NBA Week 10 Fantasy Basketball Overview
As the curtain falls on Week 10 of the NBA season, the fantasy basketball landscape faces challenges, especially with major players grappling with injuries. Although teams are enjoying a Christmas Eve break—an unprecedented day off since Thanksgiving—many fantasy managers are actively seeking replacements to navigate these final days of the week. Notably, Luka Dončić’s status looms large, as teams increasingly adopt injury management strategies, creating openings for lesser-known players to shine. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the latest injury news impacting fantasy basketball.
Injury Updates
Cameron Thomas, Brooklyn Nets
Thomas, who has been sidelined since November 5 due to a left hamstring strain, is making progress in his recovery. Recently cleared for 5-on-5 drills, he participated in practice without any setbacks. However, his return to actual gameplay remains uncertain. This development affects various players on the Nets lineup, particularly Terance Mann (rostered by just three percent on Yahoo!), who could see a reduction in his minutes. Mann was a starter prior to Thomas’s injury but may yield to rookie Egor Dëmin (eight percent rostered), who has been demonstrating promise.
Ryan Kalkbrenner, Charlotte Hornets
Kalkbrenner is recovering from an elbow injury that has kept him off the court for the last two contests. Mason Plumlee stepped in to start against the Cavaliers, yet did not participate in the subsequent game against the Wizards due to a groin issue. Instead, Moussa Diabaté (10 percent rostered) took the lead and made a significant impact, achieving 12 points and 18 rebounds in a recent outing. If Kalkbrenner continues to be unavailable, Diabaté remains the primary option for fantasy owners.
Matas Buzelis, Chicago Bulls
Buzelis exited Tuesday’s match against the Hawks due to a leg injury, casting uncertainty over his availability moving forward. In his absence, Ayo Dosunmu (17 percent) and Kevin Huerter (12 percent) appear poised to absorb increased playing time and opportunities.
P.J. Washington, Dallas Mavericks
Washington sat out due to midfoot soreness, allowing Jaden Hardy (less than one percent) to step into the starting lineup. Hardy managed a respectable performance with 10 points and two assists during their win over Denver. Regardless of whether Washington plays in the upcoming game against the Warriors, Naji Marshall (25 percent) is becoming a more attractive pick in fantasy leagues.
