
Memphis Grizzlies forward Yuta Watanabe (personal) will remain out of the lineup on Saturday against Orlando. He's been absent for personal reasons for quite a while and will miss a 14th consecutive game. Watanabe's absence hasn't had a big impact on Memphis, as the Japanese forward has averaged fewer than 14 minutes per game in 2023-24. His next chance to return comes on Monday in a matchup against the Pistons.


Memphis Grizzlies forward/center Santi Aldama (illness) is considered unlikely to play on Saturday against Orlando. He's feeling under the weather, and the team has listed Aldama as doubtful for the game. Brandon Clarke, who's just made his season debut, should get a chance to play a bigger role without Aldama. The young duo of Jake LaRavia and GG Jackson II will be counted on more as well, along with Lamar Stevens, who has carved out a steady role off the bench lately. However, the Grizzlies find themselves in a pace-down spot on Saturday against a top defensive team, which could significantly impact the players' output.


Memphis Grizzlies guard/forward John Konchar (heel) will likely miss a third consecutive game on Saturday versus the Magic. He's on the injury report as doubtful with right heel soreness. Konchar's absence increases the fantasy value of Scotty Pippen Jr., GG Jackson II, and Jake LaRavia. Luke Kennard, who's returning to the lineup on Saturday after sitting out five games, also has a better opportunity to make an impact with Konchar unavailable. If Konchar can't return on Saturday, he will have to wait for Monday's matchup against Detroit to get his next opportunity.


Atlanta Hawks forward/center Onyeka Okongwu (toe) won't play on Saturday versus the Bucks. He's been battling a toe sprain and recently missed a month. Although the 23-year-old returned for a few games, he'll now be sidelined for a fifth consecutive contest. Jalen Johnson (ankle) has a chance to return against Milwaukee, which could help lessen the blow. At the same time, Bruno Fernando, coming off a 6-point, four-rebound effort, has value for DFS managers who don't mind taking a chance.


Memphis Grizzlies guard/forward Vince Williams Jr. (knee) will remain sidelined for a 10th consecutive game on Saturday versus Orlando. The 23-year-old is still dealing with a left knee issue and will have the next opportunity to return on Monday against Detroit. GG Jackson II and Jake LaRavia should continue to feature heavily for the Grizzlies without Williams Jr, although Saturday's matchup is an uncomfortable one for Memphis against a slow-paced team that has a very good defense.
