Fantasy News

Kalkbrenner continued what has been a modest preseason, doing very little to endear himself to fantasy managers. It appears as though Moussa Diabate will retain the starting center position heading into the regular season. This means Kalkbrenner is likely to be up against Hannes Steinbach for backup minutes, limiting his appeal across all formats. For those in deeper leagues, Kalkbrenner should be seen as a potential streaming option for blocks.

Schroder was given the starting nod, although he failed to make the most of his opportunity. Charlotte is dealing with multiple injuries to its backcourt, which could open the door for Schroder to play a meaningful role come opening night. While this, theoretically, puts him on the fantasy radar, experienced fantasy managers are well aware of who Schroder is as a player. Unless you are desperate for assists late in drafts, there are likely to be more appealing options available to you.

LeVert was barely noticeable in the loss, failing to score despite logging 18 minutes of playing time. Hypothetically, LeVert has the talent to provide Milwaukee with a valuable bench piece. However, it seems likely he could get lost in the mix when it comes to consistent playing time. Barring any news to the contrary, LeVert is not someone managers need to be targeting outside of deeper leagues.

Kuzma was back in the starting lineup Sunday, ending with arguably his best performance of the preseason. For better or worse, it appears as though Kuzma could be a starting option for the Bucks come opening night. Having lost Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis during the offseason, Milwaukee will be hoping Kuzma can rediscover his form from a couple of seasons ago. For those in fantasy, he profiles as nothing more than a last-round flyer, based largely on the fact that he could play close to 30 minutes per game.

Turner provided ample production on the defensive end, racking up a game-high five blocks. However, that's where the good news ends, following what was a poor shooting night. Coming off what was a terrible season last year, Turner is looking to reinvigorate his career. He warrants attention in the later rounds of drafts, based on his blocks upside alone. With that said, his peripheral numbers are typically less than ideal, which does limit his overall upside.

Miller put together an impressive performance off the bench Sunday, connecting on four three-pointers en route to a game-high 26 points. The 22-year-old pro has played well throughout the preseason, averaging 17.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 1.0 steals in 19.7 minutes per contest across three appearances. Miller began to come on at the end of the 2025-26 season, scoring in double figures in 17 of the team's last 18 games.

Denver elected to play its starters into the second half for the first time this preseason, leading to Jokic producing a highly efficient triple-double while playing three quarters. The star big man led the game in rebounds and assists. Jokic is coming off six straight seasons in which he finished in the top two in MVP voting, and he seems poised for another dominant campaign.

Rollins was one of four Bucks players to score in double figures despite struggling from the floor. Where he excelled Sunday was on the defensive end, collecting a game-high three steals and adding two blocks. While he was highly productive defensively, Rollins still had the worst plus-minus among Bucks starters at minus eight.

Miller made his preseason debut Sunday after missing time with a shin contusion he suffered in practice. The 23-year-old pro matched a game high with 18 points, albeit with mediocre efficiency. Despite struggling from the floor overall, Miller was highly effective from beyond the arc, connecting on a game-high four three-pointers.

Da Silva had another productive performance Sunday, with the 2024 No. 18 overall pick now having scored a combined 36 points in his first two preseason appearances. He averaged 9.9 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists across 24.7 minutes in 77 regular-season games, including 34 starts, in 2025-26. While da Silva may not start as often during the 2026-27 campaign if Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner can stay healthy, he should continue to get his share of minutes off the bench.

Burton will join the Warriors for the remainder of the preseason. During the 2025-26 campaign, Burton averaged 10.8 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.0 assists in 25.6 minutes per contest across 12 regular-season appearances for the Grizzlies. The signing is likely a precursor to Burton joining the Warriors' G League affiliate for the upcoming season.

While Mobley didn't shoot the ball well Sunday, his scoring contributions improved after he'd netted just eight points in Thursday's preseason loss to the Celtics. The 25-year-old averaged 18.2 points, 9.0 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.7 blocks over 31.9 minutes per contest during the 2025-26 regular season. Mobley's three-point percentage dipped last year, but his biggest issue is his health, with the 2021 No. 3 overall pick having appeared in 65 games or fewer in two of the last three seasons.

As was the case in Thursday's preseason loss to the Celtics, Mitchell finished with a modest 11 points Sunday. However, he was inefficient when shooting the ball and has now shot a combined 1-for-6 from deep in his first two preseason appearances of the year. Mitchell, who agreed to a four-year, $273 million contract extension in July, is coming off a solid 2025-26 campaign, averaging 27.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, 5.7 assists and 1.5 steals over 33.5 minutes per contest in 70 regular-season games. The 2017 No. 13 overall pick does a lot of things well, and assuming he continues to stay healthy, he should be a top-15 fantasy producer in any format.

Harden wasn't available for Thursday's 124-113 preseason loss to Boston due to an ankle injury, but he was cleared to suit up Sunday. He played exceptionally well, already appearing in mid-season form in his first exhibition of the 2026-27 campaign. The 2018 Most Valuable Player, who signed a three-year deal with Cleveland in August, averaged 23.6 points, 4.8 rebounds and 8.0 assists over 34.8 minutes per contest in 70 games combined for the Cavaliers and Clippers in 2025-26. While Harden is entering his age-37 season, he is still an All-Star-caliber player despite his most productive days likely being a thing of the past.

After scoring six points in Wednesday's preseason win over the Grizzlies, Wagner reached double figures in scoring Sunday. He did commit four turnovers, but considering this hasn't been much of an issue during his career, it's not a cause for concern. The 25-year-old averaged 20.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.3 assists across 30.0 minutes during the 2025-26 regular season, albeit while limited to 34 games. The 2021 No. 8 overall pick is an All-Star-caliber player, though he'll need to avoid the injury bug to maximize his potential.

Banchero had his second consecutive double-digit preseason scoring performance. However, he had trouble finding the net once again Sunday and has now shot a combined 3-for-17 from the field in his first two preseason appearances. Banchero is coming off a productive 2025-26 campaign, averaging 22.2 points, 5.2 assists and a career-high 8.4 rebounds over 34.8 minutes per contest. He also appeared in 72 regular-season games after logging just 46 appearances in the 2024-25 campaign. New head coach Sean Sweeney spent time with Banchero over the summer and will reportedly give him the green light to go all out offensively in 2026-27, so there is reason to believe the 23-year-old could be named to the All-Star team for the second time in his career.

Powell started each of the previous two preseason games, but he is not starting Sunday. Isaac Okoro will enter the starting five in his place.

Smith has been battling a foot injury but will be on the floor for the preseason meeting with the Nuggets after missing Friday's 104-100 loss to Memphis. The 2020 No. 10 overall pick started in 21 regular-season games in 2025-26, averaging 12.1 points, 7.1 rebounds and 1.0 assists over 24.6 minutes per contest in those appearances.

Awaka will shift back to a reserve role due to Jalen Smith (foot) returning to the lineup. The Arizona product was held scoreless for 24 minutes during Friday's preseason game against the Grizzlies.

Okoro will join Josh Giddey, Matas Buzelis, Caleb Wilson and Jalen Smith in the starting lineup for Sunday's preseason meeting with the Nuggets. The 25-year-old started in 62 regular-season games in 2025-26, averaging 9.2 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.6 assists over 27.0 minutes per contest in those appearances.

Buzelis left Friday's preseason game against the Grizzlies early due to a right ankle injury, but he will return to the lineup Sunday. Buzelis recorded six points and a block in 12 minutes before exiting Friday's game.

Kelly was signed to a training camp deal, but he will be waived ahead of the regular season. Kelly averaged 10.7 points, 2.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 13.8 minutes per contest across three preseason appearances. He figures to spend time with the Warriors' G League affiliate during the upcoming campaign.

Ware started in Wednesday's 128-126 preseason win over the Thunder, finishing with an 18-point, 12-rebound double-double. He will come off the bench Sunday, with Kyle Kuzma moving into the starting lineup for Milwaukee's preseason meeting with Charlotte.

Kuzma shifted to a reserve role for Wednesday's preseason game against the Thunder, but he will return to the starting five Sunday. Kel'el Ware, who took his starting spot versus Oklahoma City, will shift back to the bench.

Jakucionis was a DNP-CD in Monday's 116-97 preseason loss to Minnesota, and he then logged 18 minutes in the two-point win over Oklahoma City on Wednesday. However, Jakucionis will take a seat once again Sunday, with his next opportunity to play being this coming Wednesday versus Chicago.

Burries played well in Milwaukee's preseason game Wednesday, logging 16 points, five rebounds, two steals and an assist in 21 minutes, but he will sit out of Sunday's matchup with the Hornets. His next opportunity to play comes Wednesday against the Bulls.

Ament will miss Sunday's preseason game due to a left ankle injury he sustained in Wednesday's game against the Thunder. His next chance to suit up is this coming Wednesday against the Bulls.

Miller didn't play in Tuesday's loss to Brooklyn due to a shin injury, but he will be on the floor Sunday versus the Bucks. The 23-year-old is coming off a productive 2025-26 campaign, averaging 20.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.0 steals over 30.3 minutes per contest in 65 regular-season games.

James Harden (ankle) is back in the starting five, pushing Tyson to the second unit. Across 17 minutes in Thursday's preseason-opening loss to Boston, Tyson posted 14 points, three rebounds and two assists.

Tomlin will miss a second straight contest to open the preseason due to lower-back soreness. His next chance to suit up comes Wednesday against the Magic.

Diop missed Thursday's preseason-opening loss to the Celtics for undisclosed reasons but is now listed as out due to a left knee injury. His next chance to play in the preseason will come in Tuesday's rematch against Orlando.

Harden missed Cleveland's preseason opener due to right ankle soreness, but he will play Sunday. He will likely see fairly limited action in his return, given that it is the preseason.

Penda missed the preseason opener after tweaking his hamstring in late September. He's been involved in recent practices, though it wouldn't be surprising to see the Magic limit his minutes during his first game back.

Isaac has been dealing with a left knee injury throughout camp, but he will miss a second straight preseason game due to personal reasons. His next chance to suit up comes Tuesday against the Cavaliers.

With Desmond Bane getting the night off for rest purposes, da Silva will join the first unit. Over 25 minutes in Wednesday's preseason-opening win over the Grizzlies, he provided 19 points, five rebounds, two assists and one steal.

Black was a full participant in Friday's practice, but he is still not ready to make his preseason debut due to a right ankle sprain. His next opportunity to suit up comes Wednesday against the Cavaliers.

Bane will sit out Orlando's second exhibition game for rest purposes. The 28-year-old swingman's next opportunity to suit up in the preseason will come in Tuesday's rematch against the Cavaliers.

Suggs has been dealing with an illness lately, and although he has made progress in his recovery, he is not yet ready to play. His next chance to suit up comes Tuesday against the Cavaliers.

Anderson will miss a second straight game due to a left ankle sprain. His next chance to suit up will come in Wednesday's exhibition against the Celtics.

Allen performed well in the Hornets' opening preseason game, posting 13 points in 14 minutes, but he will miss Sunday's contest with a knee injury. Sion James and Royce O'Neale could see extra action with Allen out of the lineup.

Miller missed Tuesday's preseason-opening loss to the Nets due to a shin contusion, though he'll suit up for Sunday's contest. With the 23-year-old swingman back in action, Liam McNeeley could slide to the second unit, though Grayson Allen's (knee) spot in the first unit is up for grabs.

After scoring 13 points on 4-of-9 shooting in Wednesday's preseason-opening win over Minnesota, Shepard was far less productive Saturday. The 25-year-old guard provided a muted impact on offense but recorded his third steal of the preseason. He'll face competition for playing time from Kelly Oubre, Quenton Jackson and Jarace Walker to begin the regular season.

Santos got the start Saturday and had his most productive game of the preseason. He didn't make any of his tries from deep and also struggled taking care of the ball. Still, it was a solid performance overall from Santos, who is looking to secure a spot in the starting lineup heading into the 2026-27 campaign.

Slawson was efficient from the field in his limited playing time, finishing as Indiana's third-leading scorer while pacing the second unit. The 26-year-old forward is on a two-way pact and figures to spend the majority of his time with Indiana's G League affiliate, the Noblesville Boom, in 2026-27.

LaVine didn't have the most productive offensive showing. However, the veteran shined defensively, finishing two steals behind Jonathan Mogbo, who had a game-high five. LaVine is coming off one of least productive seasons in recent memory, averaging 19.2 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists over 31.4 minutes per contest in 39 regular-season games during the 2025-26 campaign. The 31-year-old has flashed All-Star upside in previous seasons, though it's unknown if those days are well behind him.

Kessler has yet to suit up in the preseason after jamming his finger during training camp, though the injury isn't viewed as a long-term concern. The big man can be considered questionable for Tuesday's exhibition against the Warriors until the Lakers provide an update on his status.

Labissiere signed an Exhibit 10 contract with Washington on Monday but is now expected to report to the club's G League affiliate, the Capital City Go-Go. The Wizards signed Alondes Williams to an Exhibit 10 deal in a corresponding move.

Williams will join the Wizards ahead of Monday's exhibition against the Nets. He's set to compete for a spot on the regular-season roster but could be waived at any time since the Wizards already own his G League rights.

White finished behind Jayson Tatum, Payton Pritchard and Hugo Gonzalez in scoring. However, despite the 32-year-old's scoring contributions, he shot just 20.0 percent from deep, which isn't an encouraging sign after he shot a career-low 27.3 percent from downtown during the 2026 postseason. With Jaylen Brown now in Philadelphia, White could see more offensive opportunities than ever in 2026-27, and since he worked on his shot during the offseason, his three-point issues might be behind him.

Walker finished behind VJ Edgecombe for the team high in points, doing so while picking up his second double-digit scoring performance of the preseason. The 2022 No. 57 overall pick spent his first three seasons with the Trail Blazers before suiting up for the 76ers during the 2025-26 campaign. Walker appeared in 64 regular-season games for Philadelphia, and while he managed to start six times, he averaged just 2.5 points and 3.3 rebounds over 14.0 minutes per outing in those appearances. His outlook for 2026-27 doesn't appear much different compared to previous seasons, and it may actually be worse, considering Philadelphia added LeBron James and Jaylen Brown, two players who will play north of 30 minutes per game when healthy.

Edwards was an all-around performer Saturday, as he was one of five Sixers players to reach double figures in scoring while also finishing second on the team in steals. The 22-year-old went undrafted in 2024 but managed to spend his first two seasons in Philadelphia. While he wasn't a day-to-day contributor, he stepped up when needed, most recently averaging 12.4 points, 2.7 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.8 steals over 26.3 minutes per contest in 12 regular-season starts during the 2025-26 campaign. Edwards will presumably hold a similar role for the 76ers moving ahead, and though that won't result in consistent production, he could draw streaming interest from fantasy managers at times throughout the year.

Nelson finally hit the double-digit scoring mark after failing to do so in the 76ers' first two preseason contests of the 2026-27 campaign. However, the 25-year-old hasn't been efficient, shooting a combined 0-for-4 from deep in three preseason appearances. Nelson has been active defensively, though he has more work to do if he hopes to earn a two-way contract heading into the regular season.

Raynaud was taken back to the locker room in a wheelchair during Saturday's preseason loss to the Warriors, though he has seemingly avoided a serious injury. The big man will still begin the regular season on the inactive list, leaving additional minutes available for the likes of Precious Achiuwa and Dylan Cardwell (rest).

Rupert, who agreed to a two-way deal with the Sixers in July, shot at least 40.0 percent from deep in his first two preseason appearances. However, he struggled with his shot overall in the loss to Boston. He spent the bulk of his career in Portland before ending the 2025-26 campaign with the Grizzlies. In 155 total regular-season games in his career, the 22-year-old averaged 4.1 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.0 assists over 14.0 minutes per contest. While Rupert may spend most of his time with the G League's Delaware Blue Coats throughout the 2026-27 season, he likely will suit up for the 76ers at some point, though he is expected to serve as a deep bench option.

Fontecchio got the starting nod with several key contributors sidelined Saturday. The 30-year-old forward struggled mightily from two-point range but caught fire from downtown, finishing as one of five Heat players to score at least 14 points. He also led the club in three-pointers made.

Miami held out several key contributors Saturday, opening the door for Jovic to step into the starting five. The 23-year-old turned in an efficient shooting performance, closing the game as Miami's third-leading scorer. He also tied for the game-high mark in steals while finishing as one of five Heat players to grab at least six rebounds.

Schieffelin caught fire Saturday, missing only one shot while finishing as one of seven Heat players to score in double figures. The 24-year-old forward was also second on the team in rebounds. He signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Heat in September after joining the team for Summer League play. If Schieffelin doesn't make the regular-season roster, he's likely to report to Miami's G League affiliate, the Sioux Falls Skyforce.

Martin logged nine minutes in Minnesota's preseason-opening win over the Bucks on Monday and didn't see the floor in Wednesday's loss to Indiana, though he received a bump in playing time Saturday with several key contributors on the inactive list. The 25-year-old forward was efficient from the field and finished as one of five Timberwolves players to score in double figures. He's signed to a training camp contract and will continue competing for a spot on Minnesota's regular-season roster in the preseason.

The Timberwolves rested their projected starting unit and Ayo Dosunmu, leading to increased playing time for Evans. The rookie guard tied for second on the team in three-pointers made and was one of just three Minnesota players to knock down multiple triples. Evans will compete with Bones Hyland and Jaylen Clark for playing time off the bench to begin the regular season.

The Timberwolves rested their projected starting five and Ayo Dosunmu on Saturday, opening the door for Shannon to enter the first unit. The 26-year-old swingman delivered a productive performance, finishing as Minnesota's third-leading scorer while tying for second on the team in assists. He's in line for a steady role off the bench to begin the regular season.

Riley didn't deliver his most efficient performance from the field. However, he got to the charity stripe often and didn't miss an attempt en route to a team-high-tying 15 points. The second-year forward also led the second unit in assists. Riley figures to compete with Khris Middleton (rest) and Justin Champagnie for playing time off the bench to begin the regular season.

After scoring five points on 2-for-6 shooting in Thursday's preseason-opening win over New York, Johnson bounced back Saturday. The second-year guard tied for the team lead in scoring and led all players in three-pointers made. The 20-year-old figures to begin the regular season in a bench role behind Kyshawn George.

Martinelli signed a two-way contract with the Clippers after he was selected with the No. 55 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. He'll likely spend most of his rookie campaign in the G League, but with all of the Clippers' injuries, they may have no choice but to let Martinelli learn on the fly.

Miller averaged 13.0 points, 10.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.2 blocks per game on 53/19/66 shooting splits during his senior season as a Bearcat, and he was expected to be brought along slowly. However, with all of the Clippers' preseason injuries, Miller may get extended opportunities during his rookie campaign.

Even with Max Strus (foot), Brandon Ingram (Achilles) and Bradley Beal (knee) sidelined, Wagler is still coming off the bench during the preseason. The 2026 No. 5 overall pick has shown flashes in a Clippers uniform, but consistency remains his biggest flaw ahead of his rookie season.

Huerter delivered an efficient performance from downtown and was one of five Detroit players to score in double figures. He also tied for second in the second unit in assists. The veteran swingman is expected to compete for playing time off the bench with Isaiah Joe and Javonte Green.

Shead was more efficient than he was during the preseason opener, but he still failed to hit a three-pointer, making him 0-for-6 from behind the arc through two games. While Shead is slated for a backup role behind Immanuel Quickley, his defensive presence off the bench will be a key part of the Raptors' success this season.

Burnett is competing for a roster spot while signed to an Exhibit 10 and made the most of his opportunities Saturday. However, if the Raptors get healthier ahead of Opening Night, Burnett will likely be headed to the G League.

Lanier turned in an efficient performance from beyond the arc, tying for the team high in three-pointers made. After shooting 28.4 percent from deep in his rookie season, the 24-year-old swingman showed his growth as a shooter during Summer League action and will look to carve out a role for himself off Detroit's bench to begin the 2026-27 season.

With Devin Booker (rest) sidelined, Luke Kennard (20 points) and Green led the scoring attack for Phoenix. The 24-year-old swingman turned in an efficient shooting performance and tied for the team lead in assists. He's scored in double figures in all three of his preseason appearances in 2026 and has shot 14-for-28 from the field thus far.

Wembanyama filled the stat sheet Saturday, albeit in another losing effort during the preseason. The superstar big man tied for second on the club in scoring and rebounds while leading all players in assists. He also tied for the game-high mark in blocks. However, the 22-year-old struggled mightily from beyond the arc Saturday and is shooting 9-for-20 from the field through two preseason games.

The 21-year-old guard turned in a respectable performance from the field and tied Victor Wembanyama for second on the Spurs in scoring. Castle delivered a productive all-around performance, as he finished second on the team in assists and was one of three Spurs players to grab at least seven rebounds. He's scored in double figures in both of San Antonio's preseason games while shooting 10-for-18 from the field.

After starting Wednesday's loss to Portland, Williams shifted to the second unit Saturday. He still torched the nets off the bench and finished as Golden State's second-leading scorer behind Yaxel Lendeborg (23 points). Williams has scored in double figures in all four of the Warriors' preseason outings thus far, and he's making a strong case for additional minutes to open the 2026-27 season.

With Domantas Sabonis (undisclosed) sidelined, Achiuwa got the starting nod for a third straight exhibition game. The 27-year-old couldn't replicate his 18-point performance from Thursday's loss, though he tied for the team lead in rebounds Saturday. Maxime Raynaud exited Saturday's contest with a knee injury, and if he's forced to miss time to begin the regular season, Achiuwa could see increased playing time.

Goldin scored five points in eight minutes during the first half and made the most of his increased playing time in the second, finishing as the Heat's second-leading scorer in an efficient performance. The big man was also one of five Heat players to grab at least six rebounds. The 25-year-old is signed to a two-way pact and will likely spend most of his time with the G League's Sioux Falls Skyforce in 2026-27.

Pullin turned in an extremely efficient performance in this one, finishing as Minnesota's second-leading scorer behind Bones Hyland (23 points). Pullin is signed to a two-way deal and is expected to provide emergency depth for the Timberwolves in 2026-27, though he'll likely spend most of his time with the G League's Iowa Wolves.

Dybantsa got to the charity stripe often but wasn't very efficient. Still, the rookie first overall pick tied for second on the team in scoring and finished second in rebounds behind Anthony Davis. Dybantsa has scored in double figures in back-to-back games to begin the preseason, totaling 25 points, nine rebounds, five steals and four assists in 46 minutes.

Okorie was the only player to log more than 21 minutes for Detroit. Although he struggled from beyond the arc, the rookie point guard still led the Pistons in scoring and assists. He has totaled 21 points and seven assists over 37 minutes in two preseason games.

Thompson delivered a versatile performance, leading all Houston players with six assists and finishing second with seven rebounds. Despite his shooting woes, Thompson's value will also come from his multi-category contributions rather than just his scoring prowess. On that note, he looks ready to go for the start of the 2026-27 regular season, where he should be a starter in the backcourt next to Fred VanVleet (rest).

Sheppard remained aggressive from beyond the arc, attempting 10 three-pointers, and his 17 points ranked second among Houston's starters. As good as he was as a three-point threat, Sheppard's five turnovers are troubling, especially since he's expected to have a sizable backcourt role off the bench as a secondary playmaker behind Fred VanVleet, who didn't play Sunday due to rest. Sheppard's upside in fantasy ahead of the 2026-27 regular season will rely heavily on his playing time, but his calling card will be his three-point shooting and secondary playmaking.

Smart delivered a strong offensive performance and led all Houston players in scoring -- and it's worth noting each starter played over 20 minutes, so the Rockets are ramping up the workload for their rotation members. Smart is likely to open the season as a bench option but should handle sizable minutes because of his elite defense, three-point shooting and energy off the bench. This was an encouraging performance, but don't expect Smart to hover around the 20-point mark consistently once the regular season begins Oct. 21 in a rematch against Dallas.

Making his first appearance since suffering a torn ACL in March 2025, Irving led Dallas in scoring while shooting a respectable 46.2 percent from the field and knocking down two three-pointers. The veteran guard also distributed three assists without committing a turnover, demonstrating his usual composure as a ballhandler. Irving's 22-minute workload gave him a chance to build rhythm ahead of the regular season, and the goal is to have him as healthy and ready as possible for Opening Night against the Rockets on Wednesday, Oct. 21.

Risacher delivered a productive offensive showing, connecting on seven of his 13 field-goal attempts, and the young forward also chipped in defensively with a steal and a block, finishing with a plus-7 rating. His three turnovers were a minor blemish, but he otherwise displayed encouraging scoring versatility. Risacher's ability to contribute from the perimeter while providing secondary defensive production gives Dallas another wing option, as he looks to deliver a bounce-back year in 2026-27 after a subpar sophomore season in 2025-26. Risacher is competing for minutes on the wing, but this performance is certainly a step in the right direction.

Flagg struggled with his shot but delivered an impressive playmaking performance, leading Dallas with seven assists and committing just two turnovers. Despite his shooting woes, Flagg still found a way to contribute offensively, getting to the free-throw line eight times. Even with Kyrie Irving in the backcourt, Flagg should be a key playmaking and scoring weapon for the Mavericks ahead of his second year in the league following an impressive rookie season in which he averaged 21.0 points, 6.7 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 0.9 blocks and 1.2 steals across 33.5 minutes in 70 regular-season games.

Adams totaled two points (1-1 FG), three rebounds, one assist and one steal in 14 minutes during Friday's 135-117 preseason win over the Mavericks, marking his first game action since undergoing ankle surgery in January. The veteran center is expected to be the primary backup to Alperen Sengun this season.

Sengun recorded 16 points (6-9 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 4-5 FT), 10 rebounds, 10 assists, one steal and three blocks in 22 minutes during Friday's 135-117 preseason win over Dallas but will take a seat Sunday. Sengun is coming off another impressive season, averaging 20.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks in 33.3 minutes per game across 72 regular-season appearances in 2025-26. However, the star center shot just 69.1 percent from the charity stripe and 30.5 percent from downtown. He's been focused on improving in those areas this offseason, and an uptick in efficiency would be a significant step toward becoming a more well-rounded player.

VanVleet made his first appearance since suffering an ACL injury more than a year ago in Friday's 135-117 preseason win over Dallas, finishing with 17 points (5-12 FG, 5-12 3Pt, 2-3 FT), seven assists, two rebounds and two steals in 24 minutes. The veteran point guard will likely be limited throughout the 2026-27 season, but he's on track to be Houston's starting point guard on Opening Night.

Sasser will miss a second straight exhibition game due to left adductor soreness. It's unclear when he'll be cleared to play again, but Sasser has three more chances to suit up during the preseason beginning with Wednesday's game against the Pelicans.

Aldama underwent knee surgery in March and has been limited during training camp practices. It's unclear when he'll be cleared to make his Mavericks debut. The 2021 No. 30 overall pick spent his entire career in Memphis before Dallas traded for him in July. In 278 regular-season games (82 starts), Aldama has averaged 10.4 points, 5.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists over 23.4 minutes per contest.

Lively underwent right foot surgery in December after appearing in just seven regular-season games in 2025-26, and it's unclear when he'll be ready to play again. Mavericks president Masai Ujiri said Lively has progressed to shooting and is working toward running on the court, while head coach Dusty May said the center is moving well but has a unique return-to-play protocol given all of his missed time in recent years.

Johnson started at center during his Mavericks preseason debut, totaling four points (1-3 FG, 1-3 3Pt, 1-2 FT), two rebounds, one assist and one steal in 12 minutes during Friday's 135-117 loss to the Rockets. The rookie has been dealing with a minor lower-leg injury during training camp, so the Mavericks will likely proceed with caution, but it appears he's slated for a major role right away.

Martin will make his preseason debut after missing Friday's opener due to an illness. The veteran forward averaged a career-low 14.8 minutes per game during his first full season in Dallas last year.

Washington missed Friday's preseason opener due to a left ankle sprain but will return to action Sunday, sliding into the starting lineup next to Cooper Flagg, Zaccharie Risacher, Kyrie Irving and Daniel Gafford. As a starter last season (53 games), Washington averaged 14.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.1 blocks and 1.0 steals per game.

Ighodaro moved to the bench after having started the first two preseason games. However, despite the move, he turned in arguably his best performance of the preseason, chipping in across a range of categories. Both he and Khaman Maluach are going to battle for center minutes, a situation that could very well result in a timeshare. While Maluach is the preferred target in most fantasy leagues, Ighodaro should at least be on the radar, particularly for those needing out-of-position steals late in drafts.

Brooks turned in another decent performance, finishing as one of four Suns players to score in double digits. Coming off the best season of his career, Brooks should once again find himself playing a key role for Phoenix. However, managers should remember that last season's production came during a time when others were injured. With Miles Bridges also now vying for touches, it is unlikely Brooks will be able to repeat his heroics from the 2025-26 campaign.

Maluach moved into the starting lineup in place of Oso Ighodaro, who shifted back to the bench. The move worked wonders for Maluach, allowing him to put up what was easily his best game of the preseason. With Mark Williams (shoulder) sidelined indefinitely, both Maluach and Ighodaro have a chance to carve out meaningful roles. Even if he does come off the bench, it appears as though Maluach is the player fantasy managers will want to be targeting in drafts, likely in the 100 range.

Barnes was barely visible in the loss, an indication of what is likely to come this season. Although he does provide the team with a valid floor-spacing option, a lack of peripheral stats severely limits his overall upside. At best, he could be streamed in for threes, although only when desperate.

The big man led the Spurs with 10 rebounds, turning in another solid performance off the bench. As was the case last season, Kornet is slated to play the primary backup role behind Victor Wembanyama. This should be enough for Kornet to hold value in deeper formats. As for those in standard leagues, he should be viewed as nothing more than a situational streaming consideration.