Ja Morant just can’t seem to get out of his own way, with the latest incident coming last week. After a flat second half in his the game against the Lakers, where he looked totally disengaged, scoring only 2 points, he fired back at reporters against the Memphis coaching staff.
Not exactly the leadership you want from your franchise star. The team didn’t waste time either and hit him with a one-game suspension. Honestly, it’s just another chapter in what’s becoming a troubling pattern for Morant. From the whole gun incident and past off-court issues to this kind of attitude, it feels like the league and fans alike are starting to lose patience. The trade market is reportedly very thin for him and it makes sence, as being the face of a franchise isn’t just about highlight dunks. It’s about accountability and leading by example and right now Morant is not showing much of it.
Regarding last week’s suggestions, Amen Thompson is still in a defensive funk, but the scoring has picked up and the buy-low window is closing, while the 2 Charlotte rookies, Kon Knueppel and Ryan Kalkbrenner had great weeks and should definitely be rostered. On the Sell front, Bradley Beal continues to be a non factor so he remains a clear drop, while Aaron Gordon remained hot, but in a more realistic way.
Buy
Nickeil Alexander-Walker: Another opportunity due to injuries, this time Trae Young’s right knee, NAW has been given the starting nod and has delivered, scoring at least 15 points in the last 3 games. His usage is pretty good sans Young so he is must roster until we hear positive news for Young’s return (38% owned).
Jusuf Nurkic: Walker Kessler already missed 2 games with a left shoulder injury and is set to miss at least the next 2, and that has allowed Jusuf Nurkic to start at the 5 for Utah. He has not wowed, mainly due to a subpar fg% but the rebounds and blocks are there, so he is a great streamer to get at least 2 starting games out of him (11% owned).
Max Christie: While not the poster child of fnatasy friendly game, the injuries in Dallas have provided Max Christie a starting spot and a 33 minute role in the last 4 games. On top of that, Dallas play 3 games until Saturday, so Christie is a great streamer until that point for some triples, assists and points who is available in most leagues (9% owned).
Sell
Santi Aldama: Aldama was viewed as a value pick later in drafts, due to the uncertainty regarding Jaren Jackson’s availability and the guaranteed absence of Zach Edey. Things did not turn out well for Aldama though, as JJJ was good to go on opening night and his minutes have decreased from last season. Now with Edey ramping up for a comeback, I see little reason to hold onto Aldama, who is barely inside the top150 in per game value. Stream his spot and your fantasy team will benefit (42% owned).
