Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 19

Welcome to Week 19. This is the moment where we stand, not just as players in a game, but as people navigating our own battles, our own tests.

The Week of the Tested Chosen

Life and fantasy basketball are mirrors, reflecting the unpredictability, the adjustments and the fight it takes to stay in the game.

This week, life threw its own curveballs at me — delays, obstacles, the unexpected pushing against my plans — hence the article delay. And for a moment, it seemed like the unknown might have won.

But that’s the thing about the unknown — it only wins if you let it.

We don’t fear uncertainty; we move through it. We don’t fold; we adjust. We plan smarter. We keep moving. Even when all we want to do is stop.

This week, this season, this life has been a fight. And we are here chosen. Not just to survive it, but to own it.

The Fight to Be Here – Fantasy & Life Side by Side

Getting to Week 19 wasn’t easy and was a fight; just like getting to today wasn’t easy and was a fight. However, nothing worth having ever is.

Because sports are more than just a game — the lessons we learn from them, whether real or in fantasy provide an environment and a proving ground for resilience, execution and adaptability.

The NBA this season has been a beautiful chaos of injuries, rotations shifting, unexpected stars rising, defeated teams, and opportunities — and it tested our patience, adaptability and the ability to pivot on a dime.

There were many weeks, just like in life, where we felt like we were losing before the game even started and the obstacles in front of us weren’t part of the plan, leaving us questioning: How we were going to keep going?

Despite being confronted with these realities, it was in those moments where we knew that’s exactly the point where we decided to keep going and not stop. And why?

Because we’ve fought too hard to let a bad matchup, an injury, or a tough break — just like a bad day, failed attempt or a tough hand — stop us and take us out.

And because of us learning and knowing beyond our understanding — that even when the road is brutal, the work we’ve put in will lead us to write and experience the rich story that lies beyond what the numbers dictate our potential to be.

This week, we don’t just play — we show what we’ve learned.

The Evolution of This Work – Fantasy as a Tool for Life

This isn’t just an article. This is the evolution of an approach.

Last week, we spoke about knowledge meeting execution. We are no longer simply acquiring players — we are maximizing rosters, optimizing every move and positioning ourselves for the final stretch.

This format, this article, this new way of breaking down the game — it’s all part of an evolution. A shift toward something greater. And in that same way, life evolves, too.

And like life, they test you. You can’t always predict what’s coming, but you can always be ready to respond.

And in that same way, life is an art. We learn, we create, we adapt. We take what we’ve been given — our story, our struggles, our journey — and we make it mean something.

Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings

To the FantasyPros Community, Thank you.

For your engagement, passion, trust in the process and commitment to elevating your game. We see you. We appreciate you. As we inspire, we are inspired by you. Your choices, your strategies, your competition.

To Our Peers in the Industry, Thank you.

We are all in this together. This is our moment. We step forward. We prepare for those coming next. We honor, we rise, we thrive.

To FantasyPros, Thank you.

Thank you for allowing this content to grow, thrive and evolve — just like you created an opportunity for me to do the same.

Five years ago, I was in the unknown. You saw my potential and gave me an opportunity. You gave me the chance to contribute, to build, to take part in something bigger than myself. And it changed my life.

You helped me navigate uncertainty. Together, we never compromised on excellence, integrity or commitment to the community. For that, I thank you.

Fantasy Basketball Category & Waiver Wire Analysis

We will focus our attention more on matchup contexts, multi-week schedules and thoughtful player and roster management to give you an edge, leveraging the Roster Build Frame framework.

About the Roster Build Frame

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 Tuesday, February 25th, 2025 (Data subject to change.)
• Yahoo! Sports – Player List

Week 19: Theme, Expectations, Trends, and Takeaways

Themes, expectations, trends and takeaways are taken from the analysis conducted when looking at the specific featured players identified and highlighted in this article.

This Week’s Theme:

• Start fast, adjust midweek, close with efficiency
  

What to Expect

• This week in fantasy basketball, momentum will be key. The schedule favors offensive production early, followed by a defensive battle midweek and closing with efficiency-based categories taking control. Managers who maximize category strengths early and adjust accordingly as the week progresses will have the best chance to secure a strong finish.

Key Category Trend Takeaways

• Scoring & Shooting | Fire Up Your Offense Early
• Rebounding | Target the Right Matchups
• Steals & Blocks | Defensive Playmakers Will Shine Midweek
• Field-Goal & Free-Throw Efficiency | Ride the Percentages Late
• Assists | Ball Movement Should Stay Steady

Points

Shaedon Sharpe (SG, SF – POR): 38% Rostered | 16.9 Points Per Game – Rank: 75th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Hold-stream (Hst)
• Priority: High-Medium
• Stream/Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks
• BFC: SpHst

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP PTS Rank: 14.4

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Opening Statement | Sharpe Shooting to Capitalize on Prime Matchups

Shaedon Sharpe is emerging as a volume-dependent scorer, averaging 16.9 points per game (PPG) and thriving when defenses leave open looks. This week, his schedule favors him with matchups against Utah and Washington — teams that struggle to contain perimeter shooting and transition scoring.

These conditions offer Sharpe a prime opportunity to exceed his averages early on. Although tougher contests against Brooklyn and Cleveland may require more disciplined shot selection, his ability to generate scoring value makes him a compelling play for fantasy managers targeting points production.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

• Primary: Points
• Secondary: Three-Pointers Made, Rebounds
• Auxiliary: Steals
• Category Class: Singular-Realist
• Roster Class: Specialist (Sp)

Fit

Sharpe’s 16.9 PPG on 44.3% shooting underscores his reliance on volume over elite efficiency.

His matchups against Utah and Washington are particularly attractive because these opponents permit generous shot attempts, boosting his scoring potential. In contrast, contests against Brooklyn and Cleveland demand more efficient shot selection and transition scoring.

This balance of favorable early opportunities and tougher later games highlights Sharpe’s role as a volume-driven scorer, whose performance is best realized in high-paced environments that support aggressive offensive play.

Impact

For fantasy managers targeting points, Sharpe offers a reliable, high-floor option. His ability to capitalize on pace-heavy matchups, especially against defenses that concede high shot volumes, translates into consistent scoring opportunities.

While efficiency might dip in tougher matchups, the early-week environment supports a robust scoring floor. This mix of high-upside potential and steady production makes Sharpe a solid choice in the points category, ensuring he remains a dependable asset in your lineup throughout the week.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @UTA, @WAS, @BKN, @CLE
• Average Opponent Rank: 21.2

Sharpe enters the week with a scoring schedule designed to maximize offensive output.

His most favorable matchups come against Utah and Washington, where weaker defensive schemes allow a high volume of shot attempts. Conversely, matchups against Brooklyn and Cleveland present a more balanced challenge, potentially tempering his efficiency.

Overall, the slate supports steady production, with early games offering the best chance for Sharpe to capitalize on open looks and boost his scoring numbers, thereby enhancing his fantasy value.

Matchup Grades

Final Verdict

Sharpe’s week is defined by strong scoring potential in early matchups, particularly against Utah and Washington, where defensive resistance is minimal.

Although his production may dip against tougher opponents like Brooklyn and Cleveland, the favorable conditions at the start suggest he will deliver a significant scoring boost.

For fantasy managers focused on points, Sharpe offers a reliable option with a high floor and the chance for explosive output — making him a confident start to maximize your fantasy lineup.

On The Radar

• Kevin Porter Jr. (PG – MIL): 4% Rostered | 9.4 PPG
• Quentin Grimes (SG, SF – PHI): 29% Rostered | 10.8 PPG
• Brandon Boston Jr. (SG, SF, PF – NOP): 3% Rostered | 10.7 PPG

Assists

Jose Alvarado (PG – NOP): 31% Rostered | 4.5 Assists Per Game – Rank: 64th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Stream-hold (Sth)
• Priority: Medium
• Stream/Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks (Week-to-Week)
• BFC: SpSth

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP AST Rank: 20.8

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Open Statement | Precision of a Quiet Playmaking Engine

Jose Alvarado might not always grab headlines, but his high-IQ court vision resonates in every possession. Averaging 4.5 assists per game, he excels at finding open passing lanes and making the most of limited minutes.

This week, he faces a prime opportunity against the Utah Jazz — a team that struggles to limit opponent assists — providing an ideal environment to boost his numbers.

Alvarado’s reliable playmaking and efficient reading of defenses make him a cornerstone for fantasy managers seeking steady, high-floor production in the assists category.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

• Primary: Assists
• Secondary: Steals, Points
• Auxiliary: Three-Pointers Made Field-Goal Percentage
• Category Class: Singular-Realist
• Roster Class: Specialist (Sp)

Fit

In his role as a situational facilitator, Alvarado’s 4.5 assists per game (APG) is driven more by the pace of the game and the availability of open lanes than sheer usage.

Against Utah, he benefits from defenses that falter on ball movement, maximizing his opportunity to create plays. In contrast, tougher matchups against Phoenix and San Antonio will require extra patience and precise ball distribution.

His effectiveness hinges on exploiting favorable conditions, ensuring his playmaking remains reliable even when defensive structures tighten.

Impact

For fantasy managers targeting assists, Alvarado stands as a low-risk, high-floor option.

His knack for consistently generating assists in pace-heavy environments translates into a dependable scoring baseline. The Utah matchup, in particular, should enhance his production due to the opponent’s weak defensive metrics in this area.

Although his overall ceiling remains modest, the balance of his schedule provides a steady foundation, making him a reliable contributor in the assists category for the week.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: SAS, @PHO, @PHO, @UTA
• Average Opponent Rank: 20.0

Alvarado enters the week with a schedule that largely favors his playmaking skills.

The Utah Jazz, known for their vulnerability in limiting assists, present his best chance to exceed his season averages. Meanwhile, matchups against Phoenix and San Antonio offer stable, albeit more disciplined, defensive conditions that should allow him to maintain his output.

Overall, the slate supports consistent assist production, ensuring that while explosive numbers may be unlikely, his steady contributions will uphold a solid fantasy floor throughout the week.

Matchup Grades

Final Verdict

Alvarado’s week is defined by his reliable playmaking, especially in matchups like Utah where defenses struggle to contain open passing lanes.

While his production may hold steady against tougher opponents such as Phoenix and San Antonio, the favorable conditions in Utah offer potential for an above-average performance.

For fantasy managers seeking a low-risk, high-floor assist option, Alvarado provides consistent value with the possibility of an extra boost. He stands as a confident, steady play to anchor your assist category this week.

On The Radar

• Kevin Porter Jr. (PG – MIL): 4% Rostered | 3.2 APG
• Dennis Schroder (PG, SG – DET): 35% Rostered | 5.3 APG
• Killian Hayes (PG, SG – BKN): 1% Rostered | 5.7 APG

Rebounds

Kel’el Ware (PF, C – MIA): 52% Rostered | 6.2 Rebounds Per Game Per Game – Rank: 69th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Hold-stream (Hst)
• Priority: High-Medium
• Stream/Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks
• BFC: SpHst

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP REB Rank: 20.4

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Opening Statement | Owning the Glass with Ware for Rebounding Success

Kel’el Ware has quietly emerged as a dependable rebounder in Miami’s frontcourt rotation. Averaging 6.2 rebounds per game (RPG), he leverages disciplined positioning and aggressive effort to secure boards.

This week, his schedule favors him with matchups against Atlanta and Indiana — teams that tend to concede ample rebounds — setting the stage for potential production boosts. Even against tougher opponents like New York, his consistency ensures a stable fantasy floor.

For fantasy managers seeking a reliable source of rebounds, Ware’s ability to capitalize on open boards makes him a solid, low-risk asset.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

• Primary: Rebounds
• Secondary: Field-Goal Percentage, Blocks
• Auxiliary:  Steals
• Category Class: Singular-Realist
• Roster Class: Specialist (Sp)

Fit

In limited minutes, Ware’s 6.2 RPG is driven by his efficiency on the glass.

Against Atlanta and Indiana, his role as a moderate-volume rebounder is amplified by defenses that provide extra shot attempts and loose boards. Conversely, the New York matchup will require him to be extra aggressive in securing positioning, as their defensive structure is more organized.

His adaptability in reading the flow of the game ensures he can maintain consistent output even when faced with tougher rebounding challenges.

Impact

For fantasy managers targeting rebounds, Ware offers a dependable, high-floor option.

Ware’s ability to consistently secure boards in pace-heavy matchups translates into a steady contribution to your rebounds category. Although tougher matchups may slightly constrain his ceiling, the overall balance of his schedule reinforces his role as a reliable contributor.

Ware’s consistent performance, even amid varying opponent strengths, makes him a low-risk, valuable asset for fantasy rosters.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @ATL, ATL, @IND, @NYK
• Average Opponent Rank: 16.5

Ware’s matchups indicate a stable rebounding floor, with significant upside in contests against Atlanta and Indiana. While his production might dip against a more disciplined team like New York, his role as a consistent board-securer remains intact.

For fantasy managers seeking steady, reliable rebounds, Kel’el Ware offers dependable value — a smart, low-risk play designed to capitalize on favorable conditions and deliver consistent board production throughout the week.

Matchup Grades

Final Verdict

Ware’s matchups indicate a stable rebounding floor, with significant upside in contests against Atlanta and Indiana.

While his production might dip against a more disciplined team like New York, his role as a consistent board-securer remains intact.

For fantasy managers seeking steady, reliable rebounds, Ware offers dependable value — a smart, low-risk play designed to capitalize on favorable conditions and deliver consistent board production throughout the week.

On the Radar

• Precious Achiuwa (PF, C – NYK): 13% Rostered | 6.1 RPG
• Day’Ron Sharpe (C – BKN): 11% Rostered | 6.3 RPG
• Karlo Matkovic (PF, C – NOP): 12% Rostered | 3.8 RPG

Blocks

Donovan Clingan (C – POR): 36% Rostered | 1.6 Blocks Per Game – Rank: 14th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Stream-hold (Sth)
• Priority: Medium-High
• Stream/Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks (Week-to-Week)
• BFC: SpSth

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP BLK Rank: 20.4

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Opening Statement | A Shot-Blocking Force to Dominate Key Matchups

In a league where rim protection is at a premium, Donovan Clingan stands out as a true defensive force. Averaging 1.6 blocks per game (BPG), he alters shots and commands the paint with quiet intensity.

This week, his innate instincts are primed for success, as he faces opponents known to attack the rim aggressively.

Clingan’s ability to generate impactful rejections in these matchups makes him an invaluable asset for fantasy managers seeking a high-floor option in the blocks category — consistently contributing to his team’s defensive identity.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

• Primary: Blocks
• Secondary: Rebounds, Field-Goal Percentage
• Auxiliary: Free-Throw Percentage, Steals, Points
• Category Class: Singular-Realist
• Roster Class: Specialist (Sp)

Fit

Clingan’s effectiveness, showcased by his 1.6 BPG, depends heavily on his opponents’ shot selection.

Against Utah and Brooklyn, he is likely to find ample opportunities to time his jumps and contest shots, as these teams often lack structured rim protection. In contrast, Cleveland’s organized offensive schemes may curtail his blocking chances, requiring extra effort on his part.

His ability to read the play and position himself appropriately will be key, making his production closely tied to the pace and defensive tendencies of each matchup.

Impact

For fantasy managers focusing on blocks, Clingan offers a dependable, high-floor option. His knack for altering shots comes to the fore in games where opponents take higher-risk attempts at the rim.

While his ceiling might be limited in matchups against more disciplined defenses like Cleveland, the overall balance of his schedule ensures a consistent contribution.

Clingan’s role as a defensive anchor translates into reliable fantasy production, making him a valuable asset for maintaining a steady block total throughout the week.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @UTA, @WAS, @BKN, @CLE
• Average OPP BLK Rank: 22.0

Clingan enters the week with a schedule that plays to his strengths. His matchups against Utah and Brooklyn create a block-friendly environment, as both teams tend to allow contested shots at the rim.

These games should offer him multiple opportunities to boost his block totals. Conversely, his contest against Cleveland poses a stiffer challenge, given their disciplined approach to limiting blocks.

Overall, the slate provides a balanced mix of high-upside opportunities and more guarded contests, setting the stage for a stable defensive output.

Matchup Grades

Final Verdict

Clingan’s week is poised to reflect a stable defensive presence, with matchups against Utah and Brooklyn providing the best opportunities for a block surge.

Although tougher contests like Cleveland may temper his overall impact, his consistent ability to alter shots makes him a solid streaming option.

For fantasy managers seeking a reliable source of blocks, Clingan offers dependable value and a steady production floor — making him a smart, low-risk play to anchor your defensive strategy this week.

On the Radar

• Goga Bitadze (C – ORL): 32% Rostered | 1.7% BPG
• Matas Buzelis (SF, PF – CHI): 19% Rostered | 0.9 BPG
• Moses Brown (C – DAL): N/A Rostered | 0.2 BPG

Steals

Toumani Camara (SG, SF, PF – POR): 42% Rostered | 1.5 Steals Per Game – Rank: 25th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Stream-hold (Sth)
• Priority: Medium-High
• Stream/Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks
• BFC: GSth

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP STL Rank: 20.0

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Opening Statement | A Disruptor Reading the Floor and Forcing Mistakes

Toumari Camara has evolved into a dynamic defensive playmaker, using quick instincts to read passing lanes and force opponent mistakes. Averaging 1.5 steals per game, he thrives in fast-paced, turnover-heavy matchups.

This week, his ability to disrupt ball movement will be especially valuable against teams like Utah and Washington, known for their lax ball security.

Camara’s knack for generating steals not only sparks transition opportunities but also offers fantasy managers a reliable, high-floor option in the steals category.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

• Primary: Steals
• Secondary: Rebounds, Points
• Auxiliary: Blocks, Field-Goal Percentage, Three-Pointers Made
• Category Class: Synergy-Realist
• Roster Class: Generalist (G)

Fit

With his 1.5 steals per game, Camara excels as an energetic disruptor.

Against turnover-prone teams like Utah and Washington, his aggressive defensive instincts are likely to yield increased steal opportunities. Conversely, in contests against Brooklyn and Cleveland — where defenses are more disciplined — Camara will need to rely on timely, well-timed reads rather than forced errors.

His effectiveness is closely tied to opponent tendencies, making his production most pronounced in matchups that encourage aggressive defensive play.

Impact

For fantasy managers focused on steals, Camara offers a dependable, low-risk option.

Camara’s ability to convert loose ball security into defensive stats shines in pace-heavy matchups, especially against teams that struggle to protect the ball. While disciplined opponents may temper his overall ceiling, the overall balance of his schedule ensures a consistent contribution.

This steady baseline, combined with upside in favorable games, positions Camara as a valuable asset for bolstering your steals category.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: @UTA, @WAS, @BKN, @CLE
• Average Opponent Rank: 20.2

Camara enters the week with a slate that presents a mix of high-upside and more disciplined matchups.

His games against Utah and Washington promise plenty of turnover opportunities, setting the stage for elevated steal production. In contrast, matchups against Brooklyn and Cleveland will require more strategic defensive positioning, as these opponents exhibit tighter ball control.

Overall, the schedule supports a steady baseline of defensive disruption with the potential for above-average performance when favorable conditions prevail.

Matchup Grades

Final Verdict

Camara’s week is set for steady defensive disruption, with matchups against Utah and Washington providing the best environment for increased steal production.

Although tougher contests against Brooklyn and Cleveland might limit his numbers, Camara’s consistent role as a disruptor ensures a reliable floor.

For fantasy managers seeking a secure, high-floor play in the steals category, Toumani Camara stands out as a smart, low-risk option to anchor your defensive stats this week.

On The Radar

• Kevin Porter Jr. (PG – MIL): 4% Rostered | 1.0 SPG
• Markelle Fultz (PG, SG – SAC): 1% Rostered | 1.5 SPG
• Marcus Smart (PG, SG – WAS): 11% Rostered | 1.2 SPG

Three-Pointers Made

Malik Beasley (SG, SF – DET): 42% Rostered | 3.9 Three-Pointers Made Per Game – Rank: 3rd

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Hold-st (Hst)
• Priority: High-Low
• Stream/Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks
• BFC: SpHst

Last Five (L5) Game Stats | Avg. OPP 3PTM Rank: 20.0

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Opening Statement | Deep Threat Dominance in Promising Matchups

Malik Beasley has established himself as a high-volume perimeter shooter, averaging 3.9 three-pointers per game.

This week, favorable matchups against Denver and Brooklyn — teams that allow numerous three-point attempts — offer him ample opportunities to shine from beyond the arc. Although tougher contests against Boston and the Clippers may test his efficiency, his overall shooting volume positions him as a strong, consistent play in the three-point category.

His ability to capitalize on open spacing and clean looks makes him a key asset for fantasy managers seeking reliable deep production.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

• Primary: Three-Pointers Made
• Secondary: Points
• Auxiliary: Steals, Field-Goal Percentage
• Category Class: Singular-Realist
• Roster Class: Specialist (Sp)

Fit

As a volume-dependent shooter, Beasley thrives when defenses provide open looks from deep.

Against teams like Denver and Brooklyn, his quick release and aggressive shot selection are likely to result in a high number of made threes. In contrast, tougher matchups against Boston and the Clippers will demand heightened precision and smarter shot selection.

His performance will largely depend on his ability to adapt his approach to the varying defensive pressures across these games, ensuring his overall production remains consistent.

Impact

For fantasy managers targeting three-pointers made, Beasley offers a dependable, high-floor option. His capacity to generate volume through open shots translates into consistent production from beyond the arc.

While efficiency may dip against stronger defensive teams, the overall schedule supports a robust baseline in the three-point category.

This blend of consistency and potential upside makes him a valuable streaming asset, ensuring reliable contributions that help anchor your three-point totals throughout the week.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: LAC, BOS, DEN, BKN
• Average Opponent Rank: 13.1

Beasley enters the week with a balanced shooting schedule that presents both high-upside and disciplined challenges.

Matchups against Denver and Brooklyn promise increased three-point opportunities due to lax defensive schemes, potentially boosting his volume. Conversely, games against Boston and the Clippers feature more stringent defensive strategies that could limit his efficiency.

Overall, the slate supports a steady baseline for three-point production, while also offering pockets of potential for above-average output in favorable matchups.

Matchup Grades

Final Verdict

Beasley’s week is set to provide a steady three-point floor with significant upside in matchups against Denver and Brooklyn. Although games against Boston and the Clippers might challenge his efficiency, his high-volume shooting approach ensures reliable production overall.

For fantasy managers focused on deep production, Beasley stands out as a smart, low-risk play.

His ability to capitalize on open looks, even in tougher conditions, makes him a confident start to bolster your three-point totals this week.

On the Radar

• Duncan Robinson (SG, SF – MIA): 6% Rostered | 2.4 3PTM
• Kevin Huerter (SG, SF – CHI): 5% Rostered | 1.6 3PTM 
• Luke Kennard (PG, SG – MEM): 4% Rostered | 2.1 3PTM

• Payton Pritchard (PG, SG – BOS): 49% Rostered | 46.8% FG%
• Precious Achiuwa (PF, C – NYK): 13% Rostered | 52.7% FG%
• Karlo Matkovic (PF, C – NOP): 12% Rostered | 54.8% FG%

De’Andre Hunter (SF, PF – CLE): 39% Rostered | 85.6 Free-Throw Percentage Per Game – Rank: 111th

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Hold (H)
• Priority: High
• Stream/Hold Period: 3-4 Weeks
• BFC: HGsp

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP FT% Rank: 11.8

Opening Statement | Silent Strength, Reliability, and Efficiency on the Line

De’Andre Hunter may not log high free-throw volume, but his steady 85.6% conversion rate makes him a crucial asset in efficiency-based leagues. His disciplined shot selection and reliable scoring from the stripe ensure that even with fewer trips, his production remains elite.

This week, Hunter’s ability to capitalize on clean looks, especially against teams that allow higher opponent free-throw percentages, positions him as a valuable, low-risk play.

His consistent performance at the line serves as a dependable foundation for fantasy managers focused on maintaining a strong free-throw percentage.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

• Primary: Free-Throw Percentage
• Secondary: Points, Three-Pointers Made, Field-Goal Percentage
• Auxiliary: Rebounds, Steals
• Category Class: Synergy-Realist
• Roster Class: Generalist-specialist (GSp)

Fit

Operating in a moderate usage role, Hunter’s 85.6% free-throw percentage is driven by quality over quantity.

Against Boston and Portland, he’s likely to find enough clean looks to uphold his strong conversion rate. Conversely, Orlando’s stringent defense may limit his opportunities, forcing him to work harder to generate fouls.

Hunter’s performance will hinge on adapting to varying defensive pressures, ensuring his efficiency remains intact even when his volume is challenged. This balance is key to sustaining his overall value throughout the week.

Impact

For fantasy managers targeting free-throw percentage, Hunter stands out as a reliable, high-floor option. His exceptional accuracy, even with limited attempts, offers a consistent boost in efficiency-based leagues.

While his overall free-throw volume may be modest, the high conversion rate provides a dependable contribution to your category totals.

Favorable matchups enhance his value, ensuring his steady performance at the line remains a cornerstone for maintaining strong free-throw percentages throughout the week.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 3
• Opponents: @ORL, @POR, POR
• Average Opponent Rank: 16.2

Hunter enters the week with a balanced free-throw efficiency schedule, featuring both matchups that support his category production and opponents who may limit his attempts.

The most favorable opportunities come against Boston and Portland, both of whom allow a higher-than-average opponent free-throw percentage.

However, Orlando ranks among the toughest teams in the league at restricting free-throw attempts, meaning Hunter may need to be more aggressive in driving to the basket to generate trips to the line.

Matchup Grades

Final Verdict

Hunter’s schedule suggests a stable free-throw percentage floor, with the best opportunities arising against Boston and Portland. Although tougher contests like Orlando may limit his volume, his consistent 85.6% conversion rate ensures reliable production.

Fantasy managers seeking dependable efficiency at the stripe can confidently start Hunter.

Hunter’s disciplined, high-percentage approach makes him a smart, low-risk play to bolster your free-throw percentage category, sustaining your overall fantasy value throughout the week.

On the Radar

• Max Christie (SG, SF – DAL): 37% Rostered | 84.8.% FT%
• Bennedict Mathurin (SG, SF – IND): 50% Rostered | 82.4% FT%
• Jalen Wilson (SF, PF – BKN): 2% Rostered | 81.6% FT%