It’s time to acknowledge three undeniable truths this week: Health matters, I’m making time and, yes, I believe in Big D.

This season has been as frustrating as it has been exciting — a rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs that demands nothing short of a Twilight: Breaking Dawn – Part 2 level ending to justify everything it’s put us through.

The theme of health is unavoidable, not just in the context of players staying on the floor but also in the broader sense: The health of the league, the game, the business, coaching, relationships and fan engagement. We’re living through a pivotal moment in sports, a time of evolution. The league is redefining itself before our eyes, and it’s wild to witness.

Injuries have hit hard this season, disrupting growth, derailing narratives and challenging managers like us to adapt. But amid the chaos lies an opportunity — to embrace the evolution, to appreciate what’s unfolding and to grow alongside the game.

This week’s article is about making time for that reflection — or to put it another way, respectfully) – calling out the moments that matter and, yes, leaning into the abundance of “D” references that will seem to dominate this week’s article.

Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings

Whether you’re new, seasoned or just rebounding from the NFL season like it ended with a mutual breakup, welcome. FantasyPros is here to guide you through the second half of the NBA season with strategy, bold moves and a shared passion for this game we all love.

We won’t play it safe this week. 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. It’s almost time when getting cute could be the best thing.

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 12)

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. They’ve been quite but we all know the storm is coming, but hopefully its this season. Just in case here you go.

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 Kel’el Ware and Devin Carter Jr. and others 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.

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.

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 12 and Beyond

As we approach Week 12, 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 12, 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 Sunday, January 5th, 2024 (Data subject to change.)
• Yahoo! Sports – Player List

Points

Shaedon Sharpe (POR – SG, SF): 44% Rostered | 17.9 Points – Rank: 63rd

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 12 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @DET, @NOP, @DAL, MIA

Staying Sharpe Regardless

Shaedon Sharpe is set to produce regardless of what happens this trade season. If the roster sees changes, he’ll step up, either by boosting the team’s scoring or showcasing other aspects of his game. Should he be traded, Sharpe has the talent to lead a team, with increased volume and freedom to create plays. If nothing changes, he’s still delivering 17.9 points per game, providing a reliable scoring floor for your roster.

Consistency Amid Chaos

Consider the context of Sharpe’s numbers: He’s thriving despite an overcrowded backcourt and frontcourt. Even with his rebounding taking a dip this season (understandable given Portland’s stacked frontcourt), his year-over-year growth is undeniable.

As a rookie, Sharpe averaged 9.9 points in 22 minutes per game. By his sophomore year, he was putting up 15.9 points with 11 additional minutes on the court. This year, despite a slight drop in minutes, he’s scoring 17.9 points per game with improved efficiency, shooting 45.2% from the field. His success is rooted not in raw talent alone but in health, coaching and opportunity aligning at the right time.

A Unique Path to Stardom

Let’s not forget Sharpe’s unconventional journey. This man declared for the NBA Draft without playing a single college game. After graduating early from high school with the intent to redshirt at Kentucky, he never took the court in college but made his mark in the 2019 FIBA Under-16 Americas Championship and the Nike Elite Youth Basketball League.

In his rookie season, Sharpe averaged 9.9 points, 3.0 rebounds and 1.2 assists per game on a team that was talented yet frustratingly inconsistent in utilizing its pieces. The confidence it takes to step into the NBA and deliver in such circumstances is rare. This kid is special.

Building for the Future

Sharpe’s ability to adapt and his consistent production make him a strong candidate for a late-season boom. Whether the Trail Blazers aim to contend or lean into a rebuild, he’ll remain active and productive.

This is the kind of player you invest in now, ride through trade season and watch flourish as the season progresses. Sharpe’s talent, confidence and unique path to the league could lead to something extraordinary. Get him on your roster and see what he can truly become.

On The Radar

• Jordan Clarkson (UTA – SG, SF): 42% Rostered | 16.0 PPG
• Dillon Brooks (HOU – SG, SF): 29% Rostered | 14.0 PPG
• Tristan Da Silva (ORL – SF): 12% Rostered | 9.0 PPG

Assists

Lonzo Ball (CHI – PG): 11% Rostered | 3.7 Assists – Rank: 89th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Deep
• Acquisition Type: Priority Stream – Hold Potential
• Priority: Low-Medium
• Stream/Hold Period: 1-2 Weeks (Week to Week)

Category Build

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

Week 12 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: SAS, @IND, WAS, SAC

The Comeback Kid

Lonzo Ball is back. Despite being largely restricted so far, he’s shown flashes of the player he was becoming before injuries temporarily derailed his career. His current average of 3.7 assists per game may seem modest, but it’s a solid foundation and enough to place him in the league’s top 100 for assists.

Let’s call it like it is: Ball has the tools to thrive. If he stays healthy, he’s going to ball out. His production aligns with the upward trend we started seeing in 2019-2020. By the 2020-2021 season, Lonzo was hitting career highs, averaging 14.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 5.7 assists, 0.6 blocks and 1.5 steals per game. Those numbers mirrored the potential he flashed during his single season at UCLA.

The Ball Legacy

Look, let’s give credit where it’s due: LaVar Ball was right about his sons (all three of them). Yeah, I said it, and you know what, LiAngelo Ball, you choose where you want to go, whether it’s balling on the court or balling with these bars (can’t like, ‘Tweaker’ slaps), live your life, accept your choices and ball on no matter what stage you find yourself on. Like big bro, embrace your story. LaMelo — eat, fam. Stay healthy but keep eating.

Back to Lonzo

Ball’s path in the NBA reflects grit and perseverance that can’t be ignored. His setbacks — mental and physical — have only added to his story.

There’s a resilience here that’s worth betting on. Ball hasn’t turned on his family, nor has he wavered in his passion for the game. If allowed to grow and develop further, there’s no doubt he’ll rise to the occasion.

The Road Ahead

Ball’s current value should already be trending upward, especially with injuries to players like Ayo Dosunmu potentially clearing a path for him to reclaim a lead role on the Bulls. While health and team dynamics remain critical factors, there’s an undeniable sense of anticipation around his climb back.

As trade season heats up, opportunities may present themselves that boost his immediate and long-term value. Ball is a player to watch. If you put the ball in his hands and tell him to ball, you already know what he’s going to do.

This season is shaping up to be one where nothing is as it seems. Let’s embrace it and see what Ball brings to the table.

On The Radar

• Malcolm Brogdon (WAS – PG, SG): 29% Rostered | 3.9 APG
• Carlton Carrington (WAS – PG, SG): 11% Rostered | 4.0 APG

Rebounds

Ausar Thompson (DET – SF, PF): 47% Rostered | 4.7 Rebounds – Rank: 127th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 12 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: POR, @BKN, GSW, TOR

The Early Season Grind

Ausar Thompson is going to eventually benefit from being healthy and having a coaching staff finally putting Detroit in a position to win. While he’s currently averaging 4.7 rebounds per game, that number doesn’t tell the full story — it’s the aggregation of a slower start to the season. Over his last six games, he’s bumped that average up to 6.5 rebounds per game, signaling a clear upward trend.

Unlocking His Potential

His overall raw numbers are impressive, and they have the potential to climb even higher. With Detroit starting to build consistency in how they deploy talent, his raw skill is finally positioned to thrive within this new system. For anyone looking to rekindle the excitement of his rookie campaign, now is the time to lock in.

Let’s not forget how good he really is. In Overtime Elite (2022-2023), he averaged 16.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 2.4 steals and 1.1 blocks per game during the regular season. In the playoffs that same year, he averaged 21 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 2.0 steals and 0.8 blocks per game. For those doubting if that translates to the league, consider this: In November of the 2023-2024 NBA season, as a rookie on a compromised Detroit team, Thompson averaged 11.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.3 blocks and 1.2 steals per game in just 28.7 minutes.

Ready to Thrive

Even with just five more minutes of playing time in his current role, Thompson could easily clear — or come close to — his career numbers from Overtime Elite. Should Detroit continue to win and invest further in his contributions, he has the tools to become a standout player by the season break.

It’s a Matter of Time

Thompson has the health, potential and team structure to thrive. While nothing is guaranteed, his trajectory points to success. It’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when.

On the Radar

• Jeremy Sochan (SAS – SF, PF): 57% Rostered | 8.3 RPG
• Yves Missi (NOP – C): 39% Rostered | 8.5 RPG
• Alex Sarr (WAS – PF, C): 51% Rostered | 6.3 RPG

Blocks

Alex Sarr (WAS – PF, C): Rostered 51% | 1.7 Blocks – Rank: 7th

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

• Primary: Blocks
• Secondary: Rebounds
• Auxiliary: Points, Steals

Week 12 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: HOU, @PHI, @CHI, OKC

The Rising Star

Alex Sarr is on the rise, delivering performances that inspire Wizards fans while simultaneously creating challenges for the team’s long-term plans. With his strong play, Sarr is carving out a significant role on this potential-packed roster, but in doing so, he’s also complicating rotation clarity for a team navigating both a rebuild and the need for immediate competitiveness.

Blocking His Way to Stardom

Averaging 1.7 blocks per game, Sarr is quickly becoming a cornerstone for Washington. His ability to anchor the defense and provide moments of brilliance is keeping both fans and the organization engaged during what could otherwise feel like a developmental season. If he stays healthy, his presence could be a game-changer later this season.

A Rare Journey to the Top

We often focus so much on immediate results that we miss the unfolding story of a player like Sarr. Drafted purely on potential, he’s now delivering on those projections in one of the world’s toughest leagues. None of the stats he’s posting were guaranteed when he entered the NBA, yet here he is, making it happen in real-time.

Roster Wisely, Reap the Rewards

Sarr is not just good enough to be rostered; he’s the kind of player you’ll want to claim early. He’s the one you draft today to say, “I believed in him first.” He’s also the player your opponent will grab next season, leaving you bitter because you saw his potential from the beginning. That said, acquiring him smartly is key — he’s still figuring it out, but the trajectory is clear.

The Balancing Act

Washington is managing a tricky balancing act between tanking and remaining competitive enough to keep jobs secure. Sarr’s development is central to that equation. If they allow him to thrive while managing his minutes wisely, he could be a star in the making. For now, let’s hope he stays healthy and continues to dominate smartly as he grows into his role.

On The Radar

• Donovan Clingan (POR – C): 11% Rostered | 1.6 BPG
• Yves Missi (NOP – C): 39% Rostered | 1.4 BPG

Steals

Jose Alvarado (NOP – PG): 9% Rostered | 1.7 Steals – Rank: T-18th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow-Deep
• Acquisition Type: Stream – Priority Steam Potential
• Priority: Medium-Low
• Hold Period: 1-2 Weeks (Week-to-Week)

Category Build

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

Week 12 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: MIN, POR, @PHI, @BOS

On The Radar

• Jaden McDaniels (MIN – SF, PF): 27% Rostered | 1.4 SPG
• Justin Champagnie (WAS – SG, SF): 20% Rostered | 1.3 SPG
• Lonzo Ball (CHI – PG):11% Rostered | 1.3 SPG

Three-Pointers Made

Duncan Robinson (MIA – SG, SF): 15% Rostered | 2.5 3PTM – Rank: 38th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow-Deep
• Acquisition Type: Stream-Priority Stream
• Priority: Medium-Low
• Hold Period: 1-2 Weeks (Week-to-Week)

Category Build

• Primary: Three-Pointers Made
• Secondary: Points
• Auxiliary: Rebounds, Assists

Week 12 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @SAC, @GSW, @UTA, @POR

On The Radar

• Malik Beasley (DET – SG, SF): 35% Rostered – 3.8 3PTM
• Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, PF): 43% Rostered | 2.4 3PTM
• De’Andre Hunter (ATL – SF, PF): 54% Rostered | 2.7 3PTM

Field-Goal Percentage

Kel’el Ware (MIA – C): 11% Rostered | 61.7% FG% – Rank: 32nd

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow-Deep
• Acquisition Type: Priority Stream Potential-Hold
• Priority: Medium-Low
• Hold Period: 2-3 Weeks (Week-to-Week)

Category Build

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

Week 12 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @SAC, @GSW, @UTA, @POR

Beware of Ware

Kel’el Ware might have started his season slowly, but he’s “heating” up in Miami. As the Heat navigates a growth and possible rebuild phase, Ware’s multi-faceted contributions are starting to shine. Scoring, defense, and his niche in major categories like blocks make him a promising piece of the puzzle for a team seeking consistent production.

Efficiency on the Rise

Ware’s 61.7% field-goal percentage is a standout metric, showcasing his ability to score efficiently. With limited scoring options outside of Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, Ware is emerging as a crucial asset for a team in need of offensive stability. His size and versatility allow him to operate as a center while showcasing the agility of a power forward, giving Miami a valuable edge in both the East and West.

A Potential Offensive Force

The Heat are in a unique position, balancing the health and status of Jimmy Butler, while relying on their younger core to step up. Ware’s growing confidence and efficiency make him an intriguing option to carry some of the offensive burden. If he continues on this trajectory, he could become a cornerstone of Miami’s competitive rebuild.

Health Is the Key

With health being the ultimate wild card this season, Ware’s ability to stay on the floor could be a game-changer. Should the Heat fully unleash him, Ware has the potential to start a new wave of success alongside Herro and Adebayo. This is the time to take a chance on Ware and secure a player who could thrive as Miami repositions itself for future dominance.

Ware’s Rising Stock > Heat Rising Temperatures

As the Butler trade rumors swirl, Ware’s role could expand significantly. Fantasy managers should act now, as his efficiency and growing offensive role position him as a must-add player who can deliver impactful results this season and beyond.

On The Radar

• Jeremy Sochan (SAS – SF, PF): 57% Rostered | 52.4% FG%
• Justin Champagnie (WAS – SG, SF): 20% Rostered | 55.9% FG%

Free-Throw Percentage

Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, PF): 43% Rostered | 89.1% FT% – Rank: 63rd

Acquisition Details

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

Category Build

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

Week 12 Opponent Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: MIL, @NYK, @CLE, @DET

The Rise of Big D

Man, Gradey Dick has ‘Big D’ energy, and he is going to continue to be an excellent piece for the Raptors. Listen, he had a single season at Kansas where he averaged 14.1 points, 2.3 made three-pointers, 5.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.4 steals per game, shooting 44.2% from the floor and 40.3% from beyond the arc.

In his first season in the league, he played 21.1 minutes per game, averaging 8.5 points, 1.5 three-pointers, 2.2 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 0.6 steals while shooting 42.5% from the floor and 36.5% from beyond the arc.

Fast forward to his sophomore season — this season — and he’s averaging 31.8 minutes, 17.4 points, 2.4 three-pointers, 3.6 rebounds, 2.1 assists and 1.0 steals per game, shooting 41.4% from the floor and 35.1% from beyond the arc.

His Giving It Out for Free

What? Oh, and let’s talk free-throw production. While it may be overlooked, guess what stands out the most? His growth at the free-throw line. As a rookie, he averaged 0.7 free throws on 0.9 attempts; this season, he’s averaging 3.1 free throws on 3.5 attempts, knocking them down at an elite 89.1%. This isn’t a fluke. He showed similar numbers in Kansas. Do you know what this tells me? He’s being aggressive. I love it.

The Gradey Advantage

Dick is more than just numbers. He’s showing us what it means to stay aggressive, adapt and elevate. His sophomore season is proof that his Kansas pedigree was just the beginning. He’s thriving as a vital piece for the Raptors.

This kid is on the rise, and it’s only a matter of time before he figures it all out. When he does, trust me, you’ll want him on your team. Stop it. I have time today and you should make time for Big D on your roster.

On-The Radar

• Malcolm Brogdon (WAS – PG, SG): 29% Rostered | 88.6% FT%
• Dennis Schroder (GSW – PG, SG): 61% Rostered | 87.9% FT%
• De’Andre Hunter (ATL – SF, PF): 54% Rostered | 85.8% FT%

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