Next week presents an intriguing opportunity for fantasy basketball enthusiasts as several teams face unique scheduling situations, potentially influencing player performance and decisions. While most teams will take to the court three or four times, there are four teams scheduled for only two games, contrasting with one team expected to play five. This variance highlights the importance of strategically selecting players from the waiver wire who remain available in many CBS leagues.
Egor Demin of the Brooklyn Nets, currently rostered in 44% of leagues, has seen an increase in playing time recently, averaging 29 minutes over the last nine games compared to just 25 minutes earlier in the season. During this stretch, he has averaged 15.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, one steal, and an impressive 3.6 three-pointers per game, showcasing improved efficiency with a 43.8% shooting rate from the field and beyond the arc. With the Nets focusing on their future and improving their lottery odds, Demin’s playing time might continue to rise, making him a viable option not just for next week but for the remainder of the season.
Moussa Diabate of the Charlotte Hornets, rostered in 40% of leagues, benefits from Ryan Kalkbrenner’s absence due to an elbow injury. Over the last few games, Diabate has stepped up, averaging 8.7 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists while logging 32 minutes per game, a notable increase from his season average of 24 minutes. His strong rebounding skills could be invaluable as the Hornets approach a four-game week, enabling managers to enhance their rebounding stats.
Jake LaRavia from the Los Angeles Lakers, with a roster rate of 36%, has filled the void left by Rui Hachimura’s calf injury. In his absence, LaRavia has averaged 15.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, and two steals while playing 37 minutes per game. Although Hachimura may be close to returning, the Lakers have a demanding five-game week ahead, including back-to-back games. Given that LeBron James might not participate in every game, LaRavia remains a solid option to consider for fantasy rosters.
Collin Murray-Boyles of the Toronto Raptors, who is rostered in 18% of leagues, has also benefited from increased playing time, averaging 28 minutes over his last six games. He has capitalized on this opportunity with averages of eight points, 9.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.3 blocks. The Raptors have performed well during this stretch, which could lead to Murray-Boyles retaining a significant role moving forward. With the Raptors playing four games next week, he is a player worth considering for deeper leagues.
Finally, Marcus Smart, also from the Lakers and 15% rostered, has had a modest season but contributes valuable defensive stats, averaging 1.4 steals and 1.5 three-pointers per game. With the Lakers entering a five-game week and favorable matchups against teams like the Kings and Hornets, Smart’s role could be elevated, making him a strategic streaming option for fantasy managers looking to maximize their team’s potential.
With the varying schedules across the league, these players present unique opportunities for fantasy managers to enhance their rosters, especially as they approach the last stretch of the season.