Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 11 (2024)

Man, things are about to get good. It’s Week 11, and as of this writing, the NBA landscape is buzzing with trades, rumors and coaching decisions shaking things up. This season has been unique, with the league under a closer eye than ever, but the changes we’re witnessing feel like they’re leading to something great. Change is never easy, but it’s a chance for reinvention — for teams, players and fantasy managers.

The D’Angelo Russell trade is just the tip of the iceberg. Teams are starting to cook, players are finding their rhythm and we’re on the brink of witnessing some squads become overnight sensations for seasons to come. Let’s make sure our rosters reflect this reality. This is the time to trust ourselves, double down on long-term success and take bold steps to stay ahead of the curve.

Like the league, we need to be sharp and creative. Trades, rotations and player dynamics are in full swing. Your decisions now could define your season. Whether it’s FAAB management, waiver wire moves or lineup adjustments, the time is now to lock in, recalibrate and position yourself to eat.

Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings

Whether you are new, seasoned or just looking for a rebound relationship after the NFL ended in a non-fault understanding, welcome. We are FantasyPros and we’re here to help you stay ahead of the chaos.

While some big plays near the 65% rostered mark (except Jeremy Sochan — he is 68% — I don’t care; I hear Lloyd in my ear saying, so you’re telling me there’s a chance), 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… but for now let’s not try to get to cute… these plays not only offer safety but the opportunity at league winning outcomes.

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 into this week’s opportunities with confidence and focus. We’re locked in and ready to cook. It’s time to make this season our own. Game on.

Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 11)

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 Donovan Clingan 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 11 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 11, we’re entering a critical phase of the fantasy basketball season — and if this D’Angelo Russell trade is any indication of what’s to come, it’s about to get wild. 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 Sunday, December 29th, 2024 (Data subject to change.)
• Yahoo! Sports – Player List

Points

Shaedon Sharpe (POR – SG, SF): 42% Rostered | 18.1 Points – Rank: 62nd

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 11 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 3
• Opponents: PHI, @LAL, @MIL

Rising Star in Portland’s Flux

Shaedon Sharpe is the definition of a baller and is undeniably on the path to stardom in the NBA. Despite playing for a Trail Blazers team navigating a post-Damian Lillard era and undergoing constant flux, Sharpe has thrived. His significant improvements across almost every major category season over season show his growth and resilience.

Multi-Categorical Gem

Averaging 18.1 points per game while shooting a healthy 45.9% from the floor, Sharpe has been a steady force. He has become a multi-categorical gem, contributing in ways that hint at his potential to lead, whether it’s in Portland or elsewhere.

The Trade Season X-Factor

Portland is a team on the brink of transformation. With trade season looming, the potential for Sharpe’s role to expand is immense. Whether he becomes part of a dynamic duo with Scoot Henderson or finds himself thriving on another team, his trajectory points upward.

The Sharpe Recommendation

Now is the time to invest in Sharpe. His production is already impressive. If he stays healthy, the sky might not just be the limit but his regular dwelling place. Don’t wait too long, though, as this could be the move that elevates your team for the season’s stretch run.

On The Radar

• De’Andre Hunter (ATL – SF, PF): 48% Rostered | 20.6 PPG
• Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, SF): 49% Rostered | 18.0 PPG
• Jordan Clarkson (UTA – SG, SF): 34% Rostered | 15.8 PPG

Assists

Ben Simmons (BKN – PG, C): 31% Rostered | 6.9 Assists – Rank: 16th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 11 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 3
• Opponents: @TOR, @MIL, PHI

Stepping Into the Spotlight

We are only a couple of games out since the Nets have been without Dennis Schroder, but Ben Simmons has already shown signs of being a capable facilitator and producer in his new role. He is averaging 6.9 assists, which is not a fluke.

Sometimes, we can unconsciously put things into context of how many points a player posts, and while that is important, it can limit the vision. Simmons is a unique and intriguing player in fantasy sports; he is a multi-categorical asset that will ruin your day if he isn’t on your squad. It isn’t a matter of if. It’s a matter of when.

Stat Sheet Filler

In addition to averaging 6.9 assists, this man is averaging 5.3 rebounds, 0.9 steals and 0.5 blocks per game and is shooting 56.5% from the floor. Yeah, he is only averaging six points per game right now, but that will change, especially as the team begins to invest in him and his future with the team (please invest in him for at least the next 2-3 years as the one and then move on accordingly).

In his first four seasons, he averaged 15.85 points and 11.5 field goal attempts per game and sported a 56.1% shooting rate. He only played in one college ball season, in which he averaged 19.2 points, 11.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists and shot 56% from the floor. In his first season as a rookie on a largely vulnerable, growing and aggressive Sixers team, he averaged 15.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, 8.2 assists, 0.9 blocks and 1.7 steals.

The Process and The Payoff

What are we talking about here? Fantasy is one thing, but look at what this guy has accomplished. Yeah, he had to grow, and yeah, he had to go through things, but he is still here, and he is at the tail end of the process his process… Let me tell you something: A lot of people double down on being on the right side today, only to risk being largely on the wrong side tomorrow. This guy is a baller. And let me tell you something else. I could tell you a lot more.

Yeah, we want to win, and Simmons is going to help you do that, but it’s something about having players on your team who have great stories and being the ones who believe in them no matter what. That is equally, if not more, fulfilling.

Healthy Production Across All Categories

Get Simmons. He will give you production across almost every other category outside of points… for now, but he eventually will. His health will be something to monitor as he is still getting positioned in his new role, getting healthier and playing basketball regularly. These risks are more than likely associated with a lack of potential vision for how to use them than the players themselves.

D’Angelo Russell Impact

The acquisition of D’Angelo “D’Lo” Russell is exciting. If I’m a Nets fan, I’m pumped. You should also probably try to snag Russell if he’s floating on waivers. This doesn’t change anything in a negative direction for Simmons, who just has to stay on the floor.

Simmons might have an even better chance of performing well now if he chooses to and if the team lets him call his shot. Simmons could easily be the face of this team and should be.

On The Radar

• Russell Westbrook (DEN – PG): 52% Rostered | 6.4 APG
• Malcolm Brogdon (WAS – PG, SG): 29% Rostered | 3.6 APG

Rebounds

Goga Bitadze (ORL – C): 59% Rostered | 8.4 Rebounds – Rank: 28th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 11 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 3
• Opponents: @DET, @TOR, UTA

Role Security and Production You Can Count On

Get him now. There aren’t many options at this point that provide the role clarity, security and consistent production Goga Bitadze offers. He’s only getting started. The only thing that could threaten him is his health, and given how unpredictable this season has been, just assume he’ll get tagged and roster him anyway. He’s averaging 8.4 rebounds per game, but that’s just the beginning.

The Numbers Speak Volumes

Bitadze is averaging 9.6 points and 1.7 blocks per game while shooting an impressive 64.8% from the floor. Sure, 9.6 points may not seem flashy, but here’s the kicker — he’s nearly doubled his shooting attempts from 3.4 per game last season to 6.3 this year. He’s also doubled his scoring output from 5.0 points to 9.6 points per game. With the Magic in need of offensive firepower, it’s hard to imagine this number not growing. This man is a walking double-double, and the team is starting to realize it.

Patience and Discipline Pay Off

One thing I admire about the Magic organization is its long-term vision. They don’t react impulsively; instead, they invest and refine their players. We’ve seen this with Jalen Suggs, and now we’re seeing it with Bitadze. Look at his minutes over the last four games: 31, 33, 21 and 31. He’s averaging 29 minutes per game.

Navigating the Depth Chart

Even with Wendell Carter Jr. healthy and Moritz Wagner (sadly) injured, Bitadze has solidified his role. The best part is he didn’t need injuries to shine; he’s always had this potential. While Paolo Banchero‘s return might slightly impact his offensive production, Bitadze will still give you rebounds, efficiency and blocks.

The Time is Now

His journey has been a long one, but Bitadze’s moment has arrived. If you’re looking for a player who can deliver consistent value and impact, he’s your guy. Don’t miss out.

On the Radar

• Yves Missi (NOP – C): 39% Rostered | 8.5 RPG
• Nick Richards (CHA – C): 21% Rostered | 8.2 RPG
• Alex Sarr (WAS – PF, C): 45% Rostered | 6.2 RPG

Blocks

Alex Sarr (WAS – PF, C): Rostered 47% | 1.8 Blocks – Rank: 7th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 11 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: NYK, CHI, @NOP, NOP

Consistently on the Radar

Alex Sarr will stay on this list until his rostership rises high enough to disqualify him. With the trade season about to kick off, it’s the perfect time to invest in players who deliver, no matter the circumstances. Sarr is a burgeoning star, averaging 1.8 blocks per game, with his offense catching up to his defensive prowess. He’s also putting up 11.4 points, 6.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 0.7 steals per game — numbers that are impressive for any player, let alone a rookie adjusting to the NBA.

A Journey Worth Appreciating

Having transitioned from international ball to the NBA, Sarr’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. Often, we overlook the challenges these players face, especially in fantasy sports, but Sarr is proving he belongs. He’s showing skills he didn’t exhibit in his limited time overseas and doing so at a competitive level. His growth is evident, and it’s only a matter of when, not if he fully blossoms into the star he’s destined to be.

The Long-Term Value

Sarr is the kind of player you want on your roster late in the season. If he stays healthy, he will be a cornerstone piece as the Wizards make their moves and clarify their future direction. Players like Sarr offer more than just stats; they provide stories and pride in discovering them early.

Block Party Host

Sarr is hosting a block party every night, and you’ll want to be there. Sometimes, the value of having a player like him on your team extends beyond fantasy points — it’s about saying, “I got in before anyone else knew.” Just like my experience with Stefon Diggs in his rookie season, Sarr’s rise will be one to remember. Don’t miss out. Be a fly on the wall, at the very least.

On The Radar

• Goga Bitadze (ORL – C): 59% Rostered | 1.7 BPG
• Donovan Clingan (POR – C): 14% Rostered | 1.7 BPG
• Yves Missi (NOP – C): 38% Rostered | 1.3 BPG

Steals

Russell Westbrook (DEN – PG): 52% Rostered | 1.7 Steals – Rank: T-15th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 11 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @UTA, ATL, SAS, @SAS

A Hall of Fame Career Continues

I’m so happy for Russell Westbrook. He is going to have options on how he is going to want to continue and eventually conclude his NBA legacy and Hall of Fame career. He is doing it all and is doing it in an impactful way as part of a team, and a great one at that.

He is averaging 1.7 steals per game in addition to putting together stats that make you a believer and should make you excited that his triple-double production is still very much real and something we will experience again, albeit in small dosages, like Super Saiyan 3 Goku and now Vegeta-Yay.

A Legacy in Motion

Westbrook has averaged 12 points, 4.4 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 0.6 blocks per game while shooting 43.4% from the floor and 31.2% from beyond the arc. He is now becoming a “brick house” we should build on, appreciate and admire. The work he’s put in and the growth he continues to demonstrate is incredible. I am just happy to see what he does next.

Nothing to Prove

For our purposes, he is a player you are going to want in your rotation. As the trade season kicks off, I see his value only going up. He has nothing to prove to us, so whether he chooses to stay with Denver or help another team rebuild and compete — Hornets, Bulls, Heat, Nets, Raptors, Grizzlies — he has options. Let’s appreciate him on the floor, in life and on our rosters.

On The Radar

• Bilal Coulibaly (WAS – SG, SF): 56% Rostered | 1.5 SPG
• Toumani Camara (POR – SF, PF): 10% Rostered | 1.3 SPG
• Tari Eason (HOU – SF, PF): 39% Rostered | 1.9 SPG

Three-Pointers Made

Malik Beasley (DET – SG, SF): 37% Rostered | 3.9 3PTM – Rank: 6th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 11 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 3
• Opponents: ORL, CHA, MIN

The Ownership Conundrum When Balling with “Big B” Energy in a Defined Role

I get we have a lot of options in fantasy — and looking at the player pickup trends on the app, it seems like fantasy players are locking in (not to say they weren’t, but it’s starting to get good). I am happy to see Malik Beasley trending upward in ownership but 37% rostership is a bit too low.

This man is balling. Not only does he have a blank check on a key and defined role, but he is also producing. He’s averaging 16.7 points per game and 3.9 three-pointers made per game. Sure, his shooting efficiency could be better, but still, you can’t argue with the value.

Detroit’s Time is Coming

While players in Detroit unconsciously have a short leash because of the narrative around this team, it doesn’t matter. Detroit is coming and Beasley is doing well with his power and his responsibility.

Lock Him In

Add him, keep him, appreciate him.

On The Radar

• Payton Pritchard (BOS – PG): 54% Rostered | 3.6 3PTM
• Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, PF): 49% 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 11 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @UTA, ATL, SAS, @SAS

A Unique Fantasy Relationship

It will be an interesting relationship with Christian Braun, especially when you start to think about how you want to win. Field goal percentage can be hard to manage, especially when your focus tends to be on producing points, rebounds, assists and other categories more tied to ability and self-action than probability and circumstance.

Bang for Your Buck

Braun has been a great example of getting more bang for your buck and value. It’s only his third season and first as a key long-term rotational player, but the leap he’s taken is undeniable. Just look at his stats over the first three seasons. He took a leap like no other.

The Efficiency and Production Combo

Shooting an impressive 55% from the floor, Braun isn’t just efficient; he’s producing cross-categorically. He’s averaging 13.9 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.6 blocks and 1.3 steals per game. That’s a solid floor for your field goal category, with plenty of upside to support other areas.

A Must-Add Player

You’ll get a solid contributor for multiple categories, anchored by elite shooting efficiency. Get him.

On The Radar

• Jeremy Sochan (SAS – SF, PF): 68% Rostered | 53.8% FG%
• Payton Pritchard (BOS – PG): 54% Rostered | 46.6 % FG%

Free-Throw Percentage

De’Andre Hunter (ATL – SF, PF): 48% Rostered | 89.6% FT% – Rank: 58th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 11 Opponent Overview

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

What Are We Doing Here?

De’Andre Hunter’s 47% rostership is solid. A 7% increase in rostership is a great sign. Still, what are we doing here? This man deserves more love, and 43% just feels too low for what he’s producing. Sure, I get the hesitation. But let me break it down: Hunter is shooting a remarkable 89.6% from the free-throw line on five attempts per game. That alone should get your attention.

Elite Offensive Production

But wait, there’s more. Hunter is averaging 20.6 points, 2.9 three-pointers made, 4.1 rebounds and 0.7 steals per game. On top of that, he’s shooting 49.1% from the floor and an elite 44.7% from beyond the arc.

A Career Year in Full Swing

This is the best season of his career. Hunter has stepped up as an offensive elite, showing consistency and efficiency that makes him a must-add in most formats.

HUNT. COOK. EAT.

Seriously, what are we doing here? Hunter is the guy you want on your team. Let him hunt, let him cook, and for goodness’ sake, let him eat.

On-The Radar

• Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, PF): 49% Rostered | 88.9% FT%
• Bennedict Mathurin (IND – SG, SF): 57% Rostered | 84.3% FT%

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