Navigating Fantasy Basketball
Navigating fantasy basketball can be challenging, especially when deciding which players to start or sit based on the week’s matchups. Whether you’re part of a Yahoo! High Score league, a Sleeper league, or any setup that imposes game limits, each decision can significantly impact your chances of success. In many cases, the team that fields more players often gains a crucial advantage in head-to-head matches. Importantly, this doesn’t suggest that players should be benched in points leagues without restrictions, as even the lowest-scoring game can still contribute points to your total.
Weekend Matchups
This weekend, teams such as the Nets, Hornets, Mavericks, Warriors, and several others have doubleheaders scheduled, so players from these groups should be prioritized for those looking to maximize game time.
Player Recommendations
Guards To Start
- Miles McBride (New York Knicks): With Jalen Brunson’s ankle issue keeping him out of action against the Miami Heat, McBride is likely to see significant minutes, particularly since Miami leads the league in pace, which could enhance McBride’s overall performance.
- Sam Merrill (Cleveland Cavaliers): In Garland’s absence due to a toe injury, Merrill is stepping in as a starter for Cleveland. Although the Cavs only play once this weekend against the Grizzlies—a team that struggles defending the three-pointer—this presents a perfect chance for Merrill to shine, especially after a strong start to the season.
Guards To Sit
- Donte DiVincenzo (Minnesota Timberwolves): With Anthony Edwards back in the lineup, DiVincenzo’s performance has declined. Facing the Kings and Nuggets this weekend may not be conducive for him given Sacramento’s improved defense and Denver’s strong perimeter guarding.
- Reed Sheppard (Houston Rockets): While Sheppard has shown potential with recent performances, matches against the Trail Blazers and the Magic—both effective at limiting three-pointers—put Sheppard’s ability to score in jeopardy this weekend.
Forwards To Start
- Bogdan Bogdanovic (LA Clippers): In the absence of Bradley Beal, Bogdanovic has thrived, contributing effectively with solid stats in recent games. With two games this weekend, he could be a linchpin for the Clippers’ offense.
- Noah Clowney (Brooklyn Nets): Clowney has been remarkable in his recent outings. Despite a tough matchup against the Magic, a game against the defense-weak Wizards will provide him with an excellent opportunity to excel.
Forwards To Sit
- Trendon Watford (Philadelphia 76ers): Watford’s performance has dipped, and facing a defensively sound Pistons team could spell trouble for his efficiency. Moreover, the return of Dominick Barlow could further limit his court time.
- Dillon Brooks (Phoenix Suns): After a remarkable offensive display, Brooks faces a challenging game against the Hawks, making this a likely underwhelming matchup given their defensive strength.
Centers To Start
- Moussa Diabate (Charlotte Hornets): With Ryan Kalkbrenner unavailable, Diabate will get a chance to shine in the center position, giving him the chance to contribute significantly over the weekend.
- Derik Queen (New Orleans Pelicans): Queen has been playing at a high level, coming off a career-best scoring performance. Even though matchups against the Lakers and Warriors are tough, his current form makes him a must-start option.
Centers To Sit
- Kel’el Ware (Miami Heat): Ware will face off against a robust Knicks rebounding team this weekend. Despite expected minutes due to a lack of Adebayo, it may be wiser to hold off given the tough matchup.
- Dereck Lively and Daniel Gafford (Dallas Mavericks): Lively is returning from injury for a matchup against the Clippers, a slow-paced team minimizing offensive opportunities. Given their varying situations, it may be prudent to sit both players this weekend.
Conclusion
In fantasy basketball, each weekend presents new opportunities, so evaluating matchups and player performances closely is crucial for optimizing your lineup and striving for success in your league.
