Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 13 (2024)

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.

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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

Tim Hardaway Jr. (SG, SF – DAL): 60% Rostered

Although he can be streaky at times, Tim Hardaway Jr. is still averaging 18.1 points per game this season (ranked 63rd in the league) and warrants serious roster consideration for those looking for an asset with the potential to significantly bolster their offensive production. While he may not contribute significantly in rebounds or assists, his value lies in more nuanced categories like three-pointers made, field-goal percentage and free-throw percentage.

The hesitancy in rostering Hardaway Jr. is understandable, as investing in a scoring-dependent asset is less than ideal. However, his game log shows more odds in favor of positive outcomes than you may have initially perceived.

His volume, usage and potential upside as part of this rotation could be hard to pass on, especially with the limited selection of competitive options on the waiver wire. There’s a strong likelihood that he will find himself with several opportunities to continue providing ample scoring production, making him an intriguing fantasy asset to consider for your rotation this week.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Mavericks have four games this upcoming week. Averaging 118.5 points per game (seventh in the league), they are poised to take advantage of their upcoming matchups. Their key strength lies in their high pace of play (ninth in the league), allowing them to control the tempo and create scoring opportunities. They have a clear offensive advantage against the Suns (15th OPP PTS), Hawks (27th OPP PTS) and Kings (21st OPP PTS), who typically allow more opportunities for offensive production. The Mavericks should be able to exploit these matchups, allowing Hardaway the chance to display his offensive prowess. Facing the Celtics (fourth in OPP PTS) presents a tougher challenge. However, the Mavericks can leverage their pace (100.81) to push the tempo and disrupt their defense by imposing their offensively focused game script.

Overall, the Mavericks’ offensive rating of 117.5 and Hardaway Jr.’s offensive rating of 117.9 should bode well for the team and his production. While the Celtics, sporting a defensive rating of 110.3, pose a sizable threat to Dallas’ offensive success, staying in attack mode by leveraging Hardaway’s aggressive offensive play can keep the Mavericks competitive. Matchups with the Suns, Hawks and Kings provide less resistance due to their poorer defensive grades, giving the team and Hardaway Jr. more chances to exploit their vulnerabilities.

On the Radar

Alec Burks (PG, SG, SF – DET): 35% Rostered – 12.7 PPG – Ranked: 125th

Waiver Priority: Medium

Rebounds

Jeremy Sochan (PG, PF – SAS): 53% Rostered

Jeremy Sochan has been a frequent addition to the article this year. With him moving back to his more traditional role, we will continue to see his name on this list if he is still under-rostered. He is averaging 5.6 rebounds per game (ranked 79th in the league) and has been on a tear, demonstrating the versatility we all knew existed. His sudden outburst of production shouldn’t come as a surprise and could merely be the tip of the iceberg for his future contribution. Sochan seems poised to make good on the pre-season hype he received earlier this season, and these coming weeks could potentially be the last time he’ll be readily available.

With the first half of the season coming to a close, the Spurs find themselves in a delicate position of having to decide whether to compete on the floor or in the lottery. While this could lead to some production risks due to game management and usage, it doesn’t seem likely that coach Gregg Popovich will go out of his way to compete for the latter. I would expect the Spurs to compete to the best of their abilities and position their assets for success, allowing Sochan to remain competitive in his production moving forward. With the Spurs slated for eight games over the next two weeks, he could be an excellent investment for maximizing player value.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Spurs have four games this upcoming week. They average 43.0 rebounds per game (22nd in the league), indicating room for improvement; however, their 102.67 pace of play (ranked third in the league) offers them more chances for rebounds.

Against the 76ers (16th in OPP REB), the Spurs face moderate resistance. The matchups with the Thunder (26th in OPP REB) and Trail Blazers (24th in OPP REB) present more favorable conditions for San Antonio to exploit with their speed. However, the Timberwolves (third in OPP REB) pose a formidable challenge. The Spurs must focus on efficient rebounding and quality possessions to gain a competitive edge.

San Antonio’s defensive rating of 117.8 points to potential will struggle against the Sixers and Thunder, who average a 119.7 offensive rating. Against the Trail Blazers, who sport a 107.6 offensive rating, the Spurs can find more success by capitalizing on their offensive inefficiencies and increasing rebounding opportunities. Meanwhile, with a 114.0 offensive rating, the Timberwolves offer a moderate opportunity for the team to exploit offensive vulnerabilities. In all cases, Sochan will be crucial in the team’s efforts to remain competitive, with the Spurs ultimately needing to leverage their elite pace and Sochan’s rebounding prowess to overcome defensive hurdles.

On the Radar

Derek Lively II (C – DAL): 60% Rostered – 7.8 RPG – Ranked: 34th

Waiver Priority: Medium-High

Assists

Killian Hayes (PG, SG – DET): 8% Rostered

Despite a lackluster season, we can’t deny that Killian Hayes has excelled in raking up assists, averaging 4.9 per game (ranked 55th in the league). His current streak with at least five assists in each of his last nine games bodes well for his Week 13 value potential, as he should be able to sustain and build on his production.

While his performance in other categories may not be as impressive, he does offer potential in steals and even points when game flow allows for it. Hayes could be a valuable addition for teams with a flexible rotation looking to double down on bolstering their competitive position in this category and potentially more.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Pistons have four games this upcoming week. They possess an assist rate of 26.5 per game (14th in the league) and a 101.34 pace (sixth in the league), setting the stage for them to capitalize on their upcoming opponents’ defensive vulnerabilities. The Wizards present the most favorable matchup (30th in OPP AST), with a rapid pace affording more assist opportunities for the Pistons. While playing at a slower pace, the Hornets concede a considerable number of assists (27th in OPP AST). When facing the Bucks and the Thunder, who do a better job of limiting opponent assists (19th and 17th in OPP AST, respectively) and who run at a more competitive pace, Detroit will need to focus on capitalizing on any defensive lapses that may result from them pushing the pace.

Even with an offensive rating of 110.4, the Pistons should be equipped to exploit the defensive vulnerabilities of the Hornets and Wizards (120.7 defensive ratings) by deploying an aggressive offensive approach. Greater challenges await against the Bucks and Thunder (116.9 and 111.7 defensive rating, respectively). However, they can be overcome if Detroit can find a way to lean on Hayes’ ability as a facilitator to execute a more methodically opportunistic script to maximize their assist potential.

On the Radar

Jeremy Sochan (PG, PF – SAS): 53% Rostered – 4.0 APG – Ranked: 79th

Waiver Priority: High

Steals

Alex Caruso (PG, SG – CHI): 49% Rostered

Alex Caruso, a skilled defender, provides understated value as a two-way player across multiple categories with 1.4 steals (ranked 22nd in the league) and 0.9 blocks (ranked 51st in the league) per game while maintaining an impressive shooting rate of 49.4% from the floor and 41.7% from beyond the arc. Although the impact of his game may appear to be more conservative and less apparent in the box score, Caruso’s balanced and nuanced game provides intangible benefits, like game-flow-altering stops and quality team possessions, making him a solid choice for those looking to fortify their lineup with a reliable multi-categorical contributor.

Upcoming Week Analysis

Chicago has three games this upcoming week. The Bulls, with their notable average of 7.8 steals per game and a rank of ninth in the NBA, are strategically positioned to exploit opponents with high turnover rates. Their matchup against the Trail Blazers (30th in OPP STL) is particularly favorable, as Portland ranks last in guarding against steals, offering the Bulls numerous opportunities for defensive plays. The Lakers present another exploitable matchup (27th in OPP STL), as their offensive rating is marginally lower than the Bulls’ defensive rating, suggesting that the Bulls have a fair chance to disrupt their play and force turnovers. This matchup could see the Bulls’ defense, especially the agile Caruso with his defensive rating of 108.7, thrive by creating pressure situations that lead to steals.

While the Suns (23rd in OPP STL), with a higher offensive rating of 117.1, represent a tougher opponent, the Bulls’ proven ability to generate steals indicates they can still take advantage of any offensive missteps made by offensively talented teams. Chicago should be able to maintain their defensive intensity across these games. The Trail Blazers should allow for more aggressive play, whereas the Lakers will require a more focused effort to penetrate their offense. The Suns will test the Bulls’ defensive resolve, but with strategic positioning and imposing play, Chicago could see continued success. Caruso’s expected contributions could be decisive in tilting these matchups in the Bulls’ favor.

On the Radar

Dillon Brooks (SG, SF – HOU): 38% Rostered – 1.0 SPG – Ranked: 79th

Waiver Priority: Medium

Blocks

Naz Reid (PF, C – MIN): 66% Rostered

Naz Reid has been a solid producer off the bench for the Timberwolves this season, and his 66% roster rate is a testament to his known value contribution. However, we could see him take his production to a new level this week. Reid’s ability to contribute as a two-way player should bode well for the team, as he could be poised and positioned to take advantage of some of the more exploitable matchups on the horizon.

Reid is averaging 0.7 blocks (ranked 87th in the league) and 0.8 steals (ranked 168th in the league) per game and could find himself on the brink of putting together another production tear like the one he produced the first week of January. While his averages of 0.7 blocks (ranked 87th) and 0.8 steals (ranked 168th) per game may not seem eye-catching, his recent four-block performance against the Thunder highlights his potential for increased production. Reid’s talent, opportunity and upcoming matchup advantages could point to higher-than-normal output in this category and across the board.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Timberwolves have four games this upcoming week. Minnesota, sixth in the league for block production, has a notable defensive edge, especially against teams weaker in block prevention like the Hornets and Wizards (21st and 23rd in OPP BLK, respectively). This scenario suggests the potential for Minnesota to exceed their block averages in these games. However, facing the Nets and Spurs, who are better at limiting blocks (eighth and fourth in OPP BLK, respectively), will demand more strategic defensive play from the Timberwolves. Their slower game pace, ranked 24th in the league, might impact block opportunities. However, matchups against faster-paced teams like the Wizards and Spurs could offer more defensive opportunities, including blocks if the Timberwolves adjust well to the tempo.

Reid, with a personal defensive rating of 105.1 and averaging 0.7 blocks per game, shows promise in contributing to blocks, particularly against the Hornets and Spurs, where his defensive skills align well with the opponents’ offensive ratings. The challenge for Reid lies in maintaining his defensive effectiveness against the more aggressive offenses of the Wizards and Nets. The strategic disruption of opponents’ scoring for Reid and the collective defensive pressure of the Timberwolves should lead to defensive success in these winnable matchups.

On the Radar

Derek Lively II (C – DAL): 60% Rostered – 1.4 BPG – Ranked: 20th

Waiver Priority: Medium

Three-Pointers Made

Brandon Miller (SG, SF – CHA): 54% Rostered

Brandon Miller’s rookie season has been impressive, earning him a substantial role in the rotation. Averaging a healthy 14.5 points and 2.1 three-pointers made per game, he has become a reliable scoring asset, boasting respectable shooting percentages of 42.3% from the floor, 36.7% from beyond the arc and 81.4% from the free-throw line.

While his upside is somewhat capped due to his scoring dependency and, at times, all-or-nothing play, Miller offers a reliable scoring floor and understated value, albeit limited as a multi-categorical contributor. With the team set to play eight games over the next two weeks, he could become a worthwhile and intriguing waiver option for fantasy managers, especially as we approach the season’s halfway point.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Hornets have four games this upcoming week. Charlotte, ranked 26^th in the league for three-pointers made, faces varied challenges in their upcoming games. They could struggle against the Timberwolves (fourth in OPP 3PM), Pistons (eighth in OPP 3PM) and Rockets (10^th in OPP 3PM), who excel in three-point defense, posing a significant hurdle given the Hornets’ existing difficulties in this area. However, the matchup against the Jazz (27^th in OPP 3PM) appears more promising, with the Jazz’s lower defensive efficacy in three-pointers providing an opportunity for the Hornets to improve their performance.

Game pace is also crucial; faster-paced games against the Pistons and Jazz could lead to more three-point attempts, while slower games against the Timberwolves and Rockets may limit opportunities.

For the Hornets and Miller, the offensive strategy should be tailored to exploit the defensive gaps of the Pistons, Rockets and Jazz, where they have an edge due to the opponents’ higher defensive ratings. The Timberwolves game, however, presents a balanced challenge, requiring strategic shooting. Success for the Hornets and Miller hinges on adapting their three-point shooting approach to each opponent’s defensive characteristics and the pace of each game.

On the Radar

Alec Burks (PG, SG, SF – DET): 35% Rostered – 2.3 3PM – Ranked: 51st

Waiver Priority: Medium

Luke Kennard (PG, SG – MEM): 31% Rostered – 2.5 3PM – Ranked: 38th

Waiver Priority: Medium-Low

Field-Goal Percentage

Jaden McDaniels (SF, PF – MIN): 49% Rostered

Jaden McDaniels’ recent offensive contributions, averaging 11.0 points per game, and defensive impact with 0.8 steals per game have been noteworthy. His impressive 52.3% shooting from the floor showcases his value as a versatile player capable of making a difference on multiple fronts.

The Timberwolves are in a favorable position to build their momentum leading into the All-Star break, and McDaniels seems poised to be a crucial part of their success. If he can continue to deliver consistent performances, it could significantly enhance his immediate and long-term value, further benefiting this competitive Minnesota ball club and our lineups.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Timberwolves have four games this upcoming week. Minnesota, ranking seventh in the league for field-goal percentage, is set to leverage its shooting efficiency in its upcoming games. They hold a notable advantage against the Hornets and Wizards, who are lower-ranked in field-goal percentage defense (27^th and 28^th in OPP FG%, respectively). This suggests an opportunity for the Timberwolves to potentially exceed their usual efficiency in these matchups. The challenge increases against the Nets (11^th in OPP FG%), necessitating strategic shot selection and offensive adjustments. Similarly, the Spurs (23^rd in OPP FG%) present a somewhat favorable matchup, but the Timberwolves may need to adapt to the game’s quicker pace.

McDaniels, with an offensive rating of 116.7 and a 52.3% field-goal percentage, is well-positioned to excel, especially against the Hornets and Wizards. Their higher defensive ratings suggest vulnerabilities that McDaniels can exploit. While the Nets and Spurs pose more of a challenge, the Timberwolves’ and McDaniels’ offensive strengths should give them an edge. The team and McDaniels are equipped to capitalize on their offensive skills, particularly against teams with weaker defensive records.

On the Radar

Marvin Bagley III (PF, C – WAS): 54% Rostered – 57.8 FG% – Ranked: 60th

Waiver Priority: Medium-High

Free-Throw Percentage

Dillon Brooks (SG, SF – HOU): 38% Rostered

Dillon Brooks’ return to the team has been notable, and he wasted no time making an impact. Averaging 13.4 points per game with impressive shooting percentages, including 46.4% from the field, 39.2% from beyond the arc and 83.1% from the free-throw line, he brings efficiency to the Rockets’ offense. His ability to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line (2.2 attempts per game) showcases his aggressive playmaking ability, and with Jalen Green struggling to remain consistent in his production, his aggressive approach could position him well to reassume his crucial role as one of the team’s primary offensive weapons.

The Rocket’s first game is on Wednesday, giving managers ample time to assess their production needs for the remainder of the week without being too premature with their weekly adds. While the Rockets have three games this week, the following week offers four games, providing an extended chance for Brooks to find his rhythm and capitalize on his significant role in the offense. Brooks is an enticing fantasy asset to consider for managers looking for a player who can make an immediate impact and potentially be a game-changer.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Rockets have three games this upcoming week:

On the Radar

Alec Burks (PG, SG, SF – DET): 35% Rostered – 90.0 FG% – Ranked: 53rd

Waiver Priority: Medium

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