Kawhi Leonard told the media that he plans to play on opening night. (Source: Tom Azarly on X)
Fantasy Impact: Leonard recently underwent a knee operation in the offseason, and this statement at media day was likely in response to the uncertainty regarding his timeline. If Leonard can stay healthy, he will likely see a bigger role on the Clippers with Paul George's departure, raising his fantasy stock. However, due to his injury history, managers should proceed with caution when drafting him.
Kris Middleton has undergone arthroscopic surgery on both of his ankles this offseason but is expected to be ready for the start of next season. (Source: Shams Charania via Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Middleton has been plagued by injuries over the last several years and his production has taken a hit because of it. While he was arguably better last year than in the 2022-2023 season, it was still a rough one for the veteran forward. Milwaukee will need him on the court this year as they push for a title and expect him to play a fairly large role.
The Clippers are working to find a "better fit" for Russell Westbrook III. (Source: Law Murray on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Westbrook opted into the final year of his contract and it appears he will likely be traded. This will remain a situation to monitor.
The trade value of Brandon Ingram is reportedly limited. (Source: Shams Charania on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: This was reported with the potential suitors of Ingram having made other moves. It appears he is likely to remain with the Pelicans as of now.
There is reportedly “no market” for Nikola Vucevic. (Source: Chicago Sun Times)
Fantasy Impact: The Bulls have traded DeMar DeRozan and Alex Caruso this offseason as they start a rebuild. They're continuing to attempt to trade both Vucevic and Zach LaVine, but it is unclear if they'll be able to do so before the start of the season.
Malik Beasley reportedly could sign with the New Orleans Pelicans. (Source: HoopsHype)
Fantasy Impact: New Orleans is interested in Beasley according to reports. He shot 41 percent from deep last season with the Bucks.
Wed, Jul 3rd 12:59am EDT
By Ari Koslow
The Golden State Warriors are in serious talks on a sign-and-trade deal to acquire Buddy Hield. (Source: Shams Charania on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: The Warriors have reportedly been in deep discussions, working to finalize the deal for Hield who shot 39 percent from deep last season. Hield would figure to try to replace Klay Thompson who left for the Dallas Mavericks this offseason.
The Thunder are meeting with free agent center Isaiah Hartenstein. (Source: Shams Charania on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Hartenstein had been linked to Orlando, but they appear focused on adding a wing. It appears a deal with the Thunder or a return to the Knicks seem most likely for the free agent center.
There is growing optimism the Philadelphia 76ers will land Paul George in free agency. (Source: Chris Haynes on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: George was expected to meet with the Clippers and Magic alongside the 76ers ahead of free agency. It doesn't appear George will take too long to sign with a team once free agency begins.
There is reportedly no trade market for Zach LaVine, even with the Bulls attaching a future first-round pick. (Source: Bobby Marks)
Fantasy Impact: It appears unless a team gets drafted, LaVine could remain with the Bulls for now.
The Pacers are reportedly a team to watch for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope in free agency. (Source: Mike Singer)
Fantasy Impact: Indiana would only be able to acquire Caldwell-Pope via sign-and-trade due to their current cap situation. Caldwell-Pope was also linked to the 76ers and Magic.
The Suns have been connected to a potential reunion with Chris Paul. (Source: Jake Fischer)
Fantasy Impact: This would be if Paul is waived by the Warriors on Sunday. Phoenix will be looking to the veteran’s minimum market for point guard help.
Gary Harris is expected to draw interest from plenty of teams in free agency. (Source: Evan Sidery on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Harris is expected to receive around the taxpayer mid-level exception. He is expected to draw interest as a veteran 3-and-D wing.
Sun, Jun 30th 3:56pm EDT
By Ari Koslow
The Kings, Magic, Pacers and Raptors have expressed interest in trading for Cam Johnson. (Source: Michael Scotto)
Fantasy Impact: Johnson is expected to be moved with the Nets entering a full rebuild. He averaged 13.4 points on just under 40 percent shooting from deep with Brooklyn last season.
The Pelicans have expressed trade interest in Wendell Carter Jr. (Source: Michael Scotto)
Fantasy Impact: Carter is expected to be made available if the Magic land Isaiah Hartenstein in free agency.
The sign-and-trade rumors around Tyus Jones are reportedly "picking up steam." (Source: Evan Sidery on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Jones averaged 12 points and 7.3 assists in his first season with the Wizards last year. He could draw interest from contenders as a backup point guard.
Dario Saric is expected to receive a strong market in free agency. (Source: Evan Sidery on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Saric is expected to have a strong market from teams in need of a floor-spacing big man. He averaged 8.0 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists last season with the Warriors.
Klay Thompson has been linked to the Mavericks, Clippers and Lakers. (Source: Shams Charania on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Thompson and the Warriors are braced for the end of an era. Golden State is reportedly open to sign-and-trade deals to aid in his earning potential elsewhere.
Sat, Jun 29th 5:41pm EDT
By Ari Koslow
Markelle Fultz is expected to receive interest from a number of teams in free agency seeking further backcourt help. (Source: Evan Sidery on Twitter)
Fantasy Impact: Fultz is expected to leave Orlando for a bigger role in free agency. He was able to develop into a solid defender during his time with the Magic.
The Jazz are open to listening to trade offers on Lauri Markkanen. (Source: Adrian Wojnarowski)
Fantasy Impact: Utah was reportedly seriously in on acquiring Mikal Bridges, and now teams wonder if they will pivot to sell. The Jazz would like to keep Markkanen “in a perfect world,” but teams are preparing aggressive offers.
