LA Clippers

Los Angeles Clippers forward Derrick Jones Jr. (hamstring) will return from a two-game absence on Thursday versus Dallas. The 27-year-old suffered a right hamstring strain on Dec. 8 but has made a quick recovery. Jones Jr. has been a regular starter for the Clippers all year, averaging 10.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 25.0 minutes. However, the high-flying forward will have a limited role against his former team, so managers won't get full value out of Jones Jr. on Thursday.

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (knee) practiced on Wednesday. Even better, it was a full-contact session. The veteran is moving in a favorable direction and will accompany the Clippers on their three-game road trip. Unfortunately for fantasy managers, he still remains without a return date. Without question, Leonard is one of the most talented players in the National Basketball Association, averaging 20.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.7 steals in 696 regular season contests. However, he has missed more than enough time over the years. Still, fantasy managers should keep him stashed for now, although it will be a while before he's healthy enough to handle his usual workload. In the meantime, James Harden and Norman Powell should remain the Clippers' top options on the offensive end.

Los Angeles Clippers center Mo Bamba (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Houston. The injury-prone big man will take the night off for knee injury management purposes. Bamba has been limited to 10 appearances this season, averaging 4.9 points and 3.9 rebounds with 1.2 blocks in 13.6 minutes. With him out, we should see Kai Jones take care of the backup center minutes behind Ivica Zubac. Jones offers next to no fantasy value.