Scottie Barnes left Monday’s game against the Knicks with an ankle injury. Initial x-rays are clear, but his return is still up in the air.
Knicks Rely on Davion Mitchell Amid Barnes’ Absence
Barnes has been the Knicks’ main playmaker, especially with Immanuel Quickley out of action. Now, Davion Mitchell steps into that role. Last game, Mitchell scored eight points, grabbed three rebounds, and dished out three assists, including two 3-pointers. Not his best outing, but he’s shown he can deliver when needed. Earlier in the season, his assist numbers were impressive when he started. Can he maintain that level off the bench?
Jonathan Mogbo is another option, though riskier. He replaced Barnes when he left the game and showed some promise. As a rookie, Mogbo has potential but hasn’t had enough minutes to make a significant impact yet. He’s more of a deeper league pick compared to Mitchell, who has a bit more reliability.
With only one game on Monday, adding players was limited. Rookie Ja’Kobe Walter did score a career-high 19 points, but his inconsistency makes him a watch-and-wait option for now.
Streaming Options for Upcoming Games
With only three games on Thursday in Miami, Knicks fans and fantasy players are looking at potential streaming options. Here are some players to consider:
- Davion Mitchell (4%)
- Jonathan Mogbo (4%)
These players might provide the needed boost, especially if Barnes remains sidelined. It’s a strategic move for those looking to maximize their fantasy points without overhauling their roster.
Midweek Moves: Who to Add for Tuesday’s Games
Only two games on Tuesday mean limited opportunities, but there are still valuable players to consider if you’re looking to bolster your lineup:
Cole Anthony – 5%
With Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner out, the Magic are leaning on Anthony for offense. He wasn’t a major rotation piece earlier this year, but he recently scored 14 points in a season-high 29 minutes. Anthony could see more action until Banchero returns, making him a solid pick for those needing an offensive boost.
Gary Trent Jr. – 7%
Gary Trent Jr. had a slow start in Milwaukee but has been finding his rhythm. He’s scored in double figures in 10 of the last 12 games, including a season-high 20 points in the latest match. While his steals haven’t bounced back, his points and 3-pointers have been reliable. Trent is becoming a dependable option for fantasy managers looking for consistent scoring.
Cason Wallace – 10%
OKC’s lineup has been rotating frequently, which opens up opportunities for Wallace. He’s been getting more starts recently and has contributed significantly in steals. Alongside Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins, Wallace should see ample minutes, making him a worthwhile addition for a lighter day.
Naji Marshall – 9%
Marshall’s status is uncertain after missing the last four games with an illness, alongside PJ Washington. If Marshall starts in place of Washington, he could be a valuable fantasy asset. He’s shown he can produce well when given the chance, making him a potential game-changer if he returns to the lineup.
Fantasy Implications of Barnes’ Injury
Barnes has been a key player for many fantasy teams. His injury not only affects the Knicks’ performance but also leaves a gap in playmaking. Fantasy managers will need to adjust their strategies, possibly looking to add Mitchell or Mogbo to cover Barnes’ absence. It’s a tough spot, especially for those heavily reliant on Barnes’ contributions.
Table: Potential Streaming Options and Their Stats
| Player | Percentage in Yahoo Leagues | Recent Performance Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Davion Mitchell | 4% | 8 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 threes |
| Jonathan Mogbo | 4% | Limited minutes, versatile rookie |
| Cole Anthony | 5% | 14 points in 29 minutes |
| Gary Trent Jr. | 7% | Season-high 20 points, consistent threes |
| Cason Wallace | 10% | Increased starts, strong in steals |
| Naji Marshall | 9% | Potential starter, excellent when playing |
Looking Ahead: Knicks’ Next Steps
With Barnes out, the Knicks need to regroup and adjust their strategies. The upcoming game in Miami will be crucial in testing the depth of the roster and how well the backup players can step up. Fans are hopeful Barnes will recover quickly, but the team must prepare for all scenarios.
Barnes’ re-evaluation on Tuesday will shed more light on his availability for Thursday’s game. Until then, the Knicks and their fantasy counterparts will be keeping a close eye on how the situation unfolds. It’s a challenging time, but with the right moves, both the team and fantasy managers can navigate this hurdle effectively.
