NBA Player News

Curry (knee) is expected to play Sunday against Houston, Shams Charania of ESPN reports.

This has been the expectation for several days now. Curry has been scrimmaging with the Warriors at recent practices, and it sounds like his knee continues to respond well. If he does get the green light to play, it's fair to expect restrictions in his first game back.

Murphy (ankle) is probable for Friday's game against the Kings.

Murphy just returned from a three-game absence with a right ankle sprain during Thursday's loss to the Trail Blazers, and he is expected to play the second half of this back-to-back set. Over his last five appearances, the star forward has averaged 19.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.4 steals in 37.4 minutes per game.

Matkovic (back) is questionable for Friday's game against the Kings.

Matkovic remains day-to-day after missing Thursday's game against Portland. Yves Missi and Derik Queen could be more involved for the Pelicans if Matkovic is unable to give it a go.

Murray has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Kings due to right Achilles injury management.

As expected, Murray will miss the second leg of the Pelicans' back-to-back set for maintenance purposes after he played 28 minutes in Thursday's loss to the Trail Blazers. Jeremiah Fears will likely replace Murray in the starting five Friday and could be in line for a 30-plus-minute role.

Watson (hamstring) is considered week-to-week, Bennett Durando of The Denver Post reports.

This is a tough blow for Denver after Watson suffered the setback during Wednesday's win over the Jazz. With the playoffs quickly approaching, the Nuggets are likely to tread carefully. In the meantime, Cameron Johnson and Julian Strawther are likely to be more involved for Denver.

Clayton (hip) is questionable for Friday's game against Toronto.

The rookie first-rounder was a late addition to the injury report due to left hip soreness. The bulk of the reps at point guard would fall into the hands of Javon Small, Rayan Rupert and Jahmai Mashack if Clayton cannot play Friday.

Hall has been ruled out for Friday's game against the Pacers due to a right ankle fracture.

Hall's absence was previously labeled as soreness, but now the Hornets are listing him with a fracture. The second-year big man should be considered doubtful for future contests until the Hornets offer an update on his timeline for a return.

Diabate has left ankle soreness and is questionable for Friday's game against the Pacers.

It sounds like the Hornets are contemplating a maintenance day for the second leg of this back-to-back set, and the inferior opponent may be factored into the decision. If Diabate is held out, Ryan Kalkbrenner could step into a larger role for Charlotte.

Williams (knee) is out for Friday's game against the Pacers.

Williams, who routinely sits out a half of back-to-back games, is resting after logging 21 minutes in Thursday's win over the Suns. Josh Green and Sion James could pick up a few extra minutes Friday.

Vanderbilt registered nine points (4-7 FG, 0-2 3Pt, 1-2 FT), five rebounds, three assists and three steals over 12 minutes during Thursday's 139-96 loss to the Thunder.

Vanderbilt has had a hard time staying in the Lakers' rotation, but he was able to make an appearance with Thursday's game getting out of hand early. Considering he didn't see the floor in Tuesday's win over Cleveland, Vanderbilt isn't a lock to see steady playing time during the final week of the regular season.