Wendell Carter Jr.

Wendell Carter (ankle) says he's hoping to return for the first game after the All-Star break Thursday against the Hornets.

Fantasy Impact

Carter has missed the last 18 games due to a right ankle sprain. He is averaging 11.7 points, 9.9 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.9 blocks across 37 games this season. Carter will test his ankle out in practice next week to determine his availability for Thursday's tilt against the Hornets. The 20-year old center should be owned in all standard leagues.

Wendell Carter Jr. is expected to be healthy and cleared to play by the end of February after sustaining a serious high ankle sprain.

Fantasy Impact

Carter Jr. injured his ankle on January 6th and a return at the end of February would be on the late end of his initial timetable for return. The Bulls have been terrible this year, but Carter Jr. and Zach LaVine seemed to be the two bright spots on an otherwise dismal team. Prior to the injury Carter Jr. was averaging 11.7 points, 9.9 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.9 blocks, and 0.8 steals in his second year out of Duke. He was making great strides in his second year and will look to bounce back fully from the ankle injury. It should be noted that Lauri Markkanen and Otto Porter Jr. are both expected back around the same time, giving this Bulls' squad an entirely new identity. If Carter Jr. was dropped in your league, he's worth a pickup before returning as he's a plug-and-play center every night.

The Bulls revealed that Carter Jr. has a high ankle sprain. They will evaluate him on a daily basis but he is most likely out for several weeks.

Fantasy Impact

Losing Carter Jr. is a huge blow to fantasy owners and the Bulls alike. The Bulls are already in the midst of a five-game losing streak and missing their young center and rebound leader will not help them break that. Thaddeus Young got the start yesterday while The Bulls tried to match up with the Pelicans' small-ball lineup. Young and rookie Daniel Gafford should each see a bump in playing time while Carter Jr. rehabilitates his ankle. Young's ability to grab rebounds, score, and steal the ball gives him a bit of value in deeper leagues. Gafford should remain on the waiver wire unless the Bulls make the announcement that he will be starting in Carter Jr.'s place.

Wendell Carter Jr. is out tonight with an ankle sprain he suffered Monday night against the Mavs.

Fantasy Impact

Carter Jr. twisted his ankle in the third quarter a couple of nights ago. Even though the X-rays came back negative, he will not play tonight. Thaddeus Young will get the start but Daniel Gafford should see extended playing time. Gafford, the second-round rookie center has quickly become a fan favorite as he leads the league in blocks per 36 minutes and is known for his big dunks. Gafford is a risky start in fantasy but can pay off if he keeps his momentum going. Carter Jr. will hope to be back Friday against the Pacers but the team hasn't given a timetable for his return yet.

Wendell Carter Jr. left in the third quarter with an ankle injury. Luckily his X-rays were negative, but he will not return to action tonight.

Fantasy Impact

Carter Jr. will finish the night with six points, six rebounds, a steal, and a block over 18 minutes. Missing any extended time would be a huge blow to the Bulls. If he doesn't suit up Daniel Gafford would assume more playing time. Carter Jr.'s next chance to play will be Wednesday in New Orleans against the Pelicans.