Week 6 of the fantasy basketball season is here, giving managers another shot to strengthen rosters through waiver wire pickups. Whether dealing with injuries, hunting short-term production or trying to identify the next breakout option before the rest of the league, staying active at this point in the season can provide a key early edge.
Below are players worth targeting across the following rostered-percentage tiers:
- 50-60%
- 30-49%
- 15-29%
- 0-14%.
You’ll also find a full look at each team’s upcoming schedule to help maximize streaming value and make the most of your weekly lineup decisions. Let’s jump into the Week 6 fantasy basketball waiver wire — starting with the schedule.
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Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 6)
Four games:
DET, IND, MEM, MIL, MIN, NOR, NYK, PHX, SAC, TOR
Three games:
ATL, BOS, BKN, CHA, CHI, CLE, DAL, DEN, GSW, HOU, LAC, LAL, MIA, OKC, PHI, POR, SAS, UTH
Two games:
ORL, WAS
Rostered in 50-60% of Leagues
Devin Vassell (SG, SF – SAS)
With Stephon Castle (hip) and Victor Wembanyama (calf) sidelined, Devin Vassell sees an uptick in production. He’s averaging 13.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, five assists, 1.7 steals and one block per game since both entered the injury report. He’s delivering solid numbers across categories, and with both expected to remain out for at least another week, Vassell profiles as a strong short-term pickup.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker (PG, SG – ATL)
This is another week of reminding managers to go out and grab Nickeil Alexander-Walker. His game keeps trending up — smooth off the dribble, confident as a pull-up shooter, active defensively and comfortable operating as a secondary playmaker. Over his last six games, he’s averaging 21.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists and 1.2 blocks.
Trae Young (knee) still doesn’t have a firm return date, so Alexander-Walker is positioned to keep logging heavy minutes and maintaining this level of production.
Rostered in 30-49% of Leagues
Cameron Johnson (SF, PF – DEN)
Aaron Gordon (hamstring) is expected to miss some time, and Cameron Johnson profiles as the likely beneficiary. Gordon ranks third in usage among Denver’s starters, and those opportunities will need to be redistributed. Johnson is a natural fit to take on more touches, especially in lineups where Denver leans on spacing and secondary creation.
Johnson has also looked more comfortable on the floor lately, shooting 53.8% while averaging 14 points, four rebounds and three assists. His efficiency has been steady, and his off-ball movement blends well with Denver’s core pieces. With Gordon sidelined for at least the short term, Johnson is positioned to see a bump in minutes and offensive involvement, making him a strong short-term value add.
Derik Queen (C – NOR)
Derik Queen, the No. 13 overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, has logged at least 30 minutes in each of his last three games, showing what he can do when given extended playing time. Over that stretch, he’s leading the team with 23.3 points while also contributing 8.3 rebounds, six assists, 1.7 steals and one block per game.
Queen is demonstrating his all-around versatility and ability to impact multiple categories, making him a strong option for fantasy teams. With consistent minutes and a larger role, Queen has the upside to deliver top-tier production on both scoring and peripheral stats.
Rostered in 15-29% of Leagues
Wendell Carter Jr. (C – ORL)
Wendell Carter Jr. has been delivering consistent production this season, benefiting from a career-high 30.4 minutes per game. He’s averaging 12.4 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists per contest, providing steady contributions across multiple categories.
While he may not reach the ceiling of top-five fantasy centers, Carter is a reliable option in deeper leagues or as a solid bench piece. His consistent floor makes him particularly valuable in lineups where stability is needed, especially when injuries or rotations create uncertainty elsewhere.
Collin Gillespie (PG – PHX)
With Grayson Allen (quadriceps) and Jalen Green (hamstring) still sidelined, and now Ryan Dunn (wrist) added to the injury report, Collin Gillespie is set to continue seeing an expanded role. Over his last three games, he’s been terrific, averaging 18 points, six rebounds, 5.7 assists and 1.7 steals. Gillespie brings energy and versatility, contributing across multiple categories.
Gillespie thrives as a playmaker, pushing the ball in transition and creating opportunities for teammates, while also attacking the basket with confidence. With the added minutes and usage, Gillespie is well-positioned to continue his strong performances.
Rostered in 0-14% of Leagues
Keldon Johnson (SF, PF – SAS)
Victor Wembanyama (calf) has missed the San Antonio Spurs’ last three games, and Keldon Johnson has been one of the primary beneficiaries. In 28.4 minutes per contest, Johnson is averaging 19 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.7 assists and one steal, stepping up as a reliable option on both ends of the floor.
With Wembanyama expected to miss multiple weeks, Johnson profiles as a strong short-term rental. The minutes are there, and his production across multiple categories makes him a great option in any format.
Vince Williams Jr. (PG, SG – MEM)
With Ja Morant (calf) missing the Memphis Grizzlies’ last two games, Vince Williams Jr. has stepped into a larger role. He’s averaged 26.8 minutes during that stretch and is contributing nine points, seven rebounds, 12 assists and one steal per game. While the scoring isn’t eye-catching, his production on the glass and as a facilitator stands out — especially for a guard in head-to-head category formats.
With Morant expected to miss at least a couple of weeks, Williams profiles as a strong short-term rental thanks to his ability to contribute across multiple categories.