. But if he isn't ready to return, Isaac Okoro and Sam Merrill should continue to benefit, with the latter amassing 12 points, five boards, and two steals in 27 minutes in Monday's two-point win over the Bucks.

Jamal Murray Tue Nov 5 8:40pm

Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (concussion) won't play on Wednesday versus OKC. Murray suffered a concussion during a recent meeting with the Minnesota Timberwolves. As a result, he's been sidelined for the Nuggets' previous two contests. It's not an ideal scenario for Denver, with the team also expected to be without Aaron Gordon (calf) for a few weeks. Of course, Nikola Jokic will do all he can to pick up the slack on the offensive end. But Russell Westbrook, averaging 13.0 points, 6.5 assists, and 3.0 steals in two starts this season, should remain in all fantasy lineups.

Immanuel Quickley Tue Nov 5 8:40pm

Toronto Raptors guard Immanuel Quickley (pelvis) is doubtful for Wednesday's contest against the Sacramento Kings. The former Knick has been sidelined since the opener because of a pelvic contusion. While there were reports he was nearing a return, that's unlikely to happen on Wednesday, barring a miracle. With that in mind, Davion Mitchell, averaging 8.9 points, 6.9 assists, and 1.0 steals in seven starts this season, is worth streaming versus his former club, assuming Quickley remains on the shelf. Of course, RJ Barrett and Gradey Dick should continue to lead the way offensively, considering Scottie Barnes (eye) is still on the shelf.

Jaylen Brown Tue Nov 5 8:20pm

Boston Celtics forward Jaylen Brown (hip) won't play in Wednesday's game against the Golden State Warriors. The 28-year-old last played on Friday in the win over the Charlotte Hornets. Unfortunately, he's been sidelined since with a hip flexor strain. It doesn't appear as if the injury is serious, so fantasy managers should stay optimistic. Without question, Jayson Tatum, Derrick White, and Jrue Holiday should benefit without Brown in the lineup. However, Neemias Queta, who had 10 points, seven boards, one block, and one steal as a starter in Monday's win over the Hawks, is worth streaming.


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