Welcome to Week 23, fantasy managers! For most head-to-head leagues, we’re in the playoff grind. For those in two-week matchups for Round One, this is your prime opportunity to make a decisive push. Every roster decision now carries immense weight, as a single player can be the difference between advancing and elimination.
Roto managers, you’re still battling for every point in the standings. Every stat matters. We’re firmly in win-now mode, prioritizing players who will maximize games played and deliver impactful performances.
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 in your head-to-head matchup or gain those final points in roto. 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 moves 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.
Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings
Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 23)
Four games:
BKN, CLE, DAL, IND, LAL, MIL, NYK, ORL, PHI, PHX, SAC, SAS, TOR, WAS
Three games:
ATL, BOS, CHA, CHI, DEN, DET, GSW, HOU, LAC, MEM, MIA, MIN, NOP, OKC, POR, UTA
Rostered in 50-60% of Leagues
Stephon Castle has seized the opportunity presented by De’Aaron Fox’s season-ending surgery, emerging as a primary offensive force for the San Antonio Spurs. His increased role has translated into significant fantasy production. Over his last five games, Castle has commanded a team-high 29.1% usage rate, demonstrating his importance to the Spurs’ offense.
During this stretch, he’s averaging an impressive 21 points, four rebounds, 5.6 assists and 1.2 steals per game. These well-rounded contributions, coupled with the Spurs’ favorable four-game schedule this week, make Castle a valuable asset for fantasy managers seeking consistent production during the playoffs.
Rostered in 30-49% of Leagues
Alex Sarr continues to impress, solidifying his status as a must-add player for fantasy managers navigating the playoffs. His performance this month has been nothing short of stellar, with averages of 16.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.3 blocks. He’s demonstrating consistent production across multiple categories and ranks second on the team in usage rate.
The rookie’s consistent output reinforces the need for weekly consideration. Furthermore, his favorable four-game schedule this week provides ample opportunity for him to contribute to your fantasy team’s success.
Rostered in 15-29% of Leagues
Brandin Podziemski (PG, SG – GSW)
Brandin Podziemski offers a strategic late-week pickup, particularly with his advantageous schedule of games on Friday and Sunday. While his Tuesday game offers immediate value, his late-week appearances present an opportunity to maximize games played during a crucial playoff stretch. Since returning to the court on March 18, Podziemski has been a consistent contributor, making him a worthwhile addition for those looking to optimize their lineups for the latter part of the week.
His recent performances have been impressive, averaging 17 points, six rebounds, and two assists since his return. With Stephen Curry now sidelined due to a left pelvic contusion, Podziemski will see a significant increase in playing time. He stepped up as one of the primary offensive options for the Golden State Warriors in their last game and is poised to continue his strong production.
Spencer Dinwiddie (PG, SG – DAL)
The Dallas Mavericks’ injury woes continue to mount, and Spencer Dinwiddie is seizing the opportunity. He’s been thriving with an increased workload, logging 30+ minutes in six consecutive games and demonstrating his ability to contribute in multiple categories.
During this stretch, Dinwiddie has averaged an impressive 21.3 points, four rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.2 steals. He’s a dynamic scorer who can also facilitate for his teammates and provide a boost in steals. With a favorable four-game schedule this week, Dinwiddie is poised to continue his strong production, making him a reliable option for those seeking a consistent contributor during the crucial playoff stretch.
Rostered in 0-14% of Leagues
Kyshawn George is a player to consider on the waiver wire, particularly for fantasy managers in deeper leagues or those willing to take on some risk for potential reward. With the Washington Wizards facing numerous injuries, George has seen a significant increase in playing time, averaging 30 minutes per game this month. This expanded role provides him with ample opportunities to contribute.
While his scoring can be inconsistent, fluctuating from night to night, George has shown flashes of offensive potential, scoring at least 11 points in three of his last four games. Over this span, he’s averaging a solid 13 points, six rebounds, 4.3 assists and two steals. This multi-category production makes him an intriguing option, especially with the potential for increased consistency as he gains experience.
Guerschon Yabusele (PF, C – PHI)
Guerschon Yabusele is emerging as a valuable short-term option, capitalizing on the absence of Andre Drummond (toe) and Adem Bona (ankle) from the Philadelphia 76ers’ lineup. He’s stepped up in their absence, averaging 16 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.3 steals over the last four games.
Yabusele has demonstrated his ability to contribute in multiple categories, making him a valuable asset for fantasy teams in need of a temporary boost. As long as Drummond and Bona remain sidelined, Yabusele is poised to log heavy minutes and continue his strong production.
Justin Edwards is stepping up for the Philadelphia 76ers. Over his last three games, he’s been a key contributor, averaging an impressive 20.7 points, 5.7 rebounds and 6.3 assists.
With Kelly Oubre Jr. (knee) and Lonnie Walker IV (concussion) dealing with injuries, Edwards is poised to continue his strong production. While his numbers may dip, particularly when Oubre returns, the 76ers might elect to shut Oubre down for the remainder of the season, which would solidify Edwards’s role.
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