LA Clippers DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

Philadelphia 76ers forward Nicolas Batum (foot) is uncertain to suit up for Friday's game against the visiting Pelicans. The 35-year-old has been heavily involved of late, logging 30 minutes in four games in March. But he's dealing with foot soreness, and considering his history, fantasy managers should begin planning accordingly. If Batum is ruled out, Kenyon Martin Jr. might see more action. However, he'd be a risky option in any fantasy format.

Brooklyn Nets guard/forward Ben Simmons (back) has been ruled out for the rest of the season. He's missed the last five games and won't see the court again in 2023-24 due to a lower back issue. "Ben Simmons will remain out for the remainder of the season while he consults with specialists and explores treatment options for the nerve impingement in his lower back," the team said in a statement. "Simmons, along with his representatives and Nets medical personnel, are currently in discussions with numerous experts to determine the course of action that will provide him with the best opportunity for long-term sustainable health." Simmons finishes the 2023-24 campaign with only 15 appearances. He averaged 6.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists across 23.9 minutes. Dennis Schroder and Dennis Smith Jr. are set to share the main ball-handling duties for the rest of the campaign without Simmons. Lonnie Walker IV is well-positioned to enjoy a strong stretch as well, particularly with Cam Thomas (ankle) and Cameron Johnson (ankle) also currently unavailable.

Brooklyn Nets guard/forward Ben Simmons (back) won't play on Thursday against the Pistons. He's dealing with a nerve impingement in his back. However, reports suggest that the issue isn't as severe as the one that kept him off the floor for over two months this season. With this in mind, the former 76er might also sit out upcoming games against Charlotte and Cleveland. But even when Simmons returns, whenever that will be, he could see fewer minutes than usual. He's also averaging 6.1 points this season, the lowest of his career, so he's not worth keeping on fantasy rosters. Dorian Finney-Smith, coming off a 20-point, eight-rebound performance on Tuesday in the win over Philadelphia, is worth starting for those looking to fill a void.

Brooklyn Nets guard/forward Ben Simmons (back) remains out for Tuesday's contest versus the Philadelphia 76ers. After originally being listed with leg soreness for some of his prior absences, Simmons is now once again dealing with a nerve impingement in his left lower back that kept him on the shelf for nearly three months between November and January. In nine games (six starts) since Jan. 29, the 27-year-old former All-Star is producing a mere 5.9 points on 63.2% shooting from the floor, 6.0 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.0 steals in 18.7 minutes per contest. Consider him questionable at best for Thursday's tilt against the Detroit Pistons. Cameron Johnson has started Brooklyn's past four games in Simmons' stead, averaging 19.9 points, 3.8 three-pointers on 46.9% shooting from downtown, and 1.5 swipes during 31.8 minutes.

Dallas Mavericks forward Derrick Jones Jr. (shoulder) is regarded as questionable for Tuesday's matchup against Indiana. The high-flyer from UNLV might have to skip a very favorable matchup due to a left shoulder strain. The timing of the injury couldn't be worse, as Jones Jr. has just had one of his best outings of the season with a 21-point, seven-rebound effort against Philadelphia. Jones Jr.'s absence would open the door for Dante Exum and Tim Hardaway Jr. to make a bigger mark off the Dallas bench. A lot of big fantasy lines are expected from the clash at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, as Indiana is ranked No. 1 in pace but sits among the worst defensive teams in the league.