Effectively using the waiver wire is key to success in fantasy basketball. Throughout a long season filled with games, injuries, and constant changes in team lineups, finding valuable stats from free agents is essential to maximize your fantasy team`s potential.
Being open to adding new players from free agency to compete for the last spots on your roster can be very beneficial. When managing your roster and looking for statistical improvements, it`s wise to compare your current bench players with the available talent in free agency.
This weekly article series aims to pinpoint players at each position who are widely available in ESPN fantasy leagues. Some players are specialists, offering help in one or two specific statistical categories, while others provide a more comprehensive range of stats. The player rankings within each position below are ordered by recommended priority for acquisition, rather than their current roster percentage in ESPN men`s basketball leagues.
Point Guard
Spencer Dinwiddie, SG, Dallas Mavericks (38.9% rostered in ESPN leagues): While adding promising young players is appealing, experienced veterans offer reliable value. Dinwiddie`s scoring can be inconsistent, but he is the primary playmaker for Dallas in the remaining games of the season. His consistent playing time and usage make him a valuable addition to help you finish strong.
Isaiah Collier, Utah Jazz (13.8%): Collier has had a quietly impressive breakout season. He took over as the lead point guard earlier in the season and hasn`t looked back. Initially known for his passing, he has now added scoring and shooting to his game for a rebuilding Jazz team that is committed to playing him.
Bub Carrington, SG, Washington Wizards (15.4%): Carrington, a rookie first-round pick, had a solid game against the Celtics with 14 points, three rebounds, and six assists. He is a well-rounded player, and recently scored a career-high 32 points against the Orlando Magic. With several games remaining, Carrington is a player to watch.
Shooting Guard
Brandin Podziemski, PG, Golden State Warriors (42.7%): Podziemski has become a popular waiver wire target recently. This versatile guard has increased his fantasy value, especially with the addition of Jimmy Butler III. Butler`s unselfish play style allows Podziemski to take on a significant workload, contributing to the team`s success. Even when his scoring is lower, he provides valuable assists and rebounds.
Ryan Rollins, Milwaukee Bucks (4.7%): Similar to Butler, Rollins has expanded his game to include passing, making him less reliant on scoring to be valuable. A recent near triple-double performance suggests Rollins could see increased playing time as the veteran Bucks prepare for the playoffs.
Jared Butler, Philadelphia 76ers (10.6%): Due to injuries on the 76ers, Butler is likely to have a significant role in the remaining games. The 76ers` upcoming opponents (Heat, Wizards, Hawks, and Bulls) all have losing records and weaker defenses. Butler, averaging six assists for the Sixers, can contribute in both scoring and passing, making him a desirable fantasy option.
Small Forward
Aaron Nesmith, Indiana Pacers (6.4%): Nesmith established himself as a valuable 3-and-D player for the Pacers last season. After battling injuries this year, he is back in the starting lineup and more involved offensively. Nesmith could be a key player this week as the Pacers prepare for the playoffs.
Matas Buzelis, PF, Chicago Bulls (20.3%): Buzelis, playing for his hometown Bulls, has been performing well recently, averaging 8.2 points per game for the season. He has scored in double figures in seven of his last eight games. Beyond his scoring and impressive dunks, Buzelis is also a dedicated defender, offering versatility that makes him a worthwhile addition to your fantasy team.
Power Forward
Jabari Smith Jr., C, Houston Rockets (51.2%): Smith, a capable shot-blocking forward, is a strong fantasy option, especially with his improved rebounding in recent weeks. His center eligibility further enhances his value.
Toumani Camara, SF, Portland Trail Blazers (38.9%): Camara, a waiver wire standout this season, has returned from injury and brings relentless energy to the court. He is a valuable glue guy, particularly in category-based leagues.
Jonathan Mogbo, Toronto Raptors (0.9%): For deeper leagues, Mogbo impressed with a near triple-double performance against Brooklyn. His post-play passing indicates potential for versatility in Toronto`s lineup.
Center
Adem Bona, Philadelphia 76ers (23.0%): Foul trouble can limit Bona`s minutes, but when he gets consistent playing time, this rookie rim protector has been impactful for the 76ers and fantasy teams. His block numbers are particularly valuable as blocks are scarce on the waiver wire.
Special Teams
This section highlights specialists, players who excel in a specific category and can be valuable in category and roto formats. Nominations will focus on different categories throughout the season.
3-pointers: Podziemski and Carrington are ranked high in 3-point value over the last week.
Steals: Jamal Shead of the Raptors is a strong source of steals.
Blocks: Bona is a top add for blocks, and Buzelis is also contributing significantly in this category.
Rebounds: Zach Edey, Jabari Smith Jr., and Kel`el Ware are all providing strong rebounding numbers.
Assists: Collier and Shead are both valuable for assist production.
