Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 15 (2024)

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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): 65% Rostered

Tim Hardaway Jr. could be an intriguing addition to your lineup this week due to his multifaceted offensive abilities. His role, volume, talent, and confidence make him a compelling choice. While his efficiency may vary from game to game, he consistently generates the necessary results to outweigh any concerns about his playing style. Averaging 18.3 points, 63rd in the league, proving his scoring prowess. What’s even more impressive is his ability to score from various areas of the court, whether it’s from the floor, beyond the arc, or at the free-throw line. This versatility offers insurance that he can contribute in multiple ways, making him an asset.

While the week’s matchups may present some challenges, Hardaway has a knack for rising to the occasion and competing effectively against tough competition. The Mavericks’ competitive schedule provides the perfect stage for him to demonstrate his offensive prowess and adaptability. Hardaway is not only a reliable contributor but also has the potential to be a game-changer in your matchups this week. His ability to deliver results and adapt to different situations puts him in must-acquire territory for your rotation.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Mavericks have three games for the remainder of this week. Dallas, with an impressive scoring average of 118.2 points per game that ranks them 10th in the league, is strategically positioned to capitalize on their upcoming matchups by exploiting the defensive vulnerabilities of their opponents.

Their game is characterized by a high pace, ranked 8th in the league, indicating a preference for fast transitions to capitalize on scoring opportunities—a style that plays well with Hardaway’s offensive talents. Hardaway, boasting an impressive player offensive rating of 117.0 and averaging 17.9 points per game, emerges as a pivotal asset in the Mavericks’ offensive schema, even as he seeks to improve a 41.7% field-goal percentage.

The Mavericks are presented with a golden opportunity against the Nets and the Thunder, whose defensive metrics suggest a potential mismatch favorable to Dallas. The Nets (16th in OPP PTS) and Thunder (12th in OPP PTS), with a defensive rating that eludes to their vulnerabilities to talented offenses, are favorable matchups ripe for exploitation by the Mavericks’ dynamic offense. The Knicks present a formidable challenge for the Mavericks (2nd in OPP PTS). However, Dallas’ strategic agility and Hardaway’s scoring acumen offer a viable path to success.

Dallas’ upcoming games are a litmus test for their high-octane offense and Hardaway’s role as a key contributor. By leveraging their swift pace and Hardaway’s offensive capabilities, they aim to penetrate the defenses of the Nets and Thunder while adopting a nuanced approach against the Knicks’ stringent defense. Through tactical gameplay and optimal utilization of Hardaway’s scoring potential, the Mavericks should be well-equipped to navigate their imminent challenges, maximizing their scoring output and exploiting their opponents’ defensive frailties.

On the Radar

Caris LeVert (SG,SF – CLE): 46% Rostered – 15.3 PPG – Ranked: 91st

• Waiver Priority: Medium-High
• Opponents (Wk. 15): @WAS, @BKN, @TOR
• Average OPP PTS (Wk. 15): 119.0
• Average OPP PTS Rank (Wk. 15): 22nd
• Number of Games: 3
• Hold Length: Weeks 15 – 16

Rebounds

Nick Richards (C – CHA): 52% Rostered

Nick Richards continues to be a standout player, earning his spot on this list once more, this time for his exceptional rebounding prowess. His ability to dominate the boards is his key asset, and he’s expected to maintain his success in this area. Although I had hoped that Richards’ impressive 26-point performance against the Jazz would indicate that increased offensive production would become a regular occurrence, his scoring consistency hasn’t quite matched that game since. However, this hasn’t hindered his impact on the defensive end.

Averaging 7.9 rebounds, 36th in the league, and 1.3 blocks per game, 19th in the league, Richards provides a unique blend of value that can boost your team’s performance in various niche categories. He’s essentially matchup-proof when it comes to rebounding, making him a crucial cornerstone for your team’s production floor. Richards’ versatility also opens opportunities for you to explore the waiver wire to address other needs without compromising your contributions in mainstream categories.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Hornets have three games for the remainder of this week. Charlotte will be navigating a pivotal week with matchups that spotlight their rebounding capabilities, currently positioned at 29th in the league with an average of 40.8 rebounds per game. This statistic sets a challenging but not insurmountable backdrop for their encounters against the Raptors, Bucks, and Grizzlies. The Hornets’ moderate game pace, coupled with the upcoming games’ dynamics, unfolds a nuanced game environment for rebounding production, particularly highlighting the crucial role of Richards in bolstering the Hornets’ efforts on the boards.

The matchup with the Grizzlies emerges as the most promising opportunity for rebounding success, given the Grizzlies’ less competitive standing in preventing opponent rebounds (28th in OPP REB). This matchup, contrasted against the mid-tier defensive rebounding rankings of the Raptors and Bucks (17th and 16th, respectively, in OPP REB), delineates a range of rebounding outcomes for the Hornets.

Richards, with a defensive rating of 107.3 and an average of 7.9 rebounds per game, stands as an integral source of potential production in these would-be tactical game environments. His performance is anticipated to be especially pivotal against the Grizzlies, where his ability to exploit the defensive gaps could significantly elevate the Hornets’ rebounding numbers.

The Hornets find themselves in line for some heated competition where strategic exploitation of their opponent’s weaknesses and Richards’ rebounding prowess could pivot their rebounding production toward more favorable outcomes. The Hornets’ approach to these matchups, particularly against the Grizzlies, could serve as a testament to their capacity to adapt and excel in rebounding despite their season-long challenges.

Through manufactured game planning and the leveraging of Richards’ capabilities, the Hornets have an opportunity to redefine their rebounding narrative this week, marking a critical phase in their ongoing quest to maintain some level of competitive character fitting for a professional ball club.

On the Radar

Saddiq Bey (PF,SF – ATL): 49% Rostered – 7.9 RPG – Ranked: 35th

• Waiver Priority: Medium
• Opponents (Wk. 15): @BOS, @PHI, HOU
• Average OPP REB (Wk. 15): 44.3
• Average OPP REB Rank (Wk. 15): 20th
• Hold Length: Weeks 15 – 16
• Number of Games: 3

Assists

Malik Monk (SF,SG – SAC): 65% Rostered

Malik Monk’s recent resurgence is something to get excited about. Averaging 14.6 points, 96th in the league, and connecting on 2.3 three-pointers per game, he’s certainly an attractive prospect. However, while this is impressive, the real focus should be on his playmaking ability, with an average of 5.3 assists, 38^th in the league, per game. Monk’s capacity to consistently contribute across various statistical categories makes him a versatile asset for your lineup.

Despite facing formidable opponents this week, Monk’s current form and his potential to sustain positive production runs across different categories make him an ideal asset worth considering if you’re looking to bolster your lineup’s offensive profile. Acquiring Monk could prove to be a wise move that can significantly enhance your team’s performance in multiple areas.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Kings have three games for the remainder of this week. Sacramento, boasting an impressive average of 28.7 assists per game, 5th in the league, and a dynamic pace of 100.42, 11th in the league, is strategically positioned for their matchups this week.

This blend of high assist productivity and aggressive gameplay equips the Kings to compete and potentially outmaneuver the defensive game plans of their opponents. With games against the Pistons, Nuggets, and Thunder on the horizon, each presents a distinct challenge in terms of their ability to limit opponent assist production; however, the Kings’ proficiency in ball distribution and execution sets a promising stage for offensive production.

Monk emerges as a key component in this strategic offensive operation, wielding an offensive rating of 115.1 alongside an average of 5.3 assists per game, highlighting his crucial role in the Kings’ playmaking endeavors. His ability to dissect the Pistons’ moderate assist defense (15th in OPP AST) and navigate through the more formidable barriers posed by the Nuggets (7th in OPP AST) and Thunder (T-17 in OPP AST) will be paramount. Against the Pistons, Monk’s playmaking finesse and the Kings’ overall offensive coherence present a golden opportunity to exploit vulnerabilities and amplify assist numbers.

As the Kings prepare for this competitive stretch, their adeptness at maintaining a high assist rate, coupled with Monk’s orchestrating prowess, could decisively influence their success against the varied defensive stances of their opponents. The Kings’ fast-paced offense and Monk’s assist contributions poise them not just to face but potentially excel in these matchups. Through strategic exploitation of defensive lapses and leveraging their collective and individual strengths, the Kings could be on the cusp of showcasing their offensive depth and adaptability, aiming to maximize their assist production in the process.

On the Radar

Caris LeVert (SG,SF – CLE): 46% Rostered – 4.2 APG – Ranked: 74th

• Waiver Priority: Medium-High
• Opponents (Wk. 15): @WAS, @BKN, @TOR
• Average OPP AST (Wk. 15): 27.9
• Average OPP AST Rank (Wk. 15): 21st
• Number of Games: 3
• Hold Length: Weeks 15 – 16

Steals

Kelly Oubre Jr. (PF,SF,SG – PHI): 54% Rostered

Kelly Oubre Jr. has a golden opportunity to step into a more prominent role following Joel Embiid’s injury. While Paul Reed stands to reap the most direct benefit from Embiid’s exit, Oubre finds himself in a unique position to potentially become the most dynamic player on the team behind Tyrese Maxey. Oubre has tremendous upside as a scorer but adds a new layer of value to his contribution with his playmaking ability on the defensive side of the ball. He is averaging 1.2 steals (T-40th in the league) and 4.3 rebounds (140th in the league) per game.

While it’s impossible to fully replace the reigning MVP’s production, unleashing Oubre is probably one of the best plays the team has to remain dynamic and competitive as we head into the second half of the season. The Sixers aren’t the same team offensively without Embiid’s presence as we have seen many times before this season when he has been absent, but with the reality settling in that they will be without the Superstar for quite some time, the team will be forced to implement and rely on a new style of play to manufacture wins while sustaining enough momentum to make it to the postseason.

Although there will undoubtedly be some hardships in transitioning to this new reality, Oubre shows the most promise of being able to quickly evolve and adjust to the team’s new context, possibly becoming the Sixers’ new multi-categorical ace for the foreseeable future.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Sixers have three games for the remainder of this week. Philadelphia is gearing up for a series of matchups that place their league-leading steals production under the spotlight. Averaging 8.9 steals per game, the Sixers stand at the pinnacle of the NBA for their defensive agility and ability to disrupt opponents’ plays. This exceptional stat is a testament to their strategic defensive execution, which will be crucial in their upcoming games against the Warriors, Hawks, and Wizards. Each of these teams presents distinct challenges based on their offensive capabilities and tendencies to allow steals, setting the stage for intriguing defensive battles.

With a balanced pace of play ranked 14th in the league at 99.41, the Sixers’ approach to the game facilitates their defensive strategies, allowing them to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes. This is particularly advantageous against teams like the Wizards (20th in OPP STL) and Hawks (25th in OPP STL), who play at a faster pace and are consequently more vulnerable to turnovers. These matchups offer the Sixers ample opportunities to employ their defensive strengths, potentially leading to an elevated number of steals.

Oubre, with a defensive rating of 116.1 and averaging 1.2 steals, plays an integral part of the Sixers’ defensive ethos. His contributions will be pivotal in exploiting the offensive dynamics of their opponents, especially against high-scoring teams like the Warriors (21st in OPP STL) and Hawks. Oubre’s ability to generate steals will be a key determinant in the Sixers’ success, reflecting the team’s overall potential to leverage their top-ranking steals production.

The Sixers’ defensive prowess, characterized by their leading steals average and strategic pace of play, positions them favorably against their upcoming opponents. Their capacity to disrupt the offenses of the Warriors, Hawks, and Wizards will be instrumental in dictating the pace and outcome of these games. With Oubre’s defensive capabilities in focus, the Sixers are primed to assert their dominance on the defensive end, potentially translating their knack for generating steals into tangible advantages on the court.

On the Radar

Alex Caruso (PG,SG – CHI): 58% Rostered – 1.3 SPG – Ranked: 23rd

• Waiver Priority: High-Low
• Opponents (Wk. 15): MIN, @MEM, @ORL
• Average OPP STL (Wk. 15): 7.8
• Average OPP STL Rank (Wk. 15): 21st
• Number of Games: 3
• Hold Length: Weeks 15 – 16 (or until after trade deadline)

Blocks

Alex Caruso (PG,SG – CHI): 58% Rostered

Now may be the best time to get your hands on Caruso, as he has consistently demonstrated his value and production potential this season, with his performance positioning him as one of the hottest names circulating the league in this year’s trade season. Whether he remains in Chicago or finds a new home elsewhere, he is poised to continue seeing success in his 2023-2024 campaign, barring any health setbacks.

Caruso’s versatility shines through as he contributes effectively on offense and defense. Offensively, he scores efficiently and has evolved into a valuable playmaker in his strategic role. Defensively, he’s been outstanding, averaging 1.1 blocks, 32nd in the league, and 1.3 steals, 22nd in the league, per game. His reliability is a testament to his consistent production.

Acquiring Caruso this week can undoubtedly lead to desirable results; however, his value potential in week 16 stands to be enough to justify his rostering despite the team’s three-game schedule this week. Nothing is ever certain, but it would be reasonable to aggressively move on him with the mindset that this could be one of the few remaining times to buy low on his potential.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Bulls have three games this week. Chicago, 17th in the league with an average of 5.1 blocks per game, is gearing up for matchups that present a varied game environment for their block production capabilities. Their defensive acumen, particularly in the realm of shot blocking, will be tested and potentially highlighted against the Timberwolves (7th in OPP BLK), Grizzlies (30th in OPP BLK), and Magic (13th in OPP BLK) —teams that exhibit different levels of vulnerability to blocks.

This week’s games offer the Bulls a spectrum of opportunities to leverage or challenges to overcome in their quest to assert defensive dominance through blocks.At the heart of the Bulls’ defensive strategy stands Caruso, whose notable defensive rating of 108.5 and average of 1.1 blocks per game underscore his critical role in the team’s defensive efforts.

The upcoming game against the Grizzlies represents the most advantageous matchup for the Bulls. This game, in contrast to the more moderate challenges posed by the Timberwolves and Magic, provides a prime opportunity for the Bulls to capitalize on Caruso’s shot-blocking prowess and potentially exceed the team’s season average in blocks.

The Bulls’ pace of play, the slowest in the league, juxtaposed with their opponents’ faster tempos, particularly the Wizards at the top of the pace rankings, suggests additional defensive engagements where blocks could be generated. These scenarios could amplify the Bulls’ opportunities to disrupt their opponents’ offensive schemes through timely blocks.

In essence, the Bulls, with Caruso at the defensive helm, face a week where their block production could significantly influence game outcomes. The matchup against the Grizzlies stands out as a golden opportunity to enhance their block totals, while the games against the Timberwolves and Magic will require strategic execution to overcome their moderate block-allowing tendencies. Through a combination of Caruso’s defensive capabilities and the Bulls’ tactical approach to each game’s pace, the team is well-positioned to navigate the week’s challenges and opportunities, aiming to elevate their defensive stature through increased block production.

On the Radar

Aaron Nesmith (SF, PF – IND): 60% Rostered – 0.7 BPG – Ranked: 94th

• Waiver Priority: Medium
• Opponents (Wk. 15): HOU, GSW, @NYK
• Average OPP BLK (Wk. 15): 5.1
• Average OPP BLK Rank (Wk. 15): 17th
• Number of Games: 3
• Hold Length: Weeks 15 – 16

Three-Pointers Made

Lonnie Walker IV (SF,SG – BKN): 21% Rostered

Lonnie Walker is a talented player who’s overcome early-season injuries to regain his momentum and make a valuable contribution to his team. He’s currently averaging 12.3 points, 130th in the league, and 2.2 three-pointers made, 60th in the league, per game, shooting at an impressive 47.4% from the field and 43.5% from beyond the arc.

The Brooklyn Nets have a busy schedule in the coming weeks, which bodes well for Walker’s opportunities to display his impactful offensive prowess. He’s not only a scorer but also a versatile contributor in multiple offensive categories, all while maintaining efficiency. This combination of values could prove to be tremendously advantageous for those looking to deepen the offensive profile of their rotation.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Nets have three games for the remainder of this week. Brooklyn, 6th in the league for three-pointers made at an impressive average of 13.9 per game, faces a series of matchups that will test their perimeter shooting efficiency. With upcoming games against the Mavericks, Cavaliers, and Spurs, the Nets are poised to navigate through varying defensive challenges with their three-point shooting strategy at the forefront.

These opponents present a spectrum of defensive stances against the three-pointer, from the moderate resistance of the Mavericks (15th in OPP 3PM) and stringent defense of the Cavaliers (7th in OPP 3PM) to the more lenient Spurs (22nd in OPP 3PM), offering the Nets both challenges and opportunities.

Walker, with a solid offensive rating of 118.0 and averaging 2.2 three-pointers on 5.0 attempts per game, emerges as a key figure in exploiting these matchups. His performance will be particularly critical against the Spurs, where the Nets’ three-point shooting could find more room to thrive, given the Spurs’ lower rank in three-point defense. Conversely, the Mavericks and Cavaliers’ defenses will demand strategic precision and efficiency from the Nets, including Walker, to overcome their more robust perimeter defenses.

The pace of play also plays a crucial role, with the Nets’ slower tempo contrasting with their opponents’, especially the Spurs, who play at one of the fastest paces in the league. This dynamic suggests potential for more offensive possessions and, thus, more opportunities for the Nets to leverage their three-point shooting capabilities, particularly in the game against the Spurs.

The Nets, powered by their three-point shooting strength and Walker’s contributions, are equipped to tackle the defensive challenges posed by their upcoming opponents. The game against the Spurs stands out as a prime opportunity for the Nets to maximize their three-point production, while matchups against the Mavericks and Cavaliers will necessitate a more nuanced approach to penetrate their defensive setups.

The Nets’ ability to adjust their perimeter shooting approach to the defensive prowess and game pace of each opponent will be pivotal in their quest to capitalize on three-point shooting opportunities across these matchups.

On the Radar

Norman Powell (SG,SF – LAC): 44% Rostered – 2.1 3PM – Ranked: 67th

• Waiver Priority: Medium
• Opponents (Wk. 15): NOP, DET, MIN
• Average OPP 3PM (Wk. 18): 12.2
• Average OPP 3PM Rank (Wk. 18): 10th
• Number of Games: 2
• Hold Length: Weeks 15 – 16

Field-Goal Percentage

Norman Powell (SG,SF – LAC): 44% Rostered

Norman Powell has become a key figure in the Clippers’ rotation, often coming off the bench but making a significant impact on the team’s versatility and offensive depth. His emphasis on efficiency sets him apart, averaging 13.5 points per game, 109th in the league, with an impressive 49.6% shooting from the field (ranked 153rd in the league) and a remarkable 44.6% from beyond the arc, 40th in the league.

While Powell’s usage can be conservative at times, his consistent performance makes him a valuable strategic addition for those looking to boost their offensive production. His ability to maintain high shooting percentages adds reliability to his scoring. Acquiring Powell now could prove to be a smart move in enhancing your team’s offensive capabilities and depth.

Upcoming Week Analysis

The Clippers have two games this week. Los Angeles, with a formidable field-goal percentage of 49.7%, 5th in the league, is gearing up for matchups that will test their shooting efficiency. Central to their offensive scheme is Powell, whose offensive rating of 119.00 and a field-goal percentage of 49.6% play an instrumental role in advancing the Clippers’ scoring strategy. The upcoming games against the Pelicans (6th in OPP FG%) and Pistons (26th in OPP FG%) present a varied game environment of defensive challenges and opportunities for the Clippers.

The Pelicans, allowing a field-goal percentage of 46.4%, pose a significant challenge, potentially tightening the screws on the Clippers’ offensive game plan. This matchup will demand strategic shot selection and offensive ingenuity to navigate the Pelicans’ sturdy defense. On the other hand, the Pistons, with a defensive field-goal percentage allowance of 46.6%, offer a more favorable scenario for the Clippers. This game provides an excellent opportunity for Powell and the Clippers to exploit defensive gaps and possibly elevate their shooting efficiency.

The contrast in the pace of play between the Clippers and their opponents adds an additional layer of complexity to these encounters. With the Clippers playing at one of the slower paces in the league, the games against the faster-paced Pelicans and Pistons will require adept game management to maximize scoring opportunities.

The Clippers, bolstered by Powell’s scoring prowess, should be well-positioned to face the challenges ahead. While the Pelicans’ defense may require a more calculated approach, the matchup against the Pistons appears promising for enhancing the Clippers’ field-goal percentage. Powell’s ability to maintain his scoring efficiency will be crucial, especially in leveraging the Clippers’ offensive strengths against the varied defensive profiles of their upcoming opponents.

On the Radar

Jaden Ivey (PG,SG – DET): 43% Rostered – 46.1 FG% – Ranked: 251st

• Waiver Priority: Medium-High
• Opponents: @SAC, @POR, @LAC
• Average OPP FG% (Wk. 18): 48.1%
• Average OPP FG% Rank (Wk. 18): 17th
• Number of Games: 3
• Hold Length: Week 15 (If able, hold through Week 18)

Free-Throw Percentage

Norman Powell (SG,SF – LAC): 44% Rostered

Upcoming Week Analysis

On the Radar

Jaden Ivey (PG,SG – DET): 43% Rostered – 71.7% FT% – Ranked: 334th

• Waiver Priority: Medium-High
• Opponents: @SAC, @POR, @LAC
• Average OPP FT% (Wk. 15): 79.2%
• Average OPP FT% Rank (Wk. 15): 20th
• Number of Games: 3
• Hold Length: Week 15 (If able, hold through Week 18)

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