Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire: Who will step up in Paolo Banchero’s absence?

The 2024-25 NBA season is up and running. Although we are only a handful of games into what promises to be a fascinating campaign, we already have plenty of questions — and not enough answers. Whether due to injury, poor form or questionable coaching decisions, the waiver wire is proving to be a fruitful hunting ground for those needing reinforcements. Whether you are seeking a short-term statistical boost or a potential season-long addition, now is a great time to take advantage of managers who may not be as switched on.

Let’s dive into six players who are currently rostered in fewer than 50% of Yahoo leagues.

Wendell Carter Jr., Orlando Magic (44% rostered)

With Paolo Banchero set to miss 4-6 weeks with an oblique injury, the Magic will have to shuffle some of the deck chairs should they wish to stay competitive. Carter has managed to distance himself when it comes to the starting center role, averaging 8.8 points, 10.4 rebounds and 1.6 defensive stats in 29.8 minutes per game. Although these numbers are by no means mindblowing, he is doing just enough to hold down a backend roster spot in standard leagues.

With Banchero sidelined, Moritz Wagner and Jonathan Isaac (more on him later) could find themselves spending a little more time at the four, as opposed to playing backup center. This could result in a small uptick in playing time for Carter, potentially edging him closer to a nightly double-double with 2.0 defensive stats.

If you are looking for a relatively safe center option, Carter could be the man for the job.

Christian Braun, Denver Nuggets (39%)

In his first season as a starter, Braun has managed to exceed expectations. Across the first four games, he has amassed healthy averages of 14.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.8 blocks, 1.0 steals and 1.0 3-pointers in 35.4 minutes per game. Despite being one of the elite teams in the Western Conference, Denver certainly isn’t blessed with proven depth.

Braun has slotted seamlessly into the role vacated by Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, flashing his upside on both ends of the court. Although he may not be able to maintain his current pace, Braun has certainly locked down the…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/fantasy-basketball-waiver-wire-week-085000488.html

Author : RotoWire.com

Publish date : 2024-11-01 08:50:00

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