

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (knee) won't suit up for Sunday's meeting with the Cavaliers. The Clippers play back-to-back contests, so Leonard will likely be back on Monday night against the Orlando Magic. In the meantime, Nicolas Batum is the favorite to take over at the four spot, with the veteran averaging 8.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.5 steals in eight starts during the 2024-25 campaign. Bogdan Bogdanovic should also be more involved on the offensive end behind James Harden and Norman Powell.

Portland Trail Blazers guard Scoot Henderson (concussion) won't play on Sunday against the Knicks. He's now in concussion protocol, although his return to the floor could hinge on Portland's ability to earn a Play-In spot. With Anfernee Simons (forearm) questionable, the Blazers could be even more thin in the backcourt. But regardless of Simons' availability, Dalano Banton could see some meaningful minutes.


Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons (forearm) is questionable for Sunday's matchup with the New York Knicks. The Trail Blazers likely aren't going anywhere near the postseason in any capacity, so it's hard to gauge just how severe his injury is. With that said, Simons' absence could surely open the door for added production from Shaedon Sharpe and Deni Avdija. Scoot Henderson's (concussion) absence should also mean Dalano Banton could see some meaningful work, even more so if Jerami Grant (knee) remains out.


Cleveland Cavaliers guard Ty Jerome (knee) won't play on Sunday versus the Clippers, marking his third-consecutive absence. The Cavs are on track to finish as the top team in the Eastern Conference. However, the team will need to figure out how to keep the ship afloat without arguably their top bench option. While De'Andre Hunter is the favorite to claim most of the surplus minutes from off the bench, Craig Porter Jr., who had nine points, five boards, and three steals in Friday's loss to Detroit, could find his way back to the floor.


New York Knicks guard Cameron Payne (ankle) won't play in Sunday's game against Portland, marking his second-straight absence. Jalen Brunson (ankle) and Miles McBride (groin) are also out, so the Knicks may continue to rely on Delon Wright, who had 12 points in Friday's win over the Bucks, to fill the hole in the starting lineup. Landry Shamet, who had 13 points in that one, and Tyler Kolek should also see some meaningful minutes from off the bench.
