Those who saw Anthony Davis return from his hand injury ahead of schedule got a nice early Xmas present. Though it’s hard to match his production outside of owning guys like Durant or LeBron, it’s comforting to know that even the most injury-prone, like the Bulls have been, are starting to find their health. As diehard NBA and fantasy basketball fans know, sometimes the greatest gift is not our own health but that of our most prized athletes. Who needs Obamacare when you have a full roster, right? Let’s take a look at who’s in and who’s out in this week’s NBA injury report.
Luol Deng (Achilles) – Deng has now missed a handful of games along with Monday’s practice. The Bulls don’t play until Wednesday so the small forward could be back in time for that. Check accordingly.
Jimmy Butler (ankle) – Lower extremities have not been Butler’s friends this year. This latest setback isn’t too serious, however, so he should be back in the lineup Wednesday.
Dion Waiters (wrist) – The shooting guard remains day-to-day. For someone who enjoys to shoot the ball as much as he does, this wrist malady might see him sit out a few days more.
Jordan Farmar (hamstring) – Farmar is one of a handful of guys that should see their fantasy value climb with Kobe’s recent incapacitation. He might be back in the mix of things this Wednesday so pick him up if you’re in dire need of assists, threes, and steals.
Kirk Hinrich (back) – Just recently listed as day-to-day, Hinrich is now considered probable for Xmas Day’s head-to-head with the reeling Brooklyn Nets. With new signee D.J. Augustin in tow, who has been contributing with solid minutes, Hinrich might have an easier time of avoiding this report in the future. Here’s hoping.
Marc Gasol (knee) – Memphis’ most lovable Spaniard is just around the corner when it comes to his recovery. Gasol, optimistic as ever, thinks he’ll be back in two handfuls worth of games. If, by any chance, he’s on your waiver wire, drop everything and nab him.
Chase Budinger (knee) – The ‘Wolves could use some floor spacing. If you’re a fantasy owner who could use some outside shooting, rebounding, and minimal scoring, he could be your guy. He’s now just a few weeks away.
Mo Williams (hip) – The veteran hasn’t been able to emulate his above average play from the early season but he’s been a good assists-and-threes guy to stream in stacked leagues. A hip concern might keep him out for Thursday’s fare with the Clippers.
