With the NBA season in full swing, fantasy managers are facing a tough challenge due to the numerous injuries plaguing teams. However, there are still some players available in most Yahoo leagues who could provide a much-needed boost to fantasy rosters. Let's take a closer look at these players.
Dereck Lively II of the Dallas Mavericks is surprisingly available in 53% of leagues. As a starter for the Mavericks, Lively has been getting around 24 minutes per game. Although his production has been inconsistent, his overall averages of 9.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks are valuable. He is shooting an impressive 72.9% from the field. While the Mavericks only have two games in Week 5, Lively could be worth stashing on the bench for long-term value.
Next up is Duncan Robinson of the Miami Heat, who is available in 54% of leagues. Last season, Robinson struggled to find playing time, but this year he is averaging 29 minutes per game. With Tyler Herro currently out with an ankle injury, Robinson's playing time is expected to remain consistent. Known for his three-point shooting prowess, Robinson has a career shooting percentage of 39.8% from behind the arc. With Miami scheduled to play four games in Week 5, Robinson could be a valuable asset for fantasy managers in need of three-pointers.
Jordan Hawkins of the New Orleans Pelicans is available in 65% of leagues. The Pelicans have been dealing with several injuries, including CJ McCollum, Trey Murphy III, Larry Nance Jr., and Jose Alvarado. McCollum's absence has given Hawkins the opportunity to shine, and in the five games he has played without McCollum, he has averaged 18.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 3.8 three-pointers. While his shooting percentage may be a downside, Hawkins can provide a scoring boost, especially for those punting the category in head-to-head leagues.
Goga Bitadze of the Orlando Magic is widely available in 79% of leagues. With Wendell Carter Jr. sidelined due to a hand injury, Bitadze has stepped into the starting lineup. Despite not playing typical starter minutes, he has been productive, averaging 10.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 1.5 blocks. Bitadze has been efficient, shooting 60.0% from the field and 80.0% from the free-throw line. With Carter still out and the Magic playing four games in Week 5, Bitadze is a prime target for those in need of help at the center position.
Reggie Jackson of the Denver Nuggets is available in 82% of leagues. With Jamal Murray sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Jackson has taken over as the starting point guard. In four games since assuming the role, he has averaged 14.8 points, 4.0 assists, and 1.5 three-pointers. While he may not contribute heavily in assists with Nikola Jokic running the offense, Jackson's scoring and three-point shooting make him a worthy addition in most leagues.
Lastly, Caleb Martin of the Miami Heat is available in 88% of leagues. Martin played a crucial role in the Heat's run to the Eastern Conference championship last season. Though he struggled in the Finals against the Nuggets, Martin's return from a knee injury is a welcome sight for the Heat. While it may take him some time to regain his form, fantasy managers in deep leagues should consider adding him. Last season, he averaged 9.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.0 steal, and 1.2 three-pointers per game over 29 minutes.
In conclusion, the NBA's injury woes have created opportunities for lesser-known players to shine. Fantasy managers should take advantage of these available players who can provide a boost in various statistical categories. Whether it's Lively, Robinson, Hawkins, Bitadze, Jackson, or Martin, adding these players to fantasy rosters could pay off in the long run.
