The NBA trade deadline recently concluded with significant excitement, leading to several players needing to adapt to new roles within their teams. As we approach the final week before the NBA All-Star Weekend, it’s a good time to evaluate the current landscape of this unique season.
For those interested in more fantasy basketball insights and up-to-the-minute player news from LotoWorld, NBC Sports.com is now offering comprehensive coverage. They aim to be Rotoworld’s go-to spot for in-depth analysis, betting tips, and breaking updates across NFL, NBA, MLB, and college football.
Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire: Nick Clifford Thrives in ‘Stupid Season’
Sacramento’s rookie, Nick Clifford, has been gaining momentum recently and looks poised to put up impressive stats as the season closes out.
Players on the Rise
Nick Clifford — SG/SF, Kings
Sacramento seems poised for change, with veteran players seeing their minutes reduced in favor of younger talent. Clifford has stepped up, starting the last three games and averaging nearly 19 points, close to three 3-pointers, 4 assists, and almost 3 rebounds per game. Highlights include a career-best 30-point game versus the Cavaliers. Although the Kings are enduring a franchise-worst 13-game losing streak and likely headed for the play-in tournament, management appears committed to evaluating their young stars, making the final two months a prime chance for Clifford to showcase his value.
Dylan Cardwell — PF/C, Kings
Like Clifford, Cardwell’s stock is improving, driven by expanding opportunities and solid production. The rookie from Auburn recently earned a standard NBA contract after previously being on a two-way deal. He has pulled down at least 11 rebounds in four straight games, added a couple of double-doubles, and stands to gain more playing time with Domantas Sabonis sidelined. Cardwell’s strong recent form suggests further growth in the remaining season.
Guy Santos — SF/PF, Warriors
Among available fantasy players, Guy Santos is emerging as a favorable option. His performance since January 26 has been consistently solid, leading his team in scoring, knocking down multiple 3-pointers in several games, and contributing well in rebounds and assists. Over the last seven contests, he has averaged 15 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists, plus defensive stats like blocks and steals. It’s still uncertain if this is his peak or if he can elevate further, but he’s undoubtedly playing his best basketball this year, capitalizing on opportunities created by absent teammates.
Players Losing Value
Wendell Carter Jr. — C, Magic
Carter Jr. maintained stable stats during the fall months but has seen a drop in efficiency throughout February. Despite Orlando enjoying a winning streak, his fantasy outlook is weakening as he hasn’t scored in single digits in any February game, yet his overall trend suggests less upside for fantasy managers.
Brook Lopez — C, Clippers
Now entrenched as a starter following Ivica Zubac’s trade, Lopez has potential, particularly in 3-point shooting and shot blocking. However, he struggles to consistently deliver at a high level, and with no strong traditional big men to support his offensive game in Los Angeles, his role mostly involves filling gaps and causing matchup headaches. It seems unlikely his fantasy stock will rise significantly.
Naz Reid — PF/C, Timberwolves
The Timberwolves have faced turbulence lately, with inconsistent performances and some internal friction. Reid, once a reliable reserve, is experiencing a down year, reflected in subpar recent performances and fluctuating stats. Whether this slump is temporary or indicative of bigger issues, it’s causing his fantasy value to dip.
Looking ahead, the 2026 NBA All-Star Game roster will feature a mix of youthful American stars and veteran veterans opposing a well-rounded world team. Big names like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant will be showcasing national pride, offering fans exciting matchups reminiscent of previous tournaments.
Fan Take: This evolving dynamic reflects the NBA’s ongoing transition where young talent is given more room to grow, signaling a potential shift in the league’s power balance. For basketball enthusiasts, tracking these emerging players and their roles not only enhances fantasy play but also offers a glimpse into the sport’s future landscape.
