Navigating the Fantasy Basketball Silly Season: Wired and Tired Players and Teams

As the NBA regular season winds down, fantasy basketball managers are faced with a unique challenge. With some leagues already wrapped up and others still active but with eliminated teams, the usual metrics for determining player fatigue and energy levels are no longer as reliable. In this week’s column, we’ll take a different approach by highlighting specific pickups, “wired” players, and teams, as well as identifying some “tired” players and teams to watch out for.

In terms of pickups, several players have emerged as valuable assets for fantasy managers looking to make a late-season push. Malaki Branham of the San Antonio Spurs has stepped up in the absence of Devin Vassell, while Tristan Vukcevic has capitalized on increased playing time with Marvin Bagley sidelined. Dyson Daniels, Malachi Flynn, Jabari Walker, Norman Powell, Noah Clowney, Miles McBride, Rui Hachimura, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and Aaron Wiggins are also players worth considering for your fantasy roster.

On the team front, the Atlanta Hawks, Denver Nuggets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, Detroit Pistons, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Memphis Grizzlies, and other teams offer opportunities for fantasy production with their upcoming schedules.

As for tired players and teams, those who are done for the season or dealing with injuries should be approached with caution. Players like Julius Randle, Lauri Markkanen, Devin Vassell, and Jerami Grant are either out for the season or doubtful to return, while teams like the Detroit Pistons, Washington Wizards, San Antonio Spurs, and others have shown a willingness to rest their starters and give opportunities to younger players.

With the end of the NBA season approaching, fantasy managers must stay vigilant and adapt to the changing landscape of the league. By staying informed and making strategic roster moves, you can maximize your chances of success in the final stretch of the fantasy basketball season.