Welcome to High Score Playlist, my weekly column where I highlight ideal waiver wire pickups to boost your fantasy basketball lineup for the upcoming week. You can also check out my advice for both 9 Cat League and Standard Point League formats through my dedicated Pickup Stories.
(It’s never too late to start or join a High Score League, a fresh way to enjoy Yahoo fantasy basketball featuring simplified roster setups and scoring.)
Keep in mind that every fantasy league operates differently. Often, as much as 80% of players on rosters get dropped due to underperformance or impatience. If these players fit your team’s strategy, don’t hesitate to add them.
Below are players rostered in fewer than 50% of leagues but still obtainable in most formats.
🎧 Members of my rotation: high score
Donte DiVincenzo – Guard, Minnesota Timberwolves (45% rostered)
The Timberwolves have games Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, making DiVincenzo an easy start on these busy nights. With Mike Conley as the only true point guard, Donte’s minutes are secure. Over the past three weeks, he’s posted high fantasy scores of 50, 39, and 36 points. Given his schedule and consistent 30+ fantasy points, he’s definitely stream-worthy.
Nikola Jovic – Forward/Center, Miami Heat (24% rostered)
Jovic has delivered 46 fantasy points in each of his last two appearances, showing marked improvement in usage, shooting accuracy, and crafty playmaking. Averaging about 15 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and over a steal per game across his last six outings, he’s efficient even with under 30 minutes played. The Heat’s schedule of Tuesday, Thursday, and back-to-back games Saturday and Sunday provides great streaming opportunities.
Isaiah Stewart – Forward/Center, Detroit Pistons (23% rostered)
Stewart quietly ranks among league leaders in blocks, making him a high-impact scorer on defense. Week 12 sees him getting more playing time with Jalen Duren out, boosting his opportunities and defensive duties. I plan to activate Stewart starting Monday and monitor his performance through the week. Despite a lighter schedule midweek, when he logs around 30-35 minutes, he averages 14 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3.5 blocks.
Peyton Watson – Forward/Center, Denver Nuggets (27% rostered)
With Denver’s starters gradually returning, Watson continues to impress. He has scored at least 21 points in each of his last three games, never dropping below 34 fantasy points. The Nuggets value him for defense and transition play, maintaining his role while key players return. Despite a less favorable schedule, Watson remains a strong waiver wire option for 30-35 points.
Ayo Dosunmu – Guard/Forward, Chicago Bulls (23% rostered)
Dosunmu is a reliable streaming choice for Week 12, especially with Chicago’s backcourt depleted due to injuries. He has tallied 31+ fantasy points in four straight games, fueled by a mix of scoring, rebounding, and assists. Surprisingly, he’s averaged six assists over these games, increasing his value. The Bulls’ schedule—with an early Monday game and lighter nights later in the week—makes it easy to slot him into lineups.
Fan Take: Keeping an eye on these under-the-radar players is crucial for fantasy managers looking to gain an edge in competitive leagues. Their rising roles and consistent production highlight the dynamic and unpredictable nature of basketball, reminding fans that every game can unveil new stars shaping the sport’s evolving landscape.
