Another week of fantasy basketball draws to a close and with it arrives the time to make a few changes. Teams are starting to get their injured players back on the floor. This is likely to result in certain individuals taking a hit to their value. On the other hand, others may have just run their race and have simply hit their ceiling prematurely. The fantasy blacklist outlines a few of the players whose time as a standard league asset has come to an end. Finding it hard to cut that one player you are hoping can turn it around? Take the emotion out of it and, using this advice, wave goodbye to those you once loved.
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Fantasy Blacklist: Players to consider dropping
Otto Porter Jr. – Bulls (84% rostered)
Porter presents an interesting case for many. The upside is clearly there and the opportunity should be there to match. Unfortunately, his foot injury continues to linger and the Bulls have been sketchy with the details. At last, we heard, he is set to be re-evaluated in two weeks, after a period of mobilization. Given he has been sidelined since early November, the lack of progress is certainly concerning. The Bulls have nothing to play for and so when Porter does make it back to the court, he will likely be on a minutes restriction. Without an injury spot on your roster, Porter may have to make way for someone else.
Aron Baynes – Suns (79% rostered)
Much like Porter, Baynes has struggled with an injury over the last few weeks. He had established himself as a must-roster player in basically all formats prior to going down. He has played just once in the past nine games, making him tough to trust in competitive formats. DeAndre Ayton is edging closer to his return after an early-season suspension. Upon his return, Baynes will likely shift back to a bench role, even when fully healthy. Although Baynes could continue to start in the short-term, his playing time could fluctuate. Parting ways now could be the best move in the long run.
Nemanja Bjelica – Kings (68% rostered)
Bjelica is also set to take a hit to his value due to a return from injury. Marvin Bagley is very close to getting back on the floor after an extended layoff with injury. Initially, there may have been a case for Richaun Holmes losing out over Bjelica. That has quickly changed with the recent play of Holmes who has been arguably the Kings’ best play of late. Bagley is likely to be eased back into the rotation which could give Bjelica a brief period of relevancy. However, much like with Baynes, now could be the time to make the move.
Enes Kanter – Celtics (67% rostered)
Kanter is still rostered in too many leagues despite his on-court struggles. Since returning from injury, Kanter has eclipsed 25 minutes just three times. For the season, he is putting up averages of just 7.4 points and 5.9 rebounds. He does come with an element of upside and of course the name value. However, Daniel Theis seems entrenched as the starter and has been solid in that role. Friday’s game saw Theis play just 15 minutes and still, Kanter only managed 18 minutes himself. There are almost certainly better options on most waiver wires and for now, Kanter can be safely overlooked.
Joe Ingles – Jazz (66% rostered)
Not unlike Kanter, Ingles seems to be rostered in far too many leagues. He too is someone people are hanging onto based on what he has done in previous seasons as opposed to the current campaign. He was moved to the bench this season after being a regular fixture in the starting lineup previously. His production has suffered as a result, currently averaging just 7.2 points and 3.6 assists. On nights Mike Conley misses time, Ingles could be worth a look as a streaming option. However, that is really where his value should end at this point.
Is Adam on track with his fantasy blacklist? Let him know in the comments below! Also, check out our waiver wire and all of our other fantasy basketball content.
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