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.

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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:

About the Matchup Grades

Grades were developed by comparing players’ stats and team dynamics against opponents’ strengths and weaknesses.

Points

Cole Anthony (PG – ORL): Rostered 62%

With reduced playing time and Markelle Fultz‘s return looming, Cole Anthony’s fantasy appeal has shifted. Despite a drop in overall production this month, he’s increased his scoring significantly compared to last year, averaging 14.8 points per game (ranked 91st). Anthony’s offensive upside shines through his career-low 25.1 minutes per game.

Upcoming Week Analysis

Upcoming favorable games could benefit him, especially with a 24.3% usage rate. His ability to push the tempo and attack the rim complements his multi-category contributions in rebounds and assists (4.2 and 3.6 per game, respectively).

Anthony has an offensive rating of 113.7, a true-shooting% of 58.9% and a plus-minus of 0.5. He also averages 0.7 steals and 0.5 blocks per game while shooting 45.8% from the floor, 38.2% from beyond the arc and 84.1% from the free-throw line.

The Magic have three games this upcoming week:

Anthony’s offensive rating of 113.5 holds up well against Miami’s defense (114.0), suggesting resilience in a tough matchup. His 45.2% field-goal accuracy will be key against Milwaukee, who allows 115.6 points per 100 possessions. The greatest opportunity lies with Indiana’s defense (120.4), where Anthony’s average of 14.8 points per game positions him to potentially excel in a high-scoring affair. This succinct overview highlights Anthony as a crucial contributor in Orlando’s upcoming games, especially poised to capitalize against Indiana’s defense.

On the Radar

Collin Sexton (PG, SG – UTA): 65% – 14.3 PPG – Rank:100th

Waiver Priority: Very High

Rebounds

Dario Saric (PF, C – GSW): Rostered 40%

With Draymond Green suspended indefinitely, the Warriors must find solutions to improve squad cohesion. Dario Saric offers consistent value production, especially in rebounding (averaging 5.8 per game, ranked 76th). With Green absent, Saric has a chance to fill the rebounding gap. Upcoming games favor Saric’s rebound production, creating opportunities against vulnerable opponent defenses.

He contributes across categories with points, efficiency and three-pointers made. Saric has a usage rate of 19.4% and a plus-minus of 2.3. He also averages 21.3 minutes, 10.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.6 steals and 0.2 blocks per game while shooting 46.5% from the floor, 39.0% from beyond the arc and 82.0% from the free-throw line.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Warriors have three games this upcoming week:

With a defensive rating of 110.8 and a strong defensive rebound percentage of 19.30%, Saric is well-equipped to face the varied offensive threats of Boston (118.2), Washington (111.5) and Portland (108.0).

His rebounding consistency is expected to shine, particularly against Washington’s fast-paced game, which is conducive to Golden State’s style and could amplify Saric’s rebounding opportunities. Despite Boston’s offensive prowess, Saric’s ability to perform under pressure suggests he will remain a key rebounder in this tougher matchup. His skills will likely contribute positively against Portland, exploiting their lower offensive output. Overall, Saric’s metrics signal a player ready to capitalize on rebounding opportunities, regardless of the opponent’s offensive ratings.

On the Radar

Brandin Podziemski (SG – GSW) | 40% Rostered – REB: 5.0 – Rank: 107th

Waiver Priority: Very High

Assists

Kris Dunn (PG – UTA): Rostered 3%

Kris Dunn may not be a long-term roster asset, but for streaming purposes this week, Dunn can get it, well, “done.” His rates within the context of his limited opportunities on the floor this year are impressive and are pacing his averages from last season. When speculatively doubling his amount of time on the floor, his production closely tracks with the promising productivity he exhibited across 22 games in 2022-2023.

Although he is currently averaging 2.7 assists per game this season (ranked 124^th), his rate has increased substantially to an average of 5.5 per game, good for 33^rd in the league. This kind of production can be a considerable game changer, especially for those looking to bolster their production in assists. With the team’s backcourt uncertainty due to injuries and potential trades, he could see valuable opportunities.

Dunn has a usage rate of 17.1% and a plus-minus of -0.3. He averages 13.8 minutes, 4.8 points, 2.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 0.6 steals and 0.1 blocks per game while shooting 46.2% from the field, 36.4% from beyond the arc and 60.0% from the free-throw line.

Upcoming Week Analysis

Despite some backcourt movement, Dunn offers consistent value, especially for this upcoming week. The Jazz have four games this upcoming week:

Dunn, with a commendable offensive rating of 111.1 and averaging 2.7 assists per game, is well-positioned against teams like Brooklyn, Detroit and Toronto. These opponents, with defensive ratings of 115.4, 118.7, and 114.9, respectively, typically allow high assist numbers – aligning with Utah’s own average of 26.7 assists per game. Dunn’s efficiency is further highlighted by his assist-to-turnover ratio of 2.23, indicating reliable ball handling and playmaking.

Utah’s game pace, slightly faster than Brooklyn and Toronto, could create additional assist opportunities for Dunn. However, Detroit’s pace, faster than Utah’s, might pose a unique challenge. Cleveland, with a lower defensive rating of 111.9 and allowing only 24.3 assists per game, stands as the toughest opponent. This matchup could significantly test Dunn’s ability to generate assists against a more stringent defense.

Dunn’s combination of individual skill and team dynamics sets him up for potentially high assist production, particularly against Brooklyn, Detroit and Toronto, with Cleveland being a critical test of his playmaking adaptability.

On the Radar

Reggie Jackson (PG – DEN) | 31% Rostered – AST: 4.6 – Rank: 60^th

Waiver Priority: Medium

Steals

Caris LeVert (SG, SF – CLE): Rostered 50%

With Darius Garland and Evan Mobley sidelined, Caris LeVert has a chance to step up for your fantasy lineup. While he’s been inconsistent, the increased need for production favors him. LeVert’s versatile skill set can fill gaps in production for the team as they navigate the season. Though he’s on waivers and rostered in only 30% of leagues due to trust issues, LeVert’s opportunity and upcoming games make him a strong option for this week. He can contribute in steals, with a rate of 1.1 (ranked 67th), adding to his overall value.

The possible demand for production in the Cavaliers team is high, and LeVert’s utility could lead to a more prominent role in executing the team’s strategy. However, watch his health and assess game environments as he may play aggressively, which can lead to positive returns or injury risk. Despite the uncertainty, LeVert has potential, skill, and opportunity, making him a reasonable choice for this week’s matchups. Leveraging players with boom or bust tendencies, like him, can be advantageous, especially in favorable game environments.

LeVert has a usage rate of 22.8% and a plus-minus of 0.1. He averages 29.9 minutes, 15.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.5 blocks per game while shooting 42.0% from the floor, 31.7% from beyond the arc and 74.1% from the free-throw line.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Cavaliers have four games this upcoming week:

LeVert’s prospects for steals in the upcoming games are encouraging, particularly when facing the faster-paced New Orleans and a Utah team that ranks lower in steal prevention. While Cleveland’s team defensive rating of 111.9 doesn’t place them at the forefront defensively, LeVert’s personal contribution of 1.1 steals per game highlights his individual defensive capabilities.

The varying paces of upcoming opponents, from Houston’s slower 97.6 to New Orleans’ brisk 101.02, present a mixed landscape where LeVert’s agility and foresight could offset the team’s broader defensive challenges. Despite the potential for reduced steal opportunities against the more offensively potent Chicago (112.1 offensive rating) and methodical Houston, LeVert’s adeptness at anticipating plays could still lead to impactful defensive moments. LeVert’s steal potential stands out as a key defensive asset for Cleveland, poised to make a significant impact irrespective of the opposing teams’ offensive prowess.

On the Radar

Saddiq Bey (SF, PF – ATL) | 58% Rostered – STL: 1.1 – Rank: 63^rd

Waiver Priority: High

Blocks

Tari Eason (SF, PF – HOU): Rostered 54%

Tari Eason is my favorite acquisition on the waiver wire. He has everything working for him and is an absolute stud as a multi-categorical asset. Eason can block, steal, rebound, shoot the three, is efficient from the floor and can score. What is there not to like about this talent? With Houston’s impressive defense and ability to manage tempo, his ability to make high-value plays defensively while doing all the little things to make a significant impact has become an inseparable characteristic of his play style.

Yes, the buildup of his production level to this point has taken some time. While there could be some concerns about his health and durability, Eason consistently shows signs of improvement, making him a valuable long-term asset. Averaging 1.0 blocks per game (ranked 35th), he boosts your lineup’s utility and cross-category value, fitting any strategy. Houston’s defensive identity and methodical play may affect his early-game output but can lead to increased steals. Eason’s stat line might not be flashy, but he consistently contributes in multiple categories.

Eason has a usage rate of 18.1% and a plus-minus of 6.1. He averages 20.3 minutes, 9.0 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.8 steals and 1.0 blocks per game while shooting 48.3% from the floor, 44.1% from beyond the arc and 62.5% from the free-throw line.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Rockets have four games this upcoming week:

With a defensive rating of 95.7 and an average of 1 block per game, Eason is set to capitalize on his upcoming matchups, especially against Atlanta, which allows a higher number of blocks (5.9 per game) and plays at a fast pace (102.49).

Despite Houston’s slower team pace of 97.6, Eason’s personal metrics indicate he could outperform in games against faster teams like Dallas (pace 100.82) and New Orleans (pace 101.02), both with offensive ratings north of 114. Even facing Cleveland, whose offensive rating (111.8) mirrors Houston’s defensive challenges, Eason’s individual defensive skills position him to potentially exceed the team’s average block production, underscoring his value as a standout defender.

On the Radar

Goga Bitadze (C – ORL) | 39% Rostered – BLK: 1.7 – Rank: 14^th

Waiver Priority: High

Three-Pointers

Sam Hauser (SF, PF – BOS): Rostered 17%

Sam Hauser leads Boston’s three-point shooting. He averages 2.6 made threes per game (ranked 34th), while offering value in niche categories like field goal and free throw percentage. While it may not seem exciting to prioritize a roster spot for a slight increase in three-pointers made, these niche categories are crucial for matchup outcomes. Neglecting them today can cost you later. Hauser provides consistency and can make a difference in close matchups.

In a sport where small margins matter, Hauser’s reliable performance in skilled categories is invaluable. Adding him can boost your production potential, especially in three-pointers, a category where you can significantly impact your competitive position. Acquiring Hauser is an advantageous move. He boasts a true shooting percentage of 67.5%, an offensive rating of 115.0 and a usage rate of 14.0%. He averages 22.6 minutes, 9.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.6 steals and 0.3 blocks per game while shooting 47.3% FG, 44.9% 3P and 80.0% FT.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Celtics have three games this upcoming week:

Hauser enters the matchups against Golden State and Sacramento as a reliable three-point shooter, boasting an offensive rating of 115 and averaging 2.6 three-pointers per game. Despite Boston’s pace, Hauser’s individual efficiency, paired with Boston’s offensive rating of 118.2, hints at the potential to exploit the opponent’s defenses, which hover around the mid-114s in ratings.

Golden State and Sacramento’s quicker game tempo may provide Hauser with more shooting opportunities, emphasizing the need for Boston to finetune their offensive execution. Although not overwhelmingly in Boston’s favor, the comparative analysis of offensive and defensive metrics suggests a cautiously optimistic outlook for Hauser’s three-point production in these contests.

On the Radar

Duncan Robinson (SG, SF – MIA) | 49% Rostered – 3 PM: 3.1 – Rank: T-14^th

Wavier Priority: High

Field-Goal Percentage

Dante Exum (PG – DAL): Rostered 42%

Dante Exum has been performing well in recent starts alongside Luka Doncic, showing promise across various categories that may not be fully reflected in his current stats. While relying on his production tied to others’ health and momentum might feel uncertain, Exum’s potential goes beyond luck. He’s shaping up as a promising multi-category asset, though it’s wise to temper expectations due to the limited sample size.

Instead of relying on him as a standalone contributor, consider using him as a day-to-day streamer to tap into his potential upside without overconfidence.

Exum boasts an impressive 56.0% field goal rate (66th in the league) and an average of 17.0 points per game this month, showing scoring potential. While the sample size is small, his versatility can complement various categorical strategies and deepen your lineup.

He has a true shooting% of 64.8%, an offensive rating of 123.9, a usage rate of 17.5% and a plus-minus of 5.0. He averages 16.1 minutes, 8.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 0.5 steals and 0.2 blocks per game while shooting 56.0% from the floor, 42.9% from beyond the arc and 70.0% from the free-throw line.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Mavericks have four games this upcoming week:

Exum’s impressive 56.0% shooting and 123.9 offensive rating bode well for Dallas in the upcoming games. Despite facing strong defensive teams like Los Angeles and Houston, his scoring prowess should help Dallas capitalize on their offensive strategies. While the pace might vary, particularly against faster teams like San Antonio, Exum is expected to adapt and find scoring opportunities. Overall, his efficiency positions him to be a key contributor to Dallas’s success across these matchups.

On the Radar

Duncan Robinson (SG, SF – MIA) | 49% Rostered – FG 47.9% – Rank: 182^nd

Waiver Priority: High

Free-Throw Percentage

Jalen Suggs (PG, SG – ORL): Rostered 56%

Why isn’t Jalen Suggs in the steals section? It’s about validity and reliability. Limited opportunities can inflate free-throw percentages, leading to a potentially unsustainable ranking. However, Suggs’ recent performance and 82.8% free-throw shooting (155th in the league) enhance his value as a multi-category contributor. Suggs scores, steals and shoots threes, leveraging his skills effectively on the floor.

While he might be a slow burn in games, his consistent output is reliable. His conservative style aligns with the team’s methodical approach, which has been successful. This winning position could continue to benefit Suggs for immediate and long-term success.

Suggs has an offensive rating of 11.11, a usage percentage of 19.4% and a plus-minus of 1.0. He averages 26.2 minutes, 12.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.7 steals and 0.6 blocks per game while shooting 46.7% from the floor, 38.2% from beyond the arc and 82.8% from the free-throw line.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Magic have three games this upcoming week:

Bennedict Mathurin (SG, SF – IND): Rostered 51%

Bennedict Mathurin excels at getting to the free-throw line, a valuable strategy for a niche category. He boasts an 83.5% free-throw shooting rate (138th in the league), though the high volume comes with some risk. Still, it can lead to significant offensive production through points. He’s a solid choice for offensive-minded managers looking to gain an advantage with single contributors. Despite occasional fluctuations in field-goal percentage, having a player who attempts nearly as many free throws as shots can be advantageous.

Mathurin has an offensive rating of 105.9, a usage rate of 22.4% and a plus-minus of -1.0. He averages 21.2 minutes, 12.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists and and 0.3 steals per game while shooting 51.5% from the floor, 38.5% from beyond the arc and 84.6% from the free-throw line.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Pacers have four games this upcoming week:

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