By Raphielle Johnson
Thanks to the inaugural In-Season Tournament, there have already been some quirky weeks on the NBA schedule this season. The next two weeks will offer more of the same, as weeks 10 and 11 begin with Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, respectively. There are only five games on Monday, which could churn out some attractive streaming options for managers looking to begin their week on a positive note. Let’s take a look at the Week 10 schedule and some of its important storylines.
Week 10 Games Played
4 Games: BOS, BKN, DAL, LAL, MEM, NYK, OKC, ORL, PHI, PHO, SAS, WAS
3 Games: ATL, CHA, CHI, DEN, DET, GSW, HOU, IND, MIA, MILMIN, NOR, POR, DAC, TOR, UTA
2 Games: CLE, LAC
Notable Week 10 Storylines
— Will Darvin Ham stick with his new lineup?
The Lakers rolled out a new starting lineup for Saturday’s game against Oklahoma City, with D’Angelo Russell being replaced by Jarred Vanderbilt. Beforehand, Ham said the Lakers decided to “lean into our defensive side of the ball,” hence the change. What he didn’t say was whether or not the lineup change would stick or if it was due to the Lakers, losers of four straight, needing to account for the presence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander in the Thunder lineup. Russell’s fantasy value takes a hit with the demotion, but it may not be a significant one.
Gabe Vincent (knee) was ruled out of Saturday’s game and is reportedly considering surgery, which would sideline him for 6-8 weeks. If he goes that route, Russell and Austin Reaves become players of even greater importance. The Lakers play four games in Week 10, which ends with a Saturday/Sunday road back-to-back against the Timberwolves and Pelicans.
— Will the Grizzlies’ backcourt return to full strength?
While getting Ja Morant back from his 25-game suspension during Week 9 was huge for Memphis, he isn’t the only guard who’s been sidelined. Marcus Smart (foot) and Luke Kennard (knee) have also been out for extended periods, but that could change during Week 10. Before Saturday’s game against the Hawks, Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins said that they hoped to get Smart back for Tuesday’s game against New Orleans. As for…
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