With one week until the February 6 NBA trade deadline, it’s time to look at fantasy basketball stashes that could have higher value.
Jimmy Butler’s practically guaranteed to be traded, as the relationship between him and the Miami Heat organization appears beyond repair. In that case, Nikola Jović can receive an increased workload, as he’s done while Butler’s been suspended. Although the power forward mostly comes off the bench, a trend that should continue with the recent emergence of Kel’el Ware, his value is still better when Butler’s out. Without him, Jović’s minutes per game rise to 26.8, and his numbers in several categories are higher, notably points and threes. The 21-year-old ranks outside the top 160 in category and points leagues for the season, but he’s jumped inside the top 100 over the past 30 days.
Recent news indicates that the Sacramento Kings are expected to open up talks for De’Aaron Fox, who is also reported to have a destination in mind. As a result, Keon Ellis could move into the starting lineup, depending on the return. The shooting guard has bounced between the starters and reserves, mostly playing with the latter. Ellis has enticed managers with some stellar outings and two-way potential, but his lack of a consistent role and minutes limit him to the waiver wire for now.
Zach LaVine’s name is churning in the rumour mill, and his stellar season is reviving his value. With him and Lonzo Ball healthy and back in the Chicago Bulls lineup, Ayo Dosunmu hasn’t had the opportunity to take his game to the next level after a breakout campaign in 2023-24. However, moving a two-time All-Star opens up a starting spot. Dosunmu’s upside is capped in his current reserve role in a crowded backcourt, but the former second-round pick provides solid production when in the first unit. As a starter, his contributions in the main categories, steals, threes and field goal percentage make him an add.
The New Orleans Pelicans are reportedly open to moving some of their stars amid a disappointing and injury-plagued season. Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum have been mentioned in reports (as well as Zion Williamson), indicating Jordan Hawkins could be in for a more significant role. The former 2023 first-round pick proved his ability to step up when called upon, averaging 20.0 PPG across five games as a starter this season and 17.3 PPG in 10 contests last year. Hawkins’ three-point scoring and steals also stand out.
Last year’s silly season gave managers a glimpse into Noah Clowney’s offensive potential and shot-blocking prowess. The forward/center hasn’t been able to replicate that consistently and has thus frustrated managers, but a tanking Brooklyn Nets team dominating trade rumours can change that. Cameron Johnson appears to be the most likely to be moved, with some rumblings around Nic Claxton, Ben Simmons and others. Offloading one of these guys should be enough for Clowney to find his footing and ball out. Even if a trade doesn’t manifest, the sophomore is still a player to monitor down the stretch.
The Bulls have also put a price tag on Nikola Vučević and are shopping him around. If moved, Jalen Smith could replace him as the starting center. He’s only started one game this season but showed out with a double-double and five blocks in just under 30 minutes. In his limited role off the bench, playing just 15.1 minutes per game, the 24-year-old manages to post decent stats thanks to his great per-minute production. A consistent starting role could see Smith become a double-double threat who can also block shots and hit threes, making him an enticing fantasy basketball stash.
Scoot Henderson was a hot pickup during silly season last year and can be again if the Portland Trail Blazers shuffles its roster. Jerami Grant appears the most likely to be dealt, but Anfernee Simons also garnered some attention. While Henderson doesn’t help in the field goal percentage and turnover categories, his strengths lie in scoring, assists and steals. The former third-overall pick has spent most of the year coming off the bench, but he’s posted 16.7 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 7.3 APG and 1.1 SPG across seven starts.
The Trail Blazers are in for another tanking season and could also make some moves. Grant is a frequently mentioned candidate, and trading him would benefit Toumani Camara. For stretches throughout the year, he’s displayed his scoring prowess, three-point shooting, rebounding and defensive capabilities. While the sophomore started all 45 games this season, he’s ranked 134th in category leagues. Camara has made significant progress from his rookie year, and more responsibilities can further elevate his impact and ranking.
After a strong start to the season, Bilal Coulibaly’s decreased and inconsistent production, despite his starting role, has led many managers to drop him. However, with Kyle Kuzma likely on the move and the Washington Wizards having nothing to play for, the 20-year-old is in for a big second half of the season. In his second year pro, Coulibaly has improved his scoring and playmaking while elevating his already solid defensive game. The small forward is ranked 137th in category leagues but has the upside to improve that drastically.
Isaiah Collier moved into the starting lineup in early January and has mostly maintained that promotion. While he’s already providing fantasy value, moving any backcourt member would further boost his usage and numbers. As it happens, starting guard Collin Sexton and Jordan Clarkson are the subjects of trade rumours. Across 12 starts, Collier’s averaging 9.8 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 8.0 APG, 0.7 SPG and 0.7 3PM. It’s extremely hard to find assists on the waiver wire, so managers should look past his poor shooting and turnovers. Also, don’t worry if the Jazz don’t make any moves. Their silly season shenanigans mean managers will be seeing plenty of Collier.
Alex Sarr is one of the top rookies of the 2024 class and could be even better. The Wizards started him alongside Jonas Valanciunas for a few games but elected to have the latter come off the bench. Now, Valanciunas could be on the move, leaving Sarr likely to absorb some of his 19.7 minutes per game. The Frenchman stands out in blocks, with his 1.6 average ranking in the top 10 in the league. His rebounding, scoring and three-point shooting are also serviceable.
The Blazers have a three-headed monster at center. However, moving one of Deandre Ayton or Robert Williams III can resolve that and give Donovan Clingan a clearer pathway to playing time. His 16.6 minutes per game rise to 22.1 when starting, and he could see even more action once Portland goes full tank mode. In 10 games as a starter, Clingan’s 2.9 blocks would rank second-highest in the NBA. The rookie also averages 6.8 points, 9.9 rebounds and 0.7 steals. He shines most on the defensive end through rim protection, but he can also impact the scoring column.
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