Deni Avdija

Avdija cooled off a bit after back-to-back 30-point performances, but he was able to lead Portland in scoring on Thursday despite the loss. Still, over the past two weeks, Avdija has averaged 22.7 points, 9.4 rebounds, 5.1 assists, one steal and 3.4 triples per game, which has him ranked inside the top 20 in nine-cat scoring during this stretch. He'll look to keep it going in New York on Sunday to close out the week. He had 27 points and 15 rebounds in a loss to the Knicks earlier this month.

Avdija recorded his third double-double in four games, but he had a tough night shooting the basketball. Deni was 3-of-9 from inside the arc, which was far more surprising than him shooting 3-of-9 from three. However, given how productive he has been, the poor shooting was a blip on the radar. Over the past two weeks, Avdija has been a top 20 player in eight-cat formats. Rostered in 84 percent of Yahoo! leagues, he can be a difference-maker for shallow-league managers where Avdija is still available.

Avdija has recorded three double-doubles in his last six games, providing excellent fantasy value over the past two weeks. During this stretch, the Blazers forward has provided first-round value in eight- and nine-cat formats. And with Portland still in the race for the final play-in spot in the West, there's no reason for the team to consider shutting Avdija down. Portland plays three games during Week 21, starting with the Cavaliers on Tuesday.

Avdija recorded 36 points (12-16 FG, 4-6 3Pt, 8-9 FT), eight rebounds, seven assists, one block and three steals over 38 minutes during Friday's 128-109 victory over the Nuggets.

Anfernee Simons and Donovan Clingan were both late scratches due to illnesses. They will be replaced in the starting unit by Scoot and Murray, with Camara sliding over to start at center. Duop Reath should still play a large reserve role despite not starting.