NBA Player News

Jokic totaled 34 points (13-16 FG, 2-2 3Pt, 6-7 FT), nine rebounds, 10 assists, one block and two steals in 38 minutes during Thursday's 130-127 win over the Warriors.

Jokic was extremely efficient with a 13-for-16 mark from the field on the night, though his final shot may have included a bit of good fortune. With the game tied at 127 and the clock ticking down in the fourth quarter, Jokic handled an inbounds pass in the backcourt, took a few dribbles and heaved a 40-foot jumper that banked in for the win. The dramatic shot was the culmination of another MVP-level performance by the big man that included a game-high 34 points and his league-leading 31st double-double of the campaign.

Looney will move into the starting lineup for Thursday's game versus Denver, ESPN's Kendra Andrews reports.

Looney will replace Trayce Jackson-Davis in the starting lineup after playing in a reserve role for the past two games. This is possibly just a matchup move for Golden State, with coach Steve Kerr giving Looney the Nikola Jokic assignment early on.

Carter is questionable for Friday's game against the Nuggets due to right knee tendinitis.

Carter has come off the bench in his last three appearances, averaging 10.7 points and 4.7 rebounds in 21.7 minutes per game. It's not yet clear whether he'll be available for Friday's matchup, but Goga Bitadze and Moritz Wagner will likely see additional minutes if Carter is out.

Williams (back) won't play in Friday's game versus the Bulls.

Williams' last appearance was Dec. 8, and the back injury has been bothering him for most of the season. Expect Nick Richards to remain in the starting lineup while Williams is out. The former Duke star will hope to return to action against Chicago on Monday, but that seems unlikely at the moment.

Vucevic (groin) is questionable for Friday's game against Charlotte.

Coach Billy Donovan said Tuesday that Vucevic didn't have a timetable to return and wouldn't practice this week, so his questionable designation is a bit of a surprise. It wouldn't be surprising to see him sit once again Friday, but he at least appears to be in the mix to return. Assuming Vucevic remains sidelined, Andre Drummond should continue to see increased run in the frontcourt.

Koloko (illness) has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Kings.

Koloko hasn't yet played this year due to a respiratory issue, and it's not yet clear when he'll be able to return. He remains sidelined indefinitely.

Brown (wrist) is out for Friday's game versus the Mavericks.

Brown will miss his second straight game Friday due to a left wrist sprain. With Deandre Ayton (knee) still out, Duop Reath and Ibou Badji will likely split time at center. Brown's next chance to suit up is Sunday's matchup with Brooklyn.

Ayton (knee) is out for Friday's game versus the Mavericks.

Ayton's absence streak will extend to six games Friday due to right knee tendinitis. His next chance to suit up is Sunday's matchup with Brooklyn.

Horford is questionable for Friday's game versus the Jazz due to rest purposes, Jay King of The Athletic reports.

Horford has continuously sat out one leg of Boston's back-to-backs this season. If the veteran big man suits up Friday, he will likely be ruled out for Saturday's matchup with Indiana.

Holmes (personal) is doubtful for Friday's game against the Trail Blazers.

Holmes will likely be forced to miss a second consecutive game due to personal reasons. However, his status shouldn't significantly impact the Mavericks' rotation.