It’s Week 15. Welcome Back. If you are new, welcome.
“Just because I can doesn’t necessarily mean I should.” This theme has been on my mind a lot lately, and it’s a powerful one to consider as new opportunities arise every day. What better time to practice this mindset as we approach the All-Star break and the close of a fascinating first half of the 2024-2025 season?
With All-Star teams set and looking glorious, teams are winding down their experimental phases and preparing to make serious decisions about how they’ll compete in the second half.
In reflecting on sports and fantasy, I’ve reminded myself of one humbling truth: Out of 8 billion people globally, only 30 head coaches lead NBA teams. Thirty. That either speaks to a lack of effort in finding new coaching talent or, more likely, the mastery these coaches possess, operating at levels we can only understand in theory.
It’s a reminder that sometimes restraint is a skill. Knowing when to act – and when not to – is as important as the actions themselves.
As we move into this pivotal week, it’s time to reassess, regroup, and strategically plan for the road ahead. There aren’t many high-priority holds outside of what we’ve discussed in weeks past, but there are always pragmatic moves to make. Spend your FAAB wisely, study the waiver wire in context and be ready to pivot as trades shake things up.
I also encourage you to revisit some of our earlier content. Dive into Seth Fisher’s awesome trade advice and strategies or Nick Rodriguez’s expert takes on dominating the waiver wire. This week, I’m re-introducing some elements and terms of a framework to assist with player management and roster construction to support how you visualize your options during the back half of the season.
There will be tempting pickups this week, but before you make a move, ask yourself: Just because I can… should I?
Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings
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.
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 15)
It’s Still Trade Season
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
- Experimentation is a good thing; think differently
- Revisit rookies poised for impact
- Look for role players who will become main players
- Adopt a weekly “0-0” record mindset
Filling the Fantasy Void: NBA DFS Awaits
With the NFL regular season and the traditional fantasy football 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 the 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 15 and Beyond
As we approach Week 15, let’s take a moment to set the stage for what’s ahead.
Post-All-Star Adjustments: Sharpening the Strategy
After the All-Star break, we’ll level up with a new approach article, look, feel and recommendations:
- Matchup summaries and grades
- Strategic player acquisition frameworks
- Less talk and more show
New This Week: New Category and Roster Build Terms
As we prepare and move towards the second half of the season we will begin to implement some new terms and frameworks to support your continued success as a fantasy basketball player. This is taken from the article Fantasy Basketball Draft Advice: 8 Must-Have Players to Draft (2024). Terms and frameworks like the roster build frame are introduced here.
- Singular-Realist: Players who focus on producing in one category.
- Synergy-Realist: Players who contribute across multiple categories.
- Generalist (G): Players who contribute across multiple categories to win consistently each week. Aligns with a “Hold” strategy, creating a core foundation for your roster.
- Specialist (SP): Players who excel in specific categories, allowing you to exploit opponent weaknesses. Aligns with a “Stream” strategy for short-term flexibility.
*Note: Of course, these players impact different categories naturally, however, we are talking and classifying as the norm and within the main value proposition of their contribution and impact.
Articles to revisit for preparation (familiarity with possible terms/format of upcoming articles):
- Fantasy Basketball Draft Advice: 8 Must-Have Players to Draft (2024)
- Fantasy Basketball Draft Strategy & Advice: 8 Bounce-Back Players (2024)
- Fantasy Basketball Draft Strategy & Advice: Rookies (2024)
Fantasy Basketball Category & Waiver Wire Analysis
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.
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 26th, 2025 (Data subject to change.)
- Yahoo! Sports – Player List
Points
Shaedon Sharpe (POR – SG, SF): 52% Rostered | 17.5 Points – Rank: 70th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Priority Stream – Hold
- Priority: High-Low
- Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks
Category Build
- Primary: Points
- Secondary: Steals
- Auxiliary: Field-Goal Percentage, Free-Throw Percentage, Three-Pointers Made
- Category Class: Singular-Realist
- Roster Class: Specialist
Week 15 Opponent Overview
- Total Games: 3
- Opponents: MIL, ORL, PHX
A Mainstay on the Watchlist
Shaedon Sharpe has been on this list and will stay on this list. The Portland Trail Blazers are oozing with ballers. They could either keep everyone and continue to tease us, or eventually make some moves that catapult them onto everyone’s radar as the team to watch – next season and beyond.
When that happens, whether Sharpe is still with the team or finds himself elsewhere, I want to be able to say, “I have him.” Hold someone that long without guarantees? Wait a second, this guy is still performing at a high level, surrounded by other high-level players in both the frontcourt and the backcourt.
Consistency Amid Chaos
Sharpe is averaging 17.5 points per game. Injuries, roster additions and rotation changes haven’t stopped him from competing at an impressive level. Outside of injury, there’s nothing obvious standing in his way of a breakout campaign as the season progresses, even if things stay as they are.
Believe in The Process
If there’s anyone to grab this week, it’s him. And even if he breaks out next year, I’ll still say, “I believed.”
It’s the same feeling I had when my fantasy draft grade came back as a D-minus, complete with a “better luck next time” note after I drafted Jayden Daniels as my QB1 in the ninth round, Derrick Henry as my RB1 and Terry McLaurin as my WR1. I was projected to finish 12th out of 12 and still managed to claim third place. Yeah, I’m sure the grade would’ve dropped lower if it could, but here’s the thing: Guess what I can say. I believed. Don’t believe me? Here you go.
Why You Should Make the Move
There is a feeling that comes with believing and being right that no one can put into words… but you’ll know it when next year’s draft comes around and someone snipes Daniels right before you when you know they didn’t believe as you believed. In this case and Sharpe’s case, if you can… you should.
On The Radar
- Malik Beasley (DET – SG, SF): 35% Rostered | 16.2 PPG
- De’Andre Hunter (ATL – SF, PF): 41% Rostered | 18.7 PPG
Assists
Andrew Nembhard (IND – PG, SG): 22% Rostered | 5.2 Assists – Rank: 44th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow-Deep
- Acquisition Type: Stream – Priority Stream Potential
- Priority: Medium
- Stream/Hold Period: 2-4 Weeks (Week to Week)
Category Build
- Primary: Assists
- Secondary: Steals, Field-Goal Percentage
- Auxiliary: Rebounds, Points
- Category Class: Synergy-Realist
- Roster Class: Generalist
Week 15 Opponent Overview
- Total Games: 2
- Opponents: DET, ATL
When the Game Gets Real
When it comes to second-half and postseason basketball, teams start to play “real” ball. And by real, I don’t mean that effort, passion or care weren’t there before. What I mean is that after managing 80+ games and the demands of life on and off the court, teams begin to lock in and things get serious.
A Player Built for the Moment
When this happens, teams deploy talent that noticeably helps win championships, especially if they’re healthy and ready to go. Andrew Nembhard is one of these players, alongside teammate T.J. McConnell. These guys can change games. If health hadn’t been such a major theme of this health-demic season, it would be hard to find a better backcourt than the Indiana Pacers.
The Impact Around Greatness
It can be easy to overlook players like Nembhard when extraordinary talents like Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam are the foundation of the team. But those playing alongside them are, if not equally, certainly extraordinarily capable of showing up when it’s time to win.
Why Nembhard Deserves Your Attention
Nembhard is averaging 5.2 assists per game, along with 10.6 points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.2 steals per game. It’s not about whether he can make an impact — it’s about how and what’s best for the team, given their many options.
If you’re looking for someone who can directly boost your assists category and offer understated multi-category support with the potential to single-handedly change the outcome of your slate and week, Nembhard is a player you should consider.
On The Radar
- Isaiah Collier (UTA – PG): 16% Rostered | 4.8 APG
Rebounds
Nick Richards (PHX – C): 42% Rostered | 8.3 Rebounds – Rank: 29th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Hold
- Priority: High
- Stream/Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks
Category Build
- Primary: Rebounds
- Secondary: Field-Goal Percentage, Blocks
- Auxiliary: Points, Steals
- Category Class: Singular-Realist
- Roster Class: Specialist
Week 15 Opponent Overview
- Total Games: 4
- Opponents: LAC, MIN, @GSW, @POR
A Natural Transition
Get Nick Richards. It’s hard to transition into a state of prosperity and options when you find yourself in new places in life that offer you these things, especially after being used to and excelling in your situation, although limited.
Nick Richards doesn’t have this problem. The guy is coming in and doing exactly what he is supposed to do and has been paying off handsomely for those who rode his explosive game against Detroit and didn’t bail when his ultra instinct faded for a short time.
Ready to Lock In
But let me tell you something. As I said, these teams are about to lock in, and by the end, he is going to master it if he has a chance. The guy just had a 20-point, 19-rebound double-double against Washington, who is sporting possibly one of the most intriguing and dangerous frontcourts in the league once they are in a position to start fully competing.
This and his performance against Brooklyn is also a good sign. Both these teams are going to be problems, but they are also teams you hope your potential star-filled player can dominate… and he did.
Stop Playing With This Man
Richards is averaging 8.3 rebounds and 1.2 blocks per game. Stop playing with this man. Trust me, everyone is going to have to backtrack what they said about Bryce Young. Oh wait, he was only 22 when he was drafted into this in-progress franchise, needed time to learn and grow. Now he has done that and is showing promise… who would’ve thought?
Worth the Investment (Packman and Mr. Big Head — Full-Circle)
Packman. (And yes, I know you have.) I hope you saved those Nick Richards, aka Mr. Big Head, cards. Why bring this up? Well for those who don’t know, Packman is an expert card collector and, in my opinion, a shining example of one of the many awesome minds in what card collectors call “The Hobby.”
Well, for the longest time — and still today — everyone was chasing LaMelo Ball cards. Packman was no exception. But most of the time he’d pull Nick Richards cards instead. Jokingly, but respectfully, he’d call him “Mr. Big Head.”
Fast forward to now, and Richards’ emergence is making us rethink the past. The experience of chasing what we rightfully sought at the time is about to change how we view what we have and what we look for next.
In the same way, the hobby is shifting; fantasy players are about to experience something similar with Richards’ rise.
Richards, whether it pays off or not in the long term, is showing us right now he is worth the investment, and the Suns are about to remind us just who they are. If you can, you should.
On The Radar
- Santi Aldama (MEM – PF, C): 44% Rostered | 6.9 RPG
- Donovan Clingan (POR – C): 28% Rostered | 6.7 RPG
Blocks
Donovan Clingan (POR – C): 27% Rostered | 1.6 Blocks – Rank: 12th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Deep-Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Stream – Priority Stream – Hold Potential
- Priority: Medium
- Hold Period: 2-3 Weeks (Week-to-Week)
Category Build
- Primary: Blocks
- Secondary: Steals, Rebounds
- Auxiliary: Points
- Category Class: Singular-Realist
- Roster Class: Specialist
Week 15 Opponent Overview
- Total Games: 3
- Opponents: MIL, ORL, PHX
The Health-Demic Dilemma
Not going to lie, I’ve been loving me some “Swatson” Watson, but “Calm” Clingan is one of my first ride-and-thrives. So, he gets this spot.
Look, I get it — the roster space is wild. The fact we’ve had to use our four moves to accommodate the health-demic, only to need four more to assist with those players getting injured, has made it very difficult to allocate our roster space. So, I’m not saying go out and grab him, especially if you’re in shallow leagues. What I am saying is, once they let the reins go and figure out their frontcourt, I don’t care if it’s one game or a couple, I’m rostering him to say I did it.
Clingan had 14 rebounds and four blocks in his first game back after a five-game absence. With or without other main players playing — come on, man. You probably should, but I understand if you can’t on this one.
A Dominant Presence in the Making
Clingan has shown flashes of dominance that go beyond his stat line. At just 19 years old, he’s establishing himself as a player who doesn’t just contribute, he changes the game. Whether it’s locking down the paint with his shot-blocking or grabbing boards with authority, Clingan’s presence on the court is hard to ignore.
Why You Should Take Notice
Portland’s season has been marked by uncertainty, but one thing is clear: Clingan has the potential to be a cornerstone piece. His ability to capitalize on limited opportunities speaks volumes about his readiness to step up when called upon. Even in the shadow of more established teammates, Clingan’s value is growing, and fast.
If you’re looking for a player who can bolster your defensive categories and give you a shot at high-impact performances, Clingan is your guy. He might not be a must-add in shallow leagues just yet, but when the time comes, you’ll want to say you believed.
On The Radar
- Peyton Watson (DEN – SF, PF): 12% Rostered | 1.13 BPG
- Alex Sarr (WAS – PF, C): Rostered 56% | 1.6 BPG
Steals
Kelly Oubre Jr. (PHI – SG, SF): 55% Rostered | 1.5 Steals – Rank: 28th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Hold Potential – Hold
- Priority: High
- Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks
Category Build
- Primary: Steals
- Secondary: Rebounds, Points
- Auxiliary: Field-Goal Percentage
- Category Class: Synergy-Realist
- Roster Class: Generalist
Week 15 Opponent Overview
- Total Games: 4
- Opponents: LAL, SAC, DEN, BOS
The Invisible Hand of Opportunity
Listen, I put the post out a while ago, X, and it was initially, on the surface, in response to an injury opportunity — Jared McCain. Rest and heal well, brother. But in reality, it was a perfect moment to reintroduce just how good Kelly Oubre Jr. is.
Oubre is like the invisible hand that keeps giving. While he has the potential to be a star on his own team in his own right, he excels at lifting all boats — whether it’s the real-life teams he’s played for or fantasy teams alike.
Subtle But Consistent Impact
Oubre’s production transitions are subtle; they never make a drastic arrival. This might make him seem more like a glorified streaming asset than a long-term hold. But let me tell you something: Oubre might be the only fantasy asset I’ve seen who can adapt his contributions to real-life team changes and season shifts without drastically impacting anyone’s roster construction, at least not for long periods.
If one day he’s producing a certain way and the next day needs to adjust because he’s no longer a starter or priority option, he will find another way to create impact. That adaptability makes him not just a valuable fantasy player, but also the type of player you want to build around. The Sixers are showing us that, and let’s hope you are, too.
Across-the-Board Production
Oubre is averaging 13.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.5 steals and 0.5 blocks per game. He’s shooting 45.9% from the floor, making 1.2 threes per game, and, while not spectacular, he’s averaging 2.0 made free throws on 2.8 attempts at a 74.3% clip.
If you’re taking a swing to improve your free-throw category, he at least gives you a shot.
Why Oubre Deserves a Spot
Whether lifting your team subtly or delivering steady across-the-board stats, Oubre’s ability to adapt and produce makes him a must-add. If you can, you should.
On The Radar
- Lonzo Ball (CHI – PG): 19% Rostered | 1.6 SPG
- Jose Alvarado (NOP – PG): 7% Rostered | 1.4 SPG
Three-Pointers Made
Malik Beasley (DET – SG, SF): 35% Rostered | 3.7 3PTM – Rank: 8th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Priority Stream – Hold Potential
- Priority: Medium-High
- Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks
Category Build
- Primary: Three-Pointers Made
- Secondary: Points
- Auxiliary: Steals, Rebounds
- Category Class: Singular-Realist
- Roster Class: Specialist
Week 15 Opponent Overview
- Total Games: 4
- Opponents: @CLE, @IND, DAL, CHI
Observed Trend, Actions Being Fulfilled
I made this post on X, and it’s coming to fulfillment — well, the action of moving him out of the starting rotation that is… which is ideal. Let me explain (Kevin Hart Voice)… I kind of do here, again on X. Why not let’s make it a trilogy — this post was “The Empire Strikes Back (The Original Trilogy) — here, yup on X. Eventually, people are going to take the Pistons seriously. The good thing is the Pistons already do.
Beasley is the kind of player who works well no matter where he is in the rotation because he’s a baller. But where he thrives is coming in, playing his game and supporting what’s already being built. They’ve got him coming off the bench, and I couldn’t be happier about it. The guy is a problem, and he’s reminding us of that.
Volume and Momentum
In shallow leagues, you’ve got options. But I’ll tell you this: From a volume and production perspective, finding someone like Beasley is going to be a challenge. He’s part of a Pistons team riding momentum, overcoming challenges and working their way toward postseason relevance. It’s only going to get more intriguing.
After the All-Star break, it’s a whole new game — teams adjust, lock-in, and bring a higher level of competition. The Pistons are starting to see their talent and potential for themselves, appreciating their journey along the way. With this mindset, a team can go anywhere, and I couldn’t be more excited for them.
Why Beasley Should Be on Your Radar
Beasley is going to produce, especially in category leagues, thanks to his volume and knack for getting it done. Efficiency might take a hit, which can be a concern, but you should have enough to balance it out. The raw production in threes should outweigh the risk, especially if you’ve built your team to dominate major categories.
He’s also averaging 16.2 points, an intriguing 0.9 steals and, heck, 2.9 rebounds per game — impressive for a shooting guard in this frontcourt.
The Bottom Line
If you can, you probably should – depending on your strategy.
On The Radar
- Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, PF): 33% Rostered | 2.3 3PTM
- Tim Hardaway Jr. (DET – SG, SF): 12% Rostered | 2.2 3PTM
Field-Goal Percentage
Christian Braun (DEN – SG, SF): 45% Rostered | 57.0% FG% – Rank: 55th
Acquisition Details
- League Level: Shallow
- Acquisition Type: Hold
- Priority: High-Low
- Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks
Category Build
- Primary: Field-Goal Percentage
- Secondary: Points, Rebounds
- Auxiliary: Steals
- Category Class: Synergy-Realist
- Roster Class: Generalist
Week 15 Opponent Overview
- Total Games: 4
- Opponents: @CHI, @NYK, @PHI, @CHA
A Number That Sparked Controversy
Listen, when summer reports came out that Christian Braun reportedly “denied” Russell Westbrook III his number 0, I was livid, not gonna lie. I couldn’t believe a kid, only in his third year in the league, would deny a living legend like Westbrook. Across many sports, it’s seen as an act of endearment and respect. So yeah, I wasn’t happy.
But Westbrook himself came out and said it was all good. At the end of the day, they squashed it, and I respect that. To be honest, Westbrook is building a new legacy now — one that may warrant a new number entirely. He’s showing us something that will make us rethink his career in a new way, and for that, we should be thankful for his grace.
A Utility Star in the Making
Anyway, Braun is quickly becoming one of my favorite players from a production perspective. The guy came into the league and, in what feels like a blink of an eye, became one of the most important players on this championship-built team outside of Nikola Jokic.
No slight to Jamal Murray or the others, but talk about consistency. This kid is almost like a plug-and-play utility version of Jokic, doing all the little things that matter in the details.
Stats That Demand Respect
On the season, Braun has averaged an incredible 57% field goal percentage, along with 14 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.0 steals and 0.6 blocks per game. In addition, he’s averaging 2.1 free throws per game on 2.6 attempts, with an 81.7% free-throw percentage. He’s also “attacking.” But let’s take a deeper dive into his last six games, shall we?
Yeah, we are switching format styles for this. Braun’s numbers speak for themselves:
Braun’s averages in the last six games:
- 29 minutes
- 17.5 points
- 4.3 rebounds
- 1.5 assists
- 0.5 steals
- 66.5% Field Goal Percentage
Stop playing with this man.
Building His Legacy
Now think about this because I just did — keeping the number 0 could have been Braun’s way of honoring Westbrook. Who wouldn’t want to wear the number of a legend while becoming a legend themselves? Just ask LeBron James.
On The Radar
Nick Richards (CHA – C): 42% Rostered | 58.5% FG%
Free-Throw Percentage
De’Andre Hunter (ATL – SF, PF): 41% Rostered | 85.6 FT% – Rank: 117th
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: Free-Throw Percentage
- Secondary: Points, Three-Pointers Made, Field-Goal Percentage
- Auxiliary: Rebounds, Assists, Steals
- Category Class: Singular-Realist
- Roster Class: Specialist
Week 15 Opponent Overview
- Total Games: 4
- Opponents: @MIN, HOU, @CLE, @IND
Ready to Hunt
Look, injuries happen — the health-demic has been a thing. But teams are getting healthy to compete, and De’Andre Hunter stays ready to hunt, so he doesn’t have to get ready.
This guy, like Kelly Oubre Jr., is probably one of the most important players on this Atlanta team, outside of Trae Young. Other players are great, too, but Hunter is averaging 18.7 points off the bench, making him the frontcourt version of what they need in the backcourt. He’s filling a critical role on both ends of the floor. While I might have my opinion on where he could contribute more, I’ll take what I can get.
A Multi-Category Offensive Juggernaut
Hunter is an offensive force and the kind of multi-categorical player you want in every part of your construction and lineup. Even in shallow leagues, his value is undeniable, especially if you’re targeting categories that require active management to fully appreciate their importance in your winning strategy.
In addition to his points, Hunter is averaging 2.6 three-pointers made per game. And for the purpose of this section, he’s hitting 4.0 free throws on 4.7 attempts per game, boasting an impressive free-throw percentage of 85.6%. Stop playing with this man.
The Hawks Are Coming
The Hawks are getting healthy and locking in, and they’re going to be a problem. I want Hunter on my team, not against me. I want to go from being the hunted to being the hunter.
If you can, you should.
On The Radar
- Gradey Dick (TOR – SG, PF): 33% Rostered | 88.2% FT%
- Christian Braun (DEN – SG, SF): 45% Rostered | 81.7% FT%
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