Targeting NBA Fantasy Waiver Wire Gems for Week 5
Navigating the tumultuous wave of injuries in the NBA poses challenges for fantasy managers. Here are some potential game-changers available in the majority of Yahoo leagues who could bolster your fantasy roster moving forward.
Dereck Lively II, Dallas Mavericks (53% available)
Lively’s availability in over half of the leagues is surprising given his starting role for the Mavericks, averaging 24 minutes per game. Although he’s a rookie with sporadic output, his overall stats of 9.1 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks, along with a stellar 72.9% shooting, hold value. Despite the Mavericks playing just two games in Week 5, stashing him on your bench might pay off in the long run.
Duncan Robinson, Miami Heat (54% available)
Robinson’s minutes have seen a significant uptick this season, now at 29 per game due to Miami’s shallow bench. With Tyler Herro sidelined, Robinson’s sharpshooting from behind the arc (career 3-point percentage of 39.8%) makes him a valuable asset, averaging 2.9 3-pointers per game. The Heat’s four-game Week 5 schedule further bolsters his appeal.
Jordan Hawkins, New Orleans Pelicans (65% available)
The Pelicans, plagued by injuries, have seen Hawkins step up notably during CJ McCollum’s absence. Averaging 18.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 3.8 3-pointers in McCollum’s five-game absence, Hawkins’ increased minutes (averaging 34) make him a viable option for scoring, especially in head-to-head leagues or for teams punting field goal percentage.
Goga Bitadze, Orlando Magic (79% available)
Bitadze’s promotion to the Magic’s starting lineup due to Wendell Carter Jr.’s injury has seen him thrive. Despite not playing typical starter minutes, he’s made an impact with 10.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game. With Carter’s return not imminent and Orlando set for four games in Week 5, Bitadze is a prime pickup for center support.
Reggie Jackson, Denver Nuggets (82% available)
Stepping into the starting point guard role in Jamal Murray’s absence, Jackson has posted solid numbers: 14.8 points, 4.0 assists, and 1.5 3-pointers per game over four games. Playing alongside elite passer Nikola Jokic might limit his assist production, but his contributions in points, 3-pointers, and assists make him a valuable roster addition.
Caleb Martin, Miami Heat (88% available)
Martin, returning from a knee injury, may take some time to find his rhythm. However, his impact last season for the Heat, especially during the Eastern Conference playoffs, showcases his potential. Despite a quieter start this season, in deeper leagues, adding Martin could prove fruitful based on his previous season’s averages of 9.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.0 steals, and 1.2 3-pointers per game.
Comments