Before we get down to business, I would like to thank you, the readers, and members of our FantasyPros community. Your choice to read and engage with this article as a part of your fantasy basketball strategy means a lot. In a world packed with many options to satisfy your fantasy needs, including this article as part of your means to address them is humbling and immensely appreciated.
Now, let’s get into it.
This is your weekly dose of fantasy basketball possibilities as we explore and identify players who can help take your team to the next level in your quest for the championship crown of your league. It’s a long season, so it’s beneficial to maintain an “it’s-a-marathon-not-a-sprint” mindset as you strategize and tailor your weekly or season-long approach to maximize your team’s value and potential.
Each week, we will look at widely available players rostered in fewer than 65% of fantasy leagues on Yahoo!. We will focus on building strategies in eight-category leagues with standard scoring (more details outlined below).
Insights about the highlighted players will concentrate on how they can contribute to the aligned category but also touch on how they can contribute to various other categories.
Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups
(Statistics and data courtesy of nba.com)
Fantasy Format
Scoring Type:
Head-to-Head (Most Categories)
Player Stat Categories:
- Points Scored (PTS)
- Total Rebounds (REB)
- Assists (AST)
- Steals (ST)
- Block Shots (BLK)
- 3-Point Shots Made (3PTM)
- Field Goal Percentage (FG%)
- Free Throw Percentage (FT%)
Roster Positions:
- Point Guard (PG)
- Shooting Guard (SG)
- Guard (G)
- Small Forward (SF)
- Power Forward (PF)
- Center (C) x 2
- Utility (UTIL) x 2
- Bench (BN) x 2
- Injured List (IL) x 3
About the Upcoming Week Analysis
The analysis evaluates four key areas to determine the players’ and teams’ performance potential against weekly opponents. This analysis considers categories: Points, Rebounds, Assists, Steals, Blocks, Three-Pointers Made and Field-Goal Percentage.
The analysis assesses the following:
| AREA | DESCRIPTION |
| Team’s Category Production Potential | Compares the team’s average production in a category against the opponent’s average allowed in that same category |
| Game Environment Impact | Assesses how the game’s pace, involving both teams, might affect the team’s production potential in a given category |
| Team Matchup Potential | Assesses team and opponent’s offensive and defensive ratings to gauge matchup outcomes |
| Player Production Potential | Analyzes player’s stats to determine their potential in a specific category |
About the Matchup Grades
Grades were developed by comparing players’ stats and team dynamics against opponents’ strengths and weaknesses.
Points
Caris LeVert (SG, SF – CLE): 45% Rostered
LeVert has made the list for assists in Week 2 and steals in Week 8, and now he’s back in Week 10 for points and potentially more. He’s currently averaging 15.7 points per game (82nd in the league). After a strong offensive month, averaging 17.7 points per game, a 28.26% increase from the previous month, LeVert is set to start the New Year on a high note.
| OFFENSIVE PROFILE | ||
| CATEGORY | STAT | RANK |
| Field-Goals Attempted | 13.5 | 70th |
| Field-Goals Made | 5.5 | T-90th |
| Field-Goal Percentage | 40.9% | 368th |
| Three-Pointers Attempted | 5.6 | 61st |
| Three-Pointers Made | 1.8 | T-93rd |
| Three-Pointer Percentage | 32.6% | 286th |
With injuries affecting the team’s core, LeVert is poised to play a crucial role, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility. Week 10 offers favorable matchups, potentially boosting the team’s overall production, with LeVert leading the way. While there may be concerns about LeVert’s health history and occasional underwhelming performances, let’s address those worries by looking at some data.
Below is a table that summarizes the total average stats and ranks of the opponents he faced in Weeks 2 and 8, along with his average totals of production across those games. Note: Stats and Ranks are the combined averages of the opponents faced per game across Weeks 2 and 8, rounded to the tenth. The data used was from nba.com obtained on 12/29/2023.
| Weeks 2 & 8 | |||
| CATEGORY | STAT | RANK | LeVert |
| PACE | 100.0 | 14.8 | 100.7 |
| OPP PTS | 114.1 | 14.0 | 19.0 |
| OPP REB | 43.8 | 16.0 | 4.0 |
| OPP AST | 26.2 | 15.6 | 4.8 |
| OPP STL | 7.3 | 13.2 | 1.6 |
Now, here’s a table displaying the total average statistics and rankings of the opponents he’ll be up against next week, as well as a column for you to imagine what his averages could be in those games.
| Weeks 10 | |||
| CATEGORY | STAT | RANK | LeVert |
| PACE | 102.6 | 6.3 | 100.7 |
| OPP PTS | 122.7 | 25.5 | ? |
| OPP REB | 47.0 | 25.3 | ? |
| OPP AST | 29.2 | 28.0 | ? |
| OPP STL | 8.1 | 22.3 | ? |
As outlined, you can see that LeVert has demonstrated the ability to meet and exceed expectations when in advantageous game environments. This trend and his success against more competitive opponents should equate to further success against lesser competition. However, while he faces ample opportunities against upcoming opponents, there’s no certainty he’ll capitalize on them.
A part of me suspects this opportunity might be too good to be true and that we could be setting ourselves up for a huge letdown; however, if there were ever a week to deploy LeVert, it’s now. Personally, I’d rather risk a potential letdown with him in my lineup than witness him excel on waivers or, worse, in a competitor’s roster.
Upcoming Week Analysis
The Cavaliers have four games scheduled for the upcoming week, the week of Monday, Jan. 1, 2024:
Armed with an offensive rating of 112.7, Caris LeVert is pivotal in Cleveland’s scoring strategy. Averaging 15.3 points per game, he’s poised to maintain or even improve his scoring against Toronto’s slightly better defensive rating of 114.6. The matchups with Washington and San Antonio are especially promising; Washington’s league-high defensive rating of 121.2 offers an opportunity for LeVert to surpass his scoring averages, while San Antonio’s 118.4 defensive rating hints at more scoring opportunities.
| DATE | OPP | OPP PTS | RANK |
| Mon: Jan. 1 | @TOR | 114.5 | 16th |
| Wed: Jan. 3 | WAS | 126.0 | 30th |
| Fri: Jan. 5 | WAS | 126.0 | 30th |
| Sun: Jan 7 | SAS | 123.0 | 28th |
Cleveland’s typically slower pace can disrupt Washington and San Antonio’s rhythm, benefiting LeVert’s scoring chances. With these varied defensive challenges on the horizon, LeVert’s role as a versatile scorer will be crucial. He’s expected to provide consistent offense against Toronto and exploit defensive gaps against Washington and San Antonio, solidifying his importance in Cleveland’s rotation.
| OPPONENT | GRADE | INSIGHT |
| @TOR | B | Competitive Matchup |
| WAS | A | Defensive Weakness |
| WAS | A- | Defense Adjusted |
| SAS | A | Offensive Opportunity |
On the Radar
Tim Hardaway Jr. (SG, SF – DAL): 60% Rostered – 18.0 PPG – Ranked: 62nd
Waiver Priority: High
Rebounds
Day’Ron Sharpe (C – BKN): 18% Rostered
Sharpe is quietly having an impressive year and is set to continue his solid performance next week. Averaging 7.0 rebounds per game (48th in the league), he’s shown consistency and potential despite limited playing time. Even with Nic Claxton‘s return, Sharpe’s bench role has been effective, boasting a 17.7% usage rate and a 3.7 plus-minus compared to Claxton’s 15.2% and -4.2. Although game flow and usage can challenge efficient players, Sharpe’s reliability and stats make him a valuable multi-category contributor, averaging 0.9 blocks (46th in the league) and 0.5 steals (300th in the league) while shooting solid 56.6% from the floor. If you aim to bolster these categories, Sharpe could be a strategic addition to your lineup this week.
| REBOUND PROFILE | |
| Rebound Percentage | 20.6% |
| Offensive Rebound Percentage | 16.9% |
| Defensive Rebound Percentage | 24.1% |
Upcoming Week Analysis
The Nets have four games this upcoming week, the week of Jan. 1, 2024.
Sharpe’s strong rebounding skills, with a defensive rating of 107.4, make him a key asset for Brooklyn, who already excels as the NBA’s third-ranked team in rebounding. His upcoming matchups offer both challenges and opportunities: New Orleans and Houston, with offensive ratings close to Sharpe’s defensive rating, provide the potential for him to exceed his averages if Brooklyn’s defense forces missed shots. Facing Oklahoma poses a tougher challenge, but it also offers Sharpe a chance to boost his rebounding stats if Brooklyn’s defense disrupts their shot-making. The Portland matchup aligns with Sharpe’s rebounding abilities, critical in a closely contested battle under the boards.
| DATE | OPP | OPP REB | RANK |
| Tues: Jan. 2 | @NOP | 43.9 | T-17th |
| Wed: Jan. 3 | @HOU | 43.6 | 16th |
| Fri: Jan. 5 | OKC | 45.4 | 26th |
| Sun: Jan 7 | POR | 44.7 | 23rd |
Sharpe is poised to significantly impact Brooklyn’s rebounding efforts in these games, maintaining their edge and capitalizing on additional offensive chances, especially against high-tempo teams like Oklahoma. His performance on the glass will be central to Brooklyn’s strategy in the upcoming matchups.
| OPPONENT | GRADE | INSIGHT |
| @NOP | A | Rebounding Leverage |
| @HOU | A- | Opportune Matchup |
| OKC | B+ | Challenging Potential |
| POR | B | Evenly Matched |
On the Radar
Precious Achiuwa (PF, C – NYK): 7% Rostered – 5.4 RPG – Ranked: 90th
Waiver Priority: Low – Speculation Play
Assists
Dante Exum (PG, SG – DAL): 39% Rostered
Exum initially generated buzz when he replaced Kyrie Irving, and while it may have faded, his positive impact on the team remains undeniable. He boasts a team-high offensive rating of 121.4 and a team-best plus-minus of 4.1, showcasing his versatility for the team’s benefit. Although he’s a subtle contributor in multiple categories, we’re highlighting his playmaking skills this week. Exum averages 2.8 assists per game (126th in the league), with an 18.7% assists percentage, ranking third on the team among players with at least 15.0 minutes per game. In his last four games, he averaged 5.3 assists, which would place him 35th in the league. With favorable matchups ahead, Exum is well-positioned to capitalize.
| ASSISTS PROFILE | |
| Assists Percentage | 18.7% |
| Assists Ratio | 26.1 |
| Assists Turnover Ratio | 3.12 |
Upcoming Week Analysis
The Mavericks have four games this upcoming week, the week of Monday, Jan. 1, 2024:
Exum is a dynamic facilitator for Dallas, with a stellar offensive rating of 121.4 and a high assist percentage, indicating his significant role in playmaking. The upcoming games offer opportunities for Exum to shine, especially against Utah and Portland. Utah’s defensive rating of 118.1 creates a favorable scenario for Exum to excel, potentially producing above-average assists. Similarly, Portland’s defense at 115.6 should provide him with opportunities to rack up assists. The matchup with Minnesota presents a tougher challenge due to their defensive rating of 108.1, testing Exum’s offensive versatility.
| DATE | OPP | OPP AST | RANK |
| Mon: Jan. 1 | @UTA | 28.6 | 29th |
| Wed: Jan. 3 | POR | 27.0 | 21st |
| Fri: Jan. 5 | POR | 27.0 | 21st |
| Sun: Jan 7 | MIN | 24.6 | 4th |
These games will assess his playmaking skills in Dallas’s fast-paced style. Exploiting defensive lapses against Utah and Portland while creatively moving the ball against Minnesota’s tighter defense will be crucial for Dallas to maximize assists.
| OPPONENT | GRADE | INSIGHT |
| @UTA | A | Defensive Gaps |
| POR | B+ | Exploitable Defense |
| POR | B | Defense Adjusted |
| MIN | C | Tight Defense |
On the Radar
Malik Monk (SG, SF – SAC): 63% Rostered – 5.2 APG – Ranked: 41st
Waiver Priority: Medium
Steals
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (SG, SF – DEN): 58% Rostered
Pope may not be in the spotlight, but he’s a vital player for Denver, instrumental in the team’s success as reflected in team-based rankings. He ranks second with a plus-minus of 8.8, second with an impressive offensive rating of 123.2, and is first in defensive rating at 110.2 (leading among players logging at least 30.0 minutes). With 1.4 steals per game (19th in the league), he’s poised to capitalize on vulnerable offenses, enhancing your competitive position in this category.
While not a prolific scorer, Pope is a versatile asset contributing across various nuanced offensive categories. He averages 10.2 points (174th in the league) and 1.5 made three-pointers per game (125th in the league). Shooting at 45.7% from the field and 90.2% from the free-throw line, Pope’s consistent performance can enhance your overall offensive strategy. Despite upcoming challenges for the defending champions, Pope is ready to exploit weaknesses in opposing teams.
Upcoming Week Analysis
The Nuggets have four games this upcoming week, the week of Jan. 1, 2024:
Denver holds a mid-league position in steals, and Pope’s 1.4 steals per game against a defensive rating of 110.2 make him a key figure in their defensive lineup. In games against Charlotte, Washington, Orlando and Detroit, Denver’s defensive plan, led by Pope, becomes crucial. Charlotte and Washington present balanced challenges, likely reflecting Denver’s average steals performance with Pope’s consistency as a critical factor. Orlando could pressure Denver’s defense, prompting Pope to disrupt their offensive flow. Detroit offers the most favorable matchup for Pope’s steals, as their offensive rating falls below his defensive mark, making turnovers more likely.
| DATE | OPP | OPP STL | RANK |
| Mon: Jan. 1 | CHA | 7.3 | 16th |
| Thur: Jan. 4 | @GSW | 8.0 | 22nd |
| Fri: Jan. 5 | ORL | 8.0 | 23rd |
| Sun: Jan 7 | DET | 9.1 | 30th |
Denver’s upcoming games provide Pope a platform to exploit opponent vulnerabilities, especially against Detroit. His ability to read plays and make anticipatory moves will be decisive. The team’s slower pace allows them to set up defensively, giving Pope opportunities to increase his steals per game and reinforce Denver’s defensive strategy across these matchups.
| OPPONENT | GRADE | INSIGHT |
| CHA | B | Average Matchup |
| WAS | B+ | Favorable |
| ORL | B- | Slight Challenge |
| DET | A | Highly Favorable |
On the Radar
Xavier Tillman Sr. (PF, C – MEM): 8% Rostered – 1.3 SPG – Ranked: T-33rd
Waiver Priority: Medium-Low
Blocks
Derrick Jones Jr. (SF – DAL): 23% Rostered
I’m sticking with Jones once more. This past week, I recommended him for steals, and now his blocks. Based on his previous week’s performance (1.6 steals and 1.3 blocks per game) and the upcoming schedule, Jones could continue to shine if the team keeps utilizing him the same way. While his cautious play and usage may raise concerns, his talent and consistency make him a solid consideration. Jones averages 0.8 blocks per game (tied for 57th in the league) and 0.8 steals per game (132nd in the league). While not a star player, he provides multi-category value to enhance your competitive edge in this week’s matchups. With the favorable schedule ahead, Jones is set to deliver once again.
Upcoming Week Analysis
The Mavericks have four games this upcoming week, the week of Monday, Jan. 1, 2024:
Dallas, ranking 25th in blocks in the league, could improve defensively with Jones capitalizing on favorable matchups. His defensive rating of 114.3 and 0.8 blocks per game set the stage for potential success against Utah and Portland, both falling short in offensive ratings compared to Dallas’s defensive metrics. Against Portland’s slower pace, Jones may find predictable shot-blocking opportunities. However, facing Minnesota’s offense will test his defensive agility.
| DATE | OPP | OPP BLK | RANK |
| Mon: Jan. 1 | @UTA | 6.4 | 29th |
| Wed: Jan. 3 | POR | 6.3 | 28th |
| Fri: Jan. 5 | POR | 6.3 | 28th |
| Sun: Jan 7 | MIN | 4.7 | 6th |
Dallas’s faster tempo could allow Jones to protect the rim more often, potentially boosting their average blocking stats. In conclusion, Jones’s matchups with Utah and Portland offer promise for increased blocks, while Minnesota challenges his defensive abilities. Dallas’s pace and Jones’s shot-blocking skills may strengthen their defense in these games.
| OPPONENT | GRADE | INSIGHT |
| @UTA | B+ | Favorable |
| POR | A | High Potential |
| POR | A- | Defense Adjusted |
| MIN | C | Challenging |
On the Radar
Trayce Jackson-Davis (PF, C – GSW): 32% Rostered – 3 BPG – Ranked: 81st
Waiver Priority: High
Three-Pointers Made
Grayson Allen (PG, SG – PHO): 55% Rostered
Despite Bradley Beal‘s return potentially impacting Allen’s recent scoring surge, he remains a valuable choice for those seeking to boost their performance in three-pointers and other offensive areas. While there might be some regression, Allen’s versatility benefits multiple categories. Currently averaging 2.4 made three-pointers per game (43rd in the league) with a 45.5% shooting rate beyond the arc (44th in the league), Allen’s value extends beyond scoring.
| SHOOTING PROFILE | ||
| CATEGORY | STAT | RANK |
| Three-Pointers Attempted | 5.3 | 80th |
| Three-Pointers Made | 2.4 | 44th |
| Three-Pointer Percentage | 45.7% | T-44th |
Although teammate Eric Gordon may still serve as a primary complementary scorer, Allen’s utility ensures his continued involvement and impact in the rotation. In addition to three-point shooting, he provides value in points, field-goal percentage, free-throw percentage, and rebounds, averaging 13.1 points (115th in the league) and 4.5 rebounds (127th in the league) per game while shooting 49.6% from the floor (157th in the league) and 90.0% from the free-throw line (tied for 65th in the league). Despite a challenging schedule, Allen has an opportunity to contribute.
Gordon delivered an impressive 21.0 points with 7.0 three-pointers against the Hornets. While his scoring volume may decrease, his increased playing time this season (32.1 minutes per game) suggests potential must-roster status if he can maintain his aggressive offensive game. As a utility asset, Allen contributes to the team’s overall strategy, while Gordon’s value could rise as a key scoring specialist off the bench, with occasional starts depending on game dynamics. Gordon boasts a 17.2% usage rate, averaging 14.0 points (102nd in the league) and 2.8 three-pointers (26th in the league) per game, shooting 42.9% from the field, 40.1% from beyond the arc, and 88.7% from the free-throw line.
| SHOOTING PROFILE | ||
| CATEGORY | STAT | RANK |
| Three-Pointers Attempted | 6.8 | 31st |
| Three-Pointers Made | 2.8 | 26th |
| Three-Pointer Percentage | 41.3% | T-83rd |
Upcoming Week Analysis
The Suns have four games this upcoming week, the week of Jan. 1, 2024:
Phoenix, ranked 24th in three-point production, seeks to boost perimeter scoring led by sharpshooters Allen and Gordon. Their upcoming matchups present varying defensive challenges. Against Portland’s strong defense, they face a tough battle from the arc, requiring precision shooting. Games against Los Angeles and Miami offer a marginally favorable opportunity for these skilled shooters to outperform their averages, as the defensive ratings slightly lag behind their offensive prowess. The most promising matchup is against Memphis, with a lower defensive rating that could be exploited for more three-pointers.
| DATE | OPP | OPP 3PM | RANK |
| Mon: Jan. 1 | POR | 10.8 | 2nd |
| Wed: Jan. 3 | LAC | 12.6 | 13th |
| Fri: Jan. 5 | MIA | 13.6 | 21st |
| Sun: Jan 7 | MEM | 14.2 | 27th |
Phoenix’s offensive prowess and sharpshooters position them well. Allen and Gordon’s adaptability to opposing defenses will be crucial in improving Phoenix’s three-point efficiency in these upcoming matchups.
| OPPONENT | GRADE | INSIGHT |
| POR | B | Tough Defense |
| LAC | B+ | Even Matchup |
| MIA | A- | Slight Edge |
| MEM | A | Best Opportunity |
On the Radar
Malik Monk (SG, SF – SAC): 63% Rostered – 2.5 3PM – Ranked: 39th
Waiver Priority: Medium
Field-Goal Percentage
Jalen Smith (SF, PF – IND): 19% Rostered
Despite a season slowed by injury, Smith is getting back on track with his offensive production. Averaging 10.4 points per game (170th in the league) and shooting an impressive 70.6% from the floor on 5.7 field-goal attempts per game, he’s positioning himself to successfully make a meaningful impact offensively.
| SHOOTING PROFILE | ||
| CATEGORY | STAT | RANK |
| Field-Goals Attempted | 5.7 | 245th |
| Field-Goals Made | 4.0 | 162nd |
| Field-Goal Percentage | 70.6% | 15th |
While the Pacers have a crowded frontcourt, Smith’s two-way abilities help improve pacing and game control as he averages 5.4 rebounds per game (90th in the league) with a team-high 17% rebound rate. Recent starts indicate the team’s interest in expanding Smith’s role. With a consistent and meaningful role, Smith has the potential to elevate his game, reminiscent of his college days at Maryland, where he averaged 10.5 rebounds, 2.4 blocks, and 15.5 points per game in his final season. His talent, combined with the team’s favorable schedule, could lead to promising results.
Upcoming Week Analysis
The Pacers have four games this upcoming week, the week of Jan. 1, 2024:
Smith’s standout offensive rating of 118.0 and a 70.6% field-goal percentage bode well for Indiana’s scoring. Facing teams like Milwaukee and Atlanta with less stringent defenses, Smith can potentially improve his field-goal numbers. Even against Boston’s competitive defense, the disparity suggests he can remain impactful. Smith’s consistency in shooting is key as Indiana faces varying defensive strengths. Their impressive team offensive rating complements Smith’s scoring finesse, promising a strong offensive display in the upcoming matchups.
| DATE | OPP | OPP FG% | RANK |
| Mon: Jan. 1 | @MIL | 46.9% | 15th |
| Wed: Jan. 3 | MIL | 46.9% | 15th |
| Fri: Jan. 5 | ATL | 50.1% | 29th |
| Sat: Jan 6 | BOS | 45.0% | 4th |
| OPPONENT | GRADE | INSIGHT |
| @MIL | B+ | Competitive Matchup |
| MIL | B- | Defensive Adjusted |
| ATL | A | Defense Mismatch |
| BOS | B- | Defensive Challenge |
On the Radar
Alex Caruso (PG, SG, SF – CHI): 42% Rostered – 52.8% FG% – Ranked: T-99th
Waiver Priority:
Medium
Free-Throw Percentage
Immanuel Quickley (PG, SG – TOR): 60% Rostered
Quickley has been able to strengthen his role as a scoring specialist and should be able to produce favorable results for your team’s offensive production overall. While he is shooting an attractive 87.1% from the free-throw line (96th in the league) on 3.2 attempts (82nd in the league), his 15.1 points per game (85th in the league) further increases his fantasy appeal. While it may not be best to rely on him for ample production outside of his scoring, he should be poised to successfully display his offensive utility for his team Raptors team.
On the Radar
Malik Monk (SG, SF – SAC): 63% Rostered – 88.7% FG% – Ranked: 78th
Waiver Priority: Medium
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