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Pacers C James Wiseman (Achilles) seriously hurt in opener

Thu Oct 24 6:44pm ET
Field Level Media

Indiana Pacers center James Wiseman tore his left Achilles tendon during the first quarter of Wednesday's season-opening win against the Detroit Pistons.

According to the Pacers, Wiseman underwent an MRI exam on Thursday that confirmed the tear. The team is still evaluating treatment options.

Indiana didn't immediately rule him out for the season or set any recovery timetables.

Wiseman was hurt on a non-contact play while backpedaling downcourt during the 115-109 win. He had six points in five minutes before being hurt.


Wiseman, 23, was the No. 2 overall pick by the Golden State Warriors in the 2020 draft. He missed the entire 2021-22 campaign due to a knee injury and Golden State eventually traded him to the Detroit Pistons on Feb. 9, 2023.

He signed with Indiana as a free agent in the offseason.

The opener was just the 148th NBA appearance in his career. Wiseman has averages of 9.1 points and 5.6 rebounds and has made 55 starts.

Player Notes
Draymond Green Thu Oct 24 10:30pm

Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (knee) is questionable for Friday's game against Utah. The veteran sustained a left knee contusion in Wednesday's blowout win over the Blazers. However, he still had a decent showing, amassing eight points, six boards, two blocks, and one steal. With Stephen Curry (hip) also questionable, the Warriors may need to rely on Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield, and Brandin Podziemski to lead the way offensively. Kyle Anderson, who had two points, five boards, two steals, and a block versus Portland, could also work his way into the starting lineup if Green can't get on the floor.

Jaren Jackson Jr. Thu Oct 24 10:20pm

Memphis Grizzlies forward Jaren Jackson Jr. (hamstring) is doubtful for Friday's meeting with the Houston Rockets. The 25-year-old continues to battle a hamstring strain. He wasn't available for the opener on Wednesday, although Santi Aldama filled the void admirably by finishing with 27 points off 10-for-16 shooting (5-for-10 from deep). Jackson is inching his way back to the floor. But until he returns, Aldama could continue to benefit offensively.

Stephen Curry Thu Oct 24 10:20pm

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (hip) is questionable for Friday's meeting with the Utah Jazz. The veteran played 25 minutes in the blowout over the Blazers on Wednesday, finishing with 17 points, 10 assists, and two steals. But now he's in jeopardy of missing the second game on the Warriors' schedule. Golden State is banged up heading into Friday night, with Draymond Green (knee) and De'Anthony Melton (chest) also uncertain to suit up. But as far as Curry is concerned, Brandin Podziemski will likely take his spot in the lineup if he's ruled out. Podziemski averaged 9.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.0 assists in 28 starts last season, although he should be in most fantasy lineups even if Curry is available.

Giannis Antetokounmpo Thu Oct 24 10:10pm

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (knee) is listed as probable for Friday's matchup with the Bulls. The 29-year-old carried the same designation heading into the opener versus the 76ers. However, he was out there, finishing with 25 points, 14 rebounds, seven assists, and one block. As always, Antetokounmpo is a must-start in any fantasy lineup. But he may continue to surpass expectations while Khris Middleton (ankles) works his way back.

Brandon Miller Thu Oct 24 10:00pm

Charlotte Hornets forward Brandon Miller (glute) won't play in Friday's game against the Atlanta Hawks. He logged only 11 minutes in Wednesday's win over the Houston Rockets, finishing with six points. However, the 21-year-old sat out the second half of that contest and is now on the shelf with a gluteal strain. Miller will likely miss more games beyond Friday night. But until he's back, Cody Martin and Tre Mann could benefit. Of course, Miller's absence should also mean more offensive opportunities for LaMelo Ball.

Ja'Kobe Walter Thu Oct 24 6:10pm

Toronto Raptors guard Ja'Kobe Walter (shoulder) has been ruled out ahead of Friday's matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. Unfortunately, Raptors fans will have to wait a little longer before their first-round pick can take the court. This doesn't sound like a serious issue, but the Raptors aren't going to take any chances with their young guard. Gradey Dick and Ochai Agbaji should continue seeing more minutes with Walter out at least one more game. Dick finished with 16 points in the season opener and is worth a look as a possible streaming option while Walter is out.

Sam Hauser Thu Oct 24 6:00pm

Boston Celtics forward Sam Hauser (back) has been ruled out ahead of Thursday's game against the Washington Wizards. He was downgraded to questionable earlier in the day and now he'll sit out due to a lower back issue. The injury isn't considered to be serious, so Hauser should be back in the mix within a few days. The absence of Hauser should mean more minutes for Jordan Walsh, Xavier Tillman Sr., and Luke Kornet on Thursday. Tillman probably has the highest upside out of the three players for Thursday's slate. He finished with seven rebounds in 17 minutes during the season opener.

Bruce Brown Thu Oct 24 5:40pm

Toronto Raptors forward Bruce Brown (knee) has been ruled out ahead of Friday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Brown is still working his way back from having knee surgery last year. The team hasn't given a timetable for Brown's return, but the hope is that he's back sooner rather than later. The Raptors will likely use a committee approach to fill the void. That means, Gradey Dick, Davion Mitchell, and Ochai Agbaji could all absorb more playing time. Out of the trio, Dick has the highest upside and could be worth a look in deep leagues.

Kelly Olynyk Thu Oct 24 5:40pm

Toronto Raptors center Kelly Olynyk (back) has been ruled out ahead of Friday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers. This marks the second game in a row due to back stiffness. The organization is hopeful Olynyk won't miss an extended period of time, but he'll at least miss two games. The Raptors are already banged up one game into the regular season. That being said, Chris Boucher and Davion Mitchell should see plenty of run on Friday. Boucher finished with 18 points across 19 minutes of action in the opener. He should be the primary backup center until Olynyk returns.

James Wiseman Thu Oct 24 5:30pm

Indiana Pacers center James Wiseman (Achilles) was forced to exit early during Wednesday's season opener against the Detroit Pistons. Wiseman exited the contest after only four minutes of action due to what was being considered a calf injury. Now, it's being revealed that Wiseman suffered a ruptured left Achilles tendon in the win. The team hasn't announced it, but Wiseman is expected to miss the rest of the season. The Pacers are also without Isaiah Jackson (groin) right now, so Obi Toppin could see a larger role behind Myles Turner at the center spot. Toppin could be a possible streaming option if Jackson has a lengthy absence.

RJ Barrett Thu Oct 24 5:00pm

Toronto Raptors forward RJ Barrett (shoulder) is doubtful heading into Friday's matchup with Philly. The 24-year-old suffered an AC joint sprain during the preseason and has been working his way back since. He wasn't available for Wednesday's loss to the Cavaliers. However, Barrett practiced on Thursday, so it appears there's a shot he'll be on the floor on Saturday versus Minnesota. With Immanuel Quickley (pelvis) also not expected to suit up, Scottie Barnes and Gradey Dick are must-starts for any fantasy format. There is also streaming potential for Ochai Agbaji, Davion Mitchell, and Chris Boucher.

Lonzo Ball Thu Oct 24 4:50pm

Chicago Bulls guard Lonzo Ball (injury management) won't play on Friday versus the Milwaukee Bucks. Due to a knee injury, Ball appeared in his first contest in over two years in Wednesday's opener against the Pelicans. He looked better than expected, amassing five points, four assists, and two boards in 14 minutes of work. With Chicago also playing on Saturday versus OKC, the 26-year-old will likely be back in the lineup for that one. As far as the contest with Milwaukee is concerned, Ayo Dosunmu and Talen Horton-Tucker are the favorites to absorb the minutes caused by Ball's absence.

Zion Williamson Thu Oct 24 4:40pm

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson (illness) isn't listed on the league's official injury report ahead of Friday's matchup with the Trail Blazers. The former Duke Blue Devil missed Wednesday's opener versus the Chicago Bulls due to an illness. However, he practiced in full on Thursday, with head coach Willie Green stating he "looks like he's good to go." While fantasy managers were discouraged to see him miss the first game of the 2024-25 campaign, they are delighted regarding the latest update. The Pelicans could certainly use him on the floor, considering New Orleans will be without Dejounte Murray (hand) and Trey Murphy III (hamstring) for the foreseeable future. Keep Williamson starting in all fantasy lineups, although his presence may mean fewer scorer opportunities for Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum, who combined for 56 points in the opener.

Trey Murphy III Thu Oct 24 3:50pm

New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III (hamstring) will be sidelined for at least the new two weeks due to a hamstring strain he obtained in early October. Murphy III has not yet been cleared for sprinting or physical contact, though he mentioned earlier this week that he's "making steady progress with his rehab." The additional time missed for the 24-year-old isn't a great sign to start the season, but New Orleans is sure to be a bit cautious with his recovery given his importance to the team whether being the sixth man or a spot starter. While Murphy III rehabs his hamstring, fantasy managers should look to target Javonte Green as a potential replacement. Green scored nine points and recorded four steals while posting up a +14 plus/minus in 25 minutes of action against the Chicago Bulls in their season opener. Jordan Hawkins is also likely to be a beneficiary of additional shooting volume as the 22-year-old put up 13 points and seven rebounds Wednesday.

Kelly Olynyk Thu Oct 24 3:40pm

Toronto Raptors forward Kelly Olynyk (back) missed practice on Thursday. Olynyk has been dealing with a back strain that kept him out of Wednesday's season opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The strain will also keep him out of Friday night's matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers as he has officially been ruled out. No official timetable has been released for the 33-year-old's return to action but given the nature of back injuries it would not be surprising to see him get an ample amount of time to rest up and prepare. With his absence, the Raptors deployed a three guard lineup against Cleveland that may be likely to continue. Gradey Dick appeared to be the beneficiary and scored 16 points with two blocks on Wednesday. Fantasy managers looking for sneaky value may want to target the 20-year-old.

RJ Barrett Thu Oct 24 3:40pm

Toronto Raptors guard RJ Barrett (shoulder) was able to participate in practice on Thursday. Barrett suffered an AC joint strain during the preseason and has been sidelined since October 6th. The initial plan was to target a return during the season opener but he was held out of action in Wednesday's opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Barrett's participation on Thursday is certainly a positive sign, though the 24-year-old is still listed as doubtful for Friday night's matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. Toronto plays in a back-to--back starting with Friday's game, so a more likely return date for Barrett may be Monday night against the Denver Nuggets. In his absence, along with the absence of fellow forward Kelly Olynyk, the Raptors deployed a three guard lineup that saw Gradey Dick be the beneficiary of additional volume. Dick put up 16 points and two blocks on Wednesday. Fantasy managers should consider targeting the 20-year-old as a viable fill-in option while both Barrett and Olynyk are out.

Immanuel Quickley Thu Oct 24 3:30pm

Toronto Raptors point guard Immanuel Quickley (pelvic) did not participate in Thursday's practice for the Raptors after being pulled from Wednesday's season opener during the second quarter after suffering a right pelvis contusion. His status for tomorrow is officially listed as doubtful. Initially head coach Darko Rajakovic had said Quickley would be questionable for tomorrow's matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. The downgrade in status is discouraging for fantasy owners but the initial thought that Quickley may be questionable should help ease concerns about the seriousness of the injury. Toronto plays a back-to-back starting tomorrow and it would not be surprising if the team gives the 25-year-old extra rest to be ready for Monday's game against the Denver Nuggets. In the meantime, fantasy managers should look to Davion Mitchell as the man who will pick up starts for Quickley. Mitchell put up eight points and three assists in 25 minutes of action last night, though that was buoyed with five turnovers. His fantasy value may be iffy as a sub, though he should continue to log high minutes as long as Quickley is out.

Paul George Thu Oct 24 3:20pm

Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (knee) participated in the Sixers' practice on Thursday and looks like he's progressing according to head coach Nick Nurse. George suffered a bone bruise in a preseason game against the Atlanta Hawks and has been sidelined from most basketball action since. Philadelphia is likely to be very cautious in their approach to George's health, especially given their extremely cautious approach to teammate Joel Embiid's knee. The 34-year-old was set to have his knee re-evaluated this week but there has been no update on his knee's overall health since the bone bruise diagnosis last week. Fantasy managers shouldn't be surprised not to see George play in regular season action for at least another week or two. In the meantime, Eric Gordon should continue to get starts for Philly, though his fantasy value may not impress much as the veteran went 1-6 for just two points in their season opener against Milwaukee on Wednesday.

Joel Embiid Thu Oct 24 3:10pm

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (knee) participated in practice on Thursday and looks like he's progressing according to head coach Nick Nurse. Embiid has been nursing a left knee injury he obtained in Golden State in late January that forced him to miss 29 straight regular season games, though he was able to participate in all six games of Philadelphia's first round loss to the New York Knicks. The Sixers have taken a very cautious approach with the big man's health this year with a rest management plan that's causing him to miss the team's first three games of the season, which is now officially being investigated by the NBA as of Thursday. With the current plan, Embiid should be expected to start the season in a game against the Detroit Pistons next Wednesday. Fantasy managers looking for value until then should keep their eyes on Andre Drummond, who grabbed 13 rebounds and scored 10 points last night in the season opener. Drummond should provide solid fantasy value for those in need of production at the center position.

Malik Monk Thu Oct 24 7:50am

Sacramento Kings guard/forward Malik Monk (hand) isn't on the injury report ahead of Thursday's season opener against the Timberwolves. He appears to be good to go for the contest after battling right-hand soreness last week. Monk, who has been among the NBA's top bench scorers in recent years, will begin another campaign as a member of the Kings' second unit. However, he should still get a lot of action and can do big damage once he gets going. Minnesota had no answer to Monk the last time these teams met, as the 26-year-old went off for 39 points off the bench in a 124-120 overtime win.