Denver Nuggets center Jonas Valanciunas (calf) is questionable for Thursday's meeting with the Wizards. The veteran big man suffered a right calf strain during the win over the Toronto Raptors on New Year's Eve. He was initially projected to be sidelined for at least four weeks. While that may remain the case, the questionable tag seems to indicate Valanciunas might be back sooner than anticipated. With Nikola Jokic (knee) on the shelf, the Nuggets could certainly use Valanciunas's services as soon as possible. In the meantime, Aaron Gordon (hamstring) will presumably continue handling things in the middle, with Zeke Nnaji getting around 15-20 minutes of work from off the bench.

Denver Nuggets guard Christian Braun (ankle) remains out on Thursday versus the Washington Wizards. There hasn't been any real indication he's nearing a return, although the team certainly isn't looking to rush things regarding his recovery. While Braun continues to work his way back, Jalen Pickett is expected to stay in the starting lineup, with the 26-year-old averaging 10.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 44.2% shooting from behind the arc in 11 starts this season.

Orlando Magic guard Jalen Suggs (knee) is questionable for Thursday's game against Charlotte. He's missed seven contests because of his latest ailment, a right knee contusion. However, even if the 24-year-old isn't back for this one, the questionable designation at least suggests he's trending in a positive direction. If Suggs suits up, he'll probably see limited action. That may last for at least a few games. As a result, Anthony Black should remain even more relevant for fantasy managers while Suggs works his way back to form.

Detroit Pistons shooting guard Caris LeVert (illness) won't play Wednesday against the New Orleans Pelicans. LeVert is dealing with an illness, and his next chance to return to action is on Friday against the Rockets. Detroit's backcourt will also be without its star point guard, Cade Cunningham (hip, illness), so Jaden Ivey and Daniss Jenkins will likely see expanded roles and could be considered marginal streaming options ahead of tonight's clash in The Big Easy.