The Fall of a Star: Kyrie Irving’s ACL Tear and the Fallout
Dallas Mavericks fans and fantasy managers alike received a crushing blow on Tuesday when the team announced that Kyrie Irving would be out for the rest of the season due to a torn ACL. This news comes at a particularly tough time for the Mavericks, who have been battling injuries and setbacks all season. However, in the world of fantasy basketball, the loss of one star often creates opportunities for others. Spencer Dinwiddie, currently rostered in just 22% of Yahoo! leagues, is poised to step into the void left by Irving. Dinwiddie has shown his value with averages of 14.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.4 three-pointers in 19 starts this season. With both Irving and Jaden Hardy (ankle) sidelined, Dinwiddie is the Mavericks’ best point guard option and should be a reliable source of points and assists for the remainder of the season.
Rising Star in Toronto: Ja’Kobe Walter’s Shining Moment
In Toronto, Gradey Dick’s knee injury has opened up a starting spot for rookie Ja’Kobe Walter. Walter’s first game as a starter was nothing short of impressive, as he contributed 17 points, three rebounds, one steal, one block, and two three-pointers in 28 minutes. What made his performance even more memorable was the game-winning triple he hit with just half a second left on the clock. With Dick set to be re-evaluated in two weeks, Walter is likely to remain a key part of the Raptors’ lineup. Fantasy managers should take note of his potential and consider adding him to their rosters, even with his low roster percentage of just 1%.
LeVert’s Resurgence in Atlanta: A Positive Turnaround
Caris LeVert’s final season in Cleveland was a disappointment, but his move to the Atlanta Hawks has rejuvenated his career. On Tuesday, LeVert put up 21 points, three rebounds, four assists, one steal, and two three-pointers, marking his third consecutive game with at least 20 points and his fifth straight game with at least 15 points. Over the past two weeks, he has averaged 17.3 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.9 three-pointers, placing him in the top-100 in nine-category leagues. LeVert’s consistent performance and shooting efficiency make him a valuable addition to any fantasy roster, especially in deeper leagues.
Grimes’ Continued Streak: A Reliable Scoring Option
Quentin Grimes, now with the Philadelphia 76ers, continues to impress with his scoring prowess. On Tuesday, Grimes tallied 30 points, marking his third game with at least 30 points this season, all of which have come since his trade to Philadelphia. Grimes currently ranks just outside the top-75 in nine-category scoring formats and should be rostered in all formats, particularly with Tyrese Maxey (back, finger) and Paul George (groin) dealing with injuries. His ability to score and contribute in multiple categories makes him a must-add for fantasy managers.
Collins’ Impact in Chicago: A Reliable Frontcourt Option
Zach Collins has emerged as a reliable option for the Chicago Bulls in the absence of Nikola Vucevic. Over the past two weeks, Collins has ranked inside the top-50 in nine-category leagues, and his performance on Tuesday, which included 20 points, 12 rebounds, two assists, three steals, and one block, underscores his value. With Vucevic’s return uncertain, Collins should be rostered in all leagues, providing a solid source of points, rebounds, and defensive contributions.
Versatile Role Players: Olynyk, Achiuwa, Hayes, and Biyombo
New Orleans Pelicans forward Kelly Olynyk has started all six of his games with the team, contributing consistently with 11 points, four rebounds, two assists, one steal, one block, and one triple on Tuesday. With Zion Williamson expected to sit out one of the Pelicans’ upcoming games, Olynyk will have even more opportunities to shine. In New York, Precious Achiuwa stepped up in a big way, finishing with eight points and 15 rebounds in 30 minutes during Karl-Anthony Towns’ absence. If Towns remains out, Achiuwa will continue to play a significant role, even if Mitchell Robinson starts.
In Los Angeles, Jaxson Hayes has shown flashes of brilliance, most recently with 19 points and 10 rebounds without missing a shot. Despite his inconsistent production, Hayes remains a valuable starter for the Lakers. In San Antonio, Bismack Biyombo continues to start at center and played well on Tuesday. While his production has been inconsistent, the opportunity remains for him to contribute, making him a potential streaming option.
The Role of Tre Jones: A Reliable Assist Option
Lastly, Tre Jones, who recently made his first start for the Chicago Bulls due to injuries to Josh Giddey, Lonzo Ball, and Kevin Huerter, put up nine points, eight rebounds, and seven assists in 34 minutes. If the Bulls remain shorthanded, Jones could start again in their upcoming game against Orlando. His ability to distribute the ball makes him a reliable source of assists, a valuable asset in fantasy basketball. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on Chicago’s injury report and consider adding Jones if he is available.
In the fluid and often unpredictable world of fantasy basketball, the loss of a star like Kyrie Irving can create ripple effects that open up opportunities for other players. By staying informed and proactive, fantasy managers can capitalize on these changes and strengthen their rosters.
