After missing the opening two weeks of the season due to a hamstring injury, Kon Knueppel has been upgraded to probable for Wednesday’s game against the Nets. Hamstring injuries can be unpredictable, so it’s important to monitor Knueppel’s progress over the coming weeks, but his return should provide a much-needed boost for Charlotte to find their rhythm.
This season, the Hornets lead the league in three-point attempts per game (44.4) but rank second to last in three-point shooting percentage (29.6%) and last in points per game (97.4). Meanwhile, the Nets are just above them in points at 105.4 per game, which is 8.2 points higher than Charlotte’s output, and the Grizzlies currently top the league with 123 points per game.
In essence, the Hornets are launching a high volume of threes that aren’t falling, resulting in subpar scoring. Knueppel’s return is expected to help stabilize the team’s offense, likely pushing Sion James back to the bench and reducing Grayson Allen’s role. Allen has been one of the league’s best bench players early on, so dropping him isn’t advised yet. Watch the rotation’s evolution over the next few games as the Hornets integrate Knueppel gradually—especially since Coby White just made his season debut with limited minutes.
Here are 10 other injury updates that could affect your fantasy basketball leagues:
Chet Holmgren, C, Oklahoma City Thunder
This remains a major story. Holmgren will be out until 2027 with a knee injury. With Jalen Williams (leg) and Cason Wallace (shoulder) also sidelined long-term, the Thunder face a significant depth challenge. While they have some depth to stay competitive, their championship aspirations will take a hit.
Isaiah Hartenstein’s importance grows, and Aday Mara and Jaylin Williams should see increased opportunities. Mara is currently the more attractive fantasy option, especially due to his recent strong rebounding and shot-blocking presence. Williams started in the Thunder’s last game and could also benefit.
Dejounte Murray, G, New Orleans Pelicans
Murray missed the Pelicans’ past three games for personal reasons, prompting trade rumors. The first absence was due to the birth of his son, but the second and third were curious as he missed games despite being in the building for one. He’s now off the injury report for Wednesday’s game against the Jazz, seemingly ending trade speculation for now.
Jeremiah Fears shone in Murray’s absence but struggled against the Jazz. The three games without Murray are Fears’ best showing this season, possibly a trial to gauge his leadership. Murray’s return will likely reduce Fears’ value, though long-term upside remains.
Ja Morant, G, Portland Trail Blazers
Morant was announced last week to miss about four weeks with a hamstring injury, aiming for a return near late November. This is a setback for Portland, which has started 5-1 with Morant playing well.
Scoot Henderson has taken Morant’s starting spot but struggled early, while Jrue Holiday has thrived off the bench and remains the better fantasy option. Holiday’s recent stat line included 17 points, 8 rebounds, 10 assists, and solid defense in a win over Denver.
Cameron Johnson, F, Denver Nuggets
Johnson left Monday’s game early with concerns about a hamstring injury but is listed as probable for Wednesday’s game due to “lower body injury management.” Though vague, this status suggests he’s likely to play, but it’s smart to keep an eye on his condition.
Kawhi Leonard, F, Toronto Raptors
Leonard recently received treatment for swelling in his left knee and has returned to Toronto to begin his recovery process. He will be re-evaluated next week, which leaves some uncertainty but is overall a positive sign.
In Leonard’s absence, Ja’Kobe Walter has been starting. Walter started strong but has cooled off slightly; nonetheless, he remains a valuable roster spot due to his strong shooting and all-around contributions.
Egor Dëmin, G, Brooklyn Nets
The Nets revealed last Friday that Dëmin has a bone bruise in his left knee with re-evaluation scheduled for later this week. Chaney Johnson has stepped in as a starter but hasn’t made much fantasy impact.
Nolan Traore has capitalized on Dëmin’s absence and is an intriguing fantasy add who is expected to keep starting even after Dëmin’s return.
Peyton Watson, F, Cleveland Cavaliers
Watson missed Monday’s game against the Thunder with a hamstring injury and is set to remain out for the rematch Wednesday. Meleek Thomas started in Watson’s place and, along with Mario Hezonja and Sam Merrill, logged significant minutes. Thomas should be prioritized in waivers if he continues to start, as he’s been impressive for a second-round pick on a playoff team.
Jaylon Tyson, F, Cleveland Cavaliers
Tyson is also sidelined with an ankle injury and will miss a third straight game on Wednesday. He lost the opportunity to start in Watson’s absence to Thomas. Neither player is expected to return before they face the 76ers on Friday.
Brandon Ingram, F, LA Clippers
Ingram, along with Yanic Konan Niederhäuser and Max Strus, were sent to the G League last Sunday as part of their rehab and all were recalled Monday. Strus made his season debut Monday; Ingram and Niederhäuser did not play. While there’s no firm timeline for Ingram’s return, this is a promising step toward getting him back.
Adou Thiero, F, Los Angeles Lakers
Head coach JJ Redick announced that Thiero is “ramping up” and could debut this season before the week’s end. Though Thiero played limited minutes during his rookie year, he showed solid production in summer league and preseason. Watch how he fits into the rotation once healthy, as he can be a useful source of steals.
Fan Take:
This series of injury updates is crucial for basketball fans and fantasy managers alike because it highlights how player availability can dramatically shift team dynamics and league competitiveness. Tracking these developments offers a glimpse into emerging talents and strategic lineup changes that could redefine the season’s narrative.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
