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UPDATE: Jan. 15, 4:57 p.m. — Rubio is off the injury report and is expected to play Thursday vs. the New York Knicks.
#Suns are listing Kelly Oubre (concussion protocol) as OUT for tomorrow’s game at New York. Ricky Rubio is not on the report, meaning he should be back with the team for tomorrow’s game.
— Gina Mizell (@ginamizell) January 15, 2020
With Rubio back, Elie Okobo will head back to the bench. Kelly Oubre Jr. has a concussion, so he’s already been ruled out for Thursday. Rubio will be an attractive DFS play against a poor Knicks defense that can’t defend the 3-point line.
UPDATE: Jan. 14, 5:35 p.m. — Rubio is being listed as out vs. the Hawks.
Phoenix Suns PG Ricky Rubio did not make the trip to Atlanta for Tuesday’s matchup with the Hawks and is unlikely to play awaiting the birth of his child.
Ricky Rubio (personal reasons) didn't make trip to Atlanta. He isn't at shootaround this morning. #Suns
— Duane Rankin (@DuaneRankin) January 14, 2020
At this point, there’s a chance the baby is born and Rubio can catch a flight to Atlanta before tip-off, but that seems like a stretch. I’d probably label Rubio as doubtful to play, but keep an eye on updates throughout the day. If Rubio is out, Devin Booker ($8,200) becomes an even more appealing play on DraftKings in all formats. I already liked Book as a core play despite Rubio’s status. Now, we’re looking at potentially north of 30% usage and 30+ minutes for Booker.
As for other candidates to step up, Elie Okobo ($3,200) is a cheap option and could start at PG alongside Booker. Last time Okobo saw 20+ minutes he scored 17 points and had 29 fantasy points. Tyler Johnson ($3,000) may see extra minutes but is more risky.