A storyline that began last year with the mind blowing trade of Luka Doncic to the Lakers finally came to its logical conclusion yesterday, with the Mavericks announcing “that the organization has relieved Nico Harrison of his role as general manager and president of basketball operations effective immediately.” I’m sure it brings no joy to Mavericks fans who have to endure a losing season after apparently dismantling a championship chasing team for no reason, but still.
Who would have thought that trading a top 3 playmaker in his prime for a injury prone All Star big man, a single first round pick and presumably “favorable” odds to land the No1 pick in this year’s draft was not such a wise move. And you did not hear about that last pick part from me. Let’s just say that it would not surprise me at all if the Lakers see value in the work Nico Harrison has put in his previous teams and decide to add him in the organization this year or the next one…And trust me, I’m no conspiracy theorist, but sometimes things don’t make any sense, until they do.
Back to fantasy and regarding last week’s suggestions, Nickeil Alexander-Walker missed the last couple of games with an injury, but as long as Trae Young remains sidelined he is must own, while Jusuf Nurkic continues to start for the Jazz and provides big man stats. The final Buy suggestion was Max Christie, who also had a productive week, but do monitor his role when Anthony Davis returns. Finally, on the Sell front, Santi Aldama had an OK week, but I remain unconvinced that he is must own, as his production is more appropriate for a streamer.
Buy
Grayson Allen: An explosive 42 point, 10 triplse game against New Orleans propelled Grayson Allen to top 30 value for the season, yet he is still available in 59% of Yahoo leagues. His usage is further secured by the absence of Jalen Green so make sure he does not linger in any waiver wires.
Reed Sheppard: I know it has been a slow start for Sheppard, who was overhyped coming into the season, but his fantasy ceiling is just too tantalizing to not give him ample opportunity in your fantasy squads. He closed the last 3 games for Houston and 2 of them were not blowouts and if he ever gets 30 minutes consistently he can be a fantasy juggernaut. Give him a chance with 3 more games remaining this week and reassess according to his usage and playing time (31% owned).
Andre Drummond: Every time we read the words medical assessment and Joel Embiid in the same sentence, we must look at the next center in the Philadelphia depth chart. Currently this player is Andre Drummond, who has started the last 2 games and more importantly averaged 34 minutes. He is not the ft% anchor he used to be in his Detroit years, so if you are looking for a big man employ him unless we hear good news about Joel Embiid’s health. I would not hold my breath on that one (14% owned).
Sell
CJ McCollum: A veteran in Washington playing well is the dictionary definition of a “Sell High” in fantasy textbooks. McCollum just had an excellent week but the Wizards are predictably 1-10 in the season and he will either not be playing or playing for another team when it is time for the fantasy playoffs. Try to move him and take advantage of his hot streak.
Dennis Schroder: The menace that is called Russell Westbrook is in SacTown and the usage of no one is no longer safe. Dennis Schroder was already providing borderline value for standard leagues but his usage has fallen off a clip lately and is actively hurting your fantasy teams with his shooting. No reason to roster him (38% owned).
