NBA Player News

Sabonis registered 34 points (14-19 FG, 6-7 FT), 12 rebounds and five assists in 36 minutes during Tuesday's 130-113 loss to the Trail Blazers.

Sabonis' increased shot volume in the loss contributed to this massive scoring total, but it was otherwise business as usual for the prolific rebounder, who currently ranks third in the category behind Anthony Davis and Nikola Jokic. Sabonis' height and reach make the Kings an imposing force in the frontcourt, which they will need in a conference full of elite big men.

Reath posted 25 points (9-15 FG, 3-6 3Pt, 4-4 FT), nine rebounds, one block and one steal in 32 minutes during Tuesday's 130-113 win over the Kings.

After being bypassed for the spot start in place of the injured Deandre Ayton (knee) in favor of Moses Brown, Reath stepped in and had a huge day while sticking in his usual backup role. Reath has been a pleasant surprise as a 27-year-old two-way rookie who has stuck in the rotation all season, but he'll likely struggle to crack 20 minutes in most games so long as Ayton avoids an extended absence.

Sengun notched 30 points (11-20 FG, 8-9 FT), 16 rebounds, five assists and four steals in 37 minutes during Tuesday's 123-117 loss to the Pacers.

Sengun was dominant as a scorer and rebounder in the defeat, notching his second career performance of 30-plus points and 15-plus boards. The big man added a season-high four steals along with five assists in one of his best performances of the campaign. Sengun has posted a double-double in three straight contests for the first time this season, and he's averaging a hearty 29.7 points, 14.0 rebounds and 4.7 assists over that span.

Wiseman provided zero points (0-2 FG) and two rebounds across 12 minutes during Tuesday's 118-112 loss to Brooklyn.

Wiseman continues to offer minimal production in Detroit, failing to score in 12 minutes of playing time. After a brief period during which he at least put himself on the standard league radar, things have returned to normal. Given he is unlikely to be an every-night part of the rotation, there is no reason to consider him worthy of a roster spot.

Duren (ankle) recorded 12 points (6-11 FG), 15 rebounds, four assists, one block and one steal in 33 minutes during Tuesday's 118-112 loss to Brooklyn.

Duren returned to action after missing 19 consecutive games due to an ankle injury. Despite the extended absence, he played a significant role right out of the gate, logging 30-plus minutes as a starter. While his return wasn't enough to keep the Pistons from dropping their 27th game in a row, fantasy managers were certainly rewarded by Duren's efforts in his first game back. Clearly, he should be activated in all formats moving forward.

Sharpe accumulated 11 points (3-4 FG, 5-7 FT), 11 rebounds, four blocks, three assists and two steals across 22 minutes during Tuesday's 118-112 win over Detroit.

Sharpe was fantastic in limited minutes, recording his second double-double in the past three games and adding a season-high six combined steals and blocks. Despite playing just 19.2 minutes per game over his last four appearances, Sharpe has put himself on the radar as a pickup in 12-team category leagues, averaging 11.0 points, 9.8 rebounds, 1.5 blocks and 1.3 steals over that stretch. While he isn't a must-roster player by any means -- especially while starting center Nic Claxton is healthy -- Sharpe has carved out a large enough of a role as a backup to at least warrant more attention.

Williams (back) will not play in Tuesday's game against the Clippers.

No surprise here, as Williams was considered doubtful for the matchup. The Hornets have been labeling Williams as doubtful for the past few weeks, and there's been little word regarding his progress. Charlotte's next game is Thursday against the Lakers, and that's the front end of a back-to-back set.

Brown is in the starting lineup due to Deandre Ayton (knee) being ruled out for Tuesday's game against Sacramento, Sean Highkin of RoseGardenReport.com reports.

Brown gets his first start in what will be his sixth appearance of the campaign. Duop Reath had started three prior contests when Ayton was unavailable, but the duo will likely form a platoon Tuesday.

Ayton (knee) will not play in Tuesday's game against the Kings, Danny Marang of 1080 The Fan Portland reports.

This isn't the first time Ayton has dealt with an issue to his right knee, as he missed three games earlier in December with soreness. For now, he should be considered questionable for Thursday's game against the Spurs. With Ayton sidelined, Portland will give Moses Brown his first start of the season. Presumably, Duop Reath will handle the backup center minutes.

Drummond will draw the start against the Hawks on Tuesday.

Nikola Vucevic is sitting out with a groin injury, and it's unclear how long he'll be sidelined. Drummond will be a popular pickup in fantasy formats in the meantime, as he's a capable rebounder and offers upside in the defensive categories.