Week 19: The Postseason Begins for Fantasy Managers
For many fantasy basketball managers, Week 19 marks the beginning of the postseason, a critical period when all the hard work of crafting and maintaining rosters can finally pay off with a league championship. While some leagues may still have one or two more regular-season weeks, the focus for everyone is on finding the best value players available on the waiver wire. As the "silly season" kicks into high gear, several teams have shifted their priorities from winning games to player development and securing higher draft picks. This makes it an opportune time to scoop up some undervalued assets who are likely to see increased playing time and contribute valuable stats.
Quentin Grimes: A Bright Spot for the Struggling 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers are in a dire situation, having lost 12 of their last 13 games. The recent injuries to Joel Embiid (knee), Tyrese Maxey (back), and Paul George (groin) have further compounded their woes. However, one player who has stepped up and shown promise is Quentin Grimes. Over the past two weeks, Grimes has been a top-100 player, averaging 17.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.4 steals, and 2.4 three-pointers per game. His consistent performance and the 76ers’ busy schedule—four games each in Weeks 19, 20, and 21—make him a valuable addition to any fantasy team. Even without the team’s key stars, Grimes has proven his ability to produce, and his increased playing time is likely to continue as the 76ers focus on securing a high draft pick.
Alexandre Sarr: A Reliable Rookie for the Wizards
The Washington Wizards are another team aiming to improve their draft lottery odds, and with a favorable schedule of 12 games over the next three weeks, their young players are poised to shine. Alexandre Sarr, a rookie power forward/center, has been performing well despite occasional inefficiencies. Over the past two weeks, Sarr has been an 11th-round player in nine-category formats, demonstrating his potential for significant contributions. Given the Wizards’ commitment to player development, Sarr is expected to remain a key part of the rotation and continue to see substantial playing time. Fantasy managers looking to bolster their frontcourt should consider adding Sarr, especially if they need a reliable source of rebounds and occasional three-point shooting.
Zach Collins: A Unexpected Hero for the Bulls
The Chicago Bulls are currently on track for the 10th seed in the play-in tournament, and despite some inconsistencies, Zach Collins has emerged as a bright spot. The Bulls have been dealing with the absence of Nikola Vucevic (calf), and Collins has been instrumental in mitigating the impact of this loss. Over the past two weeks, he has averaged 14.6 points, 9.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.0 steal, 0.6 blocks, and 0.7 three-pointers, ranking as a sixth-round player in nine-category formats. While his future role may depend on Vucevic’s return, Collins is currently worth rostering due to his consistent production and expanded minutes. Fantasy teams in need of a reliable big man should capitalize on his availability before the Bulls’ schedule picks up in the coming weeks.
Caris LeVert: A Steady Performer for the Hawks
The Atlanta Hawks have a busy schedule, with four games in Week 19 and three each in Weeks 20 and 21. Caris LeVert, who has been a top-100 player over the past two weeks, is a risk worth taking due to his expanded role within the team. LeVert has been averaging 16.6 points, 2.6 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.9 three-pointers in 28.4 minutes, shooting an impressive 49.5% from the field and 84.6% from the foul line. While the Hawks’ playoff schedule isn’t ideal, LeVert’s recent form and the team’s willingness to play him make him a valuable addition to any fantasy roster. His scoring and multi-category contributions can provide a boost in the crucial weeks leading up to the playoffs.
Ty Jerome: A Consistent Reserve for the Cavaliers
The Cleveland Cavaliers are well-positioned in the standings, leading Boston by eight games in the loss column. This may lead to some of their stars getting occasional rest nights as they prepare for the postseason. Ty Jerome, one of the best reserves in the NBA this season, stands to benefit from these potential absences. Over the past two weeks, Jerome has been a top-50 player in nine-category formats, averaging 12.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.0 steals, and 1.5 three-pointers in 25.3 minutes. His versatility and consistent performance make him a worthwhile pickup, especially for managers looking to strengthen their bench depth. With the Cavaliers’ stable schedule, Jerome is a reliable option to consider.
Naji Marshall: Opportunity Knocks for the Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks are facing a significant lineup disruption due to Kyrie Irving’s season-ending knee injury and the ongoing recovery of Anthony Davis from a strained adductor. Naji Marshall, a versatile small forward, is well-positioned to capitalize on these absences. In his first game after Irving’s injury, Marshall recorded a notable line of 22 points, 11 rebounds, two assists, one steal, and two three-pointers. Over the past two weeks, he has been an 11th-round player in nine-category formats, averaging 14.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.0 steals, and 2.5 three-pointers. His recent play and the increased opportunities he is likely to receive make him a valuable addition to any fantasy lineup, particularly for teams that need a reliable scorer and rebounder.
Bol Bol: A Rising Star for the Suns
Despite a recent off night in the Phoenix Suns’ win over the Clippers, Bol Bol has been a consistent and productive player over the past month. He has averaged 12.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 1.6 blocks, and 1.8 three-pointers in eight-category formats, ranking just outside the top 100. Bol’s presence in the Suns’ starting lineup is a positive development, especially for a team that has struggled this season. His combination of scoring, rebounding, and defensive contributions makes him a valuable asset, and his consistent playing time should continue as the Suns focus on player development and securing a better draft position. Fantasy managers should consider adding Bol to their rosters for his multi-faceted contributions.
Aaron Nesmith: A Solid Contributor for the Pacers
Aaron Nesmith’s return to the Indiana Pacers’ starting lineup on February 11 has been a boon for his fantasy value. In 10 games, he has averaged 14.0 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 0.5 steals, 0.7 blocks, and 2.3 three-pointers, shooting 51.5% from the field and 93.8% from the foul line. This production has been good for top-100 value in nine-category formats, with only Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner outperforming among Pacers players. The Pacers have a favorable schedule, playing four games each in Weeks 19, 20, 21, and 22, which further enhances Nesmith’s appeal. Fantasy managers looking for a reliable small forward or power forward should consider adding Nesmith to their teams.
Keon Ellis: A Surprising Starter for the Kings
The Sacramento Kings have been hit hard by injuries, losing Domantas Sabonis (hamstring) and Malik Monk (sprained toe) recently. Keon Ellis moved into the starting lineup and delivered a solid performance with 11 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals, and 2 blocks in 39 minutes. Over the past month, Ellis has been a top-75 player, averaging 12.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.0 steals, and 2.0 three-pointers. His versatility and increased playing time make him a valuable addition, especially if he continues to see around 40 minutes per game. The Kings play four games each in Weeks 20, 21, and 22, providing ample opportunities for Ellis to contribute to your fantasy team. Fantasy managers should not overlook this promising rookie.
Matas Buzelis: A Steady Hand for the Bulls
Matas Buzelis, despite not being a top-tier producer in recent weeks, remains a fixture in the Chicago Bulls’ starting lineup. Over the past month, he has averaged 10.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.0 blocks, reaching double figures in four straight and six of his last seven games. His recent performance, including matching his career-high with three blocked shots, demonstrates his potential for significant contributions. However, the Bulls’ schedule, with only three games in Weeks 19 and 21, may be a slight drawback. Nonetheless, Buzelis’ consistent playing time and multi-category contributions make him a player worth adding, particularly for managers in need of a reliable big man.
Kyshawn George: A Versatile Rookie for the Wizards
Like Alexandre Sarr, Kyshawn George is another rookie worth considering for the Washington Wizards. Since January 25, George has been a fixture in the starting lineup, providing valuable contributions in multiple categories. Over the past two weeks, he has averaged 10.4 points, 5.4 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.4 blocks, and 2.0 three-pointers, ranking as an eighth-round player in eight-category formats. His combination of playing time and a favorable schedule for the fantasy playoffs make George an attractive option. Fantasy managers should not hesitate to add him, especially for those looking to strengthen their wing positions and add some defensive and scoring versatility.
Final Thoughts and Additions
In the final weeks of the fantasy season, finding value on the waiver wire is crucial for managers aiming to make a playoff push or secure a championship. The players listed above have shown their potential and are likely to see increased playing time due to team priorities and injuries. Quentin Grimes, Zach Collins, Naji Marshall, Alexandre Sarr, Ty Jerome, Keon Ellis, Caris LeVert, Aaron Wiggins, Aaron Nesmith, Matas Buzelis, and Kyshawn George are all viable options to consider. Each brings unique strengths and consistent contributions that can significantly impact your team’s performance. Whether your league playoffs start in Week 19 or later, adding these players could be the key to unlocking your team’s full potential.
