Fantasy Basketball Highlights: Week 4 Recap
As the NBA season heads into its fifth week, fantasy basketball enthusiasts on Yahoo are experiencing the thrills of their High Score format. With player availability fluctuating due to injuries, managing your roster becomes a week-to-week rollercoaster. For instance, after a sudden injury to star player Giannis Antetokounmpo, savvy players might find themselves picking up Kyle Kuzma, only to drop him just before he scores an impressive weekly total of 64 points. Such missteps can easily be the difference between winning or losing your matchup in this fast-paced game.
Top Fantasy Performers of Week 4
- Cade Cunningham, Pistons – 101 points (Monday, Nov. 10 vs. Wizards)
- James Harden, Clippers – 86 points (Friday, Nov. 14 at Mavericks)
- Jalen Johnson, Hawks – 98 points (Thursday, Nov. 13 at Jazz)
- Nikola Jokić, Nuggets – 85 points (Wednesday, Nov. 12 at Clippers)
- Victor Wembanyama, Spurs – 78 points (Monday, Nov. 10 at Bulls)
- Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks/Josh Giddey, Bulls – 77 points (Giannis on Friday, Nov. 14 vs. Hornets; Giddey on Sunday, Nov. 16 at Jazz)
Notable Player Analysis
- Cade Cunningham: The Pistons’ guard delivered the highest score of the season thus far, contributing 101 points in a thrilling 137-135 victory against the Wizards. Despite a hip injury that sidelined him for the rest of the week, his triple-double performance included 46 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists, along with five steals and two blocks. The Pistons enter Week 5 riding a nine-game winning streak and leading the Eastern Conference.
- James Harden: Bringing a taste of nostalgia, Harden’s 41-point, 14-rebound, and 11-assist triple-double against the Mavericks was crucial for the Clippers, who are currently missing key players like Bradley Beal and Kawhi Leonard. Given his increased role, Harden is likely to remain a formidable fantasy option as the season progresses.
- Jalen Johnson: Emerging as a surprise star, Johnson took full advantage of his matchup against the Jazz. In a standout performance, he achieved a triple-double with 31 points, 18 rebounds, and 14 assists, bolstered by an impressive seven steals. His expanded role is likely to continue while Trae Young recovers from injury.
- Nikola Jokić: Consistency is vital in fantasy basketball, and Jokić has proven to be one of the safest bets. With at least 70 High Score points over his last four games, including back-to-back weeks in the 80s, he remains a top contender for high scoring, with favorable matchups in the upcoming week.
- Victor Wembanyama: The dynamic San Antonio rookie had to miss a game due to a calf injury, questioning his availability for the start of the next week. Prior to his injury, he had a strong game against the Bulls, where he scored 38 points and secured 12 rebounds.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo and Josh Giddey: Both stars made significant impacts for their teams. Giannis nearly notched a career-high in assists, amassing 18 against the Hornets, alongside 25 points. Meanwhile, Giddey’s exceptional play continued with a triple-double just as the Bulls engaged in a double-overtime thriller against the Jazz, showcasing his value in fantasy leagues.
The High Score format continues to provide an exhilarating twist to fantasy basketball, and with each week, the stakes grow higher as players vie for top scores. Don’t miss out; it’s not too late to join or create a league!
