The Mavericks are in New Orleans as they finish their back-to-back on Wednesday night with a road game in the big easy, and they listed Irving as doubtful as he continues to work his way back from a bulging disc in his back. He returned on Tuesday for the first time after a five-game absence in the Mavs’ 118-99 loss to the Nuggets.
Mavs list Kyrie Irving as doubtful vs. Pelicans. He said last night he hoped to play on the second night of a back-to-back, but he would have to “do [his] best to manage” the pain and complications from having a bulging disc in his back.
Dereck Lively II (right ankle sprain) is…
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Kyrie struggled in his return, posting just 11 points and 28.5 fantasy points in his 30 minutes. He shot 4-for-18 from the floor. The fact that he’s a little rusty is no surprise after the extended layoff, and he could need some time to get back to full speed.
After the game, he said he was hopeful to play Wednesday. But, since he’s doubtful, it looks like the Mavs are being cautious with their star guard. Should Irving sits as expected, he’ll leave plenty of usage available in the backcourt since Luka Doncic (calf) remains sidelined as well.
In their absence for Wedensday’s DFS slate, Spencer Dinwiddie ($6,500) will likely get plenty of work and has good upside in a favorable matchup. Jaden Hardy ($4,500) should also be a good value. He had 25 points and 31.5 fantasy points against Portland last week, but remains a boom-or-bust scoring option. Naji Marshall ($5,100) will also get more work, and gets a substantial usage bump with both Luka and Kyrie off the floor.
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