In head-to-head fantasy basketball leagues, the weekend often determines the outcome of your matchup. Even if you’re leading comfortably in points or categories, a poor weekend can result in a loss. This weekend, nine teams—including the Celtics, Mavericks, Nuggets, Pistons, Rockets, Clippers, 76ers, Raptors, and Jazz—are playing only once, so it’s wise to avoid relying on players from these teams if you want to maximize your games played.
While this is common in standard points and category leagues, formats like Yahoo!’s high score leagues or best ball leagues reward having multiple opportunities to perform on big nights. Thus, having two games in a weekend can be a valuable advantage.
Must-Start: Peyton Watson, Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets have suffered numerous injuries this season. With Nikola Jokic sidelined and other key players like Aaron Gordon, Christian Braun, and Cameron Johnson out, Watson has stepped up, delivering 24 points and eight rebounds recently. Although Darron Holmes II is likely to start at center, Watson is expected to carry the scoring load. Despite challenging matchups against the Cavaliers and Nets, he is the clear starter this weekend due to the Nuggets’ depleted roster.
Point Guards to Watch:
- Tre Jones, Chicago Bulls: With Josh Giddy and Coby White injured, Jones has proven himself as a reliable starter, scoring 20 points and 12 assists in his return. The Bulls face the Magic and Hornets, both of which have struggled defensively recently.
- Miles McBride, New York Knicks: McBride excelled off the bench after returning from injury, scoring 21 points in 26 minutes. The Knicks face the Hawks and 76ers, with Atlanta having particularly poor form lately.
- Ryan Rollins, Milwaukee Bucks: With the Bucks playing the Hornets and Kings—two of the weaker defensive teams recently—Rollins has a chance to regain his form despite recent shooting struggles.
Forwards to Consider:
- Anthony Black, Orlando Magic: Despite reduced usage after Jalen Suggs returned, Black remains productive and will continue to start against the Bulls and Pacers, both bottom-tier defenses.
- Brandon Miller, Charlotte Hornets: Miller has hit back-to-back 30-point games and faces the Bucks and Bulls, both vulnerable defensively in recent games. He’s gaining momentum despite a tough season.
- Jake LaRavia, Los Angeles Lakers: Filling in for an injured Rui Hachimura, LaRavia has started 10 games this season with solid averages and now faces the Grizzlies twice, presenting a good scoring opportunity.
Centers to Watch:
- Noah Clowney, Brooklyn Nets: Despite some recent limitations, with key teammates out, Clowney should have strong games against the Wizards and Nuggets. Washington is a poor rebounding team, and Denver’s injury situation bodes well for Clowney.
- Luke Cornett, San Antonio Spurs: With Victor Wembaneyama sidelined, Cornett could see increased playing time, especially against the Pacers, making it a favorable matchup.
- Donovan Clingan, Portland Trail Blazers: Clingan might face backup centers this weekend and has a chance to bounce back after a tough defeat to the Thunder.
Fan Take:
This weekend’s injury-driven opportunities highlight how unpredictable and exciting fantasy basketball can be, offering lesser-known players a chance to shine. For basketball fans, it’s a reminder that depth and flexibility are key in both fantasy management and real NBA success, potentially shaping team strategies moving forward.
