

Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma (ankle) won't play on Friday versus the Bulls. He'll now miss a fourth consecutive contest, and with the Wizards down to two games left in the 2023-24 campaign, his season is likely over. With Tyus Jones (back) out and Jordan Poole (illness) questionable, Deni Advija and Corey Kispert may be the go-to offensive options for the Wizards on Friday night. There would also be room for Anthony Gill and Patrick Baldwin Jr. to get more involved, with the duo combining for 30 points in Tuesday's loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.


Golden State Warriors guard/forward Gary Payton II (calf) won't be in the lineup on Thursday against Portland. After being a late addition to the injury report, Payton II hasn't been able to get rid of tightness in his left calf to be available to play. Draymond Green (knee) and Klay Thompson (knee) are also on the shelf on Thursday, leaving Golden State a bit shorthanded. However, the team should still have enough quality to take care of business against a struggling Portland squad. There are more minutes available for Chris Paul, Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Moses Moody. Paul and Kuminga will join the starting five for the clash.


Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke (hand) has been ruled out for Friday's contest against the Los Angeles Lakers. He missed the previous game due to left Achilles injury management, but the injury report shows Clarke is dealing with a hand injury now. The 27-year-old has spent a large majority of the season recovering from last year's Achilles tear and has only played in six games since returning to action on March 27. It is great for Grizzlies fans to see their talented big man back on the court looking healthy, as he has averaged over 11 points per game while playing over 20 minutes in all six games. While he is out, expect Trey Jemison to lead the frontcourt.


New Orleans Pelicans guard/forward Naji Marshall (shoulder) will be welcomed back into the lineup on Thursday versus Sacramento. He's recovered from a shoulder problem that kept him sidelined for a couple of games. Marshall is typically one of the first guys off the bench, and New Orleans is going to need his presence in a situation where Brandon Ingram (knee) remains absent and Larry Nance Jr. (personal) can't play. However, Marshall isn't a very attractive piece fantasy-wise. He's averaging 7.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 19.3 minutes for the season.


Toronto Raptors guard/forward Bruce Brown (knee) is considered questionable for Friday's game against Miami. He's seen action just twice in the past five games and could be out again due to inflammation in his right knee. Javon Freeman-Liberty, Gradey Dick, and Ochai Agbaji could potentially benefit from Brown's absence on Friday. However, it's an ugly fantasy matchup for the Raptors, as Miami boasts the fifth-best defensive rating in the league and is ranked 29th in pace.
