NBA News NBA News, Match Reports and Updates
Next week, the vast majority of teams are scheduled to compete in four games. However, the eight teams facing only three games each will put their players at a disadvantage for those involved in fantasy basketball. Let’s examine the waiver wire and spotlight some of the most promising players who remain available in many Yahoo leagues.
Aldama is currently enjoying his finest season, posting averages of 12.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.8 three-pointers per contest. His efficiency has notably improved, as he holds a shooting percentage of 48.5% from the field and 37.1% from three-point range—both of which are on track to be personal bests. While his free-throw shooting stands at a modest 69.0%, it doesn’t significantly hinder fantasy managers since he only attempts 1.5 free throws per game.
Although the Grizzlies boast quality depth, their frontcourt has faced some challenges with Brandon Clarke sidelined for the season due to a knee issue. Ja Morant’s frequent absences due to a hamstring issue have also opened up additional opportunities for shot attempts. Aldama may not be a marquee player, but he can deliver consistent production, especially with the Grizzlies slated to play four games in the coming week.
Clingan has made a strong impact since stepping into the starting position for the Trail Blazers. In his last 19 games as a starter, he’s averaged 7.9 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game, despite only playing around 24 minutes on average during this stretch. Although he has occasionally surpassed the 30-minute mark, foul trouble has often curtailed his playing time in specific matchups.
Clingan’s starting role seems secure for the remainder of the season, especially with limited positive news regarding Deandre Ayton’s calf injury, which could keep him out indefinitely. Additionally, it appears Robert Williams III may not return this season. The Trail Blazers have four upcoming games against the Hawks, Raptors, Bulls, and Spurs, all of whom struggle defensively. Clingan could be primed for a productive week.
Last season, Henderson proved pivotal for fantasy managers aiming for a championship, having started his last 14 games with averages of 18.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, 7.9 assists, 1.4 steals, and 2.3 three-pointers. However, he also faced challenges, averaging 5.1 turnovers and shooting just 40.8% from the field during that stretch.
This season, while Henderson has not secured a starting role, he’s still posting averages of 13.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.9 three-pointers over his last 20 games. His issues persist, with averages of 2.8 turnovers and shooting 39.0% from the field. Nonetheless, for those in need of assists, Henderson could be a valuable pickup, particularly in points leagues that are lenient about his inefficiencies. Similar to Clingan, Henderson stands to gain from the favorable schedule the Trail Blazers have ahead.
With postseason aspirations, the Bucks are now facing uncertainty. Damian Lillard has been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right calf and will be out indefinitely, according to a team announcement. While there’s hope for a potential return, it’s unlikely he’ll see action before the playoffs.
With Lillard carrying a 27.7% usage rate this season, many shot opportunities are up for grabs on the Bucks. Trent appears positioned to absorb some of that volume. He’s averaged 8.8 shot attempts per game this season, but with Lillard unavailable, that number has increased to 12.0 in the last four games, during which he’s averaged 17.3 points, alongside 4.3 three-pointers and 1.5 steals. He is less likely to contribute significantly in rebounds or assists, but with four games upcoming for the Bucks next week, Trent can provide a scoring and three-pointer boost for fantasy managers.
The Bulls have been surging recently as they aim for a spot in the Play-In Tournament. Huerter took some time to acclimate after being traded from the Kings, but he’s emerged as a critical piece of their rotation. Over the past 15 games, he has averaged 33 minutes, including being a starter for the last eight.
During this span, Huerter’s contributions have included 15.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.5 steals, and 3.1 three-pointers. The Bulls had hoped to see Lonzo Ball return on Thursday, but he has indicated that he will need “another week” and will not be fully pain-free this season. With four games scheduled next week, three of which are against weaker teams like the Raptors, Trail Blazers, and Hornets, Huerter has the potential for a strong performance.
While Trent can pick up some of the scoring slack left by Lillard’s absence, the Bucks also need to address their ball-handling duties. Ryan Rollins started the first three games without Lillard, but his performance fell short of expectations. As a result, the Bucks have opted to start Porter in place of Rollins in their most recent game against the Nuggets.
Porter seized this opportunity, putting up 12 points, seven rebounds, and eight assists in 30 minutes. The downer was his 5-for-15 shooting and four turnovers. This season, while averaging 19 minutes on the court, Porter has recorded 9.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 0.7 three-pointers. If he can reach around 30 minutes consistently, he could become a viable fantasy asset. The Bucks’ upcoming four-game schedule against struggling teams like the Suns, 76ers, Heat, and Pelicans also bodes well for Porter.
