Paul George Set to Suit Up Against New York
Philadelphia 76ers guard/forward Paul George (knee) is probable for Saturday's game against the Knicks as he continues left knee injury management. George has played through the issue recently, averaging 14.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 1.8 steals in 31.7 minutes over his last five appearances. His availability slightly redistributes usage, trimming opportunities for Kelly Oubre Jr. and dialing back secondary touches for VJ Edgecombe and Quentin Grimes. George remains a hold in standard leagues, with moderate production tied to health and workload alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Ja Morant Facing Multi-Week Absence With Elbow Sprain
Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (elbow) will be reevaluated in roughly three weeks after suffering a left elbow UCL sprain, effectively sidelining him until after the All-Star break. The extended absence shifts short-term fantasy value to the backcourt replacements. Cam Spencer has been the most reliable option, averaging 12.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds in 24.7 minutes over his last five games while handling primary creation duties. Vince Williams Jr. remains a secondary play, while Ty Jerome (calf) profiles as a speculative add once healthy.
Source: Grizzlies PR
Source: Grizzlies PR
Joel Embiid On Track to Play vs. Knicks
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (ankle) is probable for Saturday's matchup against the Knicks after sitting earlier this week for ankle management. He returned Thursday and delivered 32 points, 15 rebounds, 10 assists, one block, and one steal in 46 minutes, signaling full workload capability. Over his last five appearances, Embiid is averaging 28.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists while shooting 51.7 percent in 34.5 minutes. If active, he remains a top-tier anchor across formats, though managers should note occasional rest risk tied to schedule density.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Daniel Gafford Expected to Play Saturday vs. Lakers
Dallas Mavericks center Daniel Gafford (ankle) is probable for Saturday's game against the Lakers as he manages a right ankle sprain, which matters for a Dallas frontcourt thinned further with Anthony Davis (finger) still sidelined. When available, Gafford has handled interior responsibilities and averaged 6.2 points and 9.0 rebounds in 21.9 minutes over his last five appearances. That role keeps him relevant for rebounds and blocks if his minutes hold. Dwight Powell's fantasy appeal takes a hit, while Gafford carries moderate upside tied to health and workload.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Jalen Suggs Expected Back Saturday vs. Cavaliers
Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs (knee) is probable to return Saturday against Cleveland after missing eight games with a right knee MCL contusion. A minutes cap or bench role remains possible, but his presence reshapes Orlando's backcourt. Suggs averaged 17.0 points, 4.4 assists, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.6 steals in 27.5 minutes over his last five appearances. Anthony Black has thrived during Suggs' absence, though his role bears monitoring as the rotation tightens. Suggs remains a hold with upside if his workload ramps quickly.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Khris Middleton to Miss Saturday's Game Against Hornets
Washington Wizards forward Khris Middleton (foot) will miss Saturday's game against Charlotte as he continues to recover from a left foot injury, with Tuesday against Portland next on the schedule. His absence reshapes Washington's wing rotation and opens short-term fantasy opportunities. Justin Champagnie is the best bet to benefit after logging a start recently and averaging 9.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 1.4 steals over his last five games in 24.8 minutes. Will Riley could see added run, though his production has been inconsistent of late.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Davante Adams' Playoff Struggles May Continue in NFC Championship Game
After missing the final three games of the regular season with a hamstring injury, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams returned for the start of his team's postseason run. However, the 33-year-old has been largely held in check through the Rams' first two playoff games, hauling in a combined seven receptions for 96 yards on 19 targets. Things may not get any easier for Adams in the NFC Championship Game against the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle finished the regular season ranked first among NFL defenses in yards per pass attempt allowed (6.0) and held the San Francisco 49ers to just 128 passing yards in the NFC Divisional Round. In the lone regular-season matchup between the Rams and Seahawks that he was healthy for, Adams recorded one catch for one yard and a touchdown on eight targets. While the veteran wideout should have his chances for production in the NFC Championship Game, he may not yet be 100% healthy and faces a difficult matchup. Adams remains a high-upside wide receiver option, but fellow Rams wideout Puka Nacua is a much safer choice at the position for fantasy managers.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Bilal Coulibaly Ruled Out for Fifth Straight Game
Washington Wizards guard/forward Bilal Coulibaly (back) will miss Saturday's game against Charlotte, extending his absence to five straight contests after being ruled out a day in advance. His continued unavailability keeps Washington's wing rotation unsettled for fantasy managers. Justin Champagnie has been the most usable option, averaging 8.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.7 steals over his last three games while logging consistent minutes. Will Riley and Jamir Watkins can chip in on certain nights, but the lack of a stable role makes them hard to trust.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Kyren Williams Looking to Continue Strong Postseason in Difficult Matchup
Los Angeles Rams running back Kyren Williams has been one of his team's offensive stars so far this postseason, recording 192 scrimmage yards and three touchdowns on 40 touches across two games. The Rams split backfield work fairly evenly between Williams and second-year back Blake Corum down the stretch of the regular season. However, the team has leaned more heavily on Williams in the playoffs, with Corum earning just six touches to Williams' 25 in the NFC Divisional Round. On paper, Williams has an extremely difficult matchup in the NFC Championship Game against the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle finished the regular season ranked first among NFL defenses in yards per carry allowed (3.7) and second in rushing touchdowns allowed (nine). On the bright side, Williams had some success against the Seahawks in the regular season, totaling 181 scrimmage yards and a touchdown on 39 touches across two matchups. He may not have his most efficient game in a tough matchup, but Williams should see a heavy workload in the NFC Championship Game.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Jose Ramirez Signs Seven-Year Extension With Guardians
Cleveland Guardians All-Star third baseman Jose Ramirez signed a restructured seven-year, $175 million contract extension on Saturday that will carry him through the 2032 season, according to Hector Gomez. In April of 2022, Ramirez and the Guardians agreed to a five-year, $124 million extension. Ramirez has been one of the best all-around players in baseball, dating back to the 2017 season. The 33-year-old Dominican switch-hitter can do it all, and he's hit .279/.353/.504 with an .857 OPS, 285 homers, 949 RBI, and 287 stolen bases in 13 big-league seasons. Not only does he contribute in all categories for fantasy managers, but he's been durable, playing in 150-plus games in each of the last five seasons. J-Ram has 30-plus homers and 100-plus RBI in three of the last five years despite playing in Cleveland. He's a top-five overall fantasy selection heading into spring drafts.
Source: USA TODAY Sports - Bob Nightengale
Source: USA TODAY Sports - Bob Nightengale
Franz Wagner Misses Second Straight Game
Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (ankle) will miss Saturday's game against Cleveland as he continues to manage soreness following a recent return from a high-ankle sprain. The repeated absences create short-term opportunity but little stability for fantasy managers. Noah Penda flashed across the stat sheet with 13 points, two rebounds, four assists, two steals, and one block in 19 minutes last time out, yet his role has fluctuated sharply. Jett Howard and Tristan da Silva also remain volatile, offering scoring or minutes in spurts but lacking consistent usage. Wagner should be held, though durability concerns cap his ceiling.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Matthew Stafford Remains High-End QB Despite Tough Matchup Against Seattle
By his own lofty standards, Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford struggled in his team's NFC Divisional Round win over the Chicago Bears. The 37-year-old completed just 20 of 42 pass attempts for 258 yards and zero touchdowns while taking a season-high four sacks. However, Stafford was playing through a sprained right index finger, which may have been impacting his performance. While the veteran quarterback may still be feeling the lingering effects of the finger injury, he was not listed on the team's injury report leading into its NFC Championship Game matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. On paper, the Rams face a difficult test against the vaunted Seahawks defense. Seattle finished the regular season ranked first among NFL defenses in yards per pass attempt allowed (6.0) and held the San Francisco 49ers to just six points in the Divisional Round. At the same time, Stafford and the Rams were one of the few teams to have success against the Seahawks in the regular season. Across two matchups, Stafford threw for 587 yards, five touchdowns, and zero interceptions. He remains a high-end quarterback option for fantasy managers in the NFC Championship Game.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Jonathan Kuminga Will Not Play Saturday vs. Timberwolves
Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (knee) will sit Saturday against Minnesota after exiting Wednesday's loss early with left knee soreness. The absence halts recent momentum created by Jimmy Butler's (knee) continued unavailability and shifts short-term fantasy value to the wings. De'Anthony Melton is the top beneficiary after posting 22 points, three rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block in 23 minutes against Dallas. Brandin Podziemski started and delivered nine points and ten rebounds in 33 minutes, while Moses Moody added 12 points and three rebounds in 23 minutes. Kuminga should be held, but managers should monitor lingering risk.
Source: NBA Injury Report
Source: NBA Injury Report
Courtland Sutton Fighting Uphill Battle in AFC Championship Game
Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton recorded four catches for 53 yards on a team-high nine targets in Denver's AFC Divisional Round win over the Buffalo Bills. Sutton played 85% of the Broncos' offensive snaps against Buffalo, and he should play a lead pass-catching role once again in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots. However, Denver's offense will be led by backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham, who is filling in for the injured Bo Nix (ankle). The Broncos are also facing an uphill battle against a Patriots defense that has held each of its first two postseason opponents under 200 passing yards. In Stidham's most recent start for Denver, which came at the end of the 2023 regular season, Sutton recorded one catch for two yards on four targets. While much has changed for the Broncos' offense overall since that game, Sutton may struggle against a tough opponent in the AFC Championship Game, given the less-than-ideal circumstances around him.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Jalen Green Suffers Another Hamstring Setback
Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green (hamstring) exited in the first quarter Friday due to right hamstring tightness, finishing with four points, one rebound, and one assist in four minutes. The setback is notable given Green has appeared in only four games all season, struggling to stay on the floor since returning from a lengthy absence. His unreliable availability limits his fantasy utility outside of deeper formats. Collin Gillespie remains the top beneficiary, averaging 15.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 3.4 three-pointers over his last five starts. Grayson Allen offers steady shooting, while Jordan Goodwin and Ryan Dunn remain inconsistent fantasy options.
Source: Amanda Pflugrad
Source: Amanda Pflugrad
RJ Harvey Facing Difficult Matchup With Backup Quarterback in AFC Championship
Denver Broncos running back RJ Harvey provided underwhelming production in his team's AFC Divisional Round win over the Buffalo Bills, recording 66 scrimmage yards on 11 touches. On the bright side, Harvey helped fantasy managers in PPR scoring formats by doing most of his damage as a receiver, hauling in five catches for 46 yards on six targets. However, Harvey will now be working with Broncos backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham in the AFC Championship Game against the New England Patriots. The Patriots' defense has been dominant so far this postseason, allowing just 19 total points and forcing six turnovers through two games. Harvey should at least maintain RB1 status in Denver, as veteran back J.K. Dobbins (foot) will remain sidelined by a foot injury. Harvey could also see plenty of work as a short-area target for Stidham, particularly if Denver falls behind early in the game. Still, Harvey is facing an uphill battle with a backup quarterback against a tough defense and may struggle in the AFC Championship Game.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Nicolas Claxton Scheduled for MRI on Injured Finger
Brooklyn Nets center Nicolas Claxton (finger) is scheduled for imaging after hurting his right pinky during Friday's double-overtime loss, though he played through it and closed the game. Claxton posted 18 points, nine rebounds, four assists, and two blocks in 39 minutes, keeping his per-game production intact but introducing short-term risk. If he misses time, Day'Ron Sharpe becomes a priority streamer after averaging 15.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.5 steals, and 1.5 blocks in 31.0 minutes across two recent starts. Sharpe offers strong category juice, while Claxton should be held until his status is clearer.
Source: Erik Slater
Source: Erik Slater
Aaron Gordon Dealing with Hamstring Issue Again
Denver Nuggets forward/center Aaron Gordon (hamstring) aggravated his right hamstring Friday and did not return after logging 13 points, six rebounds, three assists, and two steals in 16 minutes. Gordon recently missed extended time with the same injury, placing his short-term availability in doubt. Peyton Watson remains the safest fantasy option regardless of Gordon's status, averaging 20.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.8 blocks over his last five starts. Zeke Nnaji becomes a situational streamer only if Gordon sits, while Spencer Jones lacks consistent production to trust.
Source: Katy Winge
Source: Katy Winge
Mike McDaniel Pulls Out of Scheduled Meeting With Bills
Dianna Russini of The Athletic reports that former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel pulled out of his scheduled meeting with the Buffalo Bills for their head-coaching job. Per Russini, McDaniel remains a candidate in the Las Vegas Raiders' head coaching search. However, if he takes an offensive coordinator job, the expectation remains that it will be with the Los Angeles Chargers. McDaniel, who turns 43 years old in March, spent the last four seasons as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins. He led Miami to top-six offenses in total yardage and playoff appearances in each of his first two seasons at the helm, but the team regressed to 26th in offense and a 7-10 record in 2025. If McDaniel eventually lands in Los Angeles, he will have a chance to work with arguably the most talented quarterback of his coaching career in Justin Herbert.
Source: The Athletic - Dianna Russini
Source: The Athletic - Dianna Russini
Giannis Antetokounmpo Set for MRI After Calf Issue
Milwaukee Bucks forward/center Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) finished Friday despite discomfort but is set for imaging after appearing limited late in a 102-100 loss. The timeline remains unclear, adding short-term risk for fantasy managers given his prior calf absence earlier this season. If Antetokounmpo misses time, Bobby Portis profiles as a strong streamer after averaging 16.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.3 three-pointers in 28.9 minutes during the previous absence. Kyle Kuzma brings steady volume at 16.4 points and 6.7 rebounds in 30.4 minutes, while Ryan Rollins offers upside with 14.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.9 three-pointers in 26.6 minutes.
Source: Eric Nehm
Source: Eric Nehm
Isaac Paredes Not Guaranteed Starting Role to Begin Season?
Houston Astros third baseman Isaac Paredes may have to earn a starting role during spring training, given the current state of the team's infield. During his first stint with the Astros last season, Isaac Paredes logged 89 of his 102 games at the hot corner, with the other 13 coming as the designated hitter. However, after Paredes suffered a significant hamstring injury in July, the Astros opted to acquire Carlos Correa ahead of the trade deadline to bolster their infield. With Correa slated to play third base, Paredes will have to compete for the first base job alongside Christian Walker. He could also see time as a DH if Yordan Alvarez is moved back to left field. Paredes has also been linked in several trade discussions, including the Boston Red Sox, which could open up a full-time role. However, in his current situation, managers should expect him to potentially see limited at-bats, which will hinder his early-season upside.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Ben Rice to Play "A Lot" Against Lefties, Primed for Lead Role in 2026?
New York Yankees first baseman Ben Rice is expected to play "a lot "against left-handed pitching, according to Greg Joyce of The New York Post. Last season, Rice was typically held out against left-handed pitchers, with the Yankees instead deploying Paul Goldschmidt at first base, who performed well against southpaws. However, with Goldschmidt off the roster, Rice appears not only poised to be the primary first baseman but also to be penciled into the starting lineup on a daily basis. During the 2025 campaign, Rice flashed elite upside, posting a .255/.337/.499 line with 26 home runs and three stolen bases. Under the hood, Rice generated an elite .394 xwOBA, .283 xBA, and a .557 xSLG, suggesting he could be primed for an even more productive 2026 season. Given that he is projected to earn nearly full-time at-bats, Rice should be viewed as a high-end caliber starting first baseman in all formats.
Source: Greg Joyce
Source: Greg Joyce
Tigers Showing Interest in Nick Martinez
According to Evan Pezold of The Detroit Free Press, the Tigers have shown interest in free agent right-handed pitcher Nick Martinez. Additionally, the Tigers have also shown interest in other proven options on the open market, such as Jose Quintana and Chris Bassitt. The Tigers are likely looking to add one more stable option to the back of their rotation ahead of spring training. Martinez spent the entire 2025 campaign with the Reds and was deployed as both a starter and a reliever. Through 165 2/3 innings, Martinez held a 4.45 ERA with a 1.21 WHIP. He struck out only 116 batters but generated a 4.04 xERA, suggesting he could see some minor positive regression during the upcoming season. If Martinez were to agree to terms with the Tigers, he would likely bounce between the rotation and a long-relief role, making him only worth targeting in deeper 15-team/AL-only leagues.
Source: Evan Petzold
Source: Evan Petzold
Matthew Liberatore Eyeing Opening Day Start
St. Louis Cardinals left-handed pitcher Matthew Liberatore wants to be the team's Opening Day starter and hopes to "force their hand" in any way during spring training. Jim Hayes of the FanDuel Sports Network reported that the southpaw has added a new pitch that he plans to unveil during camp. After spending most of 2024 in the bullpen, Liberatore was able to log a career-high 151 2/3 innings with the Cardinals last season, operating as a full-time starter. During this stretch, Liberatore posted a 4.21 ERA with a 1.31 WHIP. He struck out 122 hitters but showed high-end command, allowing walks at a low 6.2% rate. Under the hood, he generated a modest 4.90 xERA, suggesting he could take a step back in the upcoming season. Liberatore figures to compete alongside Michael McGreevy, Dustin May, and Richard Fitts for the Opening Day nod.
Source: Jim Hayes
Source: Jim Hayes
Aidan Miller Invited to Big-League Camp
Philadelphia Phillies infield prospect Aidan Miller earned an invite to spring training. Miller is considered one of the top shortstop prospects in the sport on MLB.com and is viewed as the team's No. 2 overall prospect. The 21-year-old joined Philadelphia in the opening round (27th overall) of the 2023 MLB Draft. The infielder began the 2025 campaign with Double-A Reading, where he held a .259/.382/.427 line with an .809 OPS. Miller hit 25 doubles, 13 home runs, and stole 52 bases. He then finished the season with a brief eight-game stint at Triple-A, where Miller posted a strong .333/.514/.519 line with one home run and an impressive seven stolen bases. Given that Miller has only had a brief stint in Triple-A, he will likely begin the 2026 season there. However, if he has a successful spring training, he may contend for an early 2026 MLB debut.
Source: Philadelphia Phillies
Source: Philadelphia Phillies
Justin Crawford Earns Invite to Spring Training
Philadelphia Phillies outfield prospect Justin Crawford has earned an invite to spring training. Crawford is currently considered the team's No. 3 prospect according to MLB Pipeline and is the No. 54 overall prospect in the entire sport. Last season, the 17th overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft spent his entire season with Lehigh Valley. Through 112 contests with the Iron Pigs, the outfielder posted a .334/.411/.452 line with an .863 OPS. During this stretch, Crawford hit 23 doubles, added seven home runs, and swiped an impressive 46 bags. In 2024, Crawford held a similar .313/.360/.444 line with 25 doubles, nine home runs, and 42 stolen bases across 110 games, placed between High-A and Double-A. Managers should expect Crawford to compete for the starting center field role in camp. If he does earn the job, he will carry sleeper appeal in category leagues given his elite contact skills and speed.
Source: Philadelphia Phillies
Source: Philadelphia Phillies
Kaleb Ort Designated for Assignment by Yankees
New York Yankees relief pitcher Kaleb Ort has been designated for assignment by the organization on Friday. Ort was claimed by the Bronx Bombers earlier this month from the Houston Astros. He'll now be placed on waivers to open up a roster spot for outfielder Michael Siani. Last season, Ort posted a 4.89 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, and a 49/27 K/BB ratio across 49 games with the Astros. Over the course of his five-year career, Ort has a 5.00 ERA and a 1.39 WHIP across 118 big league games. The 29-year-old could land with another organization as a depth option in Spring Training.
Source: New York Yankees
Source: New York Yankees
Devin Booker Injures Ankle on Friday, Requires Assistance Off the Court
Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (ankle) exited Friday's loss to the Atlanta Hawks and did not return. The 29-year-old was cooking, amassing 31 points before abruptly exiting late in the third quarter due to a sprained right ankle late. He was in obvious discomfort and required assistance off the court, so it certainly doesn't look like he'll be available at least for Sunday's meeting with the visiting Miami Heat. With Jalen Green (hamstring) also not a lock to suit up for that one, Dillon Brooks, Grayson Allen, and Collin Gillespie could find themselves handling the bulk of the scoring load.
Source: Michael Scotto
Source: Michael Scotto
Jhonny Pereda Designated for Assignment
Minnesota Twins catcher Jhonny Pereda has been designated for assignment by the organization on Friday. Pereda was the odd man out after the Twins signed catcher Victor Caratini this week. They needed to make room on the 40-man roster, so Pereda will be placed on waivers. Last season, Pereda slashed .246/.325/.333 with four RBI across 28 games with the Athletics and Twins. The 29-year-old put together strong numbers during his time in Triple-A last season. It wouldn't be shocking to see a team give him a chance this spring. He'll likely serve as a depth option wherever he lands, which won't result in much fantasy value.
Source: Aaron Gleeman
Source: Aaron Gleeman
RJ Barrett Starting on Friday
Toronto Raptors forward RJ Barrett (ankle) will play on Friday against Portland. He's missed the last seven games because of a sprained ankle. While the former Duke Blue Devil will probably be limited in his first game back from the extended layoff, he'll return to his usual role in the starting lineup. Barrett was averaging 19.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.7 assists before going down with the injury, giving him upside for fantasy managers despite the chance of a reduced workload. With Barrett on the court, Jamal Shead will head back to the bench after logging 12.9 points and 7.6 dimes in seven appearances with the first five.
Source: Zulfi Sheikh
Source: Zulfi Sheikh
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