Injury Updates and Player Returns
As we navigate the NBA season, keeping an eye on player injuries and returns is crucial for fantasy basketball success. Jeremy Sochan is potentially making a comeback, and I recommend adding him in all league formats. Mark Williams is another player to watch, as he’s been upgraded to questionable. While his return isn’t guaranteed, it’s worth considering adding him to your roster. Meanwhile, Draymond Green is listed as questionable, but Steve Kerr has expressed doubts about his availability. This opens up opportunities for Jonathan Kuminga, Kevon Looney, and Trace Jackson-Davis to step up in his absence.
Waiver Wire Trends
The waiver wire is buzzing with activity, and it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve. Vasa Micic is the most added player, filling in for the injured LaMelo Ball and Tre Mann. While this isn’t a long-term solution, Micic is a solid pickup until one of them returns. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is another player to consider, especially with the Magic’s favourable schedule. He’s a great streaming option, but don’t expect consistent season-long value. Marcus Smart is also gaining traction, and his recent performances make him a worthy addition.
On the flip side, Isaiah Stewart, Moussa Diabate, and Naji Marshall are among the most dropped players. Stewart’s value is inconsistent, making him an easy drop. Diabate’s minutes are dwindling, and Marshall’s role is uncertain. Scotty Pippen Jr. and Ty Jerome have also seen significant drops, with Jerome’s value plummeting due to Caris LeVert’s return.
Game Highlights: Pelicans vs. Hawks
The New Orleans Pelicans faced off against the Atlanta Hawks, with the Hawks securing a 124-112 victory. The Pelicans were without key players like Brandon Ingram and Zion Williamson, which impacted their performance. Dejounte Murray, despite a poor shooting night, contributed with 10 assists, five steals, and a block. His shooting struggles are unlikely to persist, making him a prime buy-low candidate.
CJ McCollum led the Pelicans with 29 points, but his high shot volume raises concerns about his efficiency. BJ Boston and Yves Missi also had notable performances, with Missi showing significant improvement in recent games. Trey Murphy’s shooting woes continue, but his overall contributions make him a potential buy-low target.
On the Hawks’ side, Dyson Daniels delivered a strong performance with 19 points, five rebounds, and four steals. Clint Capela dominated the boards with 17 rebounds, while Trae Young struggled with his shot but excelled in playmaking with 15 assists. De’Andre Hunter’s scoring was impressive, but his lack of peripheral stats remains a concern.
For more insights and a deeper dive into NBA fantasy strategies, tune into the Locked On Fantasy Basketball podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast:
- Analysis of the Miami Heat vs. Boston Celtics matchup
- Impact of player absences on team performance
- Strategies for navigating the waiver wire
- Key takeaways from recent NBA games
- Injury updates and their fantasy implications
