Ryan Nembhard

Williams played 24 minutes on Wednesday, scoring 17 points with five rebounds and three assists, but he may sit out the second leg of a back-to-back to rest his ankle. If that's the case, we should expect more minutes for Ryan Nembhard, who could emerge as a streaming option.

After logging 23 minutes off the bench in Saturday's loss to the Lakers, Williams is dealing with a sore right knee. His absence would likely lead to more playing time for Ryan Nembhard, who played only four minutes against the Lakers. D'Angelo Russell may also see some action after picking up a DNP-CD.

Williams doesn't offer much in the way of defensive production, which limits his fantasy ceiling just as much as coming off the bench does. However, being on a standard deal gives him a clear edge over Ryan Nembhard, who only played four minutes Saturday night and is still on a two-way contract. Fully trusting Williams in fantasy leagues right now is challenging, but that may change after the All-Star break.

A late scratch for Dallas' January 17 game against the Jazz, Russell also sat out Monday's win over the Knicks. His availability may affect Ryan Nembhard, who is still on a two-way contract. If the Mavericks make the undrafted rookie inactive, there will be rotation minutes for Russell. That said, there's no need to roster him.

Christie also missed Wednesday's game against the Nuggets with the same illness. That led to extra minutes for Ryan Nembhard and Klay Thompson, who should both see additional minutes with Cooper Flagg (ankle) also doubtful for this game.