The Christmas week brings a flurry of NBA action, with ten teams taking the court on Wednesday. The league has strategically planned a lighter schedule for Christmas Eve, leading to an extended Monday slate where 28 teams will compete. Notably, fantasy managers have seen some positive developments as key players like Joel Embiid and Scotti Barnes return from injuries. Meanwhile, Kawhi Leonard is making progress in his recovery, raising hopes for his potential season debut. Let's delve into the Week 9 schedule and explore its critical storylines.

Kawhi Leonard's Potential Return: A Game-Changer for Fantasy Managers?

One of the most anticipated events this week is the possible return of Clippers star Kawhi Leonard. Fantasy managers who have been holding onto him received encouraging news last week when he was partially cleared for practice and traveled with the team for a three-game road trip. Attention now turns to the Clippers' December 27 home game against the Warriors. Although the team has not targeted this period for Leonard's comeback, it remains a possibility that could significantly impact fantasy lineups.

For leagues requiring weekly lineup submissions before Monday's tip-off, activating Leonard might be premature. However, keeping an eye on his status is crucial. While Norman Powell's value remains steady during Leonard's absence, Kris Dunn offers value in deeper leagues due to his current starting role. The challenge lies in the Clippers' challenging schedule, which includes a back-to-back at the start of Week 10. This situation underscores the importance of strategic planning for fantasy managers.

Challenging Schedules and Player Injuries: What to Watch For

Several teams face tough schedules this week, particularly Cleveland, New Orleans, and Sacramento. These teams have limited game opportunities, with the Cavaliers and Clippers playing only two games each. The Pelicans and Kings also face back-to-backs, reducing streaming possibilities. Fantasy managers should be cautious about adding players from these teams, except for Brandon Boston Jr., who benefits from New Orleans' numerous injuries. Malik Monk remains a viable option in shallow leagues due to his strong performance since joining the starting lineup.

Injury concerns loom large for several players. Damian Lillard has missed recent games due to a calf strain, leaving Ryan Rollins as a potential streaming option if Lillard sits out against the Hawks. Khris Middleton's ability to play back-to-backs after offseason ankle surgery is a positive sign, though his minutes remain lower than usual. Additionally, Luka Doncic's heel injury raises questions about his availability for Dallas' four-game week. If Doncic misses time, Kyrie Irving and Spencer Dinwiddie will shoulder more responsibility, impacting the entire Mavericks rotation.

Dallas Mavericks and Miami Heat: Impact of Key Players' Absences

The Mavericks and Heat face significant challenges this week, especially with key players sidelined. Luka Doncic's heel injury has left fantasy managers uncertain about his participation in Dallas' four-game week. If Doncic misses games, starters like Klay Thompson and PJ Washington may see increased involvement offensively. Naji Marshall also becomes a valuable streamer, having performed well when Doncic was absent earlier in the season.

Miami's Jimmy Butler exited Friday's game due to a left ankle sprain, though illness was cited as the reason for his non-return. The Heat play four games this week, including a back-to-back against the Hawks and Rockets. Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson stand to benefit from Butler's absence, while Haywood Highsmith and Jaime Jaquez Jr. offer deep-league options. Dru Smith emerged as a surprise contributor with 14 points and four steals against Orlando, making him a waiver-wire addition worth considering.

Memphis Grizzlies and Other Teams: Managing Expectations

The Memphis Grizzlies begin their four-game week with a home game against the Clippers. Ja Morant, dealing with a sore lower back, took a hard fall during Thursday's win over the Warriors and sat out Saturday's game against the Hawks. His absence immediately elevates Scotty Pippen Jr. as a streaming option, especially with Marcus Smart injured. Santi Aldama, rostered in 57% of Yahoo leagues, continues to provide solid value even when Morant is healthy.

With light game days on Tuesday and sparse back-to-backs throughout the week, fantasy managers must carefully balance player selection. The Week 9 schedule presents both opportunities and challenges, requiring astute decision-making to maximize lineup performance. As the holiday season unfolds, staying informed about player statuses and team rotations will be key to success in fantasy basketball.