Week 9 is here, and we’re back to a more regular schedule after last week’s Emirates NBA Cup shook things up. Remember those waiver wire recommendations from last week’s article? They are still excellent pickups, especially since most teams only played one or two games.
With more games ahead, we’re digging even deeper to uncover more hidden gems that can boost your roster and give you an edge. Whether you need a short-term spark or a long-term solution, this week’s waiver wire features some valuable options. Let’s dive in and discover the players who can help you conquer your league.
We’ll look at players you should consider picking up who are rostered in four different roster tiers:
- 50-60%
- 30-49%
- 15-29%
- 0-14%.
What’s more, I’ll give you a breakdown of how many games each team has for the upcoming week, so you can maximize the minutes of your streamers. Without further ado, let’s dissect the waiver wire, starting with the game schedule for next week.
Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings
Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 9)
Four games:
SAC
Three games:
BKN, CHA, CHI, CLE, DET, LAC, MIA, NOP, PHI, TOR, UTA
Two games:
ATL, BOS, DAL, DEN, GSW, HOU, IND, LAL, MIL, MIN, NYK, ORL, PHX, POR, SAS, WAS
Rostered in 50-60% of Leagues
Malik Monk is an incredibly valuable waiver wire target with the Sacramento Kings being the only team guaranteed to play four games this week. Maximizing games played is a crucial strategy, and Monk offers that advantage along with impressive recent production. He’s averaging a season-high 33 minutes per game this month, showcasing his increased role in the Kings’ offense.
Monk is making the most of his opportunities, averaging 17 points, 6.8 assists and 4.0 rebounds per game. He’s a dynamic scorer with a smooth shooting stroke and a knack for creating his own shot. Monk is also a capable playmaker, as evidenced by his assist numbers, making him a great pickup in category leagues.
Rostered in 30-49% of Leagues
With Scottie Barnes expected to be sidelined for some time due to an ankle injury, Gradey Dick is poised to assume a greater role in the Toronto Raptors’ offense. In his most recent game, Dick demonstrated his scoring prowess, registering a 29.2% usage rate en route to 22 points, four rebounds and two assists. This strong showing suggests Dick is prepared to capitalize on the increased opportunities presented by Barnes’ absence.
A gifted scorer with a smooth shooting stroke, Dick poses a threat from beyond the arc. As he steps into a larger role, fantasy managers can anticipate a rise in his minutes and shot attempts, making him a great option for those seeking scoring and three-point production.
Trey Murphy III (SG, SF – NOP)
Trey Murphy is back in action and making a significant impact for the New Orleans Pelicans. Since returning from injury in mid-November, Murphy has looked sharp and appears to be fully recovered. The training wheels are officially off, as evidenced by his participation in the Pelicans’ last back-to-back set and his impressive 35.2 minutes per game this month.
Murphy is showcasing his versatile skillset, averaging 17.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.7 steals per game while shooting an outstanding 95% from the free-throw line. He’s a dynamic scorer with a smooth shooting stroke.
Rostered in 15-29% of Leagues
Goga Bitadze is emerging as a valuable fantasy asset amidst the ongoing injury woes plaguing the Orlando Magic. With the team continuing to pile up injuries, Bitadze has seen a significant increase in playing time, averaging 29.4 minutes per game this month compared to 25.1 last month. He’s making the most of his opportunities, providing consistent production and showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple categories.
In December, Bitadze is averaging a double-double with 12 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. He’s a force in the paint, cleaning up the glass with authority and finishing efficiently around the rim. If you need a reliable source of points and rebounds from the center position, Bitadze is an excellent option to consider.
Rui Hachimura is making a strong case for a permanent spot in the Los Angeles Lakers’ starting lineup. He’s been a consistent scoring threat, hitting double digits in five out of six games this month while averaging 35.8 minutes per game. Hachimura is seizing his opportunity, showcasing his offensive skills and contributing across the board.
Beyond his scoring, Hachimura is also making an impact on the defensive end. He’s averaging an impressive two steals per game this month, tied for 11th in the league. This defensive intensity, combined with his scoring ability, makes him someone to consider in a category league.
Rostered in 0-14% of Leagues
Justin Champagnie is seizing his moment with the Washington Wizards, and his recent performances are turning heads in the fantasy basketball world. With several key players sidelined due to injury, Champagnie has stepped up and become a key contributor. In his last four games, he’s averaging 15.5 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.0 steals per game.
Champagnie is a versatile player who can score from multiple levels, crash the boards with tenacity and make an impact on the defensive end. He’s a high-energy player who brings intensity and effort to every possession. Champagnie is poised to continue seeing significant minutes and opportunities to shine with the Wizards dealing with injuries.
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