Fantasy Basketball Category Analysis & Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 20

It’s Week 20 – and it should be experienced as a dress rehearsal for what could be one of the most pivotal offseasons, summers, and seasons of recent memory heading into 2025-2026.

Dress-Rehearsals, Deebo Samuels, Wizards, and well…This List

Don’t believe me!?

That’s fine – Deebo Samuels just got traded to the Commanders for a fifth-round pick…yup…a fifth-round pick.  “But That’s the NFL Joel!?” Yeah, I don’t care – the sports world is getting exciting and weird.

And to be honest, after this season I don’t know what to believe in anymore outside of the fact that if we master this relationship between “Knowing” and “Understanding,” some things can transform, not just for our fantasy outcomes but also life and world.

Anyway, my whole point of saying this could be a dress rehearsal for a huge next season. For example, you will see that it looks very Wizardly in this article, and that’s no fluke, chance, or planned outside of looking for value this week…this team is probably going to be one of the next few that are tremendously excited to tune into in the coming years as their team is deep as made evident by…well…this list.

Not Just Another Weekly Fantasy

This isn’t just another fantasy week. This is where we lock-in.

At this point in the season, teams are making their moves. Some are pushing for playoff positioning, while others are playing freely, testing rotations, and giving new opportunities to key players.

This creates a window – one where savvy managers can capitalize on emerging roles, shifting team dynamics, and overlooked impact players who can transform from waiver-wire pickups to season-defining contributors.

This is where knowledge meets execution.

Players like Donovan Clingan, Shaedon Sharpe, Nick Richards, and Malik Beasley are entering critical phases where opportunity meets performance.

Whether it’s playoff-bound teams solidifying their rotations or rebuilding squads handing the keys to their young talent, the edge now comes in identifying secondary and auxiliary production.

Your core players should be carrying you in primary categories. Now, it’s time to separate yourself by strategically bolstering secondary and specialized production. The game isn’t just about adding numbers – it’s about finding the right pieces that elevate your build.

To the FantasyPros community, thank you!

For your engagement, passion, and trust in the process. We’re here to elevate the game together, and as we inspire, we are inspired by you. Let’s finish strong.

Check out the latest fantasy basketball expert consensus rankings

Fantasy Basketball Category & Waiver Wire Analysis

Moving forward we 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:

CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION	CATEGORY
Primary	Points (PTS), Total Rebounds (REB), Assists (AST)
Secondary	Steals (ST), Block Shots (BLK)
Auxiliary	Field Goal Percentage (FG%), Free-Throw Percentage (FT%)

Roster Positions:

POSITIONS	PG	SG	G	SF	PF	F	C	BN	INJ
Guards	1	1	1
Forwards				1	1	1
Centers							2
Utility
Bench								2
Injured									3

Data Sources

• NBA Player Stats: NBA.com (2024-2025) – Stats taken on Saturday, March 1st, 2025 – Before Conclusion of Early Slates (Data subject to change.)
• Yahoo! Sports – Player List

Week 20: 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:

• Control the Paint, Adjust to Defense, and Close with Precision

What to Expect

• This week in fantasy basketball, interior play, and defensive adjustments will shape category performance. The early schedule favors rim protectors and rebounding dominance, midweek shifts toward defensive playmaking and perimeter control, and efficiency-based stats take priority as the week winds down. Managers who recognize these trends early and adapt accordingly will have the best chance to secure a strong finish.

Key Category Trend Takeaways

• Paint Control & Defensive Presence Dominate Early
• Steals & Perimeter Defense Shift Midweek
• Scoring & Three-Point Shooting Adjustments Required
• Field-Goal & Free-Throw Efficiency Close Out the Week
• Assists & Passing Lanes Stay Steady

Bottom Line:

Early dominance in blocks, rebounds, and scoring should transition into defensive playmaking midweek, before efficiency-based categories become key in closing matchups.

Points

Max Christie (SG, SF – DAL): 35% Rostered| 9.5 Points Per Game – Rank: 193rd

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Stream-hold (Sth)
• Priority: Medium-High
• Stream/Hold Period: 2-4 Weeks
• BFC: SpSth

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP PTS Rank: 13.80

MIN	PTS	FG%	3PTM	FT%
36.2	14.0	50.8	2.0	100.0

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Opening Statement | Maverick Rising – Finding His Scoring Stride

Max Christie may not be a household name in fantasy circles, but his expanding role in Dallas signals growing potential in the scoring column.

Averaging 9.5 points per game, he thrives in matchups where he can capitalize on steady shot volume and perimeter spacing. This week presents a mix of opportunities, with favorable matchups against Memphis and Phoenix that could allow him to exceed expectations.

While tougher defensive contests against Milwaukee and Sacramento may require a more efficient approach, Christie’s emerging presence makes him an intriguing option for fantasy managers seeking points production in deeper leagues.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

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

Fit

As a developing scorer, Christie’s 9.5 PPG is largely tied to shot volume rather than elite efficiency. Against Memphis and Phoenix, he will have ample opportunities to find open looks and contribute offensively.

However, in matchups with Milwaukee and Sacramento – where defenses are more structured – he will need to maximize his efficiency and shot selection to maintain his value.

His production this week will hinge on his ability to exploit weaker defensive matchups early while sustaining his role in more contested environments.

Impact

For fantasy managers targeting points, Christie presents a stable scoring floor with a noticeable upside in favorable matchups.

His best chances to exceed his season average will come in pace-friendly games against Memphis and Phoenix, where defensive lapses create additional opportunities. Against tougher teams, his ability to remain fantasy-relevant will depend on whether he can offset limited volume with high-percentage shot-making.

While he isn’t likely to produce an explosive scoring week, his schedule provides a strong foundation for consistent value, especially in deeper leagues.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: SAC, @MIL, MEM, PHO
• Average Opponent Rank: 20.0

Christie enters the week with a balanced scoring schedule, where his most favorable matchups come against Memphis and Phoenix – two teams that struggle to limit opponent scoring.

Meanwhile, tougher tests against Milwaukee and Sacramento will demand more efficiency, as these teams rank among the top in defensive effectiveness.

His ability to capitalize on early-week games will be critical in determining his overall fantasy impact. With volume-driven scoring opportunities early and defensive hurdles later, Christie’s week will be shaped by how well he adjusts to each challenge.

Matchup Grades

DATE	OPP	OPP PTS ALLOWED	RANK	MATCHUP GRADE	GRADE CATEGORY
Mon, Mar 3	SAC	115.6	21st	B	Favorable Matchup
Wed, Mar 5	@MIL	112.4	12th	B-	Balanced Matchup
Fri, Mar 7	MEM	116.5	25th	B+	Very Favorable Matchup
Sun, Mar 9	PHO	115.9	22nd	A-	Good Matchup

Final Verdict

Christie’s week is defined by strong scoring opportunities against Memphis and Phoenix, where his shot volume should remain steady.

While Milwaukee and Sacramento may challenge his efficiency, his role in Dallas continues to grow, making him a viable option for fantasy managers seeking scoring depth.

For those in deeper leagues, Christie offers a reliable points floor in favorable matchups while maintaining the potential to develop into a stronger scoring asset as his role expands.

On The Radar

• Quentin Grimes (SG, SF – PHI): 25% Rostered | 10.7 PPG

Assists

Isaiah Collier (PG, SG – UTA): 38% Rostered | 6.2 Assists Per Game – Rank: 21st

Acquisition Details

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

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP AST Rank: 7.4

MIN	PTS	3PTM	AST	STL
30.0	11.4	1.4	10.2	1.6

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Opening Statement | Playmaking Vision in the Right Matchups

Isaiah Collier has quietly established himself as a developing playmaker, averaging 6.2 assists per game while adapting to his growing responsibilities in Utah’s system.

His ability to control the tempo and create for teammates has made him an invaluable asset for fantasy managers in need of assists. This week, matchups against Washington and Philadelphia present prime opportunities, as both teams rank among the league’s worst in limiting assists.

If Collier can exploit these weaknesses, he has the potential to surpass his usual playmaking numbers and deliver strong fantasy value.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

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

Fit

Collier’s 6.2 APG in a lead guard role highlights his ability to thrive in high-possession games. Against Washington and Philadelphia, his best matchups of the week, he should find ample opportunities to distribute the ball effectively.

Detroit, a more disciplined defensive team, will require him to adjust his passing strategy and avoid forced plays. Toronto presents a neutral matchup where his ability to dictate the pace and exploit defensive lapses will be key to maintaining solid assist numbers.

His effectiveness this week will largely depend on his ability to read defenses and adapt.

Impact

For fantasy managers targeting assists, Collier presents a high-floor option with a strong upside in favorable matchups.

His best opportunities will come in high-tempo games against Washington and Philadelphia, where defensive inefficiencies allow for consistent ball movement.

While Detroit and Toronto may temper his assist totals, Collier’s ability to control the tempo and find open teammates ensures that he remains a steady contributor.

His week is set up well for fantasy managers in need of reliable playmaking production.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: DET, @WAS, @TOR, @PHI
• Average Opponent Rank: 17.8

Collier enters the week with a schedule that favors his assist production. His best matchups come against Washington and Philadelphia, two teams that allow high assist totals and struggle with defensive rotations.

On the other hand, Detroit poses an early-week challenge as they rank among the top 10 in limiting opponent assists, requiring more precision from Collier. Toronto offers a balanced environment where his playmaking volume will be dictated by the game flow.

The overall schedule supports a strong assist week, particularly in games where ball movement is less restricted.

Matchup Grades

DATE	OPP	OPP AST ALLOWED	RANK	MATCHUP GRADE	GRADE CATEGORY
Mon, Mar 3	DET	25.4	8th	B	Favorable Matchup
Wed, Mar 5	@WAS	28.7	26th	A	Strong Matchup
Wed, Mar 7	@TOR	26.2	13th	B+	Very Favorable Matchup
Sun, Mar 9	@PHI	27.5	24th	B+	Very Favorable Matchup

Final Verdict

Collier’s schedule suggests a favorable assists floor, with peak potential in matchups against Washington and Philadelphia.

While tougher tests against Detroit and Toronto may require adjustments, his overall role as a primary distributor ensures stable production.

Fantasy managers seeking a passing boost can confidently start him in favorable matchups while maintaining realistic expectations in more disciplined defensive contests.

On The Radar

• Killian Hayes (PG, SG – BKN): 2% Rostered | 4.9 APG

Rebounds

Moses Brown (C – DAL): 5% Rostered | 2.9 Rebounds Per Game – Rank: 286th

Acquisition Details

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

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP REB Rank: 23.50

MIN	PTS	FG%	REB	BLK
18.5	11.8	59.8	7.8	0.8

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted – Only four games

Opening Statement | A Chance for Brown to Become a Presence

Moses Brown may not be a high-usage player, but his ability to secure rebounds and create second-chance opportunities makes him a valuable depth option for fantasy managers targeting boards.

Averaging 2.9 RPG, his fantasy relevance hinges on matchups that allow him to maximize his minutes and impact in the paint. This week, favorable matchups against Memphis and Phoenix present his best opportunities to exceed his averages, while tougher contests against Milwaukee and Sacramento will test his ability to remain effective.

Brown’s rebounding upside remains matchup-dependent but offers solid value in deeper leagues.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

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

Fit

With 2.9 RPG in limited minutes, Brown’s rebounding contributions are heavily dependent on opponent tendencies.

Against Memphis and Phoenix, he should have ample opportunities to clean up the glass, especially if he can secure extended playing time. However, Milwaukee and Sacramento present a different challenge, as both teams excel in limiting second-chance opportunities.

Brown will need to focus on positioning and physicality in those contests to maintain consistent numbers. His effectiveness this week will largely depend on his ability to capitalize on weaker rebounding teams while holding steady in tougher matchups.

Impact

For fantasy managers in need of rebounding depth, Brown offers a low-risk streaming option with upside in the right situations.

His best performances are likely to come in pace-heavy games where rebounding chances are more frequent. While matchups against stronger rebounding teams may temper his ceiling,

Brown’s ability to contribute in favorable conditions makes him a useful asset in category leagues. His value will be most pronounced in deep-league formats where even moderate rebounding contributions can make a difference.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: SAC, @MIL, MEM, PHO
• Average Opponent Rank: 12.5

Brown enters the week with a slate that offers a mix of strong rebounding opportunities and more challenging matchups.

Memphis and Phoenix provide the most favorable environments, as both teams rank among the worst in controlling opponent rebounds. Conversely, matchups against Sacramento and Milwaukee – two of the better defensive rebounding teams – will require a more aggressive approach.

His ability to take advantage of high-board games early in the week could dictate his overall fantasy impact, making those first matchups critical for managers looking to maximize rebounding output.

Matchup Grades

DATE	OPP	OPP REB ALLOWED	RANK	MATCHUP GRADE	GRADE CATEGORY
Mon, Mar 3	SAC	42.9	8th	B	Favorable Matchup
Wed, Mar 5	@MIL	46.2	26th	B-	Balanced Matchup
Fri, Mar 7	MEM	43.4	12th	A-	Good Matchup
Sun, Mar 9	PHO	45.4	24th	A	Strong Matchup

Final Verdict

Brown’s schedule suggests a stable rebounding floor, with strong opportunities against Memphis and Phoenix.

Fantasy managers seeking rebounding depth can confidently start him in favorable matchups while managing expectations in tougher contests.

On The Radar

• Nick Richards (C – PHO): 29% Rostered | 8.6 RPG

Blocks

Alex Sarr (PF, C – WAS):  44% Rostered | 1.5 Blocks Per Game – Rank: 16th

Acquisition Details

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

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP BLK Rank: 8.2

MIN	PTS	REB	BLK	STL
28.6	13.2	6.4	1.0	1.2

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Opening Statement |Rim Protecting with Strong Week Ahead

Alex Sarr continues to prove himself as a reliable shot-blocker, averaging 1.5 blocks per game. His ability to alter shots and control the paint makes him an asset for fantasy managers targeting defensive categories.

This week, he has a prime opportunity to elevate his block totals, with Utah and Toronto providing favorable conditions for shot-blocking success. While Miami presents a tougher challenge in limiting blocks, Sarr’s defensive presence ensures he remains a viable contributor.

With strong matchups on the slate, he’s a solid option for managers seeking a boost in blocks.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

• Primary: Blocks
• Secondary: Rebounds, Steals
• Auxiliary: Points
• Category Class: Singular-Realist
• Roster Class: Specialist-generalist (Spg)

Fit

As a rim protector averaging 1.5 BPG, Sarr thrives in matchups where opponents take high-risk shots inside.

Against Utah and Toronto, he should find plenty of opportunities to rack up rejections, as both teams allow a higher-than-average number of blocks.

Miami, on the other hand, relies on structured offensive sets that minimize blocked shot opportunities, requiring Sarr to focus more on positioning and contesting shots effectively.

His ability to adjust based on opponent tendencies will be key in maintaining his defensive production throughout the week.

Impact

For fantasy managers targeting blocks, Sarr remains a strong streaming option with clear upside.

His best performances should come against Utah and Toronto, where defensive lapses and interior scoring tendencies create an ideal shot-blocking environment. While Miami may present a more disciplined offensive challenge, his ability to contest shots still holds value.

With two highly favorable matchups and one tougher test, Sarr provides a solid floor with potential for an above-average shot-blocking week.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 3
• Opponents: @MIA, UTA, @TOR
• Average Opponent Rank: 11.0

Sarr enters the week with a mix of favorable and challenging defensive matchups.

Utah and Toronto rank among the league’s worst in avoiding shot-blocking threats, offering ideal conditions for Sarr to increase his block totals. Meanwhile, Miami ranks among the top teams in limiting opponent blocks, meaning Sarr’s opportunities may be more limited.

The overall outlook favors his defensive play, particularly in matchups where opponents struggle with interior protection.

Matchup Grades

DATE	OPP	OPP BLK ALLOWED	RANK	MATCHUP GRADE	GRADE CATEGORY
Mon, Mar 3	@MIA	4.8	3rd	B	Favorable Matchup
Wed, Mar 5	UTA	6.3	20th	A-	Good Matchup
Sat, Mar 8	@TOR	5.7	10th	B+	Very Favorable Matchup

Final Verdict

Sarr’s schedule suggests a strong shot-blocking floor, with his best matchups coming against Utah and Toronto.

Fantasy managers seeking blocks should confidently start him in those games, knowing they provide the highest potential for defensive production.

While Miami may temper his output slightly, his consistent ability to alter shots ensures he remains a viable contributor in the category.

For managers looking to secure a boost in blocks, Sarr is a reliable option with a high upside this week.

On The Radar

• Goga Bitadze (C – ORL): 24% Rostered | 1.6 BPG

Steals

Marcus Smart (PG, SG – WAS): 11% Rostered | 1.2 Steals Per Game – Rank: 56th

Acquisition Details

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

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP STL Rank: 18.0

MIN	PTS	AST	3PTM	STL
19.8	9.3	1.8	1.0	1.5

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted – L4 with Washington

Opening Statement | Smart Opportunities for a Defensive Edge

Marcus Smart has built his reputation as one of the league’s premier perimeter disruptors, using quick hands, high basketball IQ, and relentless effort to make an impact defensively.

Averaging 1.2 steals per game, he remains a valuable asset for fantasy managers needing a boost in defensive stats. This week presents key opportunities, particularly against Utah and Toronto – two teams that rank among the league’s worst in turnover prevention.

If Smart can capitalize on these matchups, he has a strong chance to elevate his steal totals and provide fantasy managers with a defensive edge.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

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

Fit

With 1.2 SPG, Smart thrives in situations where he can aggressively disrupt opposing offenses.

Against Utah and Toronto, his best matchups of the week, he should be able to apply pressure, create transition opportunities, and rack up steals. Against Miami, however, his ability to force turnovers may be tested, requiring more anticipation and positional discipline rather than pure defensive aggression.

Smart’s defensive versatility allows him to adjust based on opponent tendencies, ensuring that he remains a factor even in structured offensive matchups.

Impact

For managers targeting steals, Smart offers a strong streaming option, especially in matchups where teams struggle with ball control.

His ability to generate turnovers will be maximized in games against Utah and Toronto, while his defensive presence should still contribute even in lower-paced matchups.

While Miami may limit his upside, the overall schedule favors Smart’s defensive playmaking, ensuring that he remains a viable contributor in the steals category across the week.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 3
• Opponents: @MIA, UTA, @TOR
• Average Opponent Rank: 20.7

Smart enters the week with a schedule that plays to his strengths, with Utah and Toronto serving as prime targets for defensive disruption. Both teams struggle with ball security, giving Smart ample opportunities to generate turnovers. However, his contest against Miami will be more challenging, as they rank in the top half of the league in turnover prevention.

Overall, Smart’s ability to pressure ball handlers and read passing lanes will determine his fantasy impact, with early-week matchups offering the best steal potential.

Matchup Grades

DATE	OPP	OPP STL ALLOWED	RANK	MATCHUP GRADE	GRADE CATEGORY
Mon, Mar 3	@MIA	7.5	7th	B-	Balanced Matchup
Wed, Mar 5	UTA	9.6	30th	A	Strong Matchup
Sat, Mar 8	@TOR	9.3	25th	B+	Very Favorable Matchup

Final Verdict

Smart’s week is highlighted by strong steal potential against Utah and Toronto, where his aggressive defensive style should yield the best results.

Although Miami may prove more disciplined in protecting the ball, his overall ability to disrupt opposing offenses ensures a stable floor.

Fantasy managers seeking a defensive specialist can confidently start Smart in favorable matchups, knowing his ability to create turnovers will keep him fantasy-relevant in the steals category.

On The Radar

• Royce O’Neale (SF, PF – PHO): 17% Rostered | 1.0 SPG

Three-Pointers Made

Corey Kispert (SG, SF – WAS): 7% Rostered | 2.0 3PTM Per Game – Rank: 81st

Acquisition Details

• League Level: Deep-Shallow
• Acquisition Type: Stream-hold (Sth)
• Priority: Medium-High
• Stream/Hold Period: 2-3 (Week-to-Week)
• BFC: SpSth

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP 3PTM Rank: 11.0

MIN	PTS	FG%	3PTM	REB
28.4	15.2	51.3%	3.0	4.0

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Opening Statement | A Deep Threat Wiz Capitalizing on Volume Matchups 

Corey Kispert has built his reputation as a consistent sharpshooter, averaging 2.1 three-pointers made per game.

His ability to thrive in spacing-heavy offenses allows him to capitalize on open perimeter looks, making him a valuable asset for fantasy managers targeting threes. This week presents prime opportunities against Utah and Toronto, two teams that rank near the bottom in limiting opponent three-point attempts and makes.

If Kispert can take advantage of these matchups, he has the potential to deliver an impactful week from beyond the arc.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

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

Fit

Averaging 2.1 three-pointers per game in a movement-based shooting role, Kispert is at his best when defenses allow him space.

Against Utah and Toronto, he should be able to find open looks and increase his shooting volume. Against Miami, a more structured perimeter defense, he will need to rely on efficiency rather than sheer shot attempts.

His ability to adapt to defensive pressure will determine his overall production, but the week’s schedule sets him up for solid three-point output in high-volume matchups.

Impact

For fantasy managers targeting three-pointers made, Kispert remains a strong streaming option with clear upside.

His matchups against Utah and Toronto provide ideal conditions for increasing his shot attempts, giving him the potential to exceed his season averages. While efficiency may be tested against Miami, his ability to generate high-percentage looks should still keep him fantasy-relevant.

Overall, Kispert’s schedule suggests a stable three-point production floor with strong upside in the right matchups.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 3
• Opponents: @MIA, UTA, @TOR
• Average Opponent Rank: 21.7

Kispert enters the week with a schedule that leans toward strong three-point shooting opportunities.

His most favorable matchups come against Utah and Toronto, where defensive lapses allow high-volume perimeter attempts. Miami, however, presents a more disciplined challenge, ranking among the best in limiting opponent three-point efficiency.

The key for Kispert will be capitalizing on open looks in his earlier matchups before adjusting to tougher defensive conditions later in the week.

Matchup Grades

DATE	OPP	OPP 3PM ALLOWED	RANK	MATCHUP GRADE	GRADE CATEGORY
Mon, Mar 3	@MIA	13.8	21st	B	Favorable Matchup
Wed, Mar 5	UTA	14.7	29th	A	Strong Matchup
Sat, Mar 8	@TOR	13.5	15th	A-	Good Matchup

Final Verdict

Kispert’s week is highlighted by strong perimeter matchups against Utah and Toronto, where his ability to find clean looks should drive his production.

While Miami may present a more contested shooting environment, his consistent volume ensures a steady contribution from beyond the arc.

Fantasy managers seeking a boost in three-pointers should confidently start Kispert in favorable matchups, knowing his ability to stretch the floor will keep him relevant throughout the week.

On The Radar

• Duncan Robinson (SG, SF – MIA): 6% Rostered | 2.5 3PTM

De’Andre Hunter (SF, PF – CLE): 39% Rostered | 85.1% FT%

Acquisition Details

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

Last Five Game Stats | Avg. OPP FT% Rank: 10.0

MIN	PTS	FG%	3PTM	FT%
27.0	12.5	47.1%	2.3	56.3

*Minimum 25 minutes per game unless otherwise noted

Opening Statement | Free Hunting Even with Limited Volume

De’Andre Hunter has established himself as a dependable free-throw shooter, converting 85.1% of his attempts this season. While his accuracy remains elite, this week’s matchups suggest a potential dip in volume, requiring him to maximize his opportunities.

His most favorable games come against Milwaukee and Chicago, teams that allow league-average or slightly above-average efficiency from the stripe. Meanwhile, Miami and Charlotte pose slightly more resistance, ranking among the lower third in opponent free-throw percentage allowed.

Despite possible volume fluctuations, Hunter remains a steady FT% contributor for fantasy managers needing efficiency.

Category Build, Fit, & Impact

Build

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

Fit

Hunter’s 85.1% free-throw percentage highlights his reliability at the stripe.

Against Milwaukee and Chicago, he should find enough opportunities to sustain his efficiency. Meanwhile, Miami and Charlotte’s ability to limit free-throw attempts may require him to seek contact and stay aggressive to maintain steady production.

His role as a complementary scorer means his volume will fluctuate depending on game flow, but his efficiency should remain intact across all matchups.

Impact

For fantasy managers targeting free-throw percentage, Hunter remains a safe, high-efficiency play. His best performances will likely come against Milwaukee and Chicago, where he can take advantage of more lenient defenses at the line.

While Miami and Charlotte present neutral-to-slightly unfavorable conditions, his elite accuracy ensures that any dip in volume won’t significantly impact his value.

Managers looking for a steady FT% boost can confidently rely on Hunter, knowing that his strong shooting profile provides consistent category stability.

Week Overview

• Total Games: 4
• Opponents: POR, @CHI, MIA, @CHA
• Average Opponent Rank: 19.3

Hunter enters the week with a schedule that supports his efficiency but could present fewer trips to the line.

His best matchups for maintaining strong FT% come against Milwaukee and Chicago, where defenses are less restrictive in free-throw efficiency. However, contests against Miami and Charlotte could suppress his attempts, given their stronger ability to limit opponent free throws.

Overall, Hunter’s week sets up well for maintaining a high conversion rate, though volume will be key to his fantasy impact.

Matchup Grades

DATE	OPP	OPP FT% ALLOWED	RANK	MATCHUP GRADE	GRADE CATEGORY
Tue, Mar 4	@CHI	79.0%	21st	B+	Very Favorable Matchup
Wed, Mar 5	MIA	78.3%	16th	B	Favorable Matchup
Fri, Mar 7	@CHA	78.3%	17th	B	Favorable Matchup
Sun, Mar 9	@MIL	79.2%	23rd	A-	Good Matchup

Final Verdict

Hunter’s schedule suggests a stable free-throw percentage floor, with his best efficiency matchups against Milwaukee and Chicago.

Fantasy managers seeking FT% consistency should confidently start him in all matchups, though his free-throw volume may be slightly lower than usual.

While his opportunities may fluctuate, his elite shooting from the stripe ensures that he remains a dependable option for fantasy managers looking to lock in free-throw efficiency.

On The Radar

• Spencer Dinwiddie (PG, SG – DAL): 10% Rostered | 83.4% FT%