Jayson Tatum Nears Return as Other Fantasy Basketball Stars Remain Sidelined

Key injuries to Celtics' Tatum, Nuggets' Gordon, and others impact fantasy basketball lineups ahead of Monday's NBA games.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 1:23pm

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Several top NBA players, including Jayson Tatum, Aaron Gordon, and Lauri Markkanen, are dealing with injuries that will affect their availability and fantasy basketball value for Monday's games. While Tatum is nearing a return, other stars like Gordon and Markkanen will remain sidelined for the near future, creating opportunities for their teammates to step up in their absence.

Why it matters

Injuries to star players can significantly impact fantasy basketball lineups and team performance. Knowing which players are out, when they may return, and which players will benefit in their absence is crucial for fantasy managers to make informed lineup decisions and maximize their team's potential.

The details

Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics is aiming to return later this week from his injury, which would be a major boost for the Celtics and fantasy managers. Meanwhile, the Denver Nuggets will be without Aaron Gordon, who is listed as a game-time decision, and Cameron Johnson, who will sit out Monday's game. The Washington Wizards will also be without Alex Len, while the Utah Jazz will be without Lauri Markkanen for 1-2 more weeks. These injuries create opportunities for other players to step up and contribute in fantasy basketball.

  • Jayson Tatum is aiming to return later this week.
  • Aaron Gordon is listed as a game-time decision for Monday's game.
  • Cameron Johnson will sit out Monday's game due to an ankle injury.
  • Alex Len of the Washington Wizards will remain out.
  • Lauri Markkanen of the Utah Jazz will be out for 1-2 more weeks.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A star player for the Boston Celtics who is nearing a return from injury.

Aaron Gordon

A key player for the Denver Nuggets who is dealing with an injury and is a game-time decision for Monday's game.

Lauri Markkanen

A star player for the Utah Jazz who will be out for 1-2 more weeks due to injury.

Alex Len

A player for the Washington Wizards who will remain out due to injury.

Cameron Johnson

A player for the Denver Nuggets who will sit out Monday's game due to an ankle injury.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Injuries to star players can significantly impact fantasy basketball lineups, and knowing which players are out, when they may return, and which players will benefit in their absence is crucial for fantasy managers to make informed lineup decisions and maximize their team's potential.