NBA Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Picks
As the NBA season approaches the much-anticipated All-Star break, the excitement of roster adjustments and player performances known as “silly season” is in full swing. This week, fantasy basketball managers should consider bolstering their lineups with a selection of rising rookies and players seeing newfound opportunities on struggling teams. Notable additions to keep on your radar include young talents from the Sacramento Kings and Charlotte Hornets, as well as seasoned players like Brook Lopez and Marvin Bagley III, who have re-entered the spotlight as valuable fantasy assets.
In the midst of these strategic picks, fans can tune into the NBA doubleheader on Peacock this Monday night, featuring the Milwaukee Bucks facing off against the Orlando Magic at 7:30 p.m. ET, followed by a late match between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Los Angeles Lakers at 10 p.m. ET.
Prime Candidates for Fantasy Basketball Waivers
- Nique Clifford (Sacramento Kings): Currently only rostered in 3% of leagues, Clifford has seen a surge in his performance recently, posting an average of 20 points, 3 rebounds, and 3.7 assists over his last three games. His standout moment came against the Cavaliers, where he logged a remarkable 30-point game. In light of the Kings’ recent trades, he is positioned to receive substantial playing time, making him a valuable asset for those looking to strengthen their rosters.
- Isaiah Collier (Utah Jazz): With a roster percentage of 36%, Collier has been stepping up amid injuries in the Jazz lineup. Averaging 20.3 points and 12.5 assists in his last four games, he has established himself as a key contributor and a must-add, especially as the team pivots towards rebuilding.
- Ty Jerome (Memphis Grizzlies): Rostered in 34% of leagues, Jerome’s efficiency has been impressive, displaying averages of 20 points and 5.5 assists despite limited minutes. His role is expected to grow as the season progresses.
- Moussa Diabaté (Charlotte Hornets): At 26% rostered, Diabaté’s emergence as the starting center for the Hornets has him averaging double-doubles lately, with solid rebounding and efficient shooting percentages making him a reliable pick-up for your frontcourt.
- Cason Wallace (Oklahoma City Thunder): With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sidelined, Wallace is set for an expanded role, recently averaging 17 points and 3.5 assists over his last four games. His capability to contribute significantly across multiple categories, including steals, makes him an appealing fantasy option.
- Will Riley (Washington Wizards): This rookie from the Wizards is finding his rhythm, averaging over 20 points in recent outings. As he continues to earn significant playing time, his numbers could trend upward, making him another potential waiver wire gem.
- Brook Lopez (Los Angeles Clippers): Now available in 18% of leagues following a trade, Lopez’s role seems solidified in the starting lineup, and he has the potential for reliable contributions in blocks and points upon further integration into his new team.
- Scoot Henderson (Portland Trail Blazers): After debuting with promising stats, Henderson’s progress will be worth monitoring as he gains experience, despite limited minutes thus far.
- Gui Santos (Golden State Warriors): With Stephen Curry still recovering from injury, Santos has been stepping up, averaging nearly 15 points per game recently and proving to be a serviceable option in deeper leagues.
- Marvin Bagley III (Washington Wizards): Recently traded to the Wizards, Bagley has shown he can produce in a limited time frame and is likely to carve out a more significant role as the season progresses, especially in light of Gafford’s inconsistencies.
If you’re looking to enhance your fantasy lineup ahead of the All-Star break, these players can help make a difference, particularly as teams begin to shift their focus toward the upcoming draft and away from playoff contention.
