Brooklyn Nets DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (back) is listed as probable ahead of Friday's game against the Toronto Raptors. Russell continues to deal with a lower back issues, but it's not expected to keep him out of the lineup. He has been off to a slow start to the season but has the ability to be a legitimate threat because of his shooting ability. He only saw 24 minutes during Wednesday's game, so the Lakers might continue to limit him until he's fully healthy again. Gabe Vincent might see an uptick in playing time on Friday.

Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (back) will play in Wednesday's game versus the Cavs. He was listed as questionable heading into this contest. However, fantasy managers can safely add him back to the starting lineup. Unfortunately, Russell has struggled this season, averaging 11.0 points, 5.8 assists, and 28.0% shooting from deep. Still, the 28-year-old should break out of his slump soon. With Russell back in the mix, Gabe Vincent and Max Christie will see less work.

Los Angeles Lakers guard D'Angelo Russell (back) is questionable for Wednesday's matchup with the Cleveland Cavaliers. The 28-year-old has struggled this season, averaging 11.0 points, 5.8 assists, and 28.0% shooting from behind the arc. Yet, Russell could miss Wednesday's contest because of back soreness, although a night off may help him break out of his slump. Austin Reaves (thigh) is probable, so Max Christie and Gabe Vincent could split time at the one if Russell doesn't play. It's also possible LeBron James slides over, with Dalton Knecht entering the starting lineup.

Golden State Warriors guard De'Anthony Melton (back) won't play on Tuesday against New Orleans. Melton was limited to 38 games with the 76ers last season because of a back injury, so his latest injury designation is concerning. Fortunately, an MRI showed "no structural damage," although his back strain will likely cost him more than a few games. With Stephen Curry (ankle) sidelined, Melton was in line to see more minutes. However, now that he's ruled out, Brandin Podziemski and Moses Moody will likely split the ball handling duties moving ahead. As far as Melton is concerned, he will be re-evaluated on Friday.

Brooklyn Nets center Nicolas Claxton (hamstring) will see increased minutes during Sunday's game against the Milwaukee Bucks, according to head coach Jordi Fernandez. Claxton has been eased back into action over the first two games of the season. He played 15 and 20 minutes over the first two contests. It sounds like he'll play more than that on Sunday. The expectation is that Claxton will play close to 25 minutes against the Bucks. He has struggled to make much of an impact with limited playing time, but should be back to being a consistent contributor soon.