Welcome to “The Playlist,” my weekly feature where I share who to target from the waiver wire and suggest lineup moves as I prepare for next week’s fantasy basketball and music picks.
(High Score is a fresh fantasy basketball format on Yahoo with straightforward rosters and scoring, and it’s not too late to join a league.)
Every week, I’ll highlight key pickups across different scoring systems and discuss how game schedules might affect your starting decisions. Dive in to discover the latest fantasy basketball insights.
🎧 Playlist Highlights: High Score Format
Vince Williams Jr. (G/FC, Memphis Grizzlies | 21% rostered)
With Memphis thin on guards, Williams has emerged as a primary offensive option. He’s scored at least 38 fantasy points in each of his last three games, and Week 6 offers him more opportunities. Even if his shooting falters, his contributions in rebounds, assists, and steals make him valuable.
Anthony Black (G, Orlando Magic | 19% rostered)
In a short fantasy week, finding an edge is key. Black has averaged 15 points, four assists, three rebounds, and two steals over five games. The Magic have a light Tuesday schedule, so you can use Black cautiously if needed.
Noah Clowney (FC, Brooklyn Nets | 19% rostered)
Clowney is finally seeing consistent minutes with strong production, particularly in scoring and “stock” stats. Despite the Nets’ deep roster, he’s averaging 16 points and close to 3 stock per game over two weeks, including two games with more than 34 fantasy points — definitely worth picking up.
Peyton Watson (FC, Denver Nuggets | 21% rostered)
After Aaron Gordon’s hamstring injury sidelined him for 4-6 weeks, Watson steps into a vital role. He’s played at least 34 minutes in his last four games, averaging 15 points, eight rebounds, two assists, and nearly two stock. With Gordon out for a while, Watson could deliver multiple big fantasy games—make sure you grab him.
🎧 Playlist Highlights: 9 Cat League and Point League
Bobby Portis (PF/C, Milwaukee Bucks | 29% rostered)
Though not thrilling, Portis will be valuable with Giannis Antetokounmpo out due to a groin injury. He’ll mainly contribute points and rebounds. The Bucks have four games in Week 6, with two in a light schedule, making him a reliable option for nine-cat or point leagues.
Jordan Goodwin (PG/SG, Phoenix Suns | 12% rostered)
Goodwin, a versatile backcourt player, started recently and remains key with Jaylen Green and Grayson Allen sidelined. Over two weeks, he’s averaged 11.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.9 steals on 51% shooting, ranking him near the top 50 in nine-cat leagues. The Suns play four games in Week 6.
Moses Moody (SG/SF, Golden State Warriors | 15% rostered)
Moody continues as a starter while Jonathan Kuminga recovers from a knee injury. Fantasy managers can stream Moody for scoring, threes, and stock stats with 30 minutes of play each night. While Brandin Podziemski is favored by some, Moody is a solid pick especially in deeper leagues.
Grady Dick (SG/SF, Toronto Raptors | 4% rostered)
With RJ Barrett sidelined by a knee injury, Dick is likely to see more minutes. He’s shown improvement and adds fantasy value with two steals in each of his last three games. Keep an eye also on Ja’Kobe Walter, who might get increased playtime. While Barrett is out, Dick offers increased all-around stats.
Jackson Hayes (C, Los Angeles Lakers | 1% rostered)
Hayes remains a streaming candidate, especially since the Lakers play one game early in the week. After Deandre Ayton’s knee contusion, Hayes might get around 25 minutes with a stat line of about 10 points, six to seven rebounds, and one block. Not spectacular, but a decent option in deeper fantasy leagues.
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Fan Take: This weekly update is crucial for fantasy basketball enthusiasts looking for under-the-radar players who can make a significant impact, especially during injury periods and schedule swings. As the NBA season evolves, these strategic moves not only shape fantasy outcomes but also highlight emerging talent that could influence the sport’s future.
