NBA Player News

Okongwu (knee) is available for Sunday's game against the Raptors, Blake Murphy of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Okongwu will return to action Sunday after missing five straight games due to left knee inflammation. Before the injury, the big man scored in double figures in eight straight games, averaging 13.4 points and 7.4 rebounds in 24.9 minutes per game during that stretch.

Fernando (toe) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Hawks, Blake Murphy of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Fernando hasn't made an NBA appearance since Dec. 12, when he logged just two minutes. His absence won't impact Toronto's rotation.

Poeltl (groin) is available for Sunday's game against the Hawks, Blake Murphy of Sportsnet.ca reports.

Poeltl has missed four straight games due to a bilateral groin strain but will return to action Sunday and presumably start at center. In his first 25 appearances this season, the veteran has averaged 15.9 points, 11.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.3 blocks and 1.1 steals in 32.5 minutes per game.

Missi (back) is listed as questionable for Monday's matchup against the Clippers.

Missi will land on the injury report while he deals with a mid-back contusion. The rookie has delivered a solid start to his NBA career through 31 regular-season appearances, and he has averaged 10.0 points and 10.1 rebounds in 31.0 minutes per game over his last 10 outings. If the big man is sidelined Monday, Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and Daniel Theis are candidates for increased roles.

Carter will start Sunday's game against the Nets.

After three games off the bench, Carter will move back into the starting lineup, as the Magic will be without Anthony Black (back), Paolo Banchero (oblique), Franz Wagner (oblique) and Moritz Wagner (knee). As a starter this season, Carter has averaged 7.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.4 steals-plus-blocks in 25.5 minutes per game.

Carlson (concussion) isn't listed on the injury report for Sunday's game against the Grizzlies.

Carlson missed three straight games due to a concussion but should suit up Sunday. However, it's unlikely the rookie sees any playing time, as he's made only four NBA appearances this season.

Porzingis (ankle) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Pacers, Justin Turpin of WEEI.com reports.

Porzingis will miss his second consecutive outing due to a left ankle sprain. With the big man sidelined, Al Horford will likely draw another start. Porzingis' next chance to feature will come Tuesday against the Raptors.

Zeller (personal) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Toronto, Brad Rowland of the Locked On Podcast Network reports.

Zeller remains away from the team due to personal reasons. There is no clear timetable for the big man's return, though his next chance to feature will come Wednesday against the Nuggets.

Okongwu (knee) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Raptors, Brad Rowland of the Locked On Podcast Network reports.

Okongwu has missed five straight games due to left knee inflammation but may return to action Sunday. His presence would be a huge lift, as Larry Nance could miss time after leaving Saturday's win over the Heat due to a right hand injury.

Gafford closed Saturday's 126-122 loss to the Trail Blazers with 15 points (6-8 FG, 3-4 FT), nine rebounds, five blocks and one steal across 28 minutes.

With Dereck Lively (hip) sidelined, Gafford has taken over the role at the five with efficiency and effectiveness. While the 26-year old has the goods to be a starter for most NBA teams, he's had to contend with Lively since the former's move from Washington, limiting his fantasy potential. He's performing exceptionally well at the moment, but he'll be in a timeshare when Lively gets back.