Fantasy Basketball

We're finally just a few weeks away from the most magical time of year. When ball meets net, rubber meets hardwood, and fantasy basketball owners meet their draftees. After the most tumultuous offseason in NBA history, the league is shaken around and we are excited to bring players out of their new homes and into our lineups. 

For the 2019-20 NBA season, we'll break down the top players at each position and list out some of the more innovative team names out there for owners excited to invoke their teams with some player-based puns and references. 

                     

Point Guard

1. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors

2. Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers

3. Russell Westbrook, Houston Rockets

4. Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets

5. Jrue Holiday, New Orleans Pelicans

6. Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks

7. Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks

8. De'Aaron Fox, Sacramento Kings

9. Kemba Walker, Boston Celtics

10. Chris Paul, Oklahoma City Thunder

The class of 2019 point guards is stacked. Curry, Lillard and Irving all offer tremendous scoring upside, but so do the younger points like Young, Doncic and Fox. Westbrook and Holiday offer a more balanced statistical offering, so they're a great bet for teams who want to shore up their rebounding, assist and defensive categories. 

                      

Shooting Guard

1. James Harden, Houston Rockets

2. Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns

3. Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards

4. Donovan Mitchell, Utah Jazz

5. Buddy Hield, Sacramento Kings

6. CJ McCollum, Portland Trail Blazers

7. Khris Middleton, Milwaukee Bucks

8. DeMar DeRozan, San Antonio Spurs

9. D'Angelo Russell, Golden State Warriors

10. Josh Richardson, Philadelphia 76ers

After Harden, Booker and Beal, the shooting guards offer fewer 30-point games but still ensure a bevy of buckets, threes and some rebounds. Fantasy owners who wait to draft a shooting guard can either look to play the waiver wire for unexpected gems or, if they're confident in their team's construction, gamble on grabbing Klay Thompson, who's unlikely to return until the All-Star break. 

                    

Small Forward

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

2. Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers

3. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers

4. Paul George, Los Angeles Clippers

5. Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat

6. Tobias Harris, Philadelphia 76ers

7. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics

8. Caris LeVert, Brooklyn Nets

9. Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans

10. Otto Porter Jr., Chicago Bulls

Four of the top five small forwards are practically locks to be drafted in the top 10 of every draft. The top tier of 3s absolutely fills the stat sheet and can anchor a team. After those four, the position drops off but still have tremendous scoring upside. If you miss out, look to pair someone like LeVert or Ingram with a wild-card option like Zion Williamson, Kevin Knox or Miles Bridges.

                         

Power Forward

1. Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers

2. Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors

3. Aaron Gordon, Orlando Magic

4. Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis Grizzlies

5. Blake Griffin, Detroit Pistons

6. Lauri Markkanen, Chicago Bulls

7. Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors

8. Marvin Bagley III, Sacramento Kings

9. John Collins, Atlanta Hawks

10. Julius Randle, New York Knicks

It's obvious that Davis is in a league of his own at power forward, even if he's likely to move into a starting role as the Los Angeles Lakers center at some point. After Davis, Siakam is a strong bet to incur a larger workload given Kawhi Leonard's departure. The forgotten position in modern basketball, owners will want to secure power forwards with a lot of expected playing time and the potential for either three-point or defensive upside.

                      

Center

1. Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves

2. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

3. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers

4. Myles Turner, Indiana Pacers

5. Kristaps Porzingis, Dallas Mavericks

6. Rudy Gobert, Utah Jazz

7. Clint Capela, Houston Rockets

8. LaMarcus Aldridge, San Antonio Spurs

9. Nikola Vucevic, Orlando Magic

10. Andre Drummond, Detroit Pistons

The drop-off after the top five centers is not ideal, as they all have the potential for scoring volume and a balanced mix of rebounding, defensive and three-point production. Afterward, however, there are a bunch of centers who should provide steady production even outside of the top 10. Guys like DeAndre Ayton, Steven Adams and Mitchell Robinson should all get minutes and provide comparable points, rebounds and blocks. 

                   

Team Names

Here are some of the top team names we have for this season. Some are based on player references, like Anthony Davis' "That's All Folks!" T-shirt or Kawhi Leonard's infamous "What it do, baby?" while others are based on pop culture (e.g. D-Lo and Doncic referencing Lilo and Stitch).

Also, I can't take all of the credit and need to give props to my big-brained pals, Lou, Nick and Ty, for hitting the cerebral workshop with me and coming up with some of the better names here.

• A.D. Astra
• Andre Drummand Bass
• Bradley Bealer's Day Off
• Build-a-Barrett Workshop
• Dame Impala
• Dinwiddie Dollars
• D-Lo and Doncic
• Doncic Wish Your Girlfriend Was Hot Like Me?
• Drummond Green
• Every Rozier Has its Thorns
• Go Bert or Go Home
• I Can Be Your Herro, Baby
• Jrue Detective
• Malcolm in the Middleton
• Old Towns Road
• Taco Tuesday
• That's All Folks!
• The Hitch-likers Guide to the Markellaxy
• Trapped in the Klawset
• The Zion, His Hitch and the Scoreboard 
• What it Do, Baby?
• When it Rains it Porz
• Zion of Judah

Right as the NFL got our juices flowing for fantasy sports, it is time to start revving up for the NBA season and fantasy basketball. The 2019-20 season of NBA action kicks off on October 22, and we've got the top player rankings and a first-round mock draft to satisfy your preparatory needs. 

Starting out, we'll go through some rankings at each position before laying out a preliminary look at how the first round of a standard, 12-team fantasy basketball league should look.

Not that it's incredibly consequential, but our contextual baseline will be a head-to-head category format that considers points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks, three-pointers, field-goal percentage, free-throw percentage and three-point percentage. 

                     

Point Guard

1. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors

2. Damian Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers

3. Russell Westbrook, Houston Rockets

4. Kyrie Irving, Brooklyn Nets

5. Jrue Holiday, New Orleans Pelicans

6. Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks

7. Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks

8. De'Aaron Fox, Sacramento Kings

9. Kemba Walker, Boston Celtics

10. Chris Paul, Oklahoma City Thunder

Stephen Curry is an obvious choice for the top spot, given the likelihood that he will be a huge volume play with Kevin Durant gone and Klay Thompson still injured. Meanwhile, it will be interesting to see if Russell Westbrook makes good on his promise to become a better shooter—as that would propel him into contention for the top point-guard spot since his percentages so frequently detracted from his fantasy performances. 

                      

Shooting Guard

1. James Harden, Houston Rockets

2. Devin Booker, Phoenix Suns

3. Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards

4. Donovan Mitchell, Utah Jazz

5. Buddy Hield, Sacramento Kings

6. CJ McCollum, Portland Trail Blazers

7. Khris Middleton, Milwaukee Bucks

8. DeMar DeRozan, San Antonio Spurs

9. D'Angelo Russell, Golden State Warriors

10. Josh Richardson, Philadelphia 76ers

If Booker can take a step this season, he could become a legitimate fantasy star. Alternatively, if Mitchell fails to take a step, this preliminary ranking might look too high by season's end. Talented guards in new environments, like Russell and Richardson, are each real candidates to outproduce Mitchell if things click. 

                       

Small Forward

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

2. Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers

3. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers

4. Paul George, Los Angeles Clippers

5. Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat

6. Tobias Harris, Philadelphia 76ers

7. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics

8. Caris LeVert, Brooklyn Nets

9. Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans

10. Otto Porter Jr., Chicago Bulls

In the most stacked position in fantasy basketball, the top four small forwards are all elite.The rest of the top 10 should be volatile, but LeVert's continued recovery from injury and Butler's comfort level in Miami will be intriguing to monitor. 

                       

Power Forward

1. Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers

2. Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors

3. Aaron Gordon, Orlando Magic

4. Blake Griffin, Detroit Pistons

5. Lauri Markkanen, Chicago Bulls

6. Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors

7. Marvin Bagley III, Sacramento Kings

8. Kevin Love, Cleveland Cavaliers

9. John Collins, Atlanta Hawks

10. Julius Randle, New York Knicks

Until Anthony Davis officially suits up as a center for the Lakers, we'll leave him at power forward. A bunch of young players round out the top 10 here, and they all have the potential to solidify their place among the league's best if the game slows down for them.

                         

Center

1. Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves

2. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

3. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers

4. Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis Grizzlies

5. Myles Turner, Indiana Pacers

6. Kristaps Porzingis, Dallas Mavericks

7. Rudy Gobert, Utah Jazz

8. LaMarcus Aldridge, San Antonio Spurs

9. Nikola Vucevic, Orlando Magic

10. Andre Drummond, Detroit Pistons

This may feel a little high for Jackson, but he's shown the perfect tools to be a star while also having the mojo to go out and put games on his back. Conversely, the sixth spot might feel low for Porzingis, but injury concerns needed to be baked in.

                        

First-Round Mock Draft

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

2. James Harden, Houston Rockets

3. Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors

4. Anthony Davis, Los Angeles Lakers

5. Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers

6. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers

7. Karl-Anthony Towns, Minnesota Timberwolves

8. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets

9. Paul George, Los Angeles Clippers

10. Russell Westbrook, Houston Rockets

11. Bradley Beal, Washington Wizards

11. Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers

12. Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors

In the first round, you don't worry about categories—you just draft the best player available. Every single player in the top 10 absolutely fills up the stat sheet, but the late first round starts to become murky as fantasy owners will need to start gambling on their favorite upside. Pascal Siakam is an intriguing choice if you think that he'll benefit from the opportunities left behind by Kawhi Leonard.

With most fantasy basketball owners in the midst of the semifinal round of the playoffs, this is a do-or-die week that could be won or lost based on the waiver-wire additions you make.

With four days remaining in the week, it should already be clear which categories should be targeted when it comes to deciding who to pick up. Also, it is ideal to find a player or players who have multiple games remaining this week in order to get the most out of your moves, especially if there is a weekly limit.

With a potential fantasy basketball finals berth on the line, here is a look at three players owned in less than 50 percent of Yahoo fantasy leagues who could make a significant difference for you the rest of this week across multiple categories.

     

Jakob Poeltl (27 percent owned in Yahoo fantasy leagues)

After primarily coming off the bench for much of the season, San Antonio Spurs big man Jakob Poeltl has been inserted into the starting lineup at center, and it has coincided with San Antonio's best run of the season.

While the Spurs fell 110-105 to the Miami Heat on Wednesday, they won nine in a row before that, and Poeltl's addition to the lineup played a major role.

According to Jeff Garcia of News 4 SA, head coach Gregg Popovich has been especially impressed with Poeltl's defensive play:

Popovich on J. Poeltl this season: "Now that he has been starting these games in a row, he’s starting to feel real comfortable and really helping us at the defensive end of the court."#GoSpursGo #NBA

— JeffGSpursKENS5 (@JeffGSpursZone) March 16, 2019

Poeltl starting at center has allowed LaMarcus Aldridge to move to his natural position of power forward, and the team has thrived as a whole because of it.

The 23-year-old Poeltl's season-long numbers are modest with averages of 5.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per game, but they have seen a significant jump lately. Over the past two weeks, Poeltl has been one of the top players in fantasy basketball with 6.7 points, 7.5 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game.

It isn't always easy to find quality sources of rebounds and blocks on the waiver wire, but Poeltl has been precisely that. In back-to-back games against the New York Knicks and Portland Trail Blazers last week, Poeltl posted five blocks in each contest.

If you're locked in a close blocks battle or need a strong comeback in the category, Poeltl is perhaps the only player available who can get you some blocks in bunches, and that makes him highly valuable.

Poeltl will face the Houston Rockets on Friday and the Boston Celtics on Sunday, so don't hesitate to add him and get him in your lineup as a cheap source of boards and rejections.

       

Alex Caruso (13 percent owned in Yahoo fantasy leagues)

The 2018-19 season has been a miserable and disappointing one for the Los Angeles Lakers, but one of the few bright spots in recent weeks has been guard Alex Caruso.

Prior to this month, Caruso had played a grand total of 21 minutes this season. With guards Brandon Ingram and Lonzo Ball injured and the Lakers out of playoff contention, however, he has gotten every opportunity to show what he can do.

The former NBA G League journeyman has made the most of it and has been one of the Lakers' most productive players this month.

Over his past seven games, Caruso has shot 50 percent or better from the field five times and 50 percent or better from beyond the arc on four occasions. He has played 20 minutes or more in six of the past seven games, and over a three-game stretch from March 14 to March 17, he averaged nearly 15 points per game.

He was especially productive against the Knicks on March 17 with one of the NBA season's most unique lines, per Justin Russo of the Settle Down Podcast:

Alex Caruso is the first player this season to have 5+ steals and 3+ blocks in a single game off the bench. Just like we all expected.

— Justin Russo (@FlyByKnite) March 17, 2019

Against New York, Caruso had not only five steals and three blocks, but he also registered 12 points, three rebounds and two assists, which gives him appeal across all categories.

His follow-up performance against the Milwaukee Bucks wasn't great with just four points, four rebounds, two assists and two steals in 22 minutes on Tuesday, but there is still a lot to like about him as a waiver-wire add.

Over his past three games, Caruso is averaging a hearty three steals per game, so if you're lacking in that category in particular, Caruso is worth a look with games against the Brooklyn Nets on Friday and Sacramento Kings on Sunday.

Also, as a bonus, the Lakers play four games during the championship week, meaning he could be worth holding on to for the remainder of the season. 

       

Damyean Dotson (41 percent owned in Yahoo fantasy leagues)

One of the most under-the-radar great players in the NBA over the past few weeks has been Knicks guard Damyean Dotson, who is making a case to be a key player for the team next season even if it manages to make a big splash through the draft and free agency.

The 2017 second-round pick has been the go-to guy for a Knicks team that is limping to the finish line, and he has become a must-own fantasy player in the process.

Over his past six games, Dotson has scored 18 or more points five times, and he has shot 50 percent or better from the field in each of his past three games despite having a fairly high shot volume.

Dotson is pitching in across most categories, but he has been especially good from beyond the arc with three or more treys in six straight games, which is something that hasn't been done by a Knicks player in five years:

Damyean Dotson has hit at least three three pointers in six straight games. He’s the first Knick to accomplish the feat since JR Smith in 2013-14 and fifth all-time.

— NY Knicks PR (@NY_KnicksPR) March 21, 2019

He has even made an impact in rebounds with six or more in four straight games from March 6 to March 12.

While Dotson can't necessarily always be counted on for rebounds or assists, he is your man if you need points and threes. The Knicks don't have much else right now, so there is nothing stopping him from jacking up shots and racking up points.

Over the past 14 days, Dotson is averaging 18.1 points, 3.0 threes, 3.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.1 steals, which is a line that few others can boast.

With games against the Denver Nuggets on Friday and Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday, pick Dotson up now and make him be a potentially huge factor in your team reaching the finals.

There are two weeks left in standard NBA fantasy leagues, and roster attrition becomes a huge factor.

Injuries could bring instability to starting lineups, but don't hit the panic button—several options remain on the waiver wire going into Week 23.

Some fantasy owners have reached desperate times. Milwaukee Bucks guard Malcolm Brogdon will sit out indefinitely with a minor plantar fascia tear.

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Portland Trail Blazers sharpshooter CJ McCollum suffered a popliteus strain in his left knee: 

Sources: Portland guard CJ McCollum has a popliteus strain in his left knee. He will be re-examined in a week.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) March 17, 2019

Whether you plan to move those players to injured reserve or drop them, someone must fill the void. Perhaps it's time to pick up a free agent who can provide a lift in other categories. 

The hidden gems listed below are available in more than 50 percent of Yahoo leagues as of Sunday 9 p.m. EST. It's a split selection group between frontcourt assets and guards.

C Robin Lopez, Chicago Bulls (46 percent owned)

Games: at PHX, vs. WAS, vs. UTA

Last Week Averages: .625 FG%, .833 FT%, 16.7 PPG, 7.0 REB, 1.7 BLK

Robin Lopez came up in buyout conversations, but he balked at the possibility in February. The 30-year-old center relishes his playing time with the Chicago Bulls, per Chicago Tribune's K.C. Johnson.

"I enjoy playing with these guys," Lopez said. "I enjoy being on the floor with them. Any chance I get to play, I'm looking forward to it."

Rookie center Wendell Carter Jr. suffered a thumb injury in January, and he'll likely miss the remainder of season as his team dropped to 19-52 Sunday—well out of the playoff contention.

In the meantime, Lopez continues to start and take advantage of a large workload. He's played 30-plus minutes in five of the previous seven contests. 

Don't expect Lopez's averages to hit a rut any time soon. Cristiano Felicio, the primary big man off the bench, hasn't played 20-plus minutes since early November.

If the 11th-year veteran is somehow on the waiver wire, pick him up. The Bulls center could post a double-double on any given night with impressive percentages.

            

PF/C Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat (47 percent owned)

Games: vs. at OKC at SA, at MIL, at WAS 

Last Week Averages: .667 FG%, 12.0 PPG, 8.3 REB, 2.3 AST, 1.0 STL

Savvy managers may have scooped center Bam Adebayo early in the season and stuck with him through his ups and downs. It's not too late to ride the wave. Still available in 53 percent of Yahoo leagues, the 6'10" big man posted double-figure point totals in six consecutive outings. 

Adebayo moved into the starting lineup February 27 against the Golden State Warriors. Until further notice, head coach Erik Spoelstra seems comfortable with the 21-year-old in an expanded role as the Miami Heat cling to the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference.

As the preferred closer in most contests, Adebayo should maintain his statistical draw through the end of the season. He's a decent passer at his size, giving fantasy owners a pleasant boost in the assist category at the center or power forward position.

            

PG Tyus Jones, Minnesota Timberwolves (26 percent owned) 

Games: vs. GS, at CHA, at MEM 

Last Week Averages: .520 FG%, 9.3 PPG, 5.7 APG, 1.0 STL

Jeff Teague (foot inflammation) and Derrick Rose (elbow soreness) missed the last three games, which allowed Tyus Jones to see extended time on the court. As the healthiest of the three guards, he'll likely see heavy minutes in the final stretch of the season.

In a starting role, as the primary facilitator, Jones could dish out several dimes. He logged 17 assists in his last three outings. The fourth-year point guard can also tally marks in the steals and three-point categories.

If Teague and Rose return to action, it's an obvious hit to Jones' value, but he can still produce with one of the two healthy enough to play.

Because the Minnesota Timberwolves trail the Los Angeles Clippers by 8.5 games for the eighth playoff spot in the Western Conference, this team may not rush its injured guards back to the floor.

                  

PG Emmanuel Mudiay New York Knicks (21 percent owned) 

Games: at TOR, vs. UTA, vs. DEN, vs. LAC

Last Week Averages: 21 PPG, 2.7 3PTM, 3.3 RPG, 4.7 APG

Because of a sore lower back, point guard Dennis Smith Jr. missed the last two contests; Emmanuel Mudiay took over the starting spot. As the New York Knicks inch closer to the No. 1 overall pick, we could see more of the same in the backcourt.

To Mudiay's credit, he's delivered in the scoring department in the last three games, averaging 21 points in that short stretch. Additionally, he's comfortable pulling up from beyond the arc, hitting eight triples last week; his shooting percentage could improve, but it's not terrible at approximately 46 percent for the season. 

At Madison Square Garden on Sunday against the Los Angeles Lakers, the fourth-year guard had one of his strongest performances of the season. He logged 28 points, which included three triples and eight assists, and he went 9-of-10 from the free-throw line.

Mudiay is a must-start player as long as he's logging 30-plus minutes.  

There is no good time for an injury in fantasy basketball.

But some points on the calendar are more problematic than others, say, during or just ahead of your league playoffs, perhaps.

That makes everything a potential minefield right about now. Obviously, the big stuff such as Brandon Ingram's season-ending health scare can possibly burst a postseason bubble. But even lesser ailments like Jrue Holiday's abdominal strain or Jeff Teague's foot inflammation can sink a season if not swiftly and correctly addressed.

Luckily, the waiver wire always has something intriguing to offer, so we'll spotlight three potential pickups—available in 50-plus percent of Yahoo Sports leagues—to either help you cover up for present injuries or prepare for future ones.

              

Waiver-Wire Targets

Kenneth Faried, PF/C, Houston Rockets (49 Percent Owned)

A five-game absence (adductor) likely helped Kenneth Faried slip below our 50-percent threshold, and you shouldn't hesitate to pounce on this late-season value.

The Manimal's limitations as a shooter will hold back his categorical contributions and possibly keep him in the 20-minute range moving forward. But even then, he can be an asset for rebounds, field-goal percentage, points or blocks.

His first game back from an injury was a sampling of what he offers. He totaled 16 points in just 20 minutes of work, hitting half of his 10 field-goal attempts and all six of his free throws. He also snagged nine rebounds and rounded out his line with both a steal and a block.

Before his injury, Faried reached double digits in his first 15 games with Houston. He may not recreate all those numbers, but his averages from that stretch were 15.8 points on 60.2 percent shooting, 9.9 rebounds, 1 block and 0.7 steals.

              

Marcus Smart, PG/SG, Boston Celtics (47 Percent Owned)

For the longest time, Marcus Smart appeared miscast in the modern NBA. He was either a point guard who didn't distribute much or a shooting guard who couldn't shoot. Either way, he struggled making his fantasy value even approach that of his real-life contributions.

But the fifth year has been a switch-flipper for Smart. His 41.9 field-goal percentage and 37 three-point conversion rate are both career bests.

With shooting shifting from detriment to borderline strength, he's becoming an across-the-board asset. In fact, he's a top-25 contributor in nine-category leagues over the last two weeks.

Over his last seven games, he's up to 12.7 points on 58.8 percent shooting (93.3 at the stripe), 3.9 assists, 2.9 rebounds, 2.4 steals and 2.1 threes. If you couldn't use those numbers, let me be the first to congratulate you on your league title.

                  

Robin Lopez, C, Chicago Bulls (40 Percent Owned)

One regrettable part of fantasy sports is the amount of owners who pull the plug long before the season ends. That said, their inactivity can lead to some inexplicable bargains, like Robin Lopez being available in 60 percent of leagues despite blow-torching defenders for more than a month now.

Granted, his ownership was always playing catch-up this season. He's not always a must-own, and that looked especially true this season with the rebuilding Bulls smartly prioritizing prized rookie Wendell Carter Jr. over Lopez.

But Carter has been out of the picture since mid-January (thumb surgery), and Lopez hasn't wasted the opportunity. Normally more of a clean-up artist, the 30-year-old has almost functioned like a primary option. Over his last 14 games, he's averaging 16.6 points on 60.4 percent shooting, 5.9 rebounds, 1.6 blocks and 1.6 assists.

The next three weeks are all three-gamers for Lopez and the Bulls, so if that's all the volume you'll need, this a no-brainer way of filling a center void.

It's time for playoff fantasy basketball. For managers entering the postseason, ride with key players but keep an open mind about the utility and bench spots.

At this stage in the regular season, clubs fall into three categories: playoff squad, mathematically alive for the postseason or preparing for a long summer.

Teams in developmental mode could help strengthen a fantasy roster. Oftentimes, younger talents see a significant spike in minutes. As always, keep an eye on the injury report. 

The Los Angeles Lakers announced guard Lonzo Ball (ankle) and Brandon Ingram (arm) will miss the remainder of the season. LeBron James will play with a minutes restriction going forward. Managers should flock to the waiver for role players expected to see more time on the court. 

As reality and fantasy hoops head into crucial periods, we'll highlight some of the top contributors emerging for winning and non-playoff teams. Who should you start, sit and add?

       

Start 'Em

PF/C Dwight Powell, Dallas Mavericks

Once the Dallas Mavericks traded center DeAndre Jordan to the New York Knicks and forward Harrison Barnes to the Sacramento Kings, the extra minutes to go around had to benefit someone in the frontcourt.

Right now, Dwight Powell seems like the top big man to own on this roster. He's started the last seven contests and logged 30-plus minutes in six of those outings.

More importantly, the 27-year-old has produced with an increased role, averaging 16.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and 3.3 assists over the last two weeks. On good days, the 6'11" forward will swipe a couple of steals. 

With 20-plus points in two of his last four games and at least six rebounds in nine consecutive contests, Powell belongs in starting lineups.

                   

PG/SG Derrick White, San Antonio Spurs

Guard Derrick White had a slow start to the season, but the second-year pro hit his stride on both ends of court in recent outings.

He can help owners in most categories and doesn't turn the ball over at a high frequency, though he's not a three-point shooter.

White has averaged 12 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 1.3 steals and 2.2 blocks over the last two weeks. He also converted 47 percent from the field in that span.

If you've placed White on the bench following his six-game absence because of heel soreness in February, plug him into your lineup with confidence as we go through March.

He's the Spurs' secondary playmaker with the ball in his hands. The 6'4" guard should finish the 2018-19 campaign on a strong note.

                     

Sit 'Em

PF/C Joakim Noah, Memphis Grizzlies 

Center Joakim Noah posted solid numbers in February, averaging 12.6 points, eight rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.2 blocks per contest. He's lost some steam over the last week, failing to score double figures in three of the last four games with eight turnovers. 

Now 28-40, the Memphis Grizzlies will likely curtail Noah's minutes. He's 34 years old on an expiring contract. The 12th-year veteran has played more than 23 minutes once in the last six contests. The Grizzlies have a two-game schedule in the upcoming week; don't expect to see much production from the big man.

Unless your lineup desperately needs a sprinkle of blocks, Noah belongs on the bench until further notice.

             

SG/SF Dion Waiters, Miami Heat

Dion Waiters came a long way to return to action after undergoing ankle surgery in January of last year. He's played his way back into head coach Erik Spoelstra's rotation with the solid performances in February, but the 27-year-old has taken a few steps back over the last week.

Spoelstra has provided guard Goran Dragic 16-25 minutes upon his return from knee surgery. Lately, he's been hampered because of a calf strain. Still, the lineup changes have seemingly thrown Waiters off his mark. 

In mid-to-late February, Waiters notched double figures in points for seven consecutive outings. Over the last two weeks, the 27-year-old has averaged 9.1 points while shooting 38 percent from the field and 60 percent at the free-throw line.

As Dragic suits up consistently, Waiters' value will likely drop even further down the stretch. Barring a spark in the next few contests, keep him tied to the bench or consider a waiver-wire swap.

               

Add 'Em 

PF Moritz Wagner, Los Angeles Lakers (16 percent owned) 

As mentioned, the Lakers will finish the season without Ball and Ingram, and the coaching staff will begin to preserve James.

Kyle Kuzma should return from an ankle injury in the near future, but new faces should see more time on the court in the last 16 games.

Rookie forward Moritz Wagner started his first NBA game against the Boston Celtics Saturday and logged 22 points, six boards, three assists, a block and knocked down all seven of his free throws. He isn't known for solid defense, but he established himself as a smooth scorer with range at Michigan.

Wagner will likely move to the bench once Kuzma returns, but he played 27 minutes in a reserve role against the Denver Nuggets Wednesday.

Owners willing to roll the dice on the first-year forward could benefit in the points, triples, rebounds and percentage categories. He's an attractive target with a four-game slate for Week 22.

                  

SG Luke Kennard, Detroit Pistons (38 percent owned)

As the Detroit Pistons battle for playoff position, Luke Kennard has found his stroke. Over the last two weeks, he's recorded 16.6 points and 3.1 triples per game while shooting 54 percent from the field.  

The second-year guard isn't a starter, but he's averaging 27.8 minutes post All-Star break. Kennard's range helps stretch the floor on offense. With his shots falling at a high rate, he'll continue to fill the sharpshooter role.

For the year, Kennard shoots 40 percent from beyond the arc. It's rare to find that type of efficiency on the waiver wire late in the season, but he's available in 62 percent of leagues—add him, especially for triples.

If you're still searching the fantasy-basketball waiver wire, that means you're either making your playoff push or bulking up your roster in advance of the postseason.

Either way, acing these in-season tests could go a long way toward helping you secure a league title.

Because the NBA tends to be streaky, there are always sleepers rising from the bargain bin and delivering key contributions. The key is to get in early and ride the hot hand as long as possible.

That's why we're here to help by tagging three waiver-wire targets—available in 50-plus percent of Yahoo Sports leagues—who must be on your radar.

              

Waiver-Wire Targets

Collin Sexton, PG, Cleveland Cavaliers (47 Percent Owned)

If you're chasing efficiency, Collin Sexton isn't the player for you. But if you're in need of counting categories—specifically, points and threes—then last summer's eighth overall pick offers an incredible amount given his ownership.

He's cleared the 20-point mark six different times since the start of February, splashing 16 triples in those contests. Over that entire 13-game stretch, he's been good for 17.9 points and 1.9 threes per game.

His 39 field-goal percentage in those games looks potentially problematic, but only from a fantasy sense. In other words, if you can live with it, so can the rebuilding Cavs. This is the fourth month in which he's averaging more than 30 minutes, despite the fact he's been just a 37.7 percent shooter in 2019.

While he'll occasionally grab five-plus boards or dish five-plus assists, he's usually not giving you more than three of each, and you're lucky if you get a steal. But he doesn't kill you with turnovers, should bump your free-throw percentage and, again, can pile up points in bunches.

               

Patrick Beverley, PG/SG, Los Angeles Clippers (45 Percent Owned)

Although the Clippers seemed to shift their focus forward at the deadline, they're still set on chasing the playoffs. That's tremendous news for 30-year-old Patrick Beverley, who could've been squeezed out in favour of a youth movement but should be invaluable for this postseason push.

He's not a standout in any particular category, but he can pop in almost any of them. Over his last five outings, his high games include: 17 points, nine assists, 10 rebounds (twice), five steals and five three-pointers.

"He's just such a baller," Clippers coach Doc Rivers told reporters. "He's got a chip on his shoulder. He believes the whole world has wronged him. And he's great for our guys."

If Beverley is flirting with double-digit points, which he has been since the start of February, he's an across-the-board contributor capable of delivering top-50 value.

               

Robin Lopez, C, Chicago Bulls (41 Percent Owned)

With prized rookie Wendell Carter Jr. out of the picture (thumb surgery), Robin Lopez has been freed to run wild as the Chicago Bulls' primary anchor.

Normally, you'd lean on the garbage man for rebounds, field-goal percentage and a smattering of blocks and assists. But the veteran 7-footer has been on a scoring binge. The same player who didn't reach double figures until his 16th game of the season has now hit that mark in 12 of his last 13 games. During this stretch, he's averaging 16.5 points on a face-melting 62.3 percent shooting.

"Suffice it to say that this is Lopez's best offensive stretch of his career," NBC Sports Chicago's Mark Strotman wrote. "He looks as comfortable as ever and his footwork has been impeccable."

These aren't specialist contributions, either. Lopez is also providing 1.8 blocks, 5.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists (fine for the center spot). Even if his scoring comes back to earth, his playing time should be consistent. It's not like Cristiano Felicio is a major playing-time threat, after all.

The trade deadline is hours away for Pro and Public Fantasy Basketball Leagues, and fantasy players can make several last-minute moves that will help their rosters improve significantly.

The time in question is 11:59 p.m. PT on Thursday night, per Yahoo.com.

In an effort to improve rosters, we have recommendations of three players to add and three players to part with prior to the deadline.

The players to sell or trade are not necessarily expected to disappoint down the regular season's home stretch. The belief is that they would bring more of a return in a trade than they would by remaining on the roster.

       

Add

SF/PF Otto Porter Jr., Chicago Bulls

Otto Porter Jr. did not appear to be the wisest signing when the Washington Wizards gave him a four-year contract valued at $106 million. He was not starting, and while he was making a contribution, it wasn't worth anything close to what he was being paid.

The Wizards were thrilled to trade him to the Bulls, and he appears to be a different player in a Chicago uniform. The 25-year-old scored 20 points and had six rebounds in the 109-107 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies Wednesday night.

That kind of production is typical for Porter since coming to Chicago. He is averaging 17.8 points and 5.8 rebounds per game for the Bulls, and he is one of those players who could make a difference in the coming weeks.

            

C Myles Turner, Indiana Pacers

The Indiana Pacers (40-22) are a solid, blue-collar type of team that has been outworking opponents this season, and Myles Turner is one of the keys to their effort.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCboiGvezJg

The 22-year-old is a tough defensive player and one of the best shot-blockers in the NBA. He is averaging a league-best 2.7 blocks per night, and he is contributing on the offensive end with 13.4 points per game while connecting on 50.3 percent of his shots from the field.

Turner is also corralling 6.9 rebounds per night, and he is not hesitant when he attacks the boards. He is averaging more than 28 minutes per game, and that figure should remain steady or go up because of his consistently strong defensive effort.

         

PG/SG Delon Wright, Memphis Grizzlies

Delon Wright was averaging slightly more than 18 minutes a game with the Toronto Raptors, and that average has increased by 10 minutes per game with the Grizzlies.

That means the 26-year-old has value in fantasy basketball, and Memphis is taking advantage of it because the Grizzlies need to give Mike Conley some help.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ud2VTyty9I

Wright's opportunity to contribute should continue from this point forward. He scored nine points and added four rebounds in Wednesday night's loss to the Bulls, and he is averaging 8.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game with the Grizzlies.

       

Drop

PF/C Al Horford, Boston Celtics

Al Horford is one of the most honest and hardworking players on the Boston roster.

However, when it comes to chemistry, the 32-year-old and Kyrie Irving do not appear to complement each other very well at this point in the season.

Horford is averaging 12.9 points per game, and that's the same number he had last year. However, he played 31.6 minutes per game in 2017-18, but that number is down to 28.7 minutes per game this year. 

It seems the Celtics are more of a one-man show this year with Irving leading the way, as he had 31 points in Boston's 97-92 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers Wednesday, while Horford had 13 points to go with his five assists and five rebounds.

Irving had just three assists in that game, and that number is one of the key factors in the recommendation to drop Horford.

         

C Marc Gasol, Toronto Raptors

This may be a little late in coming, but Marc Gasol has not taken on a productive role since coming to the Raptors in a trade with the Grizzlies.

The 34-year-old had just five points in Tuesday's rout of the Celtics, although he did have eight assists and five rebounds. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pphrxvBny5o

Gasol is averaging just 9.2 points and 5.8 rebounds in six games with the Raptors after averaging 15.7 points and 8.6 rebounds per game with the Grizzlies.

It doesn't seem as if the Spaniard will make the same offensive contribution with Toronto that he did in Memphis, but that doesn't mean the Raptors don't value him. However, his scoring opportunities are not as great, and it's time to move Gasol.

           

C Steven Adams, Oklahoma City Thunder

The recommendation here is that trading Steven Adams should bring more in return than he will deliver by staying on your roster. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTHTurLCggc

The Thunder big man, 25, is averaging 14.7 points and 9.4 rebounds per game, and those figures should bring an excellent return in a trade.

Adams is a productive player, but he is averaging a career-high 34 minutes per game, and he may slow down in the final weeks of the season. Trade him now when his value is highest.

Before the NBA returns from the All-Star break on Thursday night, fantasy basketball managers still have time to reassess their rosters for second-half title pushes.

Although some gamers might have needed the pause as much as a fatigued NBA player, others may feel like a streaking shooter who must shake off the rust and regain their rhythm. A successful fantasy owner monitors the day-by-day minutiae for minutes and usage alterations to gain an edge off the waiver wire. Everyone now, however, will have to circle back all the way to Valentine's Day to refresh their memories.

Timed shortly after the trade deadline, managers have also had days to dissect the immediate aftermath of several transactions. In most cases, the sample sizes are too small to form lasting conclusions. Yet with the NBA regular season set to conclude as soon as April, gamers might have no choice but to act now and hope the trends stick.

Let's look at a few free agents, each owned in no more than 20 percent of Yahoo leagues, to pluck off free agency as NBA action resumes.

                 

Avery Bradley, PG/SG, Memphis Grizzlies (20 Percent Owned)

Avery Bradley has already run the gamut in three games with the Memphis Grizzlies. After a pedestrian eight-point debut, he made 15 of 21 field-goal attempts to drop a season-high 33 points with six rebounds and assists apiece. 

Then he posted 15 points and five assists against the Chicago Bulls. Maybe those tallies are just right.

The defensive-minded guard never gained much traction with the Los Angeles Clippers, with whom he averaged 8.2 points per game with the worst field-goal percentage (38.3) since his rookie campaign. Before the move, however, he notched 15 points in 40 games for the Detroit Pistons after making his mark with the Boston Celtics.

Bradley also showed some signs of life prior to the latest in-season trade. He closed January's final seven games with 12.9 points (11-15 in every game), 4.7 rebounds, and 2.7 assists before a three-tilt swoon.  

According to NBA.com, he solidified a higher usage rate (24.3) in his Memphis arrival than any Grizzlies guard beside Mike Conley has posted this season. They sorely need a perimeter producer, so look for Bradley to fill the void over their final 23 games.

               

Dion Waiters, SG/SF, Miami Heat (18 Percent Owned)

The break is typically the time for players to enjoy a tropical paradise, but fantasy gamers can celebrate the NBA's return by purchasing a ticket to Dion Waiters Island.

Since returning from offseason ankle surgery on Jan. 2, the mercurial shooting guard has registered just 9.9 points and 22.6 minutes in 18 games for the Miami Heat. Before the break, however, he began to look comfortable with an expanded starting role.

In Miami's past four games, Waiters averaged 16.8 points and 3.8 assists in 33.8 minutes. Back to his own ways, the aggressive shooter made 16 of his 36 three-point attempts.

Per David Furones of the Sun-Sentinel, Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra commended Waiters' progress.

"You can see he's starting to get his step back and be able to get into the paint and make plays," Spoelstra said. "It makes our offense more dynamic."

Although hardly a multi-category contributor at his finest, the 27-year-old has shown a propensity to score in bunches. He averaged 15.8 and 14.3 points over the past two seasons, respectively, while setting personal highs in field-goal (42.4 percent) and three-point (39.5 percent) shooting during a breakout 2016-17 campaign.

Even if he's not the most efficient or versatile producer, Waiters is at least a hot hand worth riding out of the intermission.

                 

Jake Layman, SF, Portland Trail Blazers (14 Percent Owned)

In Layman's terms, Jake had a nice stretch right before the break.

In five February contests, the forward posted 16.2 points per game for the Portland Trail Blazers with a 64 field-goal percentage. He put a bow on the surge by tallying 17 points and one Michael Jordan shrug in a 129-107 win over the Golden State Warriors.

Jake Layman hit 'em with the Jordan shrug. 🤷‍♂️#RipCity pic.twitter.com/VvvxntBZ4Z

— NBA TV (@NBATV) February 14, 2019

Dating back to Jan. 1, he's averaging 12.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.4 three-pointers per game. Before the hiatus, he swiped two steals against Golden State after swatting four blocks against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

He won't be a league winner, but fantasy managers should shrug alongside Layman and add the scorching-hot shooter. There's a scoring opportunity in Rip City for someone to grab beyond Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum. 

                

Marquese Chriss, F/C, Cleveland Cavaliers (10 Percent Owned)

The eighth overall pick in 2016's NBA draft, Marquese Chriss has been foisted to three teams in as many seasons. But this relationship could last.

Chriss played 23 combined minutes in his final 12 games with the Houston Rockets, who shipped him off to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a three-team trade involving the Sacramento Kings. The 21-year-old logged 23 minutes in his Cavs debut, reaching double-digit points (13) for the first time this season.

Given enhanced playing time for the lottery-bound squad, Chriss has recorded 14.3 points and 6.3 boards, with a 55 field-goal percentage and 20.4 percent usage rate in four games, per NBA.com.

Since being traded to Cleveland, Marquese Chriss' per 36 averages over 4 games are 21.2 points and 9.3 rebounds.

— Kellan Olson (@KellanOlson) February 14, 2019

Entrenched in a tight race to the bottom—resuming with Thursday's pivotal matchup against his first franchise, the Phoenix Suns—Cleveland should keep giving Chriss as many minutes as he can handle. While a returning Kevin Love also commands playing time, he could continue to sit when a back-to-back arises. It also won't be surprising to see him rested later in the season to maximize the Cavs' odds of landing a top pick.

A raw talent with immense upside, Chriss is the perfect player to utilize during a tank. He won't lead Cleveland to more victories, but he could help fantasy investors pursue a title.

The 2018-19 season has moved past the All-Star Game, and that means every game is critical for teams fighting to make the playoffs or improve their playoff position.

Team LeBron got the best of Team Giannis Sunday night in Charlotte, North Carolina, and after three more days off for the NBA's non-All-Stars, the season will pick up again Thursday night.

Once the schedule resumes, it will be a sprint to the end of the season as the final 24-25 games take on new meaning for management, coaches, players and fantasy owners.

The searching and hoping part of the season is over in fantasy basketball. Mistakes can no longer be tolerated, and it's not about finding the solution later. It's about finding the solution right now.

There are six games on Thursday night's schedule, nine more Friday and 12 on Saturday. We take a look at two players to start, two players to sit and two players to add to your roster based on this week's schedule.

      

Start 'Em

Jaren Jackson Jr., Power Forward, Memphis Grizzlies

At this point in the season, you want to bring in players coming into their own and playing with confidence on a consistent basis. Jackson appears to be one of those players.

While the Grizzlies are at the bottom of the Southwest Division with a 23-36 record, this team has split its last six games and appears to have not quit on this season yet.

The opportunity should be there for Jackson to establish himself the rest of the season. He has been solid all year, and there have been clear improvements in recent weeks. 

Jackson is averaging 13.8 points and 4.7 rebounds per game while playing slightly over 26 minutes nightly. His numbers have increased in February, as he is averaging 16.8 points and 5.0 rebounds while playing 29.2 minutes this month.

The Grizzlies play back-to-back games Friday and Saturday, hosting the Clippers and then heading to Cleveland.

Jackson is the 64th-ranked player by ESPN.com, and he should have an opportunity to climb the ladder this week.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86M0V0r0bZg

   

Otto Porter Jr., Small Forward, Chicago Bulls

Acquired from the Washington Wizards in a trade at the deadline, Porter has fit in brilliantly with his new team in his first four games with the Bulls.

Porter is scoring 22.5 points and 5.8 rebounds per game, and he is also shooting 62.1 percent from the field. The Bulls have needed a go-to scorer, and while that was not necessarily going to be Porter's role when the Bulls made their move for him, he is doing the job in that area.

Even if he can't reach the 22-point mark each and every night, he looks like a sensational add from a fantasy perspective. Porter is averaging 13.5 points and 5.6 rebounds for the season, but his numbers over the last 10 games are the same 22.5 and 5.8 they are with the Bulls.

The Bulls closed the first half of the season with a 122-110 win over the Grizzlies, and while one game is just that, this team has to do better down the stretch than it has to this point in the season.

The Bulls are at Orlando on Friday night before hosting the Celtics on Saturday, and we don't see Porter slowing down any time soon.

    

Sit 'Em

    

Al-Farouq Aminu, Power Forward, Portland Trail Blazers

Aminu has been a steady player for the Trail Blazers, but Portland faces two tough road games once the All-Star break is over.

They open with a game at Brooklyn on Thursday night followed by a rough assignment in Philadelphia on Saturday. Portland has lost five of its last seven road games, so this does not appear to be an ideal situation for Aminu.

The Portland power forward is averaging 9.4 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. Aminu may give the Trail Blazers the rebounds they expect, but scoring on the road can be difficult. Aminu is averaging 8.9 points on the road, and we see the Nets and Sixers keeping him from reaching those totals.

He has been dropped by 7.7 percent of ESPN.com's fantasy players, so keep Aminu on your bench this week.

    

Danny Green, Shooting Guard, Toronto Raptors

Green has been a solid contributor for the Raptors throughout the season, but he has been dropped by 7.1 percent of ESPN.com's fantasy players and is starting to trend downward.

Green is averaging 9.8 points and 4.0 rebounds this season, and those numbers have stayed fairly close at 9.5 points and 4.0 rebounds in his most recent games.

The Raptors have home games against the San Antonio Spurs and the Orlando Magic this week, but Green has better splits on the road than he does at home. He is averaging 10.6 points on the road and 8.9 points per game at home.

The Raptors play two games on the road the following week, and we may decide to put him back in the lineup at that time, but he will sit this week.

    

Add 'Em

   

Caris LeVert, Small Forward, Brooklyn Nets

LeVert will play an important role with the Nets as the season heads toward the home stretch. The combo player—he can also play the shooting guard spot—has been added to more rosters than any other player, per ESPN.com.

LeVert's ownership rate has increased from 30.0 percent to 56.0 percent on ESPN rosters, as he has returned from a long layoff following a dislocated ankle. He is coming back to a thriving team that is contending for a playoff spot.

LeVert is averaging 16.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.1 assists over the 17 games he has played this year, and he has two games this week to reward his fantasy owners.

    

Jabari Parker, Small Forward-Power Forward, Washington Wizards

It looks like the Wizards have made a couple of savvy additions with Parker and Bobby Portis, as both players were acquired from the Chicago Bulls at the trade deadline.

Just as Porter appears to be a strong fit for the Bulls, Parker has the scoring talent to become an impact player for fantasy owners.

Parker's scoring numbers are not over the top in his first four games with the Wizards, as he is averaging 12.3 points per game. However, Parker is shooting 51.3 percent from the field in those games. That's an improvement from the 47.4 percent he was shooting with the Bulls.