
Green surpassed 15 points in a game for the first time since November 30 (17 vs. Atlanta), and the 18 points are a season-high. Unfortunately, the Hornets' wing offered little value outside the points and three-pointers. Green will have opportunities after the All-Star break, especially on nights when LaMelo Ball or Miles Bridges isn't available. However, he hasn't enough to gain the trust of most fantasy managers.
The Hornets are without LaMelo Ball and Moussa Diabate, opening up two spots in the starting lineup. Payton, who's on a 10-day contract, and Nurkic will fill the voids, with the latter making his Hornets debut. Both are worth streaming, and Nurkic may have value moving forward, depending on what happens with Mark Williams.
Green returned to the Hornets' lineup on Monday after missing two games with a calf injury. As has been the case throughout the season, he offered little offensive value. While there's the potential that he receives more opportunities on the offensive end of the floor during the "silly season," Green hasn't shown the ability to take advantage. Despite being a starter, he should not be rostered in fantasy leagues.
Ball, Smith, and Green return after sitting out Sunday's loss to the Pistons, pushing KJ Simpson, Seth Curry, and DaQuan Jeffries to the bench. Also of note is Diabate remaining in the starting lineup after suffering a right eye injury on Sunday.
Wong saw an increased workload in Sunday's loss due to the amount of injuries that Charlotte faced in the backcourt. Wong played 24 minutes in that game, but with LaMelo Ball, Nick Smith Jr. and Josh Green all back in the lineup, Wong's minutes will go them.