As March approaches, fantasy basketball managers are eyeing under-the-radar players who could emerge as valuable options amidst teams resting players due to injuries. With several pivotal rotations changing, identifying the right free agents can be instrumental in solidifying a championship run. Here are five lesser-known players currently available in most CBS leagues that could boost your fantasy team.
Gui Santos of the Golden State Warriors has found himself in a significant role due to Stephen Curry’s prolonged absence from knee issues. Although the Warriors acquired Kristaps Porzingis, he has struggled to stay on the court. Santos has impressed during Curry’s time off, averaging 29 minutes per game across the last 12 outings, contributing 15 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 1.6 steals, and hitting 1.8 three-pointers per game. With an impressive shooting percentage of 53.1% from the field and 39% from deep, Santos is likely to maintain a valuable role even upon Curry’s return.
Meanwhile, in Sacramento, Precious Achiuwa has stepped up amid injury woes plaguing the Kings. Key players such as Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and De’Andre Hunter are sidelined for the season, with Keegan Murray recently leaving a game due to an ankle injury. Achiuwa has capitalized on the extra playing time, averaging 17 points and 9.4 rebounds in 30 minutes over the last four games. Given the Kings’ limited roster, he presents a viable option and could be a consistent double-double threat in the coming weeks.
Marvin Bagley III has also seen increased responsibility with the Dallas Mavericks, where injuries to players like Daniel Gafford and Dereck Lively II have limited the team’s overall frontcourt depth. Averaging 24 minutes across his last seven games, Bagley has contributed 13 points and 8.9 rebounds during this stretch. While he may not be a primary source for assists or defensive stats, his rebounding efforts make him a worthy waiver wire target.
For the Memphis Grizzlies, Javon Small has emerged as a promising option as the team has shifted focus towards developing younger players amidst injury setbacks with Ja Morant and others. Over his last seven games, Small has averaged 26 minutes on the court, providing solid stats with 14.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.3 three-pointers per game. His impressive shooting percentages, including 59.3% from the field, showcase his efficiency and potential for significant contributions moving forward.
Lastly, Guerschon Yabusele’s journey with the Chicago Bulls has transformed him into an important player due to the team’s lack of depth following a rebuild. Since joining the Bulls, he has averaged 10.1 points and 5.9 rebounds over nine games. With key players like Nikola Vucevic traded and injuries impacting the team further, Yabusele is likely to see around 25 minutes per night, providing fantasy managers in deeper leagues with a viable option.
With injuries continuing to reshape rosters, these players may provide a much-needed boost for fantasy squads, highlighting the unpredictability and excitement of the current season.