Fantasy Waiver Wire Pickups for Week 12
In the latest edition of The Playlist, we bring you essential insights on the best fantasy waiver wire pickups as we delve into Week 12 for both 9-category and standard points leagues. This week, standout players highlighted previously, including Donte DiVincenzo, Isaiah Stewart, Nikola Jović, Ayo Dosunmu, and Peyton Watson, continue to provide significant value. Before you explore the deeper options, make sure to check the waiver wire for these players, as many shouldn’t still be available in competitive leagues.
Top Fantasy Players to Consider Adding
Here’s a rundown of the top fantasy players to consider adding for Week 12, particularly focusing on those available in less than half of leagues.
Players to Target in Shallower Leagues
- Aaron Nesmith – SF/PF, Indiana Pacers (27% rostered)
Without Bennedict Mathurin, who is sidelined due to a thumb injury, Nesmith assumes increased importance for the Pacers. He recently showcased his skills by scoring 25 points, along with 8 assists, 4 rebounds, and 2 blocks at a notable 50% shooting efficiency. While he may not consistently dish out that many assists, he is poised for a prominent offensive role while Mathurin remains out. With the Pacers playing three times during one of the lighter scheduling weeks, he’s an excellent option in both 9-category and points leagues. - Jake LaRavia – SF/PF – Los Angeles Lakers (21% rostered)
Also worth considering is LaRavia, who has thrived in the absence of Austin Reaves. He’s made significant contributions recently, averaging 23.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in 36 minutes over his last two games. The Lakers have a busy schedule with three games within four nights, which increases the probability of players like LeBron James needing rest. This presents an opportunity for LaRavia to step up further in your fantasy lineup. - Jay Huff – C, Indiana Pacers (17% rostered)
Huff may have been overlooked in your league due to fluctuating performance, but with Isaiah Jackson out due to a concussion, he could become a valuable streaming option, particularly for blocks and 3-pointers. Despite sporadic scoring and rebounding, he has a strong chance to exceed 20 minutes on the court, potentially situating him as a top-100 contributor in 9-category formats. Given the Pacers’ injury struggles, his playing time could be more consistent. - De’Andre Hunter – SF/PF, Cleveland Cavaliers (20% rostered)
Hunter is particularly relevant for points leagues this week, with Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday games on the schedule. Despite coming off the bench, he has maintained a solid usage rate of 21% and has improved his true shooting percentage. Although his minutes are limited, any player looking for additional scoring support should take a chance on Hunter this week. - Sandro Mamukelashvili – PF/C, Toronto Raptors (17% rostered)
With Jakob Poeltl out of commission due to a lingering back issue, Mamukelashvili has become a more appealing option. His performance on Saturday against Atlanta, where he recorded 13 points, 12 rebounds, 8 assists, 1 steal, and 3 blocks in 32 minutes, illustrates his potential. Fantasy managers should consider adding him to capitalize on his efficiency in Monday’s game.
Players for Deeper Leagues
- Max Christie – SG/SF, Dallas Mavericks (13% rostered)
Christie has emerged as a solid player for both formats, having ranked as a top-50 player in 9-cat leagues last week after notching an impressive 22 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists while shooting 66% from the field. Although he might not sustain that level, the Mavericks have a favorable schedule ahead, making him a worthy addition. - Kevin Huerter – SG/SF, Chicago Bulls (11% rostered)
After recommending Ayo Dosunmu, it’s worth noting Huerter’s contributions during recent games. He stepped in effectively, showcasing his ability to support scoring and rebounding, although his shooting can be inconsistent. His metrics positioned him as the 77th player in 9-category formats last week, making him a potential asset for your lineup. - Clint Capela – C, Houston Rockets (4% rostered)
Despite not being the most desirable long-term option, Capela’s value has surged with injuries affecting Alperen Şengün and Steven Adams. Even in reduced minutes, he has delivered solid performances, including an impressive game with 8 points, 8 rebounds, and several defensive stats. If you need immediate help in either 9-cat or points leagues, he could fulfill that role. - Sam Merrill – SG/SF, Cleveland Cavaliers (8% rostered)
Merrill is primarily known for his three-point shooting capabilities, which can be beneficial for fantasy managers looking to elevate that aspect of their game. Currently enjoying a favorable schedule, picking him up for his shooting ability can help bolster your team’s performance. After hitting five 3-pointers last Sunday, he has clearly demonstrated his potential contribution to your roster.
Additional Players to Consider
- TJ McConnell – PG, Indiana Pacers
- Pelle Larsson – SG/SF, Miami Heat
- Jock Landale – C, Memphis Grizzlies
Each of these players can significantly enhance your roster as we head into Week 12 of the fantasy basketball season.
