Week 12 Fantasy Basketball Injury Report
As Week 12 of the fantasy basketball season unfolds, managers face a myriad of injury concerns that could significantly impact their rosters. With trade rumors swirling around some players, decisions regarding trades might affect availability and performance outcomes. Notably, on the positive side, San Antonio’s Victor Wembanyama made his comeback after missing two games, and the Philadelphia 76ers are slowly regaining their full roster health. Below, we explore the key injury developments that fantasy players should monitor closely.
Key Injury Developments
Trae Young, G, Atlanta Hawks
Trae Young’s absence stretches to five games due to a quad contusion, putting him in a questionable position for Wednesday’s contest against the Pelicans. While Nickeil Alexander-Walker has stepped in as the starting point guard during Young’s absence, the rising trade rumors regarding Young, reported by ESPN’s Shams Charania, introduce uncertainty about his playing status. Should the Hawks consider trading Young, his potential absence from games could leave fantasy managers at a disadvantage this season.
Jalen Smith, F/C, Chicago Bulls
The Bulls are feeling the pinch as Jalen Smith remains sidelined due to concussion protocol, marking his second consecutive missed game. With Zach Collins also out due to a toe injury, the Bulls’ depth looks thin. In light of this, Lachlan Olbrich saw limited action in the recent match against the Celtics, making him a less favorable option for fantasy inclusion.
Max Strus, G/F, Cleveland Cavaliers
Strus has been sidelined following offseason foot surgery, with a reevaluation scheduled in four weeks. In his absence, multiple players have cycled through the starting role for the Cavaliers. However, an additional injury to Dean Wade during a recent game has further complicated the rotation.
P.J. Washington, F, Dallas Mavericks
After spraining his ankle, Washington missed the recent game against the Kings. Naji Marshall stepped into the starting lineup and is worth monitoring for those in deep leagues, while the Mavericks also made roster adjustments unrelated to injuries.
Nikola Jokić, C, Denver Nuggets
As Nikola Jokić continues his recovery from a left knee injury, he remains on course for reassessment in approximately three weeks. There has been some progress as he is engaging in spot shooting. Meanwhile, the Nuggets welcomed back Christian Braun and Aaron Gordon, adding slight stability to their lineup.
Alperen Şengün, C, Houston Rockets
Şengün sprained his ankle and will likely be out for 10 to 14 days. Steven Adams will start as the center in his absence and is a reliable option for those needing rebounds in fantasy leagues.
Isaiah Jackson, F/C, Indiana Pacers
Still in concussion protocol since December 22, Jackson’s absence has opened opportunities for players like Jay Huff and Micah Potter, although their fantasy viability remains questionable.
James Harden, G, LA Clippers
Harden’s status remains uncertain due to shoulder soreness as the Clippers prepare for a crucial game against the Knicks. In his absence, rookie Kobe Sanders made waves in his brief opportunity to shine during their last victory.
Ja Morant, G, Memphis Grizzlies
Morant continues to battle injury issues, missing the last two games with a calf contusion. Cam Spencer has stepped up as his replacement, delivering impressive performances that make him a key player to watch. Additionally, Cedric Coward joins the injury report after spraining his ankle, though initial assessments indicate the injury might not be severe.
Miami Heat Notes
Tyler Herro’s recent return adds complexity to roster adjustments, particularly affecting players like Nikola Jović and Kel’el Ware. Meanwhile, Jaime Jaquez Jr. is nursing an ankle injury that could further test Miami’s rotation.
In Other News
The status of Josh Hart from the Knicks also bears watching as the team grapples with his absence. His performance impacts the overall health of the team’s lineup, with Miles McBride stepping into a performative role during Hart’s hiatus.
As the week progresses, keeping an eye on injury updates and trade discussions will be crucial for fantasy managers looking to optimize their rosters amidst this turbulent time in the league.
