Ayrton Oneill
Fantasy basketball is a game in which players manage imaginary basketball teams, making decisions about who to include in their lineup and who to leave out. This process of choosing who to start and who to sit is a critical one, and several tools and websites offer advice and analysis to help players make these decisions. Factors to consider include the player's recent performance, their projected performance, the quality of the opposition, and the player's role in the team.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Player value | Determined by projected performance for scoring categories used by the league |
| Player performance | Points, assists, rebounds, stocks, 3s, blocks, steals |
| Player availability | Widely available, fringe players, lower-rostered |
| Player health | Injuries, rest |
| Team performance | Double-digit slates, lighter slates, back-to-back games, tanking |
| Scheduling | Days of the week with games, number of games in a week |
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What You'll Learn
Waiver wire pickups
With the fantasy basketball season coming to an end, it's important to make every move count. Here are some players you should consider picking up on the waiver wire to give your team that extra boost:
Ty Jerome of the Cavaliers is a great pickup this week. With three games in four nights, Jerome can contribute points and assists while also chipping in with some 3s and steals. If Cleveland decides to rest any starters, his value will climb even higher, so take advantage of his momentum.
If you're chasing counting stats like points, assists, and steals, then Keon Johnson of the Nets is a solid addition. With the Nets likely to manage their veterans, Johnson will have the opportunity to soak up extra minutes and contribute across the board. However, it's important to remember that he can struggle with efficiency at times.
For those in deeper leagues, Kris Dunn of the Suns is widely available. With the Suns playing four games this week and Bradley Beal out, Dunn's mix of 3s, rebounds, and stocks will be a valuable asset.
Lastly, keep an eye on the Magic's schedule this week. With three games in four nights, fringe players like Black and Buzelis could provide value. Black has been a top-80 player over the past two weeks, averaging impressive all-around numbers, while Buzelis has been providing fourth-round value in 9-cat leagues, averaging 32.75 fantasy points per game.
Remember to stay sharp, flexible, and always watch those schedules and injury reports!
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Quality over quantity
When it comes to fantasy basketball, it's important to remember that every move counts and quality should always take precedence over quantity. This means that rather than making a high number of moves, you should focus on making strategic decisions that will have the biggest impact on your team's performance.
One way to do this is to pay close attention to the schedules of both your players and their opponents. Look for players who are playing multiple games in a short span, as this can give you an early-week boost. For example, in Week 21, the Cavaliers played three games in four nights, making Ty Jerome a great pickup. Similarly, if a team is facing injuries or shortages, it may be a good opportunity to add one of their players who will likely see more playing time and contribute more to your fantasy stats.
It's also important to consider the scoring rules of your league when deciding on player value. The same player can have a very different impact on your team depending on the scoring categories used by your league. Utilise tools that allow you to compare players and provide detailed analyses to help inform your decisions.
Remember to stay sharp, flexible, and always keep an eye on schedules, injury reports, and load management. Trust the process, play smart, and make every move count!
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Load management
For example, in Week 21, Ty Jerome of the Cavaliers was highlighted as an appealing pickup due to his ability to contribute points, assists, 3s, and steals across three games in four nights. His value could climb even higher if Cleveland decides to rest one of their starters. Similarly, Keon Johnson of the Nets is expected to benefit from extra minutes during their back-to-back games, providing solid contributions in points, assists, and steals.
In Week 22, the focus shifts to teams playing at least three games on bigger slates, such as the Celtics, Hornets, Rockets, Pacers, Thunder, Kings, Spurs, and Jazz. Cade Cunningham's potential absence from the Pistons also creates an opportunity for Dennis Schrōder to shine, as the Pistons play three games that week.
Additionally, it's worth noting that the Raptors' tanking situation makes it challenging to predict which players will be active, so managers should be cautious when considering their players.
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Injury reports
When it comes to injury reports, staying on top of them is crucial for success in fantasy basketball. Keeping a close eye on injury updates can help you make informed decisions about your lineup. Here are some key insights from Week 21 and Week 22 injury reports to consider:
Week 21 Injury Insights:
In Week 21, the Suns' Bradley Beal was out, creating an opportunity for Trent Frazier Dunn to step up and become a valuable asset for fantasy managers with his mix of 3s, rebounds, and stocks. The Mavericks were also shorthanded, and while Anthony Davis was listed as probable, Reggie Bullock was ruled out. This put the spotlight on Jalen Christie, who was expected to contribute rebounds and 3s. Additionally, the Pacers' Tyrese Haliburton faced the possibility of sitting out one leg of their back-to-back, impacting Nembhard's playing time and production.
Week 22 Injury Considerations:
During Week 22, the Raptors' player activity was challenging to predict due to their tanking situation. The New Orleans Pelicans and Cleveland Cavaliers didn't play until Wednesday, making fringe players like Jose Alvarado and De'Andre Hunter less valuable. The Pistons' Cade Cunningham was also someone to monitor, as his absence created an opportunity for Dennis Schrōder to shine for fantasy managers seeking points and assists. With the Pelicans facing tough matchups, their players' fantasy value might be impacted.
Remember, staying vigilant about injury reports is essential for making strategic decisions in fantasy basketball. Keep a close eye on updates to adjust your lineup accordingly and gain a competitive edge.
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Player performance
When it comes to player performance, there are several factors to consider when deciding who to sit and who to start in fantasy basketball. Firstly, it's important to keep an eye on injuries and player availability. For example, if a player is listed as "questionable" or "probable," their playing time may be limited, which could affect their overall performance. In such cases, it might be wise to look for alternative options or keep a close eye on their status leading up to game time.
Another factor to consider is the schedule and distribution of games. Some players may have a heavier workload with back-to-back games or multiple games within a short period. This can be advantageous as it provides more opportunities for points accumulation. For instance, in Week 21, Ty Jerome of the Cavaliers was highlighted as an appealing pickup due to their schedule of three games in four nights, allowing him to contribute points and assists. Similarly, Keon Johnson of the Nets, who were in tank mode, was expected to see increased playing time and contribute across the box score.
Player momentum and recent performance can also impact your decision-making. For example, in Week 21, Orlando Magic's Black was coming off a strong 13/6/6 game, making him a tempting pickup to capitalise on his momentum. Conversely, if a player is on a cold streak, you might consider giving them a chance to regain their form or look for alternatives.
Additionally, the quality versus quantity debate comes into play. While it's important to have a solid starting lineup, don't overlook the value of depth. In some cases, it might be beneficial to target players with favourable schedules, even if they are lower-rostered options. This strategy can provide a boost in counting stats and overall production.
Lastly, it's crucial to consider the specific scoring rules of your league. Different leagues may value certain player performances differently. For example, some leagues may place a higher emphasis on points, rebounds, and assists, while others may favour a more well-rounded contribution, including steals, blocks, and three-pointers made. Understanding the scoring model of your league will help you make more informed decisions about player performance and their potential impact on your team's success.
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Frequently asked questions
It's important to consider the rules used by the Scoring Model selected by your league. Player value is largely determined by their projected performance for the scoring categories. You can use free online tools to compare players and get analysis using your league's scoring and roster settings.
Focus on quality over quantity. Target teams that play three games in four nights and evaluate your needs thereafter. Keep an eye on load management and injuries and stay ahead of the curve.
Every move counts, so stay sharp, stay flexible, and watch the schedules and injury reports. Trust the process and play smart.
It depends on your waiver schedule and FAB budget. If a player is performing poorly, you may want to drop them.
