The dust has settled on a chaotic NBA trade deadline, and while some teams made big splashes, others created unforeseen fantasy opportunities through injuries, strategic shifts, or simply by not making moves! For savvy fantasy managers, this is prime time to snatch up players whose value has soared. Don't wait; these rising stars won't stay on the waiver wire for long!
Key Post-Deadline Waiver Targets:
- Santi Aldama poised for massive minutes in Memphis.
- Saddiq Bey maintains a secure, productive role in New Orleans.
- Kelly Oubre Jr. sees an offensive surge with Embiid sidelined.
- Isaiah Collier is a prime assist-man as Utah embraces youth.
Santi Aldama: Grizzlies' Frontcourt Solution
The Memphis Grizzlies season has been ravaged by injuries, most notably the extended absence of Ja Morant. With Brandon Clarke also sidelined and the team likely shifting focus to evaluation, a clear path has emerged for Santi Aldama. He's set to inherit significant minutes and a larger offensive burden.
Aldama recently showcased his potential, dropping 12 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 blocks with 2 three-pointers in a 24-minute return from injury. As he ramps up, expect his workload to consistently hit the 30-minute mark, making him a must-add for points, rebounds, and defensive stats.
Saddiq Bey: Pelicans' Steady Scorer
Unlike many teams, the New Orleans Pelicans largely stood pat at the deadline, a move that quietly solidified Saddiq Bey's role. There was speculation he might be moved, but his consistent presence means his valuable all-around production isn't going anywhere.
Bey has been a reliable contributor, averaging 16.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.8 three-pointers this season. With his role secured on a team looking to contend, Bey offers steady fantasy value and should be rostered in more than 42% of Yahoo leagues.
Kelly Oubre Jr.: 76ers' Offensive Spark
The Philadelphia 76ers are navigating the significant loss of superstar Joel Embiid due to injury. This creates a gaping void in offensive production and opportunity for others to step up. Kelly Oubre Jr. has been a primary beneficiary, taking on a more prominent scoring role.
Since Embiid's injury, Oubre Jr. has delivered, averaging 14.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.3 steals, and 2.5 three-pointers over his last four games. His improved 3-point shooting (36.9%) makes him an even more attractive fantasy option as the 76ers lean on him heavily.
Isaiah Collier: Jazz's Floor General of the Future
The Utah Jazz appear committed to their youth movement, prioritizing the development of their promising young core. This strategic pivot ensures ample playing time for Isaiah Collier, who is thriving with an expanded role.
Over his last 12 games, Collier has averaged an impressive 30 minutes per contest, posting 13.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, 8.6 assists, and 1.5 steals while shooting 49.6% from the field. If you're chasing assists and efficient scoring, Collier is a top-tier waiver add.
Jalen Smith: Bulls' Emerging Big Man
The Chicago Bulls made some minor adjustments at the deadline, but the larger narrative is Jalen Smith's increasing health and burgeoning production. While the team's long-term direction remains somewhat unclear, Smith is carving out a significant role in the frontcourt.
Smith has been playing exceptionally well, averaging 12.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, 0.9 blocks, and 1.8 three-pointers over his last 19 games. After a brief calf injury, he's being slowly integrated back, but expect him to resume a hefty workload post-All-Star break. Grab him now before his roster percentage skyrockets.
Jarace Walker: Pacers' High-Upside Prospect
The Indiana Pacers were active at the deadline, but their overall commitment to developing young talent and potentially resting key veterans positions Jarace Walker for a breakout. He's been one of the team's most exciting young players, and his role is clearly on the rise.
Over his last 13 games, Walker has averaged 14.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.3 steals, and 2.1 three-pointers, logging 26 minutes a night and starting five of his last six outings. With the Pacers looking to evaluate their future, Walker's upside makes him an invaluable late-season addition.
