

Los Angeles Clippers center Ivica Zubac (illness) is currently listed as questionable ahead of Friday's game against the Washington Wizards. The big man was forced to sit out of Wednesday's game due to an illness. His absence moved Daniel Theis into a starting role on Wednesday. He finished with nine points, five rebounds, and two assists in 31 minutes of action. He will likely get another chance to start if Zubac is forced to miss another game. Theis is a low-end streaming option, but could be worth a look for desperate fantasy managers.


Los Angeles Clippers forward Paul George (knee) is listed as questionable ahead of Friday's game against the Washington Wizards. The superstar forward has been forced to miss each of the last two games due to a lingering knee issue. Head coach Ty Lue has used Norman Powell and Amir Coffey to each start a game in his absence. It's unknown which player will get the starting nod if George is unable to play. Powell is the much better streaming choice if he's given the chance to start. Fantasy managers will have to check back on Friday for another update on his status.


Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (wrist) isn't expected to play in Friday's game versus Memphis. The former Sun injured his wrist on Tuesday night against the Miami Heat. Fortunately, X-rays came back clean, and he's considered day-to-day. But until Ayton is back on the floor, Duop Reath, averaging 12.0 points and 6.5 rebounds in 11 starts during the 2023-24 campaign, should be included in all fantasy lineups.


Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell (knee) is questionable for Friday's game against the Pistons. The multi-time All-Star popped up on the injury report because of left knee soreness, and if he doesn't suit up versus Detroit, it will mark his third absence in the Cavs' previous six games. Mitchell should always be in every fantasy lineup imaginable whenever he's active. However, if he can't make it out there, Darius Garland would be the No. 1 option offensively. It might also mean more production for Caris LeVert, who has averaged nearly 16 points this season in games where Mitchell isn't available.


Milwaukee Bucks forward Khris Middleton (ankle) is unlikely to suit up for Friday's game against the Chicago Bulls, according to head coach Doc Rivers. Middleton will miss his eighth straight game on Thursday. The Bucks have been cautious with Middleton and they aren't going to rush him back to the court. Jae Crowder figures to remain in the starting five until Middleton is ready to play. Crowder gets more playing time now, but isn't worth streaming in most fantasy formats.
