The NBA’s action-packed post-All-Star break kicks off this Thursday. While the window may be tight, the teams and players have plenty to offer, especially for those looking to strengthen their fantasy rosters. Let’s dive into which players are primed for your lineup and which to reconsider based on their upcoming game schedules.
Each week, we will spotlight two players at each position who might be tough decisions for fantasy managers, specifically those with a start or roster rate of 50% or lower in Yahoo leagues.
Additionally, we’ll identify one Sit candidate at every position—a player who might typically find their way into your lineup but may not be worth the risk due to limited upcoming game opportunities.
TEAMS PLAYING THREE TIMES: Atlanta Hawks, Brooklyn Nets, Charlotte Hornets, Chicago Bulls, Cleveland Cavaliers, Denver Nuggets, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks, Orlando Magic, Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, Washington Wizards.
TEAMS PLAYING TWICE: Boston Celtics, Dallas Mavericks, Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks, Minnesota Timberwolves, New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder, Portland Trail Blazers, Sacramento Kings, San Antonio Spurs, Toronto Raptors.
TEAMS PLAYING ONCE: Utah Jazz.
Now, let’s break down some of the intriguing start/sit choices for Week 18.
Guards
Start: Kon Knueppel, Hornets
45% start rate
Knueppel has surged into form leading up to the All-Star break, averaging 21.3 points on 49.5% shooting while also providing 6.0 rebounds and 3.1 assists across 34.1 minutes over his last seven outings. Despite being a rookie, he’s maintaining impressive shooting consistency, hitting 43.1% from deep. With Miles Bridges suspended for three games, Knueppel is positioned to excel, averaging 22.0 points and 11.8 combined points and rebounds per 36 minutes without Bridges on the court this season.
Start: Collin Sexton, Bulls
17% roster rate
Sexton has seamlessly integrated into the Bulls’ offense with 17.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.0 steals over 31 minutes in his first three games. His performance has benefitted from injuries to Josh Giddey and Tre Jones, adding depth to his playing time. Even as those players return, Sexton looks set to continue making an impact off the bench.
Sit: Keyonte George, Jazz
85% roster rate
George is coming off a three-game absence before the All-Star break due to an ankle issue, and his status remains uncertain. Given that the Jazz only play once this week, it’s difficult to justify a spot on your roster for George, especially with other players available who have more chances to impact your lineup.
Forwards
Start: Jarace Walker, Pacers
21% roster rate
Walker was on a roll before the All-Star break, averaging 17.1 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.4 steals, shooting an efficient 50%. As a first-round draft pick, he’s solidified his role as a starter and is positioned for significant contributions, especially with two favorable matchups against the Wizards in this three-game week.
Start: Royce O’Neale, Suns
18% roster rate
O’Neale is enjoying a breakout season in Phoenix, achieving career highs in points and steals. Leading into the All-Star break, he averaged over 11 points and 4.5 rebounds while shooting 42.4% from beyond the arc. If Dillon Brooks misses time due to technical fouls, O’Neale’s opportunities will only increase during the Suns’ crucial three-game stretch.
Consider: Justin Champagnie, Wizards
(9% roster rate)
Sit: RJ Barrett, Raptors
69% roster rate
Barrett remains in the Sit category, primarily due to the Raptors’ light two-game schedule this week and the surprisingly manageable production he offers. With the return of Jakob Poeltl, Barrett’s opportunities might further decline.
Centers
Start: Dominick Barlow, 76ers
8% roster rate
Barlow has taken full advantage of his playing time this season, achieving career highs across the board. With Paul George suspended, he’s likely to secure a starting power forward position. Barlow’s recent performance has showcased his scoring ability and defensive prowess, making him a strong pick for any team needing depth.
Start: Moritz Wagner, Magic
1% roster rate
Wagner made a solid return after injury, showing great potential and sharpening his skills as he built towards the All-Star break. Averaging nearly 10 points per game on an impressive 51.4% shooting, he is proving to be a viable streaming option as his minutes increase during this key three-game week.
Consider: Maxime Raynaud, Kings
(19% roster rate)
Sit: Domantas Sabonis, Kings
98% roster rate
Sabonis has been sidelined with a back injury and could be slow to return even if he’s cleared to play. The Kings have shifted towards a youth-focused strategy, which may impact his return timeline, making him a risk in this limited schedule week.
