Fantasy Alarm achieved significant success with their waiver wire recommendations last week, highlighting players like Ryan Nembhard, Jared McCain, Dominick Barlow, and Jay Huff. As we advance into the new week, several additional players are noted, but there are also last-minute injury updates that fantasy managers must consider while setting their lineups. To avoid fielding zero-point performances, it’s advisable to set line alerts about 10-15 minutes prior to roster deadlines at 6:00 PM ET.
The NBA Cup knockout games are scheduled for this week, and teams are taking advantage of load management in light of challenging scheduling. This week, fantasy basketball managers will face crucial roster decisions as there are limited games until Friday. Smart strategists can turn scheduling disadvantages into advantageous matchups against their competitors. Recently, new injuries have further complicated lineups, so let’s review the current injury report.
In the NBA Injury Report for Week 8, several player injuries have been noted. LaMelo Ball is sidelined due to an ankle injury from the December 5 matchup against the Toronto Raptors, and he’s expected to be out at least until December 12. Collin Sexton reinjured his quadriceps on December 3 and is also likely to miss time, with realistic expectations leaning toward a longer absence. Kevin Huerter is dealing with a thigh injury and is projected to miss a few upcoming games.
Larry Nance Jr. remains out with a calf injury but may return soon. Buddy Hield’s injury from the last game is not thought to be serious, but he could miss additional games. Superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, after a brief three-game return, has sustained another calf injury and is expected to be out for the remainder of the month. Owners in redraft leagues may want to explore trading him while he still holds value.
Zion Williamson’s return is uncertain as he hasn’t played since November 29 and could be out for an extended period. Lugentz Dort and Joe from the Oklahoma City Thunder are also on the sidelines, seemingly due to load management rather than serious injuries. Alex Caruso is out with a lingering injury but might return in time for the NBA Cup. Devin Booker is facing an indefinite absence after an injury during a game against the Los Angeles Lakers. Lastly, Bilal Coulibaly has been sidelined due to an oblique injury.
For those looking to make moves on the waiver wire this week, several players stand out. Pat Spencer of the Golden State Warriors, who is currently rostered in only 5% of Sleeper Leagues, has stepped up considerably in Stephen Curry’s absence, scoring at least 29 fantasy points in each of his last three games.
Cam Spencer of the Memphis Grizzlies, with just 11% rostered, offers consistent scoring and should be a valuable addition for any team needing support. Cason Wallace of the Oklahoma City Thunder, rostered in 23% of leagues, is also a great pickup as he continues to impress, benefiting from increased minutes due to resting veterans. Bruce Brown of the Denver Nuggets, who is rostered in 4%, has found a scoring groove, especially with injuries affecting his teammates.
As the schedule for Week 8 illustrates a limited number of games — three on Monday, two for the NBA Cup on Tuesday and Wednesday, four on Thursday, seven on Friday, two on Saturday, and six on Sunday — fantasy managers must navigate this challenging landscape carefully. Making strategic lineup choices is essential; however, it’s crucial not to compromise the overall depth of the roster for short-term gains.
This week presents opportunities amidst challenges, allowing savvy managers to capitalize on the shifting dynamics within the league. With astute planning and timely decision-making, it’s still possible to achieve success in your fantasy basketball endeavors.