Waiver Wire Pickups: Week 15

With the NBA regular season past its halfway point and the trade deadline and All-Star break rapidly approaching, it’s time to bolster your fantasy team for the second half. This week’s waiver wire recommendations cater to various league depths and strategies, with an emphasis on players who can make a significant impact in the coming weeks.

Jalen Richards, Charlotte Hornets (18% rostered)

Stats:

– 21 points, 10 rebounds, 1 block in 27 minutes (Feb. 1)
– 9.5 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, 1.2 assists in 29.0 minutes (last 19 games)

Analysis:

With starting center Mark Williams sidelined due to injury, Jalen Richards has stepped up in a big way, averaging solid numbers across the board. In his last 19 games, Richards has averaged 9.5 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 1.2 assists in 29.0 minutes per game. He’s a versatile big man who contributes in multiple categories, making him a valuable asset in fantasy basketball. Richards is worth rostering in all formats until Williams returns.

Trendon Walker, Portland Trail Blazers (30% rostered)

Stats:

– 11.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.8 threes in 26.9 minutes (last 14 games)

Analysis:

Trendon Walker has been a consistent contributor for the Portland Trail Blazers, averaging double-digit points and rebounds in his last 14 games. He’s a versatile forward who can score inside and out, and he’s also a solid rebounder and defender. With Portland firmly in the playoff race, Walker is guaranteed ample minutes and opportunities to produce. Add Walker in all but the shallowest formats.

Brandin Podziemski, Golden State Warriors (23% rostered)

Stats:

– 10.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.5 threes, 1.2 steals in 28.8 minutes (last 20 games)

Analysis:

Despite a recent scoring drought, Brandin Podziemski remains a key cog for the Golden State Warriors. He’s a dynamic guard who can score, rebound, assist, and defend at a high level. In his last 20 games, Podziemski has averaged 10.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.5 threes, and 1.2 steals in 28.8 minutes per game. He’s a well-rounded player who can contribute in multiple categories, making him a valuable asset in fantasy basketball. Podziemski is worth adding if available.

Amen Thompson, Houston Rockets (10% rostered)

Stats:

– 9.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.8 blocks in 19.8 minutes (last 6 games)

Analysis:

Amen Thompson has shown flashes of his potential in recent games, especially with increased playing time. In his last six games, Thompson has averaged 9.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.8 blocks in 19.8 minutes per game. He’s a high-energy guard who brings defensive prowess and impressive passing skills to the table. Thompson is a high-upside player worth stashing if you have a roster spot.

Ayo Dosunmu, Chicago Bulls (15% rostered)

Stats:

– 15.3 points, 2.8 assists, 2.5 rebounds, 1.5 threes, 1.0 steals, 0.7 blocks in 28.0 minutes (last 6 games)

Analysis:

Ayo Dosunmu has taken advantage of Zach LaVine’s absence, scoring in double figures in six straight games. In that span, he’s averaged 15.3 points, 2.8 assists, 2.5 rebounds, 1.5 threes, 1.0 steals, and 0.7 blocks in 28.0 minutes per game. Dosunmu is a versatile guard who can score, pass, and defend. He’s a valuable asset in all but the shallowest leagues. Dosunmu is a solid snag in deep leagues of every format.

Georges Niang, Philadelphia 76ers (12% rostered)

Stats:

– 14.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.1 threes, 1.3 assists in 23.6 minutes (last 9 games)

Analysis:

Georges Niang has been on fire lately, averaging impressive numbers in various categories. In his last nine games, Niang has averaged 14.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.1 threes, and 1.3 assists in 23.6 minutes per game. He’s a sharpshooting forward who can also contribute on the boards. With a four-game week and favorable matchups on the horizon, Niang could extend his hot streak. Consider Niang as a one-week streamer, especially in deeper leagues.

Monté Morris, Detroit Pistons (3% rostered)

Stats:

– 7 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists in 11 minutes (Feb. 1)

Analysis:

Monté Morris made his season debut on February 1st, showing promise as a potential backup point guard. In his first game back, he recorded 7 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists in 11 minutes. With Cade Cunningham’s return looming, Morris could still play a meaningful role as a reliable backup. Monitor Morris’ performance for potential value in deeper leagues.

Cody Martin, Charlotte Hornets (4% rostered)

Stats:

– 6.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.9 blocks in 25.9 minutes (season averages)

Analysis:

Cody Martin’s scoring has been disappointing this season, but he contributes in multiple categories. He averages 6.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.9 blocks in 25.9 minutes per game. If his shot starts falling and his minutes increase, he’ll be a valuable deep-league add.

Recent Recommendations Rostered in Less Than 50% of Leagues:

– Markelle Fultz
– Ausar Thompson
– Tari Eason
– Alec Burks
– Luke Kennard
– T.J. McConnell
– Xavier Tillman

Conclusion:

This week’s waiver wire recommendations offer a mix of players for various league depths and strategies. Consider adding Jalen Richards, Trendon Walker, Brandin Podziemski, Amen Thompson, Ayo Dosunmu, Georges Niang, Monté Morris, and Cody Martin to your teams. Keep an eye on recent recommendations like Markelle Fultz, Ausar Thompson, Tari Eason, Alec Burks, Luke Kennard, T.J. McConnell, and Xavier Tillman. Make informed roster moves to improve your team’s performance for the second half of the NBA season.