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Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 13

Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 13

Hello, Week 13! The unknown can be intimidating, and our natural instinct to understand it through logic, popular meaning, and numbers helps us cope. But this week, we take a deeper look at how numbers don’t lie – but sometimes, they fall short in telling the full story.

Just like in this recent rap battle, or “beef” battle (respectfully – whatever you want to call it) between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, we’ve learned that things may not always be as they seem. Also, I am a fan of both K. Dot and Drizzy; both these guys have given to the art of music, hip-hop, and rap more than we could ever thank them for. Most recently, with claims about botting and inflated numbers, we’re left asking: who’s really the GOAT? What makes someone a GOAT? What defines talent? What makes something “good”?

We may not know what to expect, but by digging deeper, we can confront the unknown and prepare for whatever comes our way. This season feels similar in some ways – from questionable player rotations (though understandable), to injuries impacting young players, while members of the 40-club are setting historic records (shoutout to LBJ). As we head into the second half of the season, it’s crucial to see beyond the surface, and we’re aiming to do just that.

Guys, this week, things get scary. And that’s okay – it’s all out of love. This week, nothing will make you comfortable in the way you once thought, but in a new way that I hope will make you see things differently. What’s coming next will require this shift, whether it’s diving deep with plays like the ones we’ve highlighted or reconsidering your traditional “set-it-and-forget-it” players.

The competition is heating up, with teams putting themselves in a position to challenge the so-called favourites and new talent stepping up, giving hope to underdog teams. As the trade season begins to open up, players will be incentivized to play bigger and better, pushing the game to new levels.

This week, we’re diving deeper into categories rather than just general value. We’re starting to think more tactically and pragmatically, with the assumption that our core roster is as solid as it can be. Many of those “set-it-and-forget-it” plays are either nearing their point of diminishing return or are no longer available.

But don’t worry – I’ve got you covered. This week, the picks on the radar should feel familiar, but just so you know how “scary” things can get, below are some of my favourite speculative adds for those feeling dangerous:

No Context, Scary Good Potential

Yeah, I told you. (Hardaway, not so much… but still, BOO!)

Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings partner-arrow

NBA prop bet cheat sheet

Whether you’re new, seasoned, or just rebounding from the NFL season like it ended with a mutual breakup, welcome. FantasyPros is here to guide you through the second half of the NBA season with s

Whether you’re new, seasoned, or just rebounding from the NFL season like it ended with a mutual breakup, welcome. FantasyPros is here to guide you through the second half of the NBA season with strategy, bold moves, and a shared passion for this game we all love.

We won’t play it safe this week. Our focus will continue to shift to deeper, tactical moves as we head into the second half of the season, where we’ll lean into matchup contexts, multi-week schedules, and thoughtful player and roster management to give you an edge. It’s almost time when getting cute could be the best thing.

Let’s dive into this week’s opportunities with confidence and focus. We’re locked in and ready to cook. It’s time to make this season our own. Game on.

Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 13)

Season Summary Key Takeaways

  • This season has been wildly unpredictable – perfect for those who love the thrill of the hunt.
  • The league is evolving, creating fresh opportunities for creativity, competition and domination.
  • Thriving in this new era requires channelling our inter ‘Big DW ‘ – determination, discipline and Winning.

A New Game for the Endgame

This stretch is where bold moves, sharp strategies and a focus on the endgame separate the contenders from the pretenders. Get ready to ride the chaos, embrace the grind and use every tool in your arsenal to crush this season. Let’s get it.

Trade Season

Navigating Unknown Waters

They’ve been quiet, but we all know the storm is coming. Hopefully, it’s this season. Just in case, here you go.

Key Strategies for Success:

  • Target Talent-Rich Teams in Transition
    Look to teams like the Heat, Bulls, Nets, Trail Blazers and Rockets. Deep rosters mean post-trade hidden gems.
  • Experimentation Meets Momentum
    Teams like the Pelicans, Jazz and Hornets are refining rotations. Hot hands from these squads could be game-changers.
  • Rookies Poised for Impact
    Rookies like Kel’el Ware and Devin Carter Jr. and others may step into bigger roles as teams adjust and develop depth.
  • Role Players in the Spotlight
    Both contenders and rebuilders will create opportunities for overlooked contributors as rotations stabilize.
  • Start Fresh: The 0-0 Mindset
    Trade season resets everything — stay flexible, embrace new strategies and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Filling the Fantasy Void: NBA DFS Awaits

Feeling the sting of the NFL season winding down? Whether you’re still in contention or recovering from unexpected outcomes, don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. With the NFL regular and traditional fantasy season over and baseball still on deck, the NBA is here to bridge the gap.

Why NBA DFS?

The NBA offers daily action-packed slates, unique game modes and countless opportunities to dive into the excitement of fantasy basketball. FantasyPros has you covered with the tools, insights and articles you need to dominate your NBA lineups.

Keys to NBA DFS Success:

  • Learn the scoring and format
  • Understand value in the NBA context
  • Make bold calls
  • Embrace the contrarian approach
  • Trust the process

Follow the FantasyPros Team

We’re here to help you dominate every slate, every day of the week. With expert advice and actionable insights, you’ll be ready to tackle NBA DFS like a pro.

What’s on the Horizon: Building Towards Week 13 and Beyond

As we approach Week 13, let’s take a moment to set the stage for what’s ahead.

Important: This week’s article is a bit different. It’s unique and doesn’t include some of the detailed data points you’re used to. But don’t worry; we’re gearing up to reintroduce those and more as we head into the mid and late season.

Post-All-Star Adjustments: Sharpening the Strategy

After the All-Star break, we’ll level up with a new approach to recommendations:

  • Matchup summaries and grades
  • Strategic player acquisition frameworks

Fantasy Basketball Category & Waiver Wire Analysis

As we hit Week 13, we’re entering a critical phase of the fantasy basketball season. This is the time to entertain a side of us that’s dark and scary…get excited. We got to take calculated risks and start planning for the long game. Each well-timed waiver pickup inches you closer to building that championship-calibre team. Let’s dive into this week’s picks and craft a strategy that positions you to dominate the competition.

Fantasy Format

Scoring Type:

Head-to-Head (Most Categories)

Player Stat Categories:

  • Points Scored (PTS)
  • Total Rebounds (REB)
  • Assists (AST)
  • Steals (ST)
  • Block Shots (BLK)
  • 3-Point Shots Made (3PTM)
  • Field Goal Percentage (FG%)
  • Free Throw Percentage (FT%)

Roster Positions:

  • Point Guard (PG)
  • Shooting Guard (SG)
  • Guard (G)
  • Small Forward (SF)
  • Power Forward (PF)
  • Center (C) x 2
  • Utility (UTIL) x 2
  • Bench (BN) x 2
  • Injured List (IL) x 3

Data Sources

  • NBA Player Stats: NBA.com (2024-2025) – Stats taken on Sunday, January 12th, 2024 (Data subject to change.)
  • Yahoo! Sports – Player List

Disclaimer:

This week’s article contains links to lyrics with explicit language and content. Please be mindful if reviewing with younger audiences. That said, these songs slap – feel free to find the clean versions for a good time. lol

The content in this article includes reworded lyrics from popular songs by Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Future, Metro Boomin, and the Ball Brothers. All original lyrics and sources are acknowledged, and links to the original content are included for reference. The reworded lyrics are intended for creative and engaging purposes.

FantasyPros: The One-Stop Shop

In addition to this article, FantasyPros provides a wide range of tools and resources designed to support your strategic needs throughout the season.

From daily lineup optimizers to weekly matchup analysis and monthly trend reports, these tools offer critical insights that help you stay a step ahead.

Integrating these resources into your daily, weekly and monthly planning can give you the competitive edge needed to achieve your fantasy goals.

Now, let’s dive into this week’s analysis and identify the key players who can take your lineup to the next level and set the stage for a winning season.

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Points

Cole Anthony (ORL – PG): 25% Rostered | 7.4 Points – Rank: 246

Acquisition Details

  • League Level: Shallow
  • Acquisition Type: Priority Stream – Hold Potential
  • Priority: Medium-High
  • Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks (Week-to-Week)

Category Build

  • Primary: Points
  • Secondary: Rebounds
  • Auxiliary: Assists, Steals

Week 13 Opponent Overview

  • Total Games: 3
  • Opponents: @MIL, @BOS, DEN

Not Like Him – The Return of Mr. Anthony

The slow rise of Cole Anthony this season is a great story, not just for Magic fans or fantasy managers but for the man himself. Anthony has always been a consistent producer, and much like the Magic franchise, he’s been demonstrating masterful patience as they transition into one of the league’s gem franchises.

He is averaging 7.4 points per game, but what we are learning is the continued confirmation and evolution of a truth: while “numbers don’t lie,” they “don’t tell the entire story.” Not convinced? Well, “Let me break it down for you, this the real balla challenge.”

In the 37 games he played, he didn’t see the ball
Averaged only 14.6 minutes on floor, no way was he a hog,
But since then the team’s needed him to get their playing up,
Team’s been riding him for 31, realizing he wasn’t a bum.
31 gave the team 16.5 for street cred,
Cole’s been producing – put this thing to bed.

Original Bars: “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar

Story Time: Balling Beyond Roadblocks

Take these additional bars, which I call storytime. In his past four games, he has averaged 31.7 minutes, 16.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game. Should he continue to see ample and consistent time on the floor, this number will become a remnant of the past.

Unfortunately, time on the floor is only one of the roadblocks to greatness, besides teams seemingly “nerfing” their understated talent. Health is something we are going to have to manage, but the good thing is it’s made time for everyone, and no one is safe, so at the end of the day, why not just be a genuine FAN-tasy manager and enjoy the ride because…well…YOLO?

Of Course, On the Radar

Assists

Isaiah Collier (UTA – PG):  5% Rostered |4.1 Assists – Rank: 73rd

Acquisition Details

  • League Level: Deep-Shallow
  • Acquisition Type: Stream
  • Priority: Low-Medium
  • Stream/Hold Period: 1-2 Weeks (Week to Week)

Category Build

  • Primary: Assists
  • Secondary:  Steals
  • Auxiliary: Points

Week 13 Opponent Overview

  • Total Games: 2
  • Opponents: CHA, @NOP

Colliers Time – Trust, it Don’t Trust it up to you

Don’t look now, but Collier is slowly making his move to becoming a symbol of hope for this potential-filled team and franchise. What!? How? Well, like we said, numbers don’t lie, but they also don’t tell the full story. Let’s see what this narrative is shaping up to be:

Collier came out of USC as an ideal talent for any franchise, putting up impressive numbers in his lone season with the Trojans. In 29.8 minutes per game, he averaged 16.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, 0.2 blocks, 1.5 steals, and most importantly, 4.3 assists. Now, why is this significant? Joining the Jazz has been both a blessing and a blessing in disguise.

The team has a front and backcourt loaded with great real-life players, but they’re also navigating the tricky waters of rebuilding- not restarting, but evolving. This environment demands caution, a blend of holding onto established talent while still taking chances on emerging players.

Story Time: Enter Isaiah Collier

While the Jazz boast offensive powerhouses, facilitation remains a key need, and Collier has been on fire lately. Though his overall assist rate sits at 4.0 per game, he’s averaged an eye-popping 8.0 assists per game over his last four contests, which would rank 7th overall in the league.

That’s not just good – it’s elite. And remember, he’s doing this with just one year of college ball under his belt, showing remarkable consistency as he averages 2.4 rebounds, 0.2 blocks, and 0.8 steals per game – all in just 19.1 minutes per game.

His 3.4 points on 4.3 field goal attempts with 1.4 made per game isn’t a concern. This team already has its offensive weapons, and Collier is simply playing his role. But here’s the kicker: he’s making it increasingly difficult to keep him off the floor. With everyone else scoring, having a playmaker who facilitates and elevates those scorers is invaluable.

And now for the intangibles – this is what makes Collier truly special. When he came out of college, Bronny James received all the love and hype. Collier? He didn’t flinch. He didn’t complain. He didn’t say,

Bronny just took a jump shot, someone hand him the starting spot right now.

Original Bars: “Family Matters” – Drake

Did it Matter? No. He locked in.

He worked. He let his game do the talking. That kind of humility, discipline, and focus is the type of character that leads to longevity in this league.

So, a message to these “Numbers”:

Hey, we’re not slow

Original Reference: “Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar

May be time that we should start considering that

We don’t Trust You

Original Reference: We Don’t Trust You – Future & Metro Boomin’ 

Or rather, we shouldn’t do as much as we do.

Of Course, On the Radar

Rebounds

Jalen Smith (CHI – PF, C): 6% Rostered | 5.5 Rebounds Rank: 94th

Acquisition Details

  • League Level: Deep-Shallow
  • Acquisition Type: Stream-Priority Stream-Potential
  • Priority: Medium-Low
  • Stream/Hold Period: 2-3 Weeks

Category Build

  • Primary: Rebounds
  • Secondary: Field-Goal Percentage, Points
  • Auxiliary: Blocks

Week 12 Opponent Overview

  • Total Games: 4
  • Opponents: NOP, ATL, CHA, POR

His name is Smith…Like That, Smith

If there has ever been a player in recent years that has piqued our interest and broken our spirits, it’s Smith. Not because he’s a bad player – quite the opposite. He has actually been really good, considering his usage over the span of his relatively young career.

While he’s on a team boasting a talented yet very underrated frontcourt with the likes of Nikola Vucevic, Patrick Williams, and up-and-coming rookie Matas Buzelis, Smith is starting to exhibit qualities that not only separate him from the pack but also potentially transition him from a high-end flier acquisition to a long-term fantasy asset.

He’s averaging 5.5 rebounds per game, but beyond that, he has a plethora of offensive gifts that could transform him into the kind of nuanced, multi-categorical fantasy asset you love to have in your arsenal. Not convinced?

Storytime: A Career of “Problem” Level Potential

Over his career, he’s averaged just 16.3 minutes per game. Despite this, he’s managed to put up compelling numbers across multiple categories, most notably his efficiency. His career rate stands at 51.1 percent from the floor and 33.9 percent from beyond the arc. While those numbers might not seem flashy at first glance, they’re not to be brushed aside. Should the Bulls commit to him long-term, these numbers could take on an entirely new form.

Consider his 2021-2022 season with the Pacers: He averaged 24.7 minutes, 13.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 1.0 blocks, and 0.4 steals per game while shooting 53.1 percent from the floor and 37.3 percent from beyond the arc. Still not sold?

Over his last four games, Smith has averaged 6.5 rebounds, 14.0 points, 2.2 assists, 1.0 blocks, and 2.0 three-pointers made per game. He’s shooting 53.5 percent from the floor, 44.4 percent from beyond the arc, and an impressive 90.0 percent from the free-throw line on 2.5 attempts per game.

Yeah, Smith can be a problem. Should he manage to stay healthy and on the floor, he’ll have every chance to show us that it’s like that – and that he’s really, really like that.

J-A-L-E-N plays for money, power, and respect… but he’s about to show us why the last one is Better.

Original Reference: “Like That” – Future & Metro Boomin

Put some respect on his name.

Of Course, On the Radar

DraftKings Sportsbook Promo

Blocks

Peyton Watson (DEN – SF, PF): 13% Rostered | 1.2 Blocks – Rank: 34th

Acquisition Details

  • League Level: Deep-Shallow
  • Acquisition Type: Stream – Priority Stream Potential
  • Priority: Medium-Low
  • Hold Period: 1-2 Weeks (Week-to-Week)

Category Build

  • Primary: Blocks
  • Secondary: Steals, Rebounds
  • Auxiliary: Points

Week 13 Opponent Overview

  • Total Games: 4
  • Opponents: @DAL, HOU, @MIA, @ORL

Peyton “Squabble Up” Watson – He Been Ready…He Stay Ready

Let’s be real for a second – I don’t know who’s running personnel for the Nuggets, but they’re absolutely cooking. Between young talents like Christian Braun and Julian Strawther and smart acquisitions like Russell Westbrook, this team is building something special.

Once the fanfare dies down and the league locks in, the Nuggets are poised to show us what the West – and the league – really looks like. With Nikola Jokic playing healthy and with purpose, this squad is going to be a problem for years to come.

Drafted in 2022 out of UCLA, Peyton Watson’s early career might look underwhelming on paper. As a rookie, he averaged just 12.7 minutes, 3.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, 0.8 assists, 0.6 blocks, and 0.6 steals per game while shooting 32.2 percent from the field and 22.6 percent from beyond the arc.

But here’s the thing: Watson didn’t enter the league empty-handed. Most of his momentum came from an electrifying high school career that saw him average 23.2 points, 8.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.8 blocks per game during his breakout 2019-2020 season. This earned him McDonald’s All-American, Jordan Brand Classic, and Nike Hoop Summit honours. His one-and-done mindset at UCLA was clear from the start.

After being drafted 30th overall by the Thunder, Watson landed with the Nuggets via trade for JaMychal Green and a 2027 first-round pick. And what did he do in his rookie season? Oh, just win a championship. Who does that?

Fast forward to this season, and Watson has taken a massive leap. He’s now averaging 24.7 minutes, 8.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.9 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game while shooting 48.4 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from beyond the arc.

Still not convinced?

Story Time: Waking up to Ball

Let’s look at his last four games. Watson has been on fire, averaging 31.1 minutes, 10.2 points, 5.75 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.0 steals, and 2.5 blocks per game. This is a player who thrives on preparation and patience, and his drive is finally translating into results. If Peyton Watson had a theme song, it’d probably go something like this:

Wake up lookin’ for the broccoli,
High-Me, keep a ball on me, those blocks see,
Number 8, jersey print yup, that be all me.
Mr. Get off, and I get off please come see.

Original Bars: “Squabble Up” – Kendrick Lamar

Props to the Nuggets’ player personnel team. While V.P. Jim Clibanoff leads the charge, let’s give a shoutout to Boniface N’Dong, Stephen Graham, Darrell Arthur, Travess Armenta, John Gault, Sean Nolen, and Shemar Waugh. This player development squad is cooking.

Watson is proof of what happens when talent meets preparation, and the Nuggets’ player pipeline is looking like a dynasty in the making.

Of Course, On the Radar

Steals

Jaden McDaniels (MIN – SF, PF):  28% Rostered | 1.4 SPG – Rank: 39th

Acquisition Details

  • League Level: Shallow
  • Acquisition Type: Priority Steam Potential – Hold Potential
  • Priority: Medium-High
  • Hold Period: 2-3 Weeks

Category Build

  • Primary: Steals
  • Secondary: Rebounds, Field-Goal Percentage
  • Auxiliary: Points

Week 13 Opponent Overview

  • Total Games: 4
  • Opponents: @WAS, GSW, @NYK, CLE

The Lone Wolf, The Quiet Storm 

McDaniels has been a quiet yet vital cornerstone for the Timberwolves since his arrival in 2020-2021. Navigating a rookie season during an unprecedented pandemic and playing on a Minnesota team struggling to find competitive relevance, McDaniels has shown nothing but steady growth and resilience.

He’s averaging 1.4 steals per game this season, but his impact extends far beyond that single statistic. McDaniels is crafting a well-rounded season that positions him as a versatile fantasy asset, ready to elevate your squad.

Not convinced? Let’s dive deeper.

Story Time: Flashes of the Next Level

This season, McDaniels is averaging 9.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 0.8 blocks per game while shooting 44.5 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from beyond the arc. These numbers showcase a player who has consistently delivered value despite facing multiple obstacles, including untimely injuries that disrupted his momentum.

In the 2022-2023 season, McDaniels showed flashes of taking his game to the next level, improving across nearly every statistical category, only to face another hurdle when the team acquired Rudy Gobert.

That move, coupled with the rise of Naz Reid and the emergence of Anthony Edwards as the team’s driving force, seemed to overshadow McDaniels’ contributions. Despite this, he has remained a consistent and reliable player in the Timberwolves’ system, quietly improving his craft.

Now, as the Timberwolves refocus and strive to regain their identity, McDaniels is in a position to prove himself as a foundational piece of their success. He has the potential to deliver across multiple categories while serving as the glue that helps the team reclaim its bite.

Twice the professional ability,
Of sound body and tranquility, like he deserve it all.
Locked in mind and no sight of enemies,
Steals, blocks, more efficiencies, like he deserve it all.

Original Bars: “Man in the Garden” – Kendrick Lamar

McDaniels is a player who thrives in the shadows, but make no mistake – his moment is coming. With his defensive prowess and improving offensive game, now is the time to secure him for your roster. He’s not just a building block; he’s a game-changer waiting to happen.

Of Course, On the Radar

Betting Systems: Find and tail the most profitable bets

Three-Pointers Made

Max Strus (CLE – SG, SF): 17% Rostered – 2.1 3PTM – 71st

Acquisition Details

  • League Level: Shallow-Deep
  • Acquisition Type: Stream-Priority Stream
  • Priority: Medium-Low
  • Hold Period: 1-2 Weeks (Week-to-Week)

Category Build

  • Primary: Three-Pointers Made
  • Secondary: Points, Rebounds, Assists
  • Auxiliary: Steals

Week 13 Opponent Overview

  • Total Games: 4
  • Opponents: @SAC, @GSW, @UTA, @POR
The Return of Mad Max – Its all a matter of Time

The Cavaliers are cooking this season, with only four losses so far – a wild achievement and a testament to the team finally finding the rhythm to sustain momentum through the first half. But as the back half of the season looms, things are about to get real.

With so many teams in contention this year, execution and in-the-moment heroics will be critical, and the Cavs’ ability to destroy opponents from beyond the arc could position them to chase greatness, perhaps even rivaling the Warriors’ historic record.

Timing is everything, and Max Strus’s return couldn’t have come at a better moment. After an early delay to his season, he’s back – and just in time to remind us of his potential. While others like Payton Pritchard, Malik Beasley, and Gradey Dick have taken the spotlight, Strus is quietly working his way back into the conversation.

In his debut season with Cleveland, Strus made an immediate impact, especially with health concerns affecting the team. He averaged 32.0 minutes, 12.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 0.4 blocks, and 0.9 steals, with 2.4 made three-pointers per game while shooting 41.8 percent from the field and 35.1 percent from deep. That’s impressive for a player who only emerged as a key contributor the previous year with Miami.

Fast-forward to this season: in nine games, Strus is averaging 23.3 minutes, 8.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 0.3 blocks, and 0.3 steals, with 2.1 made threes per game while shooting 43.3 percent from the field and 38.8 percent from beyond the arc.

Still not convinced?

Storytime: Remember Him

Over his last four games, Strus has averaged 25 minutes, 10.0 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 2.5 made threes while shooting 50.0 percent from the field and 45.4 percent from beyond the arc.

This level of production hints at what’s to come. If the Cavaliers stay locked in, Strus will find his way back to the player he used to be, his return to form imminent. Soon, it will be clear that he’s:

Got a fire burnin’ in him from within,
Concentrating his thoughts on who he used to be, as he sheds his skin.
Every day, becoming a new version of him,
Cemented in his frame, juggling the pros and cons of the old version of his game.

Original Bars: “Reincarnated” – Kendrick Lamar

Strus’s game is evolving, and as he gets back into the groove, expect him to become a consistent contributor who can elevate both Cleveland and your fantasy lineup. The fire is there – all he needs is time to let it blaze.

Of Course, On the Radar

Field-Goal Percentage

Donovan Clingan (POR – C): 17% Rostered | 53.4% FG% – Rank: 88th

Acquisition Details

  • League Level: Shallow-Deep
  • Acquisition Type: Priority Stream-Potential-Hold
  • Priority: Medium-High
  • Hold Period: 2-3 Weeks

Category Build

  • Primary: Field-Goal Percentage
  • Secondary: Rebounds, Blocks
  • Auxiliary: Points

Week 12 Opponent Overview

  • Total Games: 3
  • Opponents: @IND, @OKC, @MIN

Call Em’ Dangerous Don

You thinking I wasn’t going to find a way to add him to this list is wild. The time is nearing, and I can’t wait for his arrival. With the NBA playing nice so far this trade season, it was looking like we weren’t going to have any additional signs of confidence about the team’s immediate and long-term commitment to this talented, and what could be a somewhat generational player, at minimum a “dangerous” one.

With a stacked front and backcourt, it seems like the team was and is keen on thoughtfully ramping up his playing time, which is fine for them but frustrating for fantasy players. Luckily, however, it seems like the injury bug is forcing the issue, and with the team facing several key injuries -not only to the starting lineup but also to other players that could impede his time on the floor- it’s putting him in a great position to get some solid time and experience.

He’s been showing up in several categories since this season began, which further supports his affiliation as part of this extraterrestrial breed being led by none other than Victor Wembanyama. But this week, he’s on here for his efficiency.

He is shooting a solid 53.4 percent from the floor, and while his attempts per game and current usage don’t necessarily align with the offense, that could be because of his lack of role clarity and consistency in the rotation, as well as several other things going on with this team regarding personnel usage. But that’s beside the point. The point is… it’s storytime.

Story Time: Big Boy Huskie…Big Boy Baller

During his time at UConn, he demonstrated a knack for not only producing value but building on that value year after year. With an increase in playing time from 13.1 minutes to 22.6 minutes in his final year, he averaged 13.0 points, 7.4 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, and 0.5 steals per game. He doubled his shot attempt output to 8.3 per game, and he shot 63.9 percent from the floor. Not enough? Ok, that’s fine, I got more for you.

This season, on a loaded team (in terms of bodies and talent, not necessarily record), he is averaging 16.5 minutes, 5.7 points, 6.2 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 1.6 blocks, and 0.4 steals per game while averaging a healthy 4.4 attempts per game and shooting again a healthy 53.4 percent from the floor. Still not enough? Fine, fine. Honestly, he’s so locked in, I wouldn’t be surprised if when people bring it up to him, he’s like:

Tell me what they talkin’ bout, I ain’t freakin’
Listenin’
Let your thoughts run your mouth, but it ain’t
Touchin’ my defense
Brotha, I ain’t from the South, but kick it with
My Boy Ay-ton.
Brotha, I can’t take a loss, I’m always playin’ for
The Win (For the Win)

Original Bars: “Tweaker” – Ball Brothers (LiAngelo Ball)

Now, some of you are like, “Woahhh, that’s not Kendrick, how’d you swerve this in here, you tweaking?” Well, I’ll tell you this: I was listening to this song while writing this section. But it makes sense if you think about it.

A lot of us may be sleeping on this asset, and honestly, he may pull a Jonathan Taylor – thanks for nothing, but maybe something – run of performances when it doesn’t matter anymore. But the point is, it’s not a matter of if; it’s a matter of when he does this. He’s going to catch us by surprise, and when he does, you want to be like, Wow, I made a good decision.

While there may still be some doubt, he will hit. Just like this song, his game has the chance to remind us of the old-school nature we used to vibe to back in the day and appreciate today in some ways.

Of Course, On the Radar

NBA DFS Lineup Optimizer

Free-Throw Percentage

Spencer Dinwiddie (DAL – PG, SG): 22% Rostered | 86.4% FT% – Rank: 103rd

Acquisition Details

  • League Level: Shallow-Deep
  • Acquisition Type: Stream – Priority Stream Potential
  • Priority: Medium-Low
  • Hold Period: 2-3 Weeks (Week-to-Week)

Category Build

  • Primary: Free-Throw Percentage
  • Secondary: Points, Assists
  • Auxiliary: Rebounds

Week 13 Opponent Overview

  • Total Games: 3
  • Opponents: DEN, @NOP, OKC

Call him Big DW…

He is doing exactly what he was supposed to do and what they were hoping he would do when they went back to get him. Dinwiddie is having a solid season, and with all the injuries going on, he has, in a lot of ways, kept the Mavericks’ season alive. Even with taking a hit in his playing time and implied role, he is producing at an increased rate this season versus a year ago.

This season, he is averaging 23.6 minutes, 9.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 0.2 blocks, and 0.8 steals. His efficiency isn’t as promising as last season’s, but it’s still attractive, especially when you consider what it could mean for the team as they start playing postseason ball. I’m specifically talking about his free-throw contribution.

He is averaging 2.9 attempts per game, shooting 86.4 percent, and making 2.5 per game. This could suggest that he’s being more aggressive on the floor and in a position where he’s not just facilitating plays but also taking charge.

This form of Dinwiddie is exciting—let’s call him Big DW! This is the kind of player we can rely on in fantasy during the regular season, but if the team can make a postseason push, his value could skyrocket.

If the Mavericks can drive and win with him on the floor, they could see extended longevity against other top-tier competition. This kind of role could make him invaluable and bode well for fantasy purposes.

There are other players on the team who will fill the offensive void, but Dinwiddie’s experience will set him apart—especially when the team looks for it during crucial, high-pressure moments. Not convinced? You already know what’s up.

Story Time: Tell Em’ Widdie Did It

Let’s look at his past four games, which will give a more accurate picture of what he offers. In those games, he played at least 30 minutes, averaging 34.2 minutes, 17.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.2 assists, and shooting 86.3 percent from the line with 4.75 made free throws on 5.5 attempts. Now that’s more like it!

When the Mavs are back healthy and riding high, we’re going to be asking them who put the Mavs back in front of the pack, and to that, we’ll say:

Tell ’em Widdie did it
Ayy, who showed them how to remain legit? Tell ’em Widdie did it.
Who put the Mavs back in front of it? Tell ’em Widdie did it.

Ayy, I’m in fact trippin’, and I am indeed lovin’ it.

Original Bars: “GNX” – Kendrick Lamar

Of Course, On the Radar

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