Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire: Key Additions for Championship Runs

Navigating the fantasy basketball waiver wire is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge, especially during the intense playoff stretch. With injuries, rest days, and shifting rotations, savvy managers must capitalize on emerging opportunities. Here’s a deep dive into this week’s top pickups across all positions.

Point Guards

1. Spencer Dinwiddie, Dallas Mavericks (38.6% Rostered)
   The veteran guard has thrived as a primary playmaker for the Mavericks, averaging 15.2 PPG and 6.8 APG over his last five games. His high-usage role in pick-and-roll sets makes him a steady source of assists and scoring.

2. Jamal Shead, Toronto Raptors (4.7% Rostered)
   With Toronto resting starters, Shead has emerged as a sneaky pickup in deeper leagues. His 8.3 APG in limited minutes showcases his playmaking upside.

Shooting Guards

1. Brandin Podziemski, Golden State Warriors (29.0% Rostered)
   A stat-sheet stuffer, Podziemski contributes with rebounds (7.1 RPG), assists (5.4 APG), and efficient scoring. His "glue guy" role makes him invaluable for fantasy playoffs.

2. Jared Butler, Philadelphia 76ers (9.9% Rostered)
   Butler’s recent surge includes 14.3 PPG and 4.7 APG, proving he can handle expanded minutes. His shot creation is a boon for deeper rosters.

Small Forwards

1. Ausar Thompson, Detroit Pistons (41.2% Rostered)
   A defensive phenom, Thompson’s recent 4-block game highlights his elite upside in steals and blocks (1.8 SPG, 1.5 BPG).

2. Justin Edwards, Philadelphia 76ers (28.7% Rostered)
   Edwards has locked down a 3-and-D role, averaging 12.5 PPG with 2.0 threes and 1.3 steals. His minutes are secure on a tanking Sixers squad.

Big Men to Watch

1. Kyle Filipowski, Utah Jazz (12.6% Rostered)
   The rookie big man is posting double-doubles (12.8 PPG, 9.2 RPG) and providing much-needed frontcourt stability.

2. Alex Sarr, Washington Wizards (43.6% Rostered)
   Sarr’s elite shot-blocking (2.1 BPG) and rebounding (8.9 RPG) make him a must-add for defensive categories.

Specialist Spotlight

• 3PM: Gary Trent Jr. (MIL) — 3.1 threes per game.
• Steals: Keon Ellis (SAC) — 2.2 SPG over his last seven.
• Blocks: Adem Bona (PHI) — 2.3 BPG in limited minutes.
• Rebounds: Filipowski and Sarr dominate the glass.
• Assists: Shead and Collier (UTA) are underrated facilitators.

Pro Tip: Target players with multi-game weeks to maximize volume during fantasy playoffs!