As we approach Friday’s NBA action, we’re faced with an unusual schedule that demands careful consideration for fantasy managers. With only three games on the slate, it’s a critical day for streaming, especially given the peculiar schedule ahead.
The coming week presents a unique challenge: over the next six days of NBA action, several teams have zero quality game days. This means that adding a streamer without careful planning could result in zero games played, effectively wasting a roster spot. Teams like the Nets, Celtics, Bulls, Mavericks, Nuggets, and Pistons all have three games over the next six days, but none on streamable days.
Portland stands out as the best team for streaming, with three quality games over the next six days. Philadelphia is the only other team with more than one, boasting two quality games. This schedule advantage makes players from these teams particularly valuable for the short term.
Friday’s games feature the Blazers vs. Hornets, Cavaliers vs. 76ers, and Pelicans vs. Grizzlies. All teams playing on Friday are part of a back-to-back, with Portland coming off a Thursday game and the others playing again on Saturday.
Injury updates will be crucial for making informed decisions. The Blazers have several questionable players, including Deandre Ayton, Anfernee Simons, and Jerami Grant. For the Hornets, Brandon Miller has been ruled out for the season, potentially increasing Nick Smith Jr.'s value.
The Cavaliers-76ers game is complicated by injuries on both sides. Cleveland might be without Evan Mobley, Isaac Okoro, and Caris LeVert, while Philadelphia is missing Joel Embiid and several others. This creates opportunities for players like Max Strus and Guerschon Yabusele to step up.
In the Pelicans-Grizzlies matchup, keep an eye on Zion Williamson’s status, as he might sit one game of the back-to-back. The Grizzlies are dealing with their own injury concerns, including Marcus Smart and Santi Aldama.
When considering streamers, it’s essential to look beyond just Friday’s games. Some players might be valuable for Friday but offer little to no value in the following days due to the unusual schedule. Prioritize players from teams with multiple quality games in the coming days, even if their immediate impact might seem less significant.
For more insights and a deeper dive into Friday’s NBA action and fantasy implications, tune into the Locked On Fantasy Basketball podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast:
• Detailed injury updates for key players
• Analysis of potential breakout performers
• Discussion on long-term stash candidates in fantasy leagues
