

Brooklyn Nets guard/forward Ben Simmons (back) won't play on Monday against Golden State. He has just returned from a lengthy absence, and the team is closely monitoring Simmons' workload. It's the first game of a back-to-back, and Simmons will likely return to the lineup Tuesday versus Dallas. The three-time All-Star hasn't played much since making his comeback, but he's still been productive, averaging 5.0 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 8.0 assists in 17.0 minutes in the two games he's featured in since returning. With Simmons unavailable, Lonnie Walker IV and Dennis Smith Jr. could get a few extra minutes on the court off the Brooklyn bench.


Golden State Warriors forward/center Dario Saric (illness) appears ready to return to the lineup on Monday versus Brooklyn, as the team has listed him as probable for the contest. Lester Quinones has been a regular in the rotation for a couple of games, with Saric missing, but he will likely be pushed back to the end of the bench on Monday. Saric has been one of the best bench performers in the league this season, averaging 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds with 2.6 assists in 20.5 minutes. He could play a larger role on Monday if Andrew Wiggins (ankle) misses the game. The Warriors have him listed as doubtful.


Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins (ankle) is considered doubtful to play Monday versus the Nets. Wiggins hurt his left ankle in a game against Atlanta at the weekend, and his chances of playing against Brooklyn appear slim. Brandin Podziemski started the second half instead of Wiggins versus the Hawks and posted a second consecutive double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds. The rookie out of Santa Clara appears set for his 12th career start without Wiggins on Monday. Podziemski has previously posted 11.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.5 steals as a member of the starting unit.


New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III (knee) is available to play ahead of Saturday's game against the Portland Trail Blazers. Murphy will suit up for both legs of the back-to-back set for the first time this season. That is good news for the Pelicans with Zion Williamson (foot) ruled out for this game. That means Murphy should get bumped into the starting five while Naji Marshall (back) will play a larger role off the bench.

Portland Trail Blazers center Duop Reath (knee) has been ruled out ahead of Saturday's game against the New Orleans Pelicans. This marks the second game in a row that Reath will miss due to right knee tendinitis. His absence won't make a huge impact with Deandre Ayton (illness) cleared to play. Ayton should see a bulk of the playing time at the center spot. Jabari Walker and Ibou Badji should help fill out the rest of the reserve minutes. Walker is the much better streaming option between the two players.
