With the NBA season in full swing, the waiver wire is heating up, presenting prime opportunities to make strategic pickups that can elevate your roster with minimal cost. Welcome to your weekly dose of waiver wire 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.
Each week, we look at widely available players rostered in fewer than 65% of fantasy leagues on Yahoo. 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 approach, whether weekly or season-long, to maximize your team’s value and potential.
Thank you for making us a part of your championship journey; we at FantasyPros are thrilled to bring you another season of insights to help you conquer your leagues. Let’s get into it.
Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings
Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 4)
We’re bringing back a full suite of tools and insights from last season, providing the player analysis, acquisition insights and category builds that give you a strategic advantage week in and week out. Each article will delve into the key elements of player performance, category strength and matchup specifics that help you stay ahead. As the season progresses, we’ll introduce additional features to further refine your approach, including:
Coming Week 5:
*Acquisition Details: Upcoming Week Overview – Add-On (To Include):
- Upcoming Opponents
- OPP Against Category
- OPP Avg. Rank
*Players on the Radar (To Include):
- Upcoming Opponents
- OPP Against Category
- OPP Avg. Rank
- Hold Length
Coming Soon (Date TBD):
*Week Analysis Details (To Include):
- Week Summary
- Matchup Grades
*Some categories will be introduced in later weeks as we gather more data to provide you with reliable recommendations.
Fantasy Basketball Category & Waiver Wire Analysis
Now that we’re underway, the waiver wire is your ultimate tool for finding that edge. These early roster moves allow you to capture breakout players or specialists in each category before they’re scooped up by the rest of your league. This phase is crucial for setting up a successful season, as each well-timed waiver acquisition moves you one step closer to building a winning team. Let’s capitalize on these opportunities and work toward a lineup that’s built to contend.
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
Data Sources
- NBA Player Stats: NBA.com – 2024-2025
- Yahoo! Sports – Player List
Basketball Category & Waiver Wire Analysis
In these initial weeks, we’ll focus on a “best-on-the-board” approach, highlighting players showing strong early potential in key categories. We will then phase in more nuanced analysis and insight to include player synergies, weekly matchup trends and game opportunities as we get deeper into the season.
This phased approach will ensure we’re working with solid data to uncover players with lasting impact, giving you a strong competitive advantage as the season progresses. Together, we’ll keep your lineup strong, adaptable and always ready to win.
FantasyPros: The One-Stop Shop
In addition to this article, FantasyPros provides a wide range of tools and resources designed to support your strategic needs throughout the season.
From daily lineup optimizers to weekly matchup analysis and monthly trend reports, these tools offer critical insights that help you stay a step ahead.
Integrating these resources into your daily, weekly and monthly planning can give you the competitive edge needed to achieve your fantasy goals.
Now, let’s dive into this week’s analysis and identify the key players who can take your lineup to the next level and set the stage for a winning season.
Points
Bennedict Mathurin (IND – SG, SF): 44% Rostered | 19.4 PPG – Ranked: T-46th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Hold-Stream
- Priority: High
Category Build
- Primary: Points
- Secondary: Field-Goal Percentage, Free-Throw Percentage
- Auxillary: Rebounds
Mathurin’s Moment – Rising to the Occasion
For those who have followed Bennedict Mathurin since his impressive rookie debut, this season feels like the payoff. Often battling inconsistencies, whether due to role uncertainty, health issues or fluctuating production, Mathurin’s journey has been one of crossroads, with each season offering him the choice between being a solid player or something truly special. And it seems he’s choosing the path toward greatness.
Solidifying His Role
Averaging 19.3 points per game (T-46th in the league), Mathurin has positioned himself to take on a career-defining season with the Indiana Pacers. Shooting at an impressive 55.3% from the floor and a sharp 50.0% from beyond the arc, both career highs — he’s bringing the offensive firepower the Pacers need as they push to capitalize on their recent rebuild success. On a Pacers team that’s both promising and still finding its rhythm amid fierce Eastern Conference competition, Mathurin’s scoring ability could be pivotal.
Unleashing Potential
Mathurin is quickly solidifying himself as a multi-categorical offensive asset, offering managers a reliable source of points that can also contribute across other offensive categories. With every opportunity to step up on a team vying for a top spot, Mathurin’s consistent production and scoring efficiency make him a must-watch for fantasy managers seeking to boost their lineup’s offensive edge.
| CATEGORY PRODUCTION | ||
| CATEGORY | STAT | RANK |
| Field-Goals Attempted | 11.4 | T-97th |
| Field-Goals Made | 6.3 | 62nd |
| Field-Goal Percentage | 55.3% | 87th |
| Three-Pointers Attempted | 3.8 | T-143rd |
| Three-Pointers Made | 1.9 | T-84th |
| Three-Pointer Percentage | 50.0% | T-30th |
On the Radar
Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, SF): 64% Rostered | PPG: 19.5 – Rank: 45th
Waiver Priority: High
Assists
Scotty Pippen Jr. (MEM – PG, SG): 49% Rostered | 6.9 APG – Ranked 13th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Hold-Stream
- Priority: Medium-High
Category Build
- Primary: Assists
- Secondary: Steals
- Auxillary: Points
Pippen Jr.’s Rise – Seizing the Moment in Memphis
With Ja Morant sidelined due to injury, Scotty Pippen Jr. has been handed an invaluable opportunity to showcase his playmaking prowess — and he’s stepping up. While he may not deliver the explosive highlight reel moments Morant is known for, Pippen has proven himself as a strong facilitator, delivering a solid 6.9 assists per game (13th in the league). His ability to efficiently distribute the ball and contribute to team play has earned him a significant role on a Grizzlies squad that’s battling inconsistencies and injuries.
| CATEGORY PRODUCTION | |
| Assist Percentage | 35.0% |
| Assist Ratio | 35.0 |
| Assist Turnover Ratio | 2.54 |
Multi-Category Appeal
Pippen is more than just an assist specialist. Averaging 11.6 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game, he’s a multi-categorical contributor who can fill various roles, making him a versatile addition to any fantasy lineup. His efficient shooting at 50.0% from the floor adds to his appeal, especially for managers needing a reliable assist source who can contribute across categories without hurting efficiency stats.
Opportunity Knocks
While Pippen’s long-term fantasy value may fluctuate once Morant returns, his dual-position eligibility and consistent stat line make him a valuable pickup in the short term. His current role allows him to produce steady returns, offering managers a chance to add depth and flexibility to their rosters. For those seeking a reliable assist boost with bonus value in other categories, acquiring Pippen could be a savvy choice for those looking for someone who could continue delivering utility even as the Grizzlies’ lineup evolves.
On the Radar
Carlton Carrington (WSH – PG): 25% Rostered | APG: 5.0 – Rank: 38th
Waiver Priority: Medium-High
Rebounds
Goga Bitadze (ORL – C): Rostered: 28% | 6.7 RPG – Ranked: T-54th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow-Deep
- Acquisition Type: Hold-Stream
- Priority: Medium-High
Category Build
- Primary: Rebounds
- Secondary: Blocks and Steals
- Auxillary: Field-Goal Percentage, Points
Bitadze’s Board-Banging Rise
Since joining the Magic in 2022, Goga Bitadze has quietly made his presence felt. While his minutes and role have been somewhat limited, Bitadze has demonstrated he can deliver impact when called upon. After securing a three-year, $25 million contract, the Magic are signaling their confidence in his potential, particularly with Orlando’s frontcourt dealing with early-season vulnerabilities.
Bitadze has proven to be an efficient point-per-minute producer, excelling in defensive categories like blocks and steals. His defensive rating of 105.0 is among the best on the team, confirming his ability to make an impact when on the floor.
Trending Up
Bitadze’s rebounding has seen a notable uptick. He’s now averaging 6.7 rebounds per game (T-54th in the league). However, his rebounding numbers have jumped recently, averaging 10.5 rebounds per game over his last four outings, which would rank him 15th in the league. Not only does he hit the boards hard, but he’s also showing increased involvement offensively with a competitive usage rate of 14.6% in just 17.4 minutes per game, good for fourth on the team when accounting for consistent court time.
Add in his league-high Player Impact Estimate (PIE) of 16.2, even outpacing star Paolo Banchero, and it’s clear that when Bitadze is on the court, he’s a catalyst for positive production.
| CATEGORY PRODUCTION | |
| Rebound Percentage | 20.1% |
| Offensive Rebound Percentage | 15.5% |
| Defensive Rebound Percentage | 25.0% |
A Sneaky League-Winning Play in the Making
While Bitadze is primarily a specialist, his recent minutes and production suggest untapped potential as a rebounding and defensive anchor. Should he see an increase in playing time, Bitadze could realistically flirt with double-double outputs on a nightly basis. He’s currently averaging 10.5 points on a hyper-efficient 60.7% from the floor over his last few games, signaling he might be on the verge of more consistent offensive contributions.
If you need a multi-categorical defensive asset with rebounding prowess, Bitadze is a savvy pickup with the potential to evolve into a foundational frontcourt piece for both the Magic and your fantasy squad.
On the Radar
Andre Drummond (PHI – C): 41% Rostered | RPG: 10.8 – Rank:12th
Waiver Priority: Medium
Blocks
Alexandre Sarr (WSH – PF, C): Rostered: 51% | 2.5 BPG – Ranked: 4th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow-Deep
- Acquisition Type: Hold Potential-Stream
- Priority: Medium
Category Build
- Primary: Blocks
- Secondary: Rebounds
- Auxillary: Points
Sarr’s Block Party
Alex Sarr may just be your best-kept secret in blocks and boards. Averaging 2.5 blocks per game (fourth in the league) and 6.3 rebounds (65th in the league), Sarr is proving to be a powerhouse on the defensive end. That’s impressive for any player, let alone a rookie, and especially one transitioning from the international scene to the NBA. He’s not only protecting the rim but also bringing solid rebounding numbers, showing he can hang with some of the league’s seasoned big men.
Offensive Transition and Efficiency Concerns
Yes, his efficiency is a work in progress, and it’s bound to sting a bit. Sarr’s current shot selection includes 9.9 field-goal attempts and 5.0 three-point shots per game, a significant jump from his time in the National Basketball League (NBL), where he focused less on scoring. But don’t let his rough efficiency discourage you; he was a high-percentage shooter overseas, knocking down shots at 52% in the NBL.
As he acclimates to the NBA’s pace and pressure, we could see a considerable improvement in his scoring efficiency. Given his current involvement, Sarr is set to grow as an offensive contributor over time.
A Season-Changing Asset in the Making
While his low efficiency might make some managers hesitate, Sarr’s elite blocking ability makes him worth the roster spot as a specialist right now. He’s primed for a breakout as his role evolves and his shooting stabilizes. For now, think of Sarr as a long-term investment with the potential for big returns.
While he’s far from being a multi-categorical staple in your lineup, his prowess in blocks and rebounds positions him as an ideal specialist on a Wizards team likely to lean into his development. Hold onto him or stream him pragmatically, especially in leagues where blocks are at a premium.
On the Radar
Donovan Clingan (POR – C): 11% Rostered | 1.7 BPG – Rank: 11th
Waiver Priority: Medium-Low
Goga Bitadze (ORL – C): 28% Rostered | 1.1 BPG – Rank: T-31st
Waiver: Medium-High
Steals
Dyson Daniels (ATL – PG, SG): Rostered: 63% | 3.3 SPG – Ranked: 1st
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Hold-Stream
- Priority: High-Medium
Category Build
- Primary: Steals
- Secondary: Rebounds, Points
- Auxillary: Field-Goal Percentage, Blocks, Assists
The Steal King Fueling All-Around Impact
Dyson Daniels has hit his stride in Atlanta, quickly making an impact as a defensive specialist. After gaining experience in the NBA G League and weathering a conservative role in New Orleans, Daniels is finally getting the chance to showcase his full skill set.
Now averaging a league-leading 3.3 steals per game, Daniels is proving invaluable to an underrated Hawks squad that might potentially just be beginning to adjust their future outlook with Trae Young. Daniels’ defensive prowess, combined with his versatility, has positioned him as a key contributor who could eventually be more than just a high-upside role player.
Transition to Succession Potential
While steals are his calling card (and the reason he’s on this list), Daniels offers much more than defensive stats. His season averages — 12.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 0.8 blocks per game — reveal a player with potential across multiple categories. He’s also shooting a respectable 45% from the floor and 27.8% from deep, showing promise in efficiency as he adjusts to his expanded role.
His time in the NBA G League, where he contributed on both ends, has translated well into his game with the Hawks, suggesting he could be more than just a simple role-player solution. Daniels might just be Atlanta’s secret weapon and an essential part of their succession plan if they ever decide to pivot from Young.
Categorical Versatility
If you’re looking for a player who brings both immediate value and long-term potential, Daniels is your guy. As the steals leader, he’s almost a must-have for managers aiming to dominate defensive stats, but his production goes beyond one category. Should anything happen to Young, injuries, missed time or even a possible blockbuster trade at some point, Daniels could easily step into a larger playmaking role.
For now, he’s making the most of his minutes, thriving alongside the explosive Jalen Johnson, and looks set to continue filling up box scores. Daniels’ steal rate and overall multi-category potential make him a stellar value play with the potential to evolve into a lineup fixture in deeper leagues. Grab him now before his stock rises even further.
On the Radar
Tari Eason (HOU – SF, PF): 31% Rostered | SPG: 1.9 – Rank: T-12th
Waiver Priority: Medium-High
Andre Drummond (PHI – C): 41% Rostered | SPG: 1.6 – Rank: T-27th
Waiver Priority: Medium
Three-Pointers Made
Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, SF): Rostered: 64% | 2.5 3PTM – Ranked: T-41st
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Hold-Stream
- Priority: High-Medium
Category Build
- Primary: Three-Pointers Made, Points
- Secondary: Field-Goal Percentage, Steals
- Auxillary: Rebounds
The “Big Energy” Sharpshooting Scorer
If you’re in my 12-man autodraft-only league, you’ve likely seen the team name “Gradey ____ Energy” leading the charge. With each game, Gradey is proving this clever moniker is well-earned. Known for his fearless offensive approach, Gradey is averaging 2.5 three-pointers per game (T-41st in the league) on 7.0 attempts, an output that’s solid for a sophomore shooting guard still finding his rhythm in the NBA.
After a quieter rookie season where he averaged just 8.5 points per game, he has more than doubled his scoring with an impressive 19.5 points per game this season, shooting 45.8% from the field and 35.7% from beyond the arc. It’s clear that his offensive energy isn’t just hype; it’s becoming a consistent force in fantasy basketball.
| CATEGORY PRODUCTION | ||
| CATEGORY | STAT | RANK |
| Three-Pointers Attempted | 7.0 | T-38th |
| Three-Pointers Made | 2.5 | T-41st |
| Three-Pointer Percentage | 35.7% | 163rd |
Multi-Category Contributor
Beyond his three-point prowess, Dick has shown promise across the stat sheet. He’s chipping in 1.4 steals per game (T-63rd in the league) and has demonstrated that he can step up his rebounding game when needed. His scoring has become much more aggressive and effective, suggesting he’s ready to elevate his role further, especially as Toronto battles through some early-season challenges.
If Gradey can channel his rebounding capabilities more consistently, he could be on his way to offering multi-category value beyond points and threes, making him a well-rounded asset in deeper leagues.
Emerging Potential
Dick has the potential to be much more than just a three-point specialist; he’s a dynamic young talent who could soon be delivering consistent fantasy value across multiple categories. With his team slowly regaining health, his current trajectory is set to rise even further, making him a solid addition to any roster seeking reliable three-point production with the potential for additional returns.
If he continues to follow this promising trajectory, we might soon have to thank American rapper Latto for what could inspire one of the best mid-season fantasy team name changes to date. Intrigued? Have some fun and explore — click here to jump to the ‘Recording and Production’ section.
On the Radar
Tim Hardaway Jr. (DET – SG, SF): Rostered 14%| 3PTM – 2.8 – Ranked: 28th
Waiver Priority: Medium-Low
Field-Goal Percentage
Christian Braun (DEN – SG, SF): Rostered: 51% | 55.8% FG – Ranked: 82nd
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Hold-Stream
- Priority: High-Medium
Category Build
- Primary: Field-Goal Percentage
- Secondary: Points and Steals
- Auxillary: Blocks and Three-Pointers Made
Braun’s Mile-High Efficiency in Denver’s Powerhouse Lineup
Christian Braun has swiftly cemented himself as a full-time contributor for the powerhouse Denver Nuggets, and he’s done so in remarkable fashion. Since stepping into an expanded role, Braun has elevated his game across the board, producing efficiently in every category while keeping his shooting touch sharp.
Currently hitting 55.8% from the field and a stellar 50% from beyond the arc, Braun is showcasing his offensive prowess with 16.6 points per game, paired with solid contributions in rebounds (5.3), assists (1.6), blocks (1.0) and steals (1.0). He’s thriving alongside Denver’s stars. Even with Jamal Murray back in the rotation, Braun’s impact is unlikely to wane.
| CATEGORY PRODUCTION | ||
| CATEGORY | STAT | RANK |
| Field-Goals Attempted | 10.6 | 113th |
| Field-Goals Made | 5.9 | 74th |
| Field-Goal Percentage | 55.8% | 82nd |
Rising Star Power
Braun’s consistency and efficiency make him a must-roster player, especially in field goal percentage leagues. As he continues to deliver across multiple categories, he offers managers a reliable high-floor option with the potential for further growth. Given his seamless integration into Denver’s game plan, Braun is poised for even more positive leaps in production as the season unfolds.
If you’re looking to boost your field goal percentage while gaining a versatile asset, Braun is the perfect fit for your lineup.
On the Radar
Tari Eason (HOU – SF, PF): 31% Rostered |FG% – 55.2% – Ranked: 89th
Free-Throw Percentage
Brandon Boston Jr. (NOP – SG, SF): Rostered: 19% | 87.5% FT – Ranked: T-93rd
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Deep-Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Stream-Hold Potential
- Priority: Medium-Low
Category Build
- Primary: Free-Throw Percentage
- Secondary: Points, Field-Goal Percentage
- Auxillary: Steals
An Unexpected Rise
Brandon Boston’s abrupt rise may have seemed like an out-of-nowhere fantasy asset, but a closer look reveals the potential he’s finally tapping into. While his past career stats with the Clippers didn’t grab attention, his recent move to the Pelicans has allowed him to establish a rhythm, especially with New Orleans dealing with numerous injuries.
This has opened up invaluable opportunities for Boston to showcase his aggressive, efficient offensive game. He’s shooting 50.8% from the floor, 39.1% from beyond the arc and, more importantly, an impressive 87.5% from the free-throw line (T-93rd in the league) on 2.4 attempts per game, earning him a spot in your lineup if you’re looking to strengthen your free-throw percentage.
A Versatile Scoring Gem
Boston’s fantasy value goes beyond his free-throw efficiency. Since stepping into a more prominent role, he’s averaging 15.5 points and 3.75 assists over his last five games, along with 1.1 steals per game (T-68th in the league). This blend of efficient scoring and secondary stats makes him a versatile option for managers.
The Pelicans’ roster uncertainty could also work in Boston’s favor, possibly leading to an expanded role as the season progresses — or even a trade to a team that needs his scoring upside. For now, Boston is a smart add to boost your free-throw production and overall offensive depth, with the potential for even more as his role continues to evolve.
On The Radar
Carlton Carrington (WSH – PG): 25% Rostered | FT%: 87.5 – Rank: T-93rd
Waiver Priority: Medium-High
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