Staying ahead of the curve in fantasy basketball requires adaptability and a keen eye for emerging talent. Week 13 presents a new opportunity to reshape your roster and capitalize on recent trends. Whether you’re looking to fill gaps due to injuries or simply seeking an upgrade, this week’s waiver wire has the answers.
Let’s explore the top pickups and help you optimize your team for success.
We’ll look at players you should consider picking up who are rostered in two different roster tiers:
- 30-49%
- 0-14%.
What’s more, I’ll give you a breakdown of how many games each team has for the upcoming week, so you can maximize the minutes of your streamers. Without further ado, let’s dissect the waiver wire, starting with the game schedule for next week.
Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings
Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 13)
Four games:
BKN, CHI, DEN, HOU, LAC, LAL, MIA, MIL, MIN, PHI, POR, SAS, WAS
Three games:
ATL, BOS, CLE, DAL, DET, GSW, IND, MEM, NOP, NYK, ORL, PHX, SAC, TOR
Two games:
CHA, UTA
Rostered in 30-49% of Leagues
Jaime Jaquez Jr. (SG, SF – MIA)
With Jimmy Butler sidelined for the past five games, Jaime Jaquez Jr. has stepped up in a major way, showcasing his all-around skills and contributing across the board. He’s averaging 34.1 minutes per game, demonstrating the Miami Heat’s confidence in his abilities.
During this stretch, Jaquez Jr. has filled the stat sheet, averaging 15.6 points, 6.2 rebounds, 4.8 assists and two steals per game. He’s a versatile player who can score from multiple levels, facilitate for his teammates and contribute on the defensive end. Jaquez Jr. is a high-energy player with a knack for making winning plays, and his recent performance suggests he’s ready for a larger role in the NBA.
Kelly Oubre Jr. (SG, SF – PHI)
The Philadelphia 76ers seem to constantly be navigating injuries and rest days, creating opportunities for other players to step up. One guy who has consistently answered the call is Kelly Oubre Jr. In his last three games, he’s averaging 20.7 points, 7.3 rebounds and two assists per game, showcasing his ability to contribute across the board.
Oubre Jr. is a dynamic scorer who can fill it up in a hurry. He’s a threat from beyond the arc, capable of getting hot and knocking down threes. He’s also a fearless attacker who can finish at the rim.
With the 76ers scheduled to play four games this week, including two on zero days of rest, there’s a good chance they’ll prioritize rest for some key players. This scenario sets the stage for Oubre Jr. to see increased usage.
Dereck Lively II is establishing himself as a key contributor for the Dallas Mavericks, and his impressive recent performances suggest he’s ready for a larger role. He’s making a strong case for increased minutes, having seen 32+ minutes of action in two of his last three games. Lively is capitalizing on these opportunities, showcasing his impressive skillset and contributing across the board.
During this recent stretch, Lively is averaging 14 points, 11.3 rebounds and two blocks per game. He’s a dominant presence in the paint, cleaning up the glass with authority and protecting the rim with his shot-blocking prowess. Lively is also showing improvement on the offensive end, finishing efficiently around the basket and displaying a developing offensive repertoire.
Shaedon Sharpe is slowly blossoming into a star for the Portland Trail Blazers, and his recent performances have him climbing fantasy basketball rankings. He’s been a consistent offensive force this month, averaging 20 points per game to go along with 4.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists. Sharpe is showcasing his impressive scoring arsenal, with an ability to attack the basket, knock down mid-range jumpers and connect from beyond the arc.
Sharpe’s impact is further highlighted by his usage rate, which ranks second on the team this month. He’s become a focal point of the Trail Blazers’ offense, demonstrating his ability to create his own shot and make plays for his teammates.
Rostered in 0-14% of Leagues
With both Andre Drummond and Joel Embiid banged up over the past three games, Guerschon Yabusele has stepped into a more prominent role, averaging an impressive 33.8 minutes per game. During this stretch, he’s showcased his ability to contribute on both ends of the floor, averaging 13.7 points and 8.3 rebounds.
As long as either Drummond or Embiid remains sidelined, Yabusele is a player worth holding onto in fantasy leagues. He’s proving he can be a reliable fantasy contributor when given the opportunity.
Toumani Camara is quietly emerging as a valuable contributor for the Portland Trail Blazers, and his consistent production makes him an intriguing waiver wire target, especially considering his low ownership rate. He’s currently third on the team in minutes played this month, highlighting his growing role in the rotation. Camara is making the most of his opportunities, averaging 11 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists and two steals per game.
What makes Camara particularly appealing is his consistent performance throughout the month. He’s providing a steady stream of points, rebounds, assists and steals, making him a valuable asset in category leagues. For a player who is owned in less than 15% of leagues, Camara offers a reliable floor and the potential for even greater production as he continues to develop.
Lonzo Ball is finally starting to look like his old self, and his recent performances suggest he’s recovering from his injury woes. In his last game, he had his first double-digit scoring game and has shot at least 42% from the field in three of his last four games, demonstrating improved efficiency and confidence.
Ball ranks fifth in steals per game among guards over the last four games, averaging an impressive 2.5 steals. He’s a disruptive defender with a knack for disrupting passing lanes and creating turnovers. With his combination of playmaking and defensive prowess, Ball is a valuable asset in category leagues.
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