NBA Basketball 24-Hour Briefing
×Injury Updates & Returns
Dejounte Murray is expected to make his return from a ruptured Achilles on Tuesday when the Pelicans host the Warriors. Deni Avdija left Sunday's win against the Suns after his lower back issue flared up. Anfernee Simons will have additional imaging on his injured left wrist Monday and see a hand specialist, coach Billy Donovan said.
Player Performances & Milestones
Nikola Jokic put up a 35-point, 20-rebound, 12-assist triple-double on Sunday, but his Denver Nuggets still lost 128-117 to an undermanned Golden State Warriors team. Neemias Queta threw down a dunk over Luka Doncic early in the Celtics-Lakers game. The 7-foot center is having his best season as a pro, averaging 9.7 points. 2 rebounds and 1.3 blocks heading into Sunday.
League News & Fines
The NBA fined Memphis Grizzlies guard Scotty Pippen Jr. and Miami Heat forward Myron Gardner $35,000 each on Monday for their scuffle in a game over the weekend. Kevin Durant told ESPN that he plans to play in the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles. Le Bron James stumped for Celtics' Jaylen Brown in the MVP conversation after Brown fueled the Celtics' win over the Lakers on Sunday.
Legends & Honors
Hall of Fame finalist Marques Johnson took flight for his annual birthday dunk. Legendary Lakers coach Pat Riley was honored with a statue outside Crypto.com Arena on Sunday. USA Basketball is to the 2028 Games with a new era, new coach, and new decisions on the horizon.
Fantasy & Strategy
Every week in fantasy basketball, there are available players who can help fill holes in your roster. Here are the ones to add for the week ahead, including Melton, Wallace and Raynaud for the homestretch.