The act of evaluating your team never ends. Even if by chance, and if this applies to you, knock on all of the wood and give profuse thanks, you don’t have to make an injury replacement, you can’t take a week off, because you know everybody else in your league is going to be scouring the waiver wire and leaving no scraps for next week.
There could be an underperforming player to replace. What about a category that needs a boost? Or, if there’s truly no one to drop and no transactions to make, you should at least know what’s available. Understanding your options is something that can’t be overstated. Now, it’s time to take a look at some options on the fantasy basketball waiver wire to improve your squads.
Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire
Maxime Raynaud, C, Sacramento Kings
Whenever we find a center on the waiver wire that can make a real impact, that’s a clear win. Drafted in the second round, it’s been a strong debut season for Maxime Raynaud. The main thing, is that the 22-year-old has done a great job of taking advantage of his opportunity.
Domantas Sabonis has been sidelined with a knee injury, and Raynaud has seamlessly stepped in. While Sabonis’ return is getting closer, Raynaud still has more time in him as a starter. As we look forward though, Raynaud is earning more playing time. There’s also the strong possibility that once Sabonis returns, he’ll be traded.
Again, we live in the present, so let’s take a look at what he’s done with his opportunity. In six games so far in December, Raynaud has played 30 minutes per game averaging 17 points and 8.3 rebounds per game while shooting 56.3% from the field. In his most recent game, Raynaud finished with 29 points and 11 rebounds in 37 minutes of action. That’s sure to garner attention and fantasy value.
Marcus Smart, G, Los Angeles Lakers
Injuries give and take. It’s an unfortunate fact of life in the NBA, and right now it’s Marcus Smart’s turn.
The veteran guard has returned from injury just in time for Austin Reaves to join Gabe Vincent on the sidelines. That means there’s plenty of opportunity in the backcourt and Smart is taking advantage of it.
Smart is now in the starting lineup, and that will only enhance his production as a large variable here are the minutes. In the three games since his return, the guard has played between 28 and 32 minutes. While his performance has fluctuated slightly from a scoring perspective, Smart’s averaging 17 points per game with 3.7 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and roughly a block and steal per game. He’s also made 14 three-pointers which makes him a well-rounded fantasy contributor.
Jay Huff, C, Indiana Pacers
If you need help in the middle, this is your lucky week. You are also forgiven if, when seeing the name Jay Huff, you ask, who?
Huff is on his fifth team in five years and is averaging 19 minutes per game this season. The Indiana Pacers are already looking towards next season, and with injuries, there are ample opportunities for playing time. And not only is Huff healthy, but he’s been productive.
Over the past 14 days, Huff leads the NBA with 15 blocked shots. That can make a difference for fantasy managers. The good news, is that with over 24 minutes per game, his playing time is increasing.
In eight games so far this month, Huff is averaging 9.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game. That’s certainly efficient as he makes his case for more playing time.
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