In the competitive landscape of fantasy basketball, effectively navigating the waiver wire is crucial for success. With the season marked by numerous games, injuries, and constant shifts in team rotations, finding valuable players in free agency can significantly enhance your fantasy roster.
Maintaining a flexible approach to the final spots on your fantasy team can yield substantial rewards. As you evaluate your end-of-bench players, consider how they stack up against the talent available in free agency.
Below, players are listed by priority rather than their roster percentages in ESPN men’s basketball leagues.
Point Guard
Carlton Carrington, SG, Washington Wizards (18.3% rostered)
Known as “Bub,” this rookie playmaker leads our point guard recommendations this week. Despite potential fluctuations in scoring, Carrington’s ability to create opportunities for others and his impressive steal rate make him a valuable addition.
Stephon Castle, SG, San Antonio Spurs (26.2%)
Castle has seen a recent increase in minutes and playmaking opportunities. While he shares the court with established veterans, his growing role is promising, making him a player to watch as he integrates more into the Spurs’ rotation.
Dalano Banton, SG/SF, Portland Trail Blazers (2.6%)
Banton’s eligibility at three positions, combined with a surge in scoring due to Anfernee Simons’ injury, makes him a noteworthy option for deeper leagues. His increased minutes could provide valuable contributions.
Shooting Guard
Shaedon Sharpe, SF, Portland Trail Blazers (28.6%)
Sharpe is emerging as a key player, having scored 65 points in his last two games. His recent performance suggests he has the potential for sustained success on fantasy rosters.
Brandon Boston Jr., SF, New Orleans Pelicans (21.0%)
Amid a wave of injuries affecting the Pelicans, Boston has capitalized on increased playing time, showcasing his scoring, passing, and rebounding abilities.
Jordan Clarkson, SF, Utah Jazz (33.6%)
Clarkson continues to be a reliable scorer off the bench, stepping up in the absence of other creators. His recent uptick in assists adds to his fantasy value.
Malik Beasley, Detroit Pistons (12.1%)
With Tim Hardaway Jr. sidelined, Beasley has found his shooting rhythm from beyond the arc, making him a player worth considering while he remains hot.
Small Forward
Bennedict Mathurin, SG, Indiana Pacers (56.8%)
Mathurin is solidifying his role as a primary scorer for the Pacers, averaging over 20 points per game since becoming a starter. His rebounding contributions enhance his fantasy appeal.
Jaden McDaniels, Minnesota Timberwolves (10.9%)
McDaniels has shown improvement in his shooting while maintaining strong defensive metrics. His recent offensive surge is encouraging for fantasy managers.
Power Forward
Patrick Williams, Chicago Bulls (11.5%)
Williams has demonstrated growth this season, showcasing scoring and passing skills that could benefit fantasy teams, despite a recent quiet game.
Moussa Diabate, Charlotte Hornets (5.3%)
Diabate has displayed impressive rebounding abilities, although his role may fluctuate. He could be a valuable asset for teams needing depth in the frontcourt.
Center
Alexandre Sarr, PF, Washington Wizards (32.1%)
Sarr is emerging as a promising rookie center, exhibiting strong steal and block rates, despite some inconsistencies in scoring efficiency.
Donovan Clingan, Portland Trail Blazers (16.0%)
Clingan has shown potential as a rim protector, though he needs more minutes and offensive opportunities to fully realize his fantasy value.
Specialist Picks
This section highlights players who excel in specific categories, providing targeted value for fantasy managers.
3-Pointers: Beasley ranks seventh in the league for 3-point volume, with Payton Pritchard also contributing in deeper formats.
Steals: Dyson Daniels leads in steals, joined by Tari Eason, McDaniels, and Carrington.
Blocks: Sarr and Clingan are rookies with significant rim protection capabilities.
Rebounds: Diabate ranks 16th in rebounding value, with Isaiah Stewart also making an impact.
Assists: Carrington is emerging as a reliable source of assists, warranting attention from fantasy managers.
By strategically utilizing the waiver wire, fantasy basketball players can enhance their rosters and navigate the season’s challenges more effectively.
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