RJ Barrett to play Wednesday vs. the Raptors [UPDATE]

UPDATE: Knicks rookie guard RJ Barrett will start in tonight’s game vs. the Toronto Raptors after being upgraded to probable with an illness earlier today. In other news, Kevin Knox is available to play after being listed as doubtful. It was a perplexing injury report yesterday considering all of the players listed as basically going to be able to play vs. the Raptors.

Barrett isn’t a bad play if you’re into hometown narratives. He’ll be nervous but should show up in front of family and friends. Knox hasn’t been doing much and will likely be limited in this game, so he’s not a very great option in all fantasy basketball formats. We’re still waiting on word on Frank Ntilikina, but if he’s able to go he’ll likely start.

Knicks rookie guard RJ Barrett headlines a list of players questionable to play Wednesday vs. the Raptors. Barrett is apparently dealing with an illness and may be held out. This is somewhat good news all things considered, since it’s an illness and not some specific injury. It does hamper the Knicks ability to contend with Toronto on Wednesday.

Others who popped up on the injury report include Kevin Knox (quad) and Frank Ntilikina (quad, groin). Knox is listed as doubtful, while Frank the Tank is questionable like Barrett. Let’s take a look at how this could impact New York’s rotation for Wednesday night.

Fantasy Basketball Analysis: New York Knicks rotation

Let me begin by saying this isn’t a great spot on the road for the Knicks to begin with. It looks like coach David Fizdale wants to just get Barrett additional rest with the team off for Thanksgiving break on Thursday before returning Friday vs. the 76ers. RJ was held out of Sunday’s game vs. the Nets, so this would give him almost an entire week off.

As for the rotation, if Knox is also out we could see Bobby Portis enter the starting lineup. The Knicks would primarily use Marcus Morris and Julius Randle in the front court, though Morris can play the three. If Frank sits, Dennis Smith Jr. is in a good position to get a spot start as well. There would be potentially tons of value from the Knicks, though the Raptors are an adequate defensive team and Serge Ibaka and Kyle Lowry are close to returning.

Keep an eye on the news to see whether these three guys play or sit Wednesday.