Week 8 is upon us, and it’s a great week to think beyond the surface. With trade season fast approaching and teams beginning to shift strategies for the second half of the season, this is the time to get bold with your roster management. As the schedule gets odd and unpredictable, why not embrace the unexpected and explore unconventional ways to win?

This week’s article is designed to challenge the status quo. All players featured are rostered in fewer than 40% of leagues, making them prime candidates for those ready to think outside the box. While these picks may not offer immediate gratification, they provide opportunities to reshape your strategy and unlock a competitive edge. In a game as nuanced as fantasy basketball, this is where championships are built.

Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings

Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 8)

As we approach Week 8, the season’s complexion is beginning to shift. Trade season looms large, and teams are recalibrating their strategies for the long road ahead. This is the perfect time to re-evaluate your approach, especially as unconventional opportunities start to emerge. As stated in last week’s article, we’re beginning the transition into a more nuanced approach.

Our focus will increasingly turn to deeper, more tactical pickups. These moves will prioritize matchup contexts, weeks played and even FAAB strategies to ensure you maximize every angle of your roster construction.

Some elements may not look the same as in weeks past. For example, our traditional “on the radar” section has been significantly pared down. In some cases, it has been replaced, as we plan to make future adjustments. As stated throughout the season, we’re bringing back a full suite of tools and insights from last season. As the year progresses, we’ll introduce additional features to refine your approach further, including:

Coming Soon (Post All-Star Break):

*Week Analysis Details (Post All-Star Break):

• 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

With Week 8 representing a turning point in the fantasy basketball season, taking advantage of 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. Fantasy basketball rewards those willing to adapt, take risks and plan for the bigger picture. Let’s dig into this week’s picks and start building on the work we have done up until this point and put together a strategy that sets you apart from 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 8th, 2024
• Yahoo! Sports – Player List

A Little Too Unconventional

• Points – De’Andre Hunter (ATL – SF, PF): 35% Rostered | 19.2 PPG – Rank: 51st
• Assists – Russell Westbrook III (DEN – PG): 44% Rostered | 6.1 APG – Rank: 26th
• Rebounds – Jeremy Sochan (SAS – SF, PF): 53% Rostered | 8.5 RPG – Rank: 29th
• Blocks – Alex Sarr (WAS – PF, C): 43% Rostered | 1.9 BPG – Rank: 10th
• Steals – Marcus Smart (MEM – PG, SG): 25% Rostered | 1.5 SPG – Rank: 32nd
• Three-Pointers Made – Payton Prichard (BOS – PG): 51% Rosterd | 3.7 3PTM – Rank: 9th
• Field-Goal Percentage – Christian Braun (DEN – SG, SF): 49% Rostered | 56.6% FG% – Rank: 71st
• Free-Throw Percentage – De’Andre Hunter (ATL – SF, PF): 35% Rostered | 89.7 FT% – Rank: 68th

Points

Malik Beasley (DET – SG): 28% Rostered | 16.0 PPG – Rank: 85th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow-Deep
• Acquisition Type: Stream-Hold Potential
• Priority: Medium-High
• Hold Period: 2-4 Weeks

Category Build

• Primary: Points
• Secondary: Three-Pointers Made
• Auxillary: Rebounds, Blocks

Week 8 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 1
• Opponents: @BOS
• Average OPP PTS Rank: 9.0
• Average OPP PTS: 110.7

A Spark Off the Bench

Say what you want, but the Pistons are looking good and starting to show competency in managing and deploying their talent. Malik Beasley has discovered new possibilities since joining Detroit, making a strong case for Sixth Man of the Year. He’s putting up ample volume and value off the bench, keeping the Pistons offensively competitive, even when their opposition brings heavy firepower.

Elevating the Pistons’ Scoring Arsenal

Since donning a Pistons jersey, Beasley has significantly upped his scoring game, averaging 16.0 points per contest. He’s doing so efficiently, shooting 43.2% from the floor and an impressive 39.9% from three-point range. While Detroit has several options in both the backcourt and frontcourt, Beasley appears to have secured a critical role that acts as a near “blank check” offensively. His presence serves as an additional scoring threat, complementing the likes of Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey and Tim Hardaway Jr.

Late-Season Game-Changer

Beasley isn’t just an offensive asset; he’s a late-season game-changer who combines quantity and quality in scoring and three-point production. His emergence as a reliable contributor makes him a player you don’t want to face in a critical matchup. Whether for his steady scoring or timely contributions, Beasley should be on your radar as a must-roster player in the weeks to come.

Assists

Ben Simmons (BKN – PG, C): 19% Rostered | 6.7 APG – Rank: 17th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

• Primary: Assists
• Secondary: Rebounds
• Auxillary: Field-Goal Percentage

Week 8 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 1
• Opponents: @MEM
• Average OPP APG Rank: 6.0
• Average OPP APG: 24.5

An Acqusition Worth Making?

The hardest thing about Ben Simmons is trust. After his turbulent departure from Philadelphia and subsequent seasons marked by inconsistent participation and off-the-court questions about his commitment to the game, many fantasy managers have found it hard to rely on him. That’s putting it lightly.

A Promise of Redemption

This summer, word out of Brooklyn’s camp was that Simmons was in the best shape of his life. While skepticism is understandable, this claim helped rekindle some faith, at least for me. As a Philadelphia fan, I can appreciate Simmons’ impact during “The Process,” even if his playoff struggles and uneven availability frustrated fans. Simmons has always been a polarizing figure, but his ability to affect the game in subtle yet impactful ways is undeniable.

Multi-Categorical Excellence

Simmons might not be your go-to for scoring, but his contributions in other areas make him one of the most intriguing players in fantasy sports. Averaging 6.7 assists (17th in the league) and 5.8 rebounds per game, Simmons’ value lies in his ability to stuff the stat sheet outside of traditional scoring metrics. His dual eligibility at point guard and center on Yahoo platforms makes him a rarity, offering lineup flexibility and an edge in roster construction.

The Set-It-and-Forget-It Enigma

Simmons’ sporadic appearances on the court make him hard to trust, but his raw production can turn a category matchup in your favor. He’s not a traditional “set-it-and-forget-it” player, but he’s also the kind of wild card who can quietly produce game-changing results. Plug him in, avoid checking the box score mid-game and return later to find him giving your team a boost.

A Long-Term Perspective

While Simmons only has one game this week, the overall scheduling landscape for fantasy basketball makes this a quirky week for most managers. Looking ahead, Simmons could find a rhythm and deliver value over the following weeks. For category league players, he’s a high-risk, high-reward asset worth considering as part of a broader strategy. If nothing else, Simmons reminds us fantasy basketball thrives on the unexpected, and he’s a prime embodiment of that unpredictability.

Rebounds

Yves Missi (NOP – C): Rostered: 31% | 7.9 RPG – Rank: 36th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow-Deep
• Acquisition Type: Stream-Hold Potential
• Priority: Medium
• Stream/Hold Period: 2-4 Weeks

Category Build

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

Week 8 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 2
• Opponents: SAC, @IND
• Average OPP RPG Rank: 8.0
• Average OPP RPG: 42.6

Figuring It out With the Pelicans

Much like the Pelicans themselves, Yves Missi is figuring it out, and that’s exciting to see for a team with so much promise. After a turbulent start to the season plagued by injuries, New Orleans is finally starting to show signs of cohesion.

Turning Challenges Into Opportunity

While injuries derailed their ability to carry over momentum from last season, they inadvertently allowed the team to test its depth and resilience. The record might not scream “contender” just yet, but if I’m a Pelicans fan, I’d be optimistic about their trajectory. Missi has become a cornerstone in their frontcourt, contributing to a balanced and defensively sound squad.

A Foundation in the Making

Missi has demonstrated his ability to crash the boards, control the tempo and facilitate both offensive and defensive execution for the Pelicans. These elements are helping to solidify the team’s identity, with Missi playing a pivotal role in their development. His averages — 7.9 rebounds (36th in the league), 1.2 blocks per game — and a high 55% field-goal rate highlight his value as a defensive and efficiency-oriented contributor.

Impact and Upside

For managers looking to gain an edge in defensive and niche categories, Missi offers a reliable option. His consistent rebounding and shot-blocking, paired with his efficiency, make him an asset worth considering. As he continues to grow into his role with the Pelicans, his opportunities should only increase, making him a player to watch as the season progresses. Missi’s upward trend mirrors that of his team — both are finding their footing and have the potential to deliver big results.

Blocks

Goga Bitadze (ORL – C): Rostered: 26% | 1.7 BPG – Rank: 12th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow-Deep
• Acquisition Type: Stream-Hold Potential
• Priority: Medium
• Strem/Hold Period: 2-4 Weeks

Category Build

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

Week 8 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 1
• Opponents: @MIL
• Average OPP RPG Rank: 5.0
• Average OPP RPG: 4.1

Defensively Pragmatic

Steals

Andre Drummond (PHI – C): Rostered: 14% | 1.4 SPG – Rank: 38th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

• Primary: Steals
• Secondary: Rebounds
• Auxillary: Field-Goal Percentage

Week 8 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 1
• Opponents: IND
• Average OPP BPG Rank: 15.0
• Average OPP BPG: 8.2

Holding Down the Fort

The Sixers are working to regain momentum as they recover from injuries, and Andre Drummond has been a steady presence in the interim. While he doesn’t bring Joel Embiid‘s star power, Drummond has been effective in controlling the boards and adding an extra defensive layer for opponents to account for. His ability to step up when needed has kept Philadelphia competitive, showcasing his value as a consistent contributor.

A Steady Defensive Presence

Drummond’s defensive contributions have been impressive, with 1.4 steals and 8.3 rebounds per game. While his steal production may seem erratic at first glance, a deeper dive into his game log reveals a pattern of reliability in this niche category. His track record throughout his career suggests his defensive numbers — both in steals and blocks — are more sustainable than many realize. This reliability makes him a valuable asset for managers looking to bolster their defensive stats.

Embiid’s Return and Drummond’s Role

The eventual return of Embiid will undoubtedly shift the team’s dynamics, but Drummond’s contributions remain relevant. Philadelphia’s push to stay competitive in the East will likely require a balanced rotation, allowing Drummond to continue providing value.

His knack for producing solid point-per-minute returns, coupled with his ability to deliver when least expected, ensures he remains a viable option in deeper leagues or as a tactical play in weekly matchups. For managers seeking defensive consistency and a reliable contributor in rebounds and steals, Drummond offers a dependable floor with upside potential.

Three-Pointers Made

Julian Champagnie (SAS – SF, PF): Rostered: 22% | 2.5 3PTM – Rank: 42nd

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: Steals

Week 8 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 2
• Opponents: @POR, MIN
• Average OPP 3PTM Rank: 11.0
• Average OPP 3PTM: 12.7

Shining in San Antonio

Julian Champagnie has emerged as one of the bright spots on a Spurs team working to re-establish its footing in the hyper-competitive Western Conference. Last season hinted at his potential, but this year, Champagnie has stepped into a significant role, solidifying himself as a reliable contributor on a team loaded with both frontcourt and backcourt talent. His ability to consistently produce offensive value has been critical for a squad navigating injuries and rotational adjustments.

Steady and Efficient Offense

While teammates Jeremy Sochan and Keldon Johnson offer versatility and flashes of brilliance, they can also be prone to volatility in their production. Champagnie, by contrast, provides a steady hand, blending high-volume shooting with consistency that keeps the Spurs in games. His role as an offensive specialist has been key in maintaining the team’s competitiveness. Averaging 2.5 three-pointers made, 12.6 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, Champagnie has proven himself to be a versatile scoring threat and an asset for fantasy managers looking for dependable production.

An Offensive Asset for the Long Run

As the Spurs continue to refine their rotations and develop their young core, Champagnie’s value is likely to grow. His ability to contribute consistently across multiple offensive categories makes him an excellent addition to any roster.

Whether you’re seeking a complementary piece to round out your lineup or a reliable producer in critical categories like three-pointers and points, Champagnie is a solid play. Don’t overlook his potential to be a central part of both the Spurs’ and your fantasy team’s success.

Field-Goal Percentage

Ayo Dosunmu (CHI – SG, SF): Rostered: 36% | 50.2% FG – Rank: 133rd

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 8 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 1
• Opponents: CHA
• Average OPP FG% Rank: 21.0
• Average OPP FG%: 47.1%

A Quiet Contributor in a Season of Opportunity

Ayo Dosunmu has been a steady presence for the Bulls since entering the league, quietly contributing year after year. Despite a trajectory that’s been impacted by factors outside of his control, Dosunmu has remained an integral piece of Chicago’s lineup.

With trade season looming, the Bulls are well-positioned to retool their roster, and Dosunmu could be one of the players who benefits the most, whether he stays in Chicago or finds himself on a new team.

Consistency Amidst Uncertainty

The current state of Chicago’s roster raises questions about how opportunities will shake out as the season progresses. However, Dosunmu has consistently demonstrated his ability to deliver when given the chance.

Shooting an impressive 50.2% from the floor and averaging 12.8 points and 4.5 rebounds per game, he’s a reliable offensive option. While Chicago’s rotation can be unpredictable, Dosunmu’s production makes him a strong candidate for managers seeking stability in their lineups.

A Mid-to-Late Season Asset to Watch

As trade talks heat up, Dosunmu’s fantasy value could see a significant boost, particularly if he lands on a team in need of his skill set. Imagine him as a spark for a squad like the Wizards. Whether he remains with the Bulls or moves to a new situation, Dosunmu is worth monitoring closely. His ability to provide efficient scoring and steady contributions across multiple categories makes him an attractive option for managers looking to solidify their offensive production in the mid-to-late season stretch.

Free-Throw Percentage

Brandon Boston Jr. (NOP – SG, SF, PF): Rostered: 15% | 84.4% FT – Rank: 129th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

• Primary: Free-Throw Percentage
• Secondary: Steals, Points
• Auxillary: Rebounds, Assists

Week 8 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 2
• Opponents: SAC, @IND
• Average OPP FT% Rank: 20.5
• Average OPP FT%: 78.5%

Seizing the Moment Amidst Uncertainty

Brandon Boston Jr. has taken full advantage of his opportunity on a Pelicans squad riddled with injuries early this season. Even as the team inches toward full health, Boston has solidified himself as a reliable contributor who capitalizes on the unique depth and versatility of New Orleans’ roster. His ability to adapt and sustain production makes him a key player to watch as the season unfolds.

Efficiency at the Line and Offensive Upside

Boston’s free-throw shooting has been a standout component of his game, with an impressive 84.4% from the stripe, averaging 1.8 made free throws on 2.1 attempts per game. While not flashy, his consistent efficiency provides a reliable boost to free-throw percentage categories. Coupled with his ability to complement a solid core lineup, Boston adds value as a multi-categorical contributor.

A Conservative Yet Worthwhile Play

Though the Pelicans’ full roster health may create uncertainty, Boston’s aggressive and consistent offensive presence suggests he’ll continue to earn minutes. His steady production makes him a strategic addition for managers seeking a conservative yet effective asset. Boston’s contributions may not always dominate, but his rising tide approach lifts the overall potential of any lineup he’s a part of. Keep an eye on him as a complementary piece capable of surprising in the long term.

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