What a wild first week it was! Players were dropping like flies and no one knows what to do with Deandre Ayton! Each week I will present a list of players who can be picked up from the waiver wire in order to help ease the pain. Note that I will only list players who are widely available at the time of writing, so that you actually have a chance of getting them.
Rodney Hood: He’s received 30+ minutes for three straight games, and there’s no reason to think they would decrease. So far, he’s been contributing all over the board and looks like his role is solidified. He’s only 16% owned in Yahoo, so grab him if you need a wing.
Isaiah Thomas: He’s back! I know we’ve all heard it before, and have had our hearts broken many times, but he actually looks like he’s good to go this time. It’s only one game, but he went for 16/3/5 with 4 triples. Someone’s gotta score in Washington, and he’s the perfect candidate. Pick him up now before he explodes again.
Davis Bertans: Another player flying under the radar that is stepping up in DC. He’s averaging 3.3 triples a game with solid percentages. If you need an efficient 3-point shooting big then he’s your man. Looks like he’ll be able to get enough minutes to be an asset for your team.
Bryn Forbes: It blows my mind that Forbes is available in most of the leagues I am in. He’s cleared 30 minutes for two games in a row, and is in the starting line up until further notice. Sure, he may need to take a step back once Dejounte’s minute restriction is lifted, but for now he’s an excellent source of points and triples with great efficiency. He’s only 19% owned in Yahoo leagues, so pick him up if you need some guard stats.
Markelle Fultz: He was running circles around Sexton and Garland in the season opener, and it should only be a matter of time before he wins the starting gig. He will still need a bit of time and patience, but so far so good. If you have someone to cut, get ahead of the curve and give Fultz a chance while you still can.
Frank Kaminsky: One of the clear beneficiaries of Ayton’s suspension. He’s been hovering around 30 minutes a game the last few nights, and has been making the most of it. He won’t get you a lot of big man stats, but he’ll score, rebound, and make triples. Well worth a pick if you need to fill the C position.
Dwight Howard: I can’t believe I’m actually writing this, but yes you should consider picking up Dwight Howard. He’s been looking good, taking the game seriously, and is in fantastic shape. Even in limited minutes, he can still get you boards and blocks. The FTs still suck, but you knew that. If you’re starved for a big, pick him up and hope for the best.
PJ Tucker: He’s perennially underrated every year, and always manages to be useful in standard leagues. He’s off to a blazing hot start, and is still only 52% owned. He won’t blow you away, and don’t expect his hot start to continue, but he should still be worth a roster spot.
That’s it for now! I didn’t include guys like OG Anounoby, Devonte Graham, or Taurean Prince because I’m going to assume that they’re already gone. If they are still somehow available in your league, pick them up immediately and then considering joining a more competitive league. Until next time!
