The fantasy playoffs are here. For just about every head-to-head league, this is it — win or go home. Every waiver wire move now carries monumental weight, as a single player can be the difference between a championship run and an early exit.
Roto managers, you’re grinding for those final crucial points in the standings. Every stat matters. This isn’t about long-term potential anymore; it’s about securing immediate victories. We’re firmly in win-now mode, prioritizing players who will maximize games played and deliver impactful performances on the court.
This week, we’re laser-focused on acquiring players who will immediately boost your lineup. We’re targeting those who can contribute across the board and give you the edge needed to advance. It’s about maximizing games played, consistent production and strategic acquisitions giving you the best chance to hoist the championship trophy.
Let’s dive into the top waiver wire options and make these playoff-defining additions count.
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 schedule for next week.
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Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 22)
Four games:
CHA, CHI, CLE, DEN, DET, GSW, HOU, IND, LAL, MIA, NOP, NYK, PHI, POR, SAC, SAS, UTA, WAS
Three games:
ATL, BKN, BOS, LAC, MEM, MIL, MIN, OKC, PHX, TOR
Two games:
DAL, ORL
Rostered in 50-60% of Leagues
Stephon Castle returns to the waiver wire spotlight this week, building on his strong performances. Not only did he deliver solid fantasy production last week, but the unfortunate season-ending surgery for De’Aaron Fox has significantly boosted Castle’s role.
Castle’s usage rate has surged to 28% over the San Antonio Spurs’ last two games, making him the team’s primary offensive option. This increased usage translates to more opportunities for scoring and playmaking, making him a highly valuable pickup for fantasy managers.
In those two games, Castle has capitalized on his expanded role, averaging an impressive 21.5 points, two rebounds and four assists per game. While his rebounding numbers are currently modest, his scoring and assist contributions are substantial. With his increased usage and consistent production, Castle is a must-add for fantasy managers seeking a reliable contributor for their playoff push.
Rostered in 30-49% of Leagues
Jabari Smith Jr. (PF, C – HOU)
With Amen Thompson sidelined due to an ankle sprain, Jabari Smith Jr. is set to maintain his starting role for the upcoming week, presenting a valuable opportunity for fantasy managers.
Since being inserted into the starting lineup, Smith has consistently delivered solid production, averaging 13.3 points, seven rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. He’s also logging 30 minutes per game, which should continue throughout the week given Thompson’s absence.
Smith’s ability to contribute in multiple categories, particularly scoring and rebounding, makes him a reliable fantasy asset. His consistent minutes and starting role provide a stable floor for production, making him a strong pickup for managers looking for a consistent contributor during a crucial week.
Rostered in 15-29% of Leagues
Quentin Grimes is seizing his opportunity amidst the Philadelphia 76ers’ injury woes, emerging as a critical offensive weapon for fantasy managers. He’s showcasing an impressive all-around game this month, averaging 26.1 points, five rebounds, 4.4 assists and 2.1 steals.
With Joel Embiid already out for the season and Paul George potentially joining him, Grimes is poised to be a key focal point of the 76ers’ offense for the remainder of the season. He’s demonstrating his ability to score efficiently, facilitate for his teammates and contribute defensively, making him a must-add for fantasy managers seeking a consistent contributor.
Tari Eason presents a compelling waiver wire option for fantasy managers seeking consistent production during the playoffs. With Amen Thompson sidelined, Eason has seen a significant increase in playing time, averaging 30 minutes per game. This extended run has translated to impressive fantasy numbers, as he’s averaging 17 points, 8.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.7 blocks.
The absence of back-to-back sets on the Houston Rockets’ schedule this week further solidifies Eason’s value. This means fantasy managers can confidently insert him into their lineups without worrying about potential rest days. His consistent minutes and multi-category contributions make him a great option for teams looking to bolster their playoff rosters.
If scoring is a priority for your fantasy team, Scoot Henderson is a strong waiver wire target. He’s been consistently delivering offensively, averaging 19.8 points per game over his last four outings while shooting an efficient 46.6% from the field. He’s also knocking down two three-pointers per game, adding to his value in that category.
While his 3.5 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game aren’t particularly impressive, Henderson’s scoring output makes him a valuable option for teams needing a boost in points and three-pointers. With consistent minutes and a clear role in the Portland Trail Blazers’ offense, he’s a scoring-focused pickup for fantasy managers.
Alex Sarr, a consistent presence in this waiver wire column throughout the season, deserves one final mention as his potential is now fully realized. The upside we’ve discussed all year is finally translating to consistent production, making him a crucial asset for fantasy managers in the playoffs.
In his last six games, Sarr has taken on a leading role, commanding a team-high 27.3% usage rate, reflecting his importance to the Washington Wizards’ offense. He’s delivering across the board, averaging 18 points, eight rebounds, 3.2 assists and two blocks per game.
With the Wizards out of playoff contention, they are prioritizing Sarr’s development, ensuring he receives ample opportunities to showcase his skills. He’s a player who can contribute in multiple categories, making him a great addition to any fantasy roster.
Rostered in 0-14% of Leagues
With Lonzo Ball sidelined due to a wrist injury and expected to miss the entire week, Tre Jones is set to continue his starting role for the Chicago Bulls, making him a valuable waiver wire target. Jones has been performing at a high level, demonstrating his ability to contribute across multiple categories. In his last six games, he’s averaged 14.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and six assists, showcasing his well-rounded skillset.
With consistent minutes and a clear role in the Bulls’ offense, he’s poised to deliver solid fantasy production throughout the week. His playmaking and scoring make him a crucial addition during the playoff stretch.
With Jalen Brunson sidelined due to an ankle injury, Miles McBride has stepped into the starting lineup and delivered exceptional fantasy production. He’s been a standout performer in Brunson’s absence, averaging 14.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 1.8 steals over his last four games. This well-rounded stat line highlights his ability to contribute across multiple categories, making him a prime target during the fantasy playoffs.
McBride’s increased playing time, averaging 35.3 minutes per game, provides him with ample opportunity to showcase his skills. His high minutes, coupled with his production, make him a high-upside pickup.
Justin Champagnie (SG, SF – WAS)
Justin Champagnie is poised to capitalize on a significant opportunity with Bilal Coulibaly likely sidelined for the remainder of the season. With a starting role now firmly in his grasp, Champagnie is demonstrating his potential to be a valuable fantasy contributor. His recent performances have been nothing short of impressive, showcasing a well-rounded skillset that can benefit any playoff-bound roster.
In his first two starts since Coulibaly’s injury, Champagnie has been a force, averaging 16.5 points, 11 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 2.5 steals per game. This stat line highlights his ability to contribute in multiple categories. His rebounding prowess and steal production especially stand out.
Generating that level of steals and rebounds at his position is a significant boost for any fantasy team, providing a crucial advantage during tight playoff matchups.
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