As the fantasy basketball season intensifies, many managers find themselves in a race for valuable players. With limited moves available, streaming options are crucial. Rostered in under 50% of leagues, players like Scotty Pippen Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies and Gary Trent Jr. from the Milwaukee Bucks are making waves. Pippen, thriving in Ja Morant's absence, averages 14.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 7.2 assists over his last six games. Similarly, Trent has stepped up significantly following Damian Lillard's indefinite absence, averaging 14.9 points with solid contributions in steals and three-pointers.

Completing the list are Kevin Porter Jr., Orlando Robinson, Ryan Dunn, and Jordan Hawkins. Porter, a risqué pick, offers high upside despite inconsistency, while Robinson is starting to find his footing as the Raptors close out the season. Dunn's recent surge for the Suns is noteworthy, and Hawkins has emerged as a scoring threat for a struggling Pelicans team. As the postseason approaches, these players could prove vital for your fantasy roster.

The playoff landscape is becoming increasingly chaotic, making it tougher for fantasy managers to navigate injuries and reduced minutes from star players. Yet, several lesser-known players are stepping up, providing viable options for your fantasy roster. Jared Butler of the Philadelphia 76ers, for instance, has been a solid contributor averaging 13.2 points and 6 assists over the last five games, making him a reliable stream option with potential for double-digit scoring.

Tre Jones continues to impress for the Chicago Bulls with top-50 value, highlighted by a recent 18/4/12 performance. Teammate Kevin Huerter is also making waves in the starting lineup, averaging nearly 15 points and 6 rebounds in his last few games. For those in need of shooting depth, Jordan Hawkins from New Orleans could see increased minutes due to Trey Murphy's season-ending injury.

Other players worth considering include Gary Payton II, who has emerged as a strong option with fifth-round value in the last two weeks, and Jordan Goodwin, who could be a short-term starter for the Lakers. Lastly, rookies AJ Johnson and Matisse Thybulle offer intriguing, albeit risky, upside for managers looking to take a shot during this unpredictable playoff stretch.

The New Orleans Pelicans face a devastating blow as Dejounte Murray has suffered a torn right Achilles tendon, ending his season prematurely. This injury occurred during a recent game against the Boston Celtics, in which the Pelicans lost 118-116. Murray's injury highlights a season riddled with challenges, as he joins an extensive list of sidelined teammates. Currently, Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, Herb Jones, Daniel Theis, and Jordan Hawkins are all unavailable, contributing to a dismal campaign for the Pelicans. Murray's situation is particularly severe, considering he had already struggled with a fractured hand earlier in the season, and this latest setback is likely to affect his availability for a significant portion of next season as well.

Dejounte Murray led the New Orleans Pelicans to a narrow 119-116 victory over the injury-stricken Dallas Mavericks, scoring 30 points in a pivotal performance. Trey Murphy III made a critical block against Spencer Dinwiddie in the closing seconds, helping seal the win for the Pelicans, who have now won three out of their last four games after a rough start to the season.

Murphy contributed significantly with 24 points and 10 rebounds, wrapping up the game with free throws just two seconds before the final buzzer. Meanwhile, Javonte Green chipped in with 13 points, showcasing a solid team effort despite Zion Williamson's absence due to rest.

Zion Williamson was suspended for one game during the New Orleans Pelicans' victory over the Philadelphia 76ers due to a violation of team policies. The announcement was made shortly before the game commenced, with reports indicating that his tardiness for the team flight to Philadelphia was the primary issue. This incident follows multiple instances of Williamson being late for practices this season, as noted by various sources.

Pelicans' coach Willie Green confirmed there were several events leading to this decision, emphasizing the need for accountability within the team. Executive vice president of basketball operations, David Griffin, highlighted the importance of Williamson's dedication to the organization, asserting that the 23-year-old has recognized his mistakes and is committed to improving.

Williamson expressed regret over the situation, stating he takes full responsibility for the suspension. He acknowledged the hard work he has put into his rehabilitation from a severe hamstring injury that sidelined him for two months. Despite his recent return to play, he missed games due to back-to-back scheduling.

This suspension adds to the woes for the Pelicans, who remain at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with an 8-31 record. The team is struggling with injuries, as several key players, including Brandon Ingram and Herb Jones, have also faced significant time away from the court.