March Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Targets
As we usher in March, many fantasy basketball managers are gearing up for playoff season, with rosters becoming increasingly crucial for success. Historically, this column highlighted players with at least a 50% roster rate, but as the regular season winds down, it becomes evident that finding quality additions will be more challenging. Thus, this week, we’ve lowered the threshold for player inclusion to 25%—a shift aimed at providing competitive teams with valuable talent as they fight for their league championships.
Key Players to Consider
Among the key players to consider this week are Maxime Raynaud, Jalen Smith, and Jarace Walker. While they are each rostered in a significant number of Yahoo! leagues, any manager who might still find them available should quickly make the add.
Additionally, basketball fans can catch an exciting NBA doubleheader on Peacock this Monday night, beginning with a matchup between the Spurs and the Pistons at 7 p.m. ET, followed by the Rockets taking on the Jazz at 9:30 p.m. ET.
Top Waiver Wire Adds for Week 18
- GG Jackson
- Nolan Traoré
- Gui Santos
- Day’Ron Sharpe
- Marvin Bagley III
- Olivier-Maxence Prosper
- Julian Strawther
- Brook Lopez
- Kris Dunn
- Jose Alvarado
- Precious Achiuwa
- Oso Ighodaro
Player Highlights
GG Jackson (25% rostered, Memphis Grizzlies)
Jackson has been strong lately, with his statistical contributions growing amid a lack of competition for minutes in the Grizzlies’ frontcourt. Over his last seven games, he has averaged 16.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, alongside notable defensive stats including nearly a steal and a block per game. His scoring has been particularly impressive, netting over 20 points in three consecutive contests, highlighted by a standout performance of 28 points, nine rebounds, and multiple assists against Miami.
Day’Ron Sharpe (22% rostered, Brooklyn Nets)
Although Sharpe returned to a bench role in the last game, his overall output and potential remain strong given the uncertainty surrounding Nic Claxton’s health. In six games as a starter, he’s proven effective, registering averages of 11.8 points and 7.8 rebounds alongside assists and steals.
Nolan Traoré (18% rostered, Brooklyn Nets)
Traoré has cemented his spot in the starting lineup with 11 consecutive starts, contributing impressive averages of 15 points, over six assists, and solid defensive stats during this stretch. With more than 80% of managers still ignoring him, this is a prime opportunity for fantasy owners seeking reliable contributors.
Brook Lopez (18% rostered, Los Angeles Clippers)
Lopez has resurged recently, averaging over 10 points and nearly five rebounds in nearly 30 minutes of play during his past eight games, making him a suitable candidate to bolster your frontcourt depth as the Clippers vie for a playoff spot.
Gui Santos (18% rostered, Golden State Warriors)
Santos has proven to be a consistent scorer amidst a depleted Warriors lineup, averaging nearly 15 points and demonstrating a well-rounded game that includes solid rebounding and assists.
Marvin Bagley III (17% rostered, Dallas Mavericks)
Bagley III has stepped up as a critical bench contributor for the Mavericks, racking up an average of almost 12 points and 10 rebounds in about 24 minutes on the court, which could suggest an uptick in opportunities with other players potentially sidelined.
Precious Achiuwa (13% rostered, Sacramento Kings)
With injuries affecting key players like Domantas Sabonis, Achiuwa has reclaimed a starting role, showing notable defensive prowess by leading in steals while contributing solid scoring and boards.
Kris Dunn (10% rostered, Los Angeles Clippers)
Dunn has emerged as a reliable playmaker for the Clippers, increasing his assists significantly since becoming a starter. His recent averages of nearly eight points and over five assists could be advantageous for fantasy managers.
Olivier-Maxence Prosper (6% rostered, Memphis Grizzlies)
Prosper is enjoying a productive stretch, scoring effectively and contributing across the board, making him a sneaky add for those in need of scoring depth.
Jose Alvarado (5% rostered, New York Knicks)
Alvarado’s average of over ten points in limited minutes showcases his impact potential, especially as a notable steals contributor, which can be particularly valuable in many fantasy formats.
Julian Strawther (4% rostered, Denver Nuggets)
Taking advantage of injuries on the Denver roster, Strawther has stepped up and averaged impressive numbers over his recent games, making him a desirable add for teams needing scoring off the bench.
Oso Ighodaro (1% rostered, Phoenix Suns)
Primarily a deep-league option currently, Ighodaro’s potential could increase if he’s given more playing time as a backup.
Other notable players to consider this week include Dylan Harper (19%), Jaylen Wells (17%), Isaiah Joe (16%), and several others making waves on the court as we push into the final stretch of the season. Keep an eye on these trending players to enhance your fantasy roster as the playoffs approach!