This is it, fantasy managers. The final week of the regular season is upon us for many leagues. With playoff berths on the line, every move counts. This isn’t just about grabbing a quick win; it’s about setting the stage for a deep playoff run. The waiver wire is your last chance to fine-tune your roster and secure an edge heading into the postseason.
We’re not just looking for short-term fixes; we’re seeking players who can deliver impactful performances. Some of our recommendations are designed to help you secure a crucial victory this week, while others are long-term plays, poised to contribute both in the final stretch of the regular season and throughout your playoff campaign.
It’s about maximizing games played, consistent production and strategic acquisitions that will give you the best chance to hoist the championship trophy. Let’s dive into the top waiver wire options and make these last-minute additions count.
We’ll look at players you should consider picking up who are rostered in four different roster tiers:
- 50-60%
- 30-49%
- 15-29%
- 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 schedule for next week.
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Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 21)
Five games:
BKN,
Four games:
ATL, BOS, CHA, DAL, DEN, HOU, IND, LAC, LAL, MEM, MIA, MIL, ORL, OHI, PHX, SAS, TOR, UTA, WAS
Three games:
CHI, CLE, DET, GSW, MIN, NOP, NYK, POR, SAC
Rostered in 50-60% of Leagues
For fantasy managers who have secured their playoff berths and are strategically planning for the postseason, Ausar Thompson is a valuable long-term addition. While he only has three games this week, making him less appealing for immediate gratification, Thompson’s playoff schedule is more favorable, with four games in the first week of most fantasy playoffs. He’s a player you’ll want to have on your roster when it matters most.
Thompson has been a consistent contributor for the Detroit Pistons all season long, and his recent performances have solidified his value. In his last three games, he’s averaged 28 minutes, 13.3 points (on impressive 62.1% field goal and 80% free throw percentages), 5.7 rebounds and three assists. He’s a versatile player who contributes across multiple categories, providing a reliable floor for fantasy production.
Rostered in 30-49% of Leagues
If you’re looking beyond this week and focusing on playoff performance, Shaedon Sharpe is a player to target. With only three games this week, he’s not an ideal option for teams needing an immediate win. However, his playoff schedule is more favorable, featuring four games in the first week of most fantasy playoffs, making him a valuable asset for the long haul.
Sharpe has been on a tear lately, leading the Portland Trail Blazers in scoring over his last six games with an impressive 23.8 points per game. He’s also contributing 6.3 rebounds and 3.5 assists during that span, showcasing his all-around game. Sharpe is playing heavy minutes and should continue to do so for the remainder of the season, making him a reliable option for fantasy managers seeking consistent production during the playoffs.
Stephon Castle presents a compelling waiver wire option for fantasy managers looking to bolster their rosters both now and for the playoffs. With four games scheduled next week and another four the following week, his consistent availability makes him a valuable asset for the crucial weeks ahead. He’s not just a player for the future; he’s delivering immediate returns.
Castle has been on fire lately, leading the San Antonio Spurs in scoring over his last five games with an impressive 24 points per game. He’s also averaging 4.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists, showcasing his all-around game. The rookie is already averaging just shy of 30 minutes per game. With his current level of play, it wouldn’t be surprising to see his minutes increase even further. He’s a player who can provide a significant boost in multiple categories, making him a must-add for fantasy managers looking to make a playoff push.
Rostered in 15-29% of Leagues
Bogdan Bogdanovic (SG, SF – LAC)
Bogdan Bogdanovic presents a solid option for fantasy managers aiming to solidify their playoff positioning. With a favorable schedule of four games next week, he offers consistent opportunities for production in the immediate future. However, it’s important to note he only has three games the following week.
Norman Powell’s absence has opened up extended playing time for Bogdanovic, a trend expected to continue for most of next week. In his last four games, Bogdanovic has demonstrated his all-around contributions, averaging 14 points, 5.8 rebounds and three assists. He’s a reliable scorer and a capable contributor in other categories, making him a valuable asset for teams looking to secure a playoff spot or add depth for the crucial week ahead.
Alex Sarr presents a compelling option for fantasy managers looking to solidify their rosters for both the immediate future and the first round of the playoffs. With four games scheduled in each of the next two weeks, he offers consistent opportunities for production. Since returning from injury, Sarr has shown promising signs, averaging 13.3 points, four rebounds and three assists in his first three games back.
While his rebounding numbers are currently modest, there’s reason to believe they will increase as he regains his rhythm. Sarr is a developing player who is expected to see plenty of minutes as the season progresses, providing ample opportunities to showcase his talent. As he continues to acclimate to the NBA and prepare for his sophomore campaign, his production should become even more consistent, making him a valuable asset for fantasy managers seeking a long-term addition.
Rostered in 0-14% of Leagues
For fantasy managers needing a decisive victory this week, Keon Johnson is a prime target. The Brooklyn Nets are the sole team with five games on their schedule, offering a significant advantage in maximizing your games played. Additionally, with a back-to-back set looming next week, the Nets may opt to rest some backcourt players, potentially opening up even more opportunities for Johnson.
Johnson has consistently produced solid numbers in recent weeks. Over his last 15 games, with the Nets’ lineup fluctuating, he’s averaged 28 minutes per game, contributing 12.8 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.7 steals per game. These numbers are highly valuable. The prospect of five games this week makes him an attractive waiver wire option.
Kyle Filipowski presents a compelling waiver wire option for fantasy managers seeking both short-term gains and playoff potential. With four games scheduled next week and the following week, he’s a valuable asset for those looking to maximize their games played during a crucial stretch. He’s currently capitalizing on a favorable situation with the Utah Jazz.
Filipowski has been delivering impressive numbers, averaging 17.6 points, 10 rebounds and 2.6 assists in his last five games. The Jazz’s frontcourt is currently dealing with numerous injuries, giving Filipowski ample opportunity to showcase his skills. However, fantasy managers should be mindful that his playing time is likely to decrease once John Collins and Lauri Markkanen return to the lineup. He’s a strong pickup for the immediate future, but his long-term value hinges on the health of the Jazz’s other key players.
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