Fantasy basketball enthusiasts are always on the lookout for their next big draft pick or waiver wire addition, especially in the midst of a season filled with injuries and inconsistent performances. Luckily, ESPN provides valuable insight into the most added players in fantasy basketball. These rising stars are often overlooked by casual fans and create opportunities for savvy fantasy owners to gain a competitive edge.
One player that stands out is Payton Pritchard of the Boston Celtics. The rookie out of Oregon has seen a recent boost in production thanks to injuries to key players such as Marcus Smart and Kemba Walker. Pritchard has averaged 12.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game over the past two weeks. His efficient shooting from beyond the arc (45.5%) has also caught the attention of fantasy owners. Pritchard’s consistent minutes and production make him a solid pick-up in most leagues.
Another player to watch is Jalen Brunson of the Dallas Mavericks. With star player Luka Doncic dealing with a few injuries this season, Brunson has stepped up as a reliable scoring option for the Mavs. Over the past month, Brunson has averaged 17.7 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. His efficient shooting percentages (50.8% from the field, 43.1% from three-point range) make him a valuable asset to any fantasy team. With Doncic expected to return to action soon, Brunson’s numbers may dip slightly, but he will still be a solid contributor.
Another intriguing addition to fantasy basketball rosters is Isaiah Roby of the Oklahoma City Thunder. The second-year player out of Nebraska has played a vital role in the Thunder’s frontcourt while dealing with multiple injuries to key players. Over the past few weeks, Roby has averaged 10.8 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. He has also provided a steady stream of defensive stats with 1.4 steals and 0.7 blocks per game. His versatility as a big man who can shoot from beyond the arc (41.9% from three-point range) is a valuable asset in fantasy basketball.
These are just a few of the rising stars that fantasy owners should keep an eye on as we head into the second half of the NBA season. As injuries, COVID protocols, and player performances continue to fluctuate, it’s crucial to stay informed and make strategic additions to your roster. ESPN’s most added list is a great place to start, but remember to always do your research and trust your instincts when making roster decisions.