The High Score Playlist: Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Additions
In this week’s edition of The High Score Playlist, I’m sharing key waiver wire additions and lineup suggestions to elevate your fantasy basketball game. If you’re seeking additional tips for 9-cat leagues or standard points formats, don’t forget to check out my dedicated article on those pickups.
Player Highlights for This Week
Kel’el Ware – Forward-Center, Miami Heat (67% rostered)
Kel’el Ware has made a significant impact since becoming a starter three games ago, achieving double-doubles in each of those matches. Averaging an impressive 47.6 fantasy points during this stretch, his contributions include 24.7 points, 15.0 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game while shooting an astounding 71% from the field, including 12 of 16 from beyond the arc. Despite coach Erik Spoelstra’s concerns regarding his defensive play, Ware’s offensive prowess cannot be ignored, making him a must-add on the waiver wire, pending his role remains stable.
John Collins – Forward-Center, Los Angeles Clippers (77% rostered)
After experiencing significant fluctuations in his performance, Collins is set to regain relevance in fantasy lineups with the recent injury to Ivica Zubac, who will be out for a few weeks due to an ankle issue. He shone brightly in his latest game, scoring 17 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, collecting 4 stocks, which rounded out to 43 fantasy points—his highest score this season. As his opportunities for touches and rebounds increase, expect Collins to be a valuable asset for the next few weeks as he returns to his previous form.
Santi Aldama – Forward-Center, Memphis Grizzlies (44% rostered)
With the Memphis Grizzlies struggling, Santi Aldama is stepping up to fill the void. He recently achieved a season-high of 57 fantasy points against the Washington Wizards, scoring 37 points alongside 10 rebounds and 2 stocks, all while taking an impressive 23 shots. With Brandon Clarke sidelined due to a calf injury and Ja Morant out indefinitely, Aldama’s role is poised to expand significantly this week, especially with four games on schedule for Memphis.
Isaiah Collier – Guard, Utah Jazz (20% rostered)
Isaiah Collier has been living up to expectations set during the preseason by consistently racking up assists as a backup point guard. He has recorded over 38 fantasy points in his last three outings, averaging 10 assists during this period. Managers looking for playmaking support can consider him a reliable streaming option in Week 10, particularly given the Jazz have back-to-back games on Monday/Tuesday and again on Friday/Saturday.
Donte DiVincenzo – Guard, Minnesota Timberwolves (45% rostered)
Over the past two weeks, Donte DiVincenzo has showcased his scoring ability by exceeding 50 fantasy points in both weeks, especially crucial in the absence of Anthony Edwards. Even with Edwards returning, the injury to Jaden McDaniels opens up additional opportunities for DiVincenzo, enhancing his usage and shot volume. With a blend of scoring, rebounding, and solid passing skills, he provides a 31-point fantasy floor and presents a ceiling of 40-50 points, making him a strategic pickup ahead of the five-game slate on Christmas.
