NBA Risers & Fallers: Luka’s Heat, Giannis Drama & Playoff Prep – Week 26 Fantasy Report

Luka Dončić scored 60 points Thursday night, leading the Los Angeles Lakers to their 11th win in 12 games, a performance that has further fueled his case for the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award. The outburst against the Miami Heat, which included nine 3-pointers and five steals, came after a back-to-back in which he averaged 50 points, and extended a streak of eight consecutive games with at least 30 points.

Dončić’s recent form has been historic, averaging 34.9 points, 9.0 rebounds, 7.9 assists, and 5.0 3-pointers per game in March before Thursday’s performance. He became the first Laker to reach 60 points since Kobe Bryant’s final game, the “Mamba Out” game. Despite the impressive run, questions remain about whether he peaked too early for fantasy basketball playoffs, which are beginning for many leagues.

The Lakers are currently vying for third place in the Western Conference, suggesting Dončić will continue to have opportunities to accumulate statistics. His continued high level of play could translate into individual accolades, including the MVP award, and success for his fantasy managers.

In Detroit, the Pistons are navigating a significant injury to Cade Cunningham. Initially reported as back spasms, Cunningham was later diagnosed with a collapsed lung, and will be re-evaluated in two weeks. This injury creates an opportunity for Daniss Jenkins, who stepped into the starting role Thursday, despite shooting 3-of-16 from the field for nine points and five assists. Jenkins played 34 minutes, taking the most shots on the team and recording a block.

Jenkins, who has shown promise when given playing time, has likely been added to many fantasy rosters. His potential to contribute across multiple categories – points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, and 3-pointers – makes him a valuable pickup, particularly with Cunningham sidelined for an extended period.

The Minnesota Timberwolves are also facing a temporary setback with Anthony Edwards’ right knee inflammation, which will keep him out for one to two weeks. Ayo Dosunmu is poised to benefit from Edwards’ absence, having already averaged 21 points, 7.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.5 steals, and 2.0 3-pointers in two games without the star forward. Despite a reputation for lacking in steals, blocks, and 3-pointers, Dosunmu recorded three steals Thursday and is expected to play around 34 minutes per game during Edwards’ recovery.

Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Bucks and Giannis Antetokounmpo are reportedly in disagreement regarding his playing status. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Antetokounmpo wants to return despite a hyperextended knee, while the Bucks are hesitant to risk further injury in a season where their playoff chances are diminishing. The Bucks have not yet been mathematically eliminated, but their prospects are bleak.

The situation raises concerns about the long-term relationship between Antetokounmpo and the franchise. Fantasy managers are also grappling with the decision of whether to hold onto Antetokounmpo, given the uncertainty surrounding his playing time. Bobby Portis has been playing well in his absence, and Ousmane Dieng could provide a potential opportunity for fantasy managers seeking a late-season boost.

Recent York Knicks guard Mikal Bridges has struggled recently, averaging just 7.0 points, 1.0 3-pointer, 0.7 steals, and 1.3 blocks over his last seven games while shooting 32% from the floor. His fantasy appeal has diminished as his efficiency and ability to contribute in multiple categories have declined. With Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, and Karl-Anthony Towns carrying the offensive load, Bridges’ role appears limited.

Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon is returning from a hamstring injury, but his minutes may be limited due to the team’s crowded frontcourt. Peyton Watson is also nearing a return from a hamstring injury, adding to the competition for playing time. The Nuggets’ primary focus is ensuring Gordon is fully healthy for the playoffs, potentially leading to a timeshare with Watson and Spencer Jones. Gordon has averaged just 13 points and 5.4 rebounds over his last five games, and his fantasy value may be limited by the reduced playing time.