In the constantly shifting landscape of the NBA, several players have unexpectedly emerged as valuable assets in the world of fantasy basketball. Over the past couple of weeks, we've observed shifts in player performance, injury updates, and unexpected opportunities that have changed the fantasy landscape.
This edition of Fantasy Basketball Weekly will shine a spotlight on these players, exploring the reasons behind their rise or fall and offering insights to fantasy managers looking to adjust their strategies accordingly.
Risers
- Herbert Jones, SF/PF, Pelicans (34.9%): Jones has exploded onto the fantasy scene as a top 30 player in his last five appearances, boasting impressive averages of 16.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 2.0 steals, and 2.4 3-pointers. Remarkably, he's shooting 64% from the field and 80% from the free-throw line. His rise is partly attributed to CJ McCollum's absence due to an ankle injury. Yet, even with McCollum's potential return, Jones' current form suggests he's a valuable asset either way.
- Bennedict Mathurin, SG/SF, Pacers (23.5%): While Mathurin's performances have been inconsistent, he's capable of delivering explosive fantasy scores, as seen in his last monstrous game against the Raptors with 34 points, including five 3-pointers, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, 2 steals, and a block. Over his past four games, he's averaged 19.8 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.5 steals, and 3.3 3-pointers, securing his spot as a top 40 fantasy player.
- Ayo Dosunmu, SG, Bulls (18.7%): In light of Alex Caruso's injury, Dosunmu has stepped up significantly, returning top-50 fantasy value across his previous four games with averages of 16.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 2.0 steals, and 2.3 3-pointers. Despite a shooting efficiency of just 42% during this period, his 88% accuracy from the free-throw line and his overall performance make him a must-roster candidate.
- Royce O'Neale, SF, Suns (24.7%): O'Neale has been quietly productive, being a top-55 fantasy player over his last four games with averages of 10.5 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.8 steals, 0.5 blocks, and 2.8 3-pointers. His shooting from the field stands at 36%, which, if improved, could significantly boost his fantasy ranking. Nonetheless, his contributions are solid across the board.
- Andre Drummond, C, Bulls (12.3%): Drummond's recent performances have been nothing short of spectacular, placing him as a top-70 player. His last game featured an impressive 17 points, 26 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Over his last two games, he averaged 18.5 points, 18.5 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks, demonstrating his dominance. With a promising matchup against the Hornets up next and his fiery form in February, Drummond is a hot pick for fantasy managers.
Fallers
- Kevin Durant, SF/PF, Suns (99.9%): Durant has experienced a surprising dip, currently ranking as only a top 120 fantasy player over his last four games. Despite decent averages of 24.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 0.5 steals, 1.3 blocks, and 1.5 3-pointers, his 41% field goal shooting and 74% from the line are below expectations. The expectation is for Durant to bounce back soon, but this slump serves as a reminder that even the best can have off days.
- Tobias Harris, SF/PF, Sixers (88.8%): The absence of Joel Embiid has notably impacted Harris, reducing him to a top-120 fantasy player in his recent performances. Scoring an average of just 10.8 points with 5.8 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.8 blocks, and 1.0 three-pointers, his 32% field goal percentage is troubling, maintained only by perfect free throw shooting over his last few games. Harris's slump is alarming, especially with Embiid's return this season uncertain.
- Coby White, PG/SG, Bulls (87.6%): White has fallen into a shooting slump, affecting his overall fantasy productivity and turning him into a top-140 player, a stark contrast to his previously higher ranking. Despite averaging 15.0 points, 5.8 rebounds, 6.3 assists, 1.0 steals, and 2.0 3-pointers, his 26% shooting from the field is a significant disappointment. The hope is White will recover his shooting touch in time for the fantasy playoffs.
- Bam Adebayo, C, Heat (99.5%): Adebayo's recent performances have been surprisingly lackluster, with him just being a top-150 player post-All-Star break, averaging 21.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks. Contributing to his drop are 4.7 turnovers per game, along with 61% free-throw shooting. Though these issues are concerning, Adebayo's overall impact remains strong, and these setbacks are likely temporary.
- Alperen Sengun, C, Rockets (98.8%): Sengun's recent play has been disappointing, ranking him as a top-175 player over the past five games, worsened by an ejection in Thursday's game for added dismay. His downturn is highlighted by minimal contributions outside of 17.4 points and 9.4 rebounds, with averages of 3.6 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.8 blocks, 0.4 3-pointers, and a 69% free-throw percentage not helping his case. Despite these struggles, Sengun's role with the Rockets and substantial minutes keep him relevant in fantasy leagues.
Final Thoughts
In wrapping up this week's edition of Fantasy Basketball Weekly, we've traversed the landscape of rising stars and falling giants, providing fantasy managers with the insights needed to make strategic adjustments. Whether you're looking to capitalize on Herbert Jones' meteoric rise or navigating the rough patch of Kevin Durant, each decision can sway your fantasy fortunes.
Remember, understanding the ebb and flow of player statistics is crucial, but so is taking calculated risks. This week, as you mull over your Fantasy Basketball Bets, consider not only the numbers but also the narratives behind them.
