Portland Trail Blazers DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

Portland Trail Blazers guard Anfernee Simons (knee) will sit out a fifth consecutive contest on Monday versus Orlando. He's battling left knee tendinitis and will get the next opportunity to return on Wednesday against Charlotte. Simons' injury has opened up playing time and usage to Rayan Rupert and Dalano Banton. The latter has had a couple of special outings lately and did well throughout last month. Across 17 March outings, Banton averaged 17.9 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 3.5 assists with 2.3 made triples. On Monday, Rupert and Banton will be in a tricky spot to perform, as only Minnesota allows fewer made shots per game than Orlando.

Portland Trail Blazers forward Jerami Grant (hamstring) is doubtful for Monday's matchup with Orlando. He's been sidelined for a few weeks because of a nagging hamstring strain, an injury that's bothered him throughout the year. But the Trail Blazers aren't going to the postseason, so Grant may not be back for the rest of the 2023-24 campaign. With Anfernee Simons (knee), Malcolm Brogdon (elbow), and Shaedon Sharpe (abdomen) still sidelined, Deandre Ayton, Dalano Banton, Scoot Henderson, and Kris Murray all warrant DFS consideration, especially if Grant is officially ruled out.

Portland Trail Blazers forward Matisse Thybulle (ankle) has been ruled out ahead of Monday's game against the Orlando Magic. Thybulle missed five games due to an ankle injury before returning to action on Friday. Sadly, Thybulle only lasted seven minutes before exiting the game due to a right ankle issue. It appears Thybulle came back too early, so the Blazers are going to let him get fully healthy. Rayan Rupert and Dalano Banton should see more playing time with Thybulle sidelined on Monday.

Portland Trail Blazers center Deandre Ayton (elbow) will take the court against the Miami Heat. He sat out of the previous four games due to left elbow tendinitis but will return to the starting lineup for Friday's contest. While there are no reports of any limitations to his playing time, Ayton can usually be counted on for strong production, as he has averaged over 15 points and more than 11 rebounds this season. Duop Reath has been filling in but will return to a backup role.

Portland Trail Blazers guard/forward Matisse Thybulle (ankle) will be available for Friday's battle with the Heat. He's gotten rid of a questionable tag and will end a five-game absence on Friday. Thybulle averages 23.1 minutes per game for the season but could get a few extra shifts on Friday due to the absences of Jerami Grant (hamstring) and Toumani Camara (ribs). However, he's offensively very limited and has fantasy value only as a defensive contributor.