Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 10 (2024)

These weeks bring an air of extreme uncertainty and excitement across the sports landscape. With MLB buzzing with offseason moves, football nearing its epic conclusion, and NBA trade season on the horizon, the stakes have never been higher.

Yet, the NBA has been unusually quiet this trade season following the early “bang” of the Warriors’ big move. Rumors are swirling about potential activity involving Jimmy Butler in Miami and De’Aaron Fox in Sacramento. between now and early next year, anything could happen.

This means your FAAB budget and waiver wire strategy will be critical. Keep an eye on weekly and even daily opportunities — one move could change your season. Remember last year? The excitement hit its peak around December 30th when OG Anunoby was traded to the Knicks. History suggests that after Christmas, or perhaps even sooner, the NBA landscape could shift dramatically.

Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings

We’re here to help you stay ahead of the chaos. Whether it’s locking in smart waiver pickups or positioning yourself for the pivotal moments ahead, we’ve got you covered.

In this week’s waiver wire edition, we’re continuing to refine our strategy. While some big plays near the 65% rostered mark still remain, our focus will continue to shift to deeper, tactical moves as we head into the second half of the season, where we will begin leaning into matchup contexts, multi-week schedules and thoughtful player and roster management to give you an edge.

Thank you for being a part of this growing community. Let’s attack the second half of the season with strategy, bold moves and a shared love for the art of fantasy basketball. Let’s dive in and make it happen.

Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 10)

Season Summary Key Takeaways

• This season has been wildly unpredictable — perfect for those who love the thrill of the hunt.
• The league is evolving, creating fresh opportunities for creativity, competition and domination.
• Thriving in this new era requires channeling ‘Big D Energy’ — determination, discipline and drive.

Trade Season

Navigating Unknown Waters

Trade season is here, and it’s all about bold moves and aggressive strategies, both in real-life and fantasy basketball. With NFL fantasy players refocusing and FAAB budgets tightening, this is your chance to outmaneuver the competition.

Key Strategies for Success:

• Target Talent-Rich Teams in Transition
  Look to teams like the Heat, Bulls, Nets, Trail Blazers and Rockets. Deep rosters mean post-trade hidden gems.
• Experimentation Meets Momentum
  Teams like the Pelicans, Jazz and Hornets are refining rotations. Hot hands from these squads could be game-changers.
• Rookies Poised for Impact
  Rookies like Ron Holland, Kel’el Ware, Alex Sarr, Yves Missi and more may step into bigger roles as teams adjust and develop depth.
• Role Players in the Spotlight
  Both contenders and rebuilders will create opportunities for overlooked contributors as rotations stabilize.
• Start Fresh: The 0-0 Mindset
  Trade season resets everything — stay flexible, embrace new strategies and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Filling the Fantasy Void: NBA DFS Awaits

Feeling the sting of the NFL season winding down? Whether you’re still in contention or recovering from unexpected outcomes, don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. With the NFL wrapping up and baseball still on deck, the NBA is here to bridge the gap.

The unpredictable chaos of football meets the daily grind of baseball in NBA DFS, offering the perfect way to scratch that fantasy itch and keep the excitement alive. Let’s dive in and make the most of it.

Why NBA DFS?

The NBA offers daily action-packed slates, unique game modes and countless opportunities to dive into the excitement of fantasy basketball. With so much happening, it’s an ideal time to switch gears. And don’t worry, FantasyPros has you covered with the tools, insights and articles you need to dominate your NBA lineups. Before you know it, you’ll be enjoying some basketball wins while gearing up for your NFL pre-draft strategy. (Spoiler alert: After the Eagles secure that win against Kansas City. Ahem.)

Keys to NBA DFS Success:

• Learn the scoring and format
• Understand value in the NBA context
• Make bold calls
• Embrace the contrarian approach
• Trust the process

Follow the FantasyPros Team

We’re here to help you dominate every slate, every day of the week. With expert advice and actionable insights, you’ll be ready to tackle NBA DFS like a pro. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in, have fun and let’s chase those basketball victories together.

What’s on the Horizon: Building Towards Week 10 and Beyond

As we approach Week 10, let’s take a moment to set the stage for what’s ahead.

Important: This week’s article is a bit different. It’s unique and doesn’t include some of the detailed data points you’re used to. But don’t worry; we’re gearing up to reintroduce those and more as we head into the mid and late season.

Post-All-Star Adjustments: Sharpening the Strategy

After the All-Star break, we’ll level up with a new approach to recommendations with:

• Matchup summaries and grades
• Strategic player acquisition frameworks

Fantasy Basketball Category & Waiver Wire Analysis

As we hit Week 10, we’re entering a critical phase of the fantasy basketball season. This is the time to adapt, take calculated risks and start planning for the long game. Each well-timed waiver pickup inches you closer to building that championship-caliber team. Let’s dive into this week’s picks and craft a strategy that positions you to dominate the competition.

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) – Stats taken on the morning of Sunday, December 22nd, 2024 (Data subject to change.)
• Yahoo! Sports – Player List

Points

De’Andre Hunter (ATL – SF, PF): 40%Rostered | 20.1 Points – Rank: 46th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Stream-Hold
• Priority: Medium-High
• Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks

Category Build

• Primary: Points
• Secondary: Free-Throw Percentage, Field-Goal Percentage, Three-Pointers Made
• Auxillary: Rebounds

Week 10 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: MIN, CHI, MIA, @TOR

The Rollercoaster Ride of the Hunt

What are we doing here, everyone? De’Andre Hunter is sitting at 40% rostered, and yes, there are plenty of reasons to stay cautious: His injury history, his tendency for sustained stretches of elite play followed by underwhelming performances when you need him most and the fear of picking him up only for him to underperform right after. Add in his offensive focus with only rebounding to rebound him from an uninspiring game and his role as a starting bench player on a stacked Hawks frontcourt, and you might think keeping your distance is justified.

Superman Stats, Clark Kent Woes

But let’s talk numbers — 20.1 points per game, 2.7 three-pointers made, 48.8% from the field, 44.1% from deep and an impressive 88% from the free-throw line on 4.6 attempts per game, converting 4.1 of those. Lawd.

These are sensational stats, no matter how you slice it, and he’s starting to show he deserves a spot on more rosters. But despite those Superman stats, he chooses to be and accepts himself to be… those are some Clark Kent woes we know too well.

The Superman Return (Eventually)

Now, I promise you, there’s a 61.235% (don’t worry about the math it feels right) chance that as soon as you pick him up, he transforms into Clark Kent and retreats to his Fortress of Solitude. But remember, even Clark Kent is still Superman, and while his return might not always align with your fantasy needs, it will happen.

Don’t Be That Manager

If you don’t make the move, someone else will, and you’ll be watching him drop Kendrick Lamar-level performances on your team, leaving you regretting your hesitation. Avoid the pain of watching your opponent ride Hunter to victory while you’re stuck with FAAB regret. Take the leap, add him to your roster and let him work his magic — before it’s too late. Go get him.

On The Radar

• Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, SF): 48% Rostered | 18.5 PPG
• Shaedon Sharpe (POR – SG, SF): 35% Rostered | 17.7 PPG
• Jordan Clarkson (UTA – SG, SF): 30% Rostered | 15.1 PPG

Assists

Ben Simmons (BKN – PG, C): 28% Rostered | 6.7 Assists – Rank: 17th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow-Deep
• Acquisition Type: Stream-Hold Potential
• Priority: Medium-High
• Stream/Hold Period: 2-3 Weeks

Category Build

• Primary: Assists
• Secondary: Rebounds, Steals
• Auxillary: Points

Week 10 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @MIA, @MIL, SAS, @ORL

My Recent X Post Says It All

I’ve always been a fan of Ben Simmons, rooting for the best — even as a Philadelphia fan. But I’ll admit, I started to doubt. He came into this season with reports about being in “the best shape of his life,” and I even wrote about it.

Yet, when he showed rust early on and caught the inevitable injury bug I thought maybe next year.

Locked In and Producing

But let me tell you something — Simmons is locked in. Even with sporadic availability due to health management, he’s been steady across all major categories. He’s averaging 6.7 assists per game, and let’s not forget, he’s a center. That’s wild.

Like I said in my post, I didn’t fully appreciate how much Dennis Schroder‘s presence would elevate his game. It just puts into perspective how incredibly talented Simmons is, always was and can be.

It Was Never About Talent

The issue has never been about his talent — it’s about when that talent shows up on the floor. And no, I’m not talking about his playoff history. I’m talking about health. Mentally, he looks back and better than ever, and that’s a massive win. Physically? That’s still a bit up in the air, and there’s a long season ahead.

Don’t Miss Out

Here’s what I do know: You don’t want to see Simmons in your opponent’s lineup when you could have snagged him yourself. That’s a pain I’ve never had to endure because I jump on the chance when I can. But imagining my opponent’s frustration? It’s gloriously humbling. So, don’t wait. Simmons is back and he’s making sure everyone remembers it.

On The Radar

• Russell Westbrook (DEN – PG): 52% Rostered | 6.5 APG
• Ayo Dosunmu (CHI – PG, SG, SF): 46% Rostered | 4.6 APG

Rebounds

Jeremy Sochan (SAS – SF, PF): 62% Rostered | 8.3 Rebounds – Rank: 29th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Hold – Steam Potential
• Priority: High
• Stream/Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks

Category Build

• Primary: Rebounds
• Secondary: Points, Field-Goal Percentage, Steals
• Auxillary: Blocks

Week 10 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @PHI, @BKN, @MIN, LAC

Sochan is Him

Let me tell you, this is a bad man. I don’t care what anyone says. Victor Wembanyama is phenomenal, the Spurs are loaded with talent, but Jeremy Sochan might just be one of the most impressive players of this new generation. And I will stand proudly on this hill.

Versatility Like No Other

Last season, Sochan took on a whole new role as the primary ball-handler, and somehow, he put up equal or better stats than his breakout rookie year. Now, he’s outpacing his production across every category except assists. Yes, he’s down to 2.9 assists per game after averaging 3.4 as a semi-full-time point guard last year. But here’s the kicker: He’s doing this while not even averaging 30 minutes a night on a team with Wembanyama.

Numbers Don’t Lie

Let’s break this down… Sochan is putting up 14.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 0.7 blocks and 1.1 steals per game while shooting a crisp 52.1% from the floor. All of this after a slow start to the season, while sharing the floor with one of the most hyped players of perhaps all time.

Trust Pop, Trust Sochan

This team has talent, yes, but here’s the difference: Their head coach is Gregg Popovich. Pop knows what he’s doing. Whether the Spurs make moves to position themselves for a championship run or simply keep building, Sochan is integral to this picture.

If they do move him? Don’t be surprised if he ends up dominating multiple categories in these articles every single week. Sochan is that guy.

On the Radar

• Santi Aldama (MEM – PF, C): 57% Roasted | 7.4 RPG
• Alex Sarr (WAS – PF, C): 45% Rostered | 6.4 RPG
• Goga Bitadze (ORL – C): 39% Rostered | 8.0 rpg

Blocks

Alex Sarr (WAS – PF, C): Rostered 45% | 1.8 Blocks – Rank: 8th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Deep-Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Hold Potential-Stream
• Priority: High-Medium
• Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks

Category Build

• Primary: Blocks
• Secondary: Blocks
• Auxillary: Points, Steals

Week 10 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 3
• Opponents: @OKC, CHA, NYK

The Rookie’s Rise

The young man is figuring it out, and it’s a sight to behold. On a team still finding its footing but packed with potential, Alex Sarr is carving out something special as a rookie. He’s averaging 1.8 blocks per game, and beyond that, he’s beginning to show promise as a multi-categorical contributor now that his scoring is starting to click.

From International Ball to the NBA

During his international playing days, Sarr’s offense was almost non-existent. The fact he’s transitioned to the NBA, as a rookie no less, and is not only maximizing his defensive strengths but also showing competitiveness offensively, is remarkable. Sure, his efficiency will ebb and flow, but with time, it’s bound to stabilize.

A Star in the Making

The upside of rostering him now rather than missing out later could be the difference-maker not just for championship success but also for the sheer joy of knowing you recognized his potential early. It’s the same feeling I had when I snagged Stefon Diggs as a rookie. That one under-the-radar pick changed my strategy and vision forever.

Get Him Now

Sarr has the tools to be a star, provided he stays in control of his destiny and continues to refine his game. Don’t wait for someone else to pick him up — add him to your roster now and enjoy the ride.

On The Radar

• Yves Missi (NOP – C): 39% Rostered | 1.1 BPG
• Goga Bitadze (ORL – C): 39% Rostered | 1.6 BPG

Steals

Dru Smith (MIA – PG, SG): 6% Rostered | 1.6 Steals – Rank: 21st

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Deep-Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Stream
• Priority: Medium
• Hold Period: 1-2 Weeks

Category Build

• Primary: Steals
• Secondary: Points, Assists, Rebounds, Field-Goal Percentage
• Auxillary: Three-Pointers Made

Week 10 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: BKN, @ORL, @ATL, @HOU

Taking Advantage of Opportunity

Dru Smith is balling, no doubt about it. With the Heat still trying to find their rhythm as a team, Smith is making the most of the opportunities coming his way. His move to the starting lineup against the Magic this past week showed just how impactful he can be. He shined once again, proving he can be a potential anchor for this team — whether as a starter or off the bench.

Proven Track Record

Smith is averaging 1.6 steals per game this season, and this is no fluke. He averaged 1.7 steals across his college career, even posting over two steals per game in his final three seasons. His growth year over year in college was impressive, culminating in a senior season where he averaged 14.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.1 steals per game while shooting 44.2% from the floor and 39.8% from three.

Recent Surge

In his last six games, Smith has upped the ante, averaging 10.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, 2.0 assists and 2.5 steals per game while shooting an incredible 53.8% from the floor and 50% from beyond the arc. These numbers not only highlight his growth but also suggest he’s ready to carve out a bigger role.

High Risk, High Reward

While Smith’s value lies primarily in his steals, there’s potential for him to grow into a more well-rounded fantasy option. The Heat, currently sitting sixth in the East, could become a dangerous team when healthy, and Smith might be a key piece of that puzzle.

Final Word

Smith is a high-risk, solid-reward pickup with a chance to become a mid-to-late season gem. If you’re looking for steals and have room for a speculative add, now is the time to jump on the Dru Smith train before it leaves the station.

On The Radar

• Bilal Coulibaly (WAS – SG, SF): 48% Rostered | 1.5 SPG
• Toumani Camara (POR – SF, PF): 12% Rostered | 1.4 SPG
• Justin Champagnie (WAS – SG, SF): 24% Rostered | 1.3 SPG

Three-Pointers Made

Malik Beasley (DET – SG): 31% Rostered | 3.8 3PTM – Rank: 7th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow-Deep
• Acquisition Type: Steam-Hold Potential
• Priority: Medium-High
• Hold Period: 2-3 Weeks

Category Build

• Primary: Three-Pointers Made, Points
• Secondary: Points, Field-Goal Percentage
• Auxillary: Rebounds

Week 10 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 3
• Opponents: @LAL, @SAC, @DEN

Built Different: Detroit’s Energy is for Real

The Pistons smacked the Suns, with or without Devin Booker, and they’re sitting in the play-in picture if the season ended today. Detroit sports are built differently, and Malik Beasley embodies that spirit.

His rostership sitting at 31% is way too low for someone producing at his level. This isn’t just a hot streak. This is who Beasley is, and the sooner we embrace it, the better positioned we’ll be for fantasy success.

Consistency With a Plan

The Pistons have kept Beasley coming off the bench, which speaks to the team’s strategy and confidence in their depth. He’s thriving in his role, averaging 3.8 three-pointers per game, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

His production stretches across the board: 16.4 points, 3.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game while shooting 42.9% from the floor and 41.3% from beyond the arc. The volume is there, too, with 13.4 field-goal attempts and 9.3 three-point attempts per game, making his efficiency and production a winning combination.

A Solid Play With Minimal Risk

While every shooter has their slumps, Beasley’s role and consistency make him a strong and relatively safe acquisition. Injuries elsewhere on the team could lead to slight adjustments in his production, but his steady role off the bench should keep him valuable moving forward.

Big B Energy

The Pistons are on the rise, and Beasley is a key part of their success. It’s time to carry that ‘Big B’ energy and make the move to add him to your squad. Don’t wait, as Detroit’s not slowing down, and neither is Beasley.

On The Radar

• Payton Pritchard (BOS – PG): 56% Rostered | 3.8 3PTM
• Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, PF): 48% Rostered | 2.5 3PTM

Field-Goal Percentage

Christian Braun (DEN – SG, SF): 47% Rostered | 56.4% FG% – Rank: 67th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Stream-Hold
• Priority: Medium-High
• Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks

Category Build

• Primary: Field-Goal Percentage
• Secondary: Points, Steals
• Auxillary: Blocks, Three-Pointers MAde

Week 10 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: PHO, @PHO, CLE, DET

The Dip in Rostership: Understandable but Short-Sighted

Christian Braun’s rostership has dipped recently, and it’s easy to see why. His injury, coupled with the need for managers to explore more “convincing” options, might have swayed opinions. But let’s be real, he is more than just a placeholder. As a sophomore on a championship-caliber Denver squad, Braun is proving he belongs and continues to be a core contributor when healthy.

Consistent Production Across Categories

Despite the temporary fade, Braun is putting up solid numbers across the board. He’s shooting 56.4% from the floor and 40.6% from beyond the arc, averaging 15.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 1.3 steals per game. His efficiency and versatility make him a steady, reliable piece for managers looking for consistent output.

A Quiet Wave That Lifts All Boats

While he may not have the flashiness of Jokic or the jaw-dropping stat lines of someone like Russell Westbrook, Braun’s contributions are significant and effective. He’s the type of player who bolsters a lineup without the fanfare but still gets the job done.

A Smart Play for the Back Half of the Season

As the Nuggets continue their push toward the playoffs, Braun’s role will remain important. If you’re looking to reset and align your roster for the season’s final stretch, don’t sleep on Braun. His balanced production is a wave worth riding.

On The Radar

• Jeremy Sochan (SAS – SF, PF): 62% Rostered | 52.1% FG%
• Payton Pritchard (BOS – PG): 55% Rostered | 47.8 % FG%

Free-Throw Percentage

Bennedict Mathurin (IND – SG, SF): 57% Rostered | 85.4% FT% – Rank: 110th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Steam-Hold Potential
• Priority: Medium-High
• Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks

Category Build

• Primary: Free-Throw Percentage
• Secondary: Points
• Auxillary: Rebounds

Week 10 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents:@GSW, OKC, @BOS, @BOS

The Talent is Clear

Bennedict Mathurin is a baller, plain and simple. While his young career has seen its fair share of ups and downs due to injuries and fluctuating roles, his production is undeniably impressive. Averaging 17.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists and 0.8 steals per game, he’s shooting 46.5% from the floor and thriving at the free-throw line, converting at an 85.4% clip on 4.9 attempts per game.

A Pacer Amid Growing Pains

The Pacers are in an interesting spot. They’re talented but might lack the firepower to keep up with the league’s rapidly improving teams. With a versatile roster full of players trying to carve out consistent roles, Mathurin has had moments where his leash felt too short. Historically streaky, his down games often lead to skepticism about how quickly he’ll bounce back.

The Case for Mathurin

The Pacers need to double down on Mathurin’s contributions and commit to giving him a steady role. While his current situation might give managers pause, his long-term upside makes him a solid investment, especially as we enter trade season. If you’re looking for a reliable free-throw contributor with multi-category potential, Mathurin is your guy.

On-The Radar

• Shaedon Sharpe (POR – SG, SF): 35% Rostered | 80% FT%

Subscribe: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeart | Castbox | Amazon Music | Podcast Addict | TuneIn