NBA Player News

Ware ended Friday's 132-125 loss to the Bulls with 11 points (5-7 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 0-2 FT) and four rebounds in 15 minutes.

Ware logged just 15 minutes, this time without getting into foul trouble. Through two games, fantasy managers have every right to be underwhelmed, with Ware looking as though he is slated for a backup role as opposed to what was seen as a potential breakout opportunity. At this point, it's hard to justify dropping him, given we are still only two games into the season. However, should his role remain the same for the next week, moving on from him might need to be addressed more seriously.

Smith recorded 14 points (6-10 FG, 2-5 3Pt), 13 rebounds, one assist and three steals over 24 minutes during Friday's 132-125 victory over the Bucks.

Smith recorded a 14-and-13 double-double, adding three blocks, despite playing just 24 minutes. Zach Collins failed to see the floor, with Chicago opting to play Leonard Miller and, to a lesser extent, Noah Essengue, as small-ball center options. Nic Claxton remains without a specific timetable for his return from a hamstring injury, meaning Smith should be rostered in all formats moving forward.

Hayes won't start Friday's game against New Orleans.

Hayes got the starting nod in Wednesday's season-opening loss to Memphis, posting five points, six blocks, five rebounds, three assists and two steals in 26 minutes of action. However, the big man will come off the bench behind Jaren Jackson on Friday, with Ace Bailey entering the first unit.

Duren is questionable to return to Friday's game in Miami due to a right thigh injury.

Duren tweaked his thigh and immediately departed to the locker room. If he's not able to get back out there, John Collins and Paul Reed will benefit.

Duren exited to the locker room in the second quarter of Friday's game against the Heat due to an apparent right knee injury, Omari Sankofa II of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Duren appeared to tweak his knee before walking back to the locker room. The big man can be considered questionable to return until more information comes to light.

Adams (calf) is available for Friday's game against San Antonio.

Adams missed Wednesday's season-opening win over the Mavericks but will shed his questionable tag and return to action Friday. He's expected to operate as Alperen Sengun's primary backup.

Ighodaro (oblique) is listed as doubtful for Saturday's game against Golden State.

Head coach Jordan Ott previously said Ighodaro wouldn't play Saturday, though the doubtful tag suggests there's still a small chance he will suit up. In the likely event that the big man is ruled out, Khaman Maluach, Koa Peat, Rasheer Fleming and Duop Reath could see increased playing time.

Fall (quadriceps) is out for Saturday's game against the Bucks.

Fall still isn't ready for his 76ers debut due to a quadriceps strain. Once cleared to make his season debut, the two-way player could see most of his action come with the G League's Delaware Blue Coats.

Diop (knee) is out for Saturday's game against the Nets.

Diop will miss a second consecutive game while managing a left knee injury. The big man isn't expected to have a big role for the Cavaliers once he's cleared to play, though. His next chance to suit up will come against the Timberwolves on Monday.

Embiid (rest) is off the injury report for Saturday's game against the Bucks.

The star big man told reporters following Thursday's comeback win over the Cavaliers that he'd play only one half of this back-to-back set, so he's in line to sit out Sunday's showdown with the Pistons as opposed to Saturday. With LeBron James (back) a candidate to miss Saturday's contest, Embiid could have more usage on his plate.