NBA 2025-26 Season Week 4 Analysis
As we wrap up Week 4 of the NBA’s 2025-26 season, the impact of injuries has become increasingly significant, creating openings for various players to step into larger roles within their teams. While some players are thriving in their elevated positions, others are struggling. This analysis will highlight key performers and those who have faltered in recent games.
Victor Wembanyama’s Injury
The San Antonio Spurs will be without their rising star, Victor Wembanyama, for a period of 2-3 weeks following a left calf strain. This setback presents challenges for the team as they navigate upcoming games without their cornerstone player.
Rising Stars and Fantasy Impact
Daniss Jenkins (PG, Pistons):
The Detroit Pistons have been on a winning streak, clinching ten consecutive victories despite facing injuries among their key players. One of the standout performers has been Daniss Jenkins, who has significantly increased his scoring average to 21.8 points, along with 4.2 rebounds and 7.8 assists in his last four games. His ascendance comes in light of Cade Cunningham’s injury, and even with Cunningham’s return on the horizon, Jenkins may have established himself too strongly to see his playing time diminish significantly.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker (PG/SG/SF/PF, Hawks):
Another player whose performance is on the upswing is Nickeil Alexander-Walker from the Atlanta Hawks. After being acquired in the offseason, he has stepped up in Trae Young’s absence, averaging 17 points this season. With three games of 20 or more points recently, Alexander-Walker is reflecting his potential as he aims to further improve his shooting from beyond the arc.
Moussa Diabate (C, Hornets):
Diabate is steadily carving out a niche with the Charlotte Hornets after not finding his footing early in his career with the Clippers. Primarily coming off the bench, he has become a key component of the team’s frontcourt and has recorded double-digit rebounds in five of the last eight games, showcasing his double-double potential in fantasy rotations.
Stock Declines
John Collins (PF/C, Clippers):
Unfortunately for the Clippers, key injuries haven’t translated into success for John Collins. Despite being thrust into a starting role, his production has slipped considerably since the lineup changes, averaging a mere 9.4 points along with minimal playmaking. The expectations remain high, especially once teammates like Kawhi Leonard return.
Zach LaVine (PG/SG/SF, Kings):
Initially starting off strong, LaVine’s performance has become inconsistent, exemplified by having two games with single-digit scoring in November. His efficiency remains intact, but a decrease in shot attempts suggests deeper issues within the Kings lineup, as they search for answers during a tough six-game losing streak.
Nikola Vučević (C, Bulls):
For the Chicago Bulls, Nikola Vučević began the season with impressive stats, but his performance has dipped significantly into November with averages dwindling to 13.4 points and 8.8 rebounds. Though his early season shooting from three-point range was stellar, those numbers have now seen a decline, complicating the future outlook for both him and the Bulls.
As we proceed through the season, monitoring these players will be crucial for fantasy basketball enthusiasts, as the unpredictability of player performance continues to influence outcomes across leagues.
Upcoming Games
Don’t forget to catch the Grizzlies facing the Spurs at 8 PM ET, followed by the Suns against the Trail Blazers at 11 PM ET, both of which are available through NBC and Peacock. Check local listings for additional details.
