Week 1 delivered some surprises, shaking up the fantasy landscape and creating new opportunities on the waiver wire. Whether you’re looking to capitalize on unexpected breakouts or fill gaps in your roster, I’m here to guide you through week 2.
We’ll look at players you should consider picking up who are rostered in four different rostership tiers:
- 50-60%
- 30-49%
- 15-29%
- 0-14%.
What’s more, I’ll give you a breakdown of how many games each team has for the upcoming week so you can maximize the minutes of your streamers. Without further ado, let’s dissect the waiver wire, starting with the game schedule for next week.
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Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 2)
Four games:
ATL, BOS, BKN, CLE, DAL, DEN, DET, MEM, NOH, ORL, POR, SAC, SAS, TOR, UTH
Three games:
CHA, CHI, GSW, HOU, IND, LAC, LAL, MIA, MIL, MIN, NYK, OKC, PHO, WAS
Two games:
PHI
Rostered in 50-60% of Leagues
Jaden Ivey is making a strong case to be a permanent fixture on your fantasy roster. While Cade Cunningham rightfully commands attention as the Pistons’ primary offensive weapon, Ivey is proving to be a force in his own right. Through the first three games, he’s averaging 21.7 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game. This impressive start showcases his explosive scoring ability, improved playmaking and growing confidence alongside Cunningham.
Don’t dismiss Ivey’s early success as a fluke. He’s aggressively attacking the basket, knocking down shots from beyond the arc and demonstrating a willingness to involve his teammates. With the Pistons committed to a youth movement, Ivey has the green light to shine.
Scoot Henderson (PG – POR)
While some may be hesitant to roster a player coming off the bench, Scoot Henderson is seeing significant playing time, averaging 28.5 minutes per game for the Trail Blazers. In those minutes, he’s stuffing the stat sheet with 18.5 points, 5.0 assists, 2.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game. He’s not just putting up numbers; he’s doing it efficiently, shooting a respectable 51.9% from the field and boasting a solid 2:1 assist-to-turnover ratio.
Henderson is showcasing the dynamic playmaking and scoring ability that made him the third overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft. He’s aggressive in attacking the basket, showing no fear against NBA defenses.
Rostered in 30-49% of Leagues
Ivica Zubac might not be the flashiest name on the waiver wire, but he’s a rock-solid center who can anchor your fantasy team with consistent production. While his three-game schedule this week might seem underwhelming, Zubac is a long-term play who can provide a steady stream of points and rebounds. He’s off to a dominant start this season, averaging 22.5 points and 12.0 rebounds per game.
The Clippers are making a concerted effort to get Zubac involved in the offense, as evidenced by his impressive 24.6% usage rate. With Kawhi Leonard sidelined, Zubac has stepped up as a primary scoring option alongside James Harden. He’s a force in the paint, finishing efficiently around the rim and cleaning up the glass with authority.
Malik Monk is thriving as the sixth man for the Kings. Averaging a healthy 27 minutes per game, Monk is providing a spark off the bench with his explosive scoring and playmaking ability. He’s currently putting up 15.5 points, 4.5 assists and 2.0 rebounds per game, showcasing his well-rounded offensive skillset.
Monk’s natural scoring instincts and ability to excel in transition make him a perfect fit for the Kings’ up-tempo offense. He’s a threat to score from anywhere on the court. His playmaking ability adds another dimension to the Kings’ attack.
Rostered in 15-29% of Leagues
De’Andre Hunter is quietly putting together a solid start to the season for the Hawks. He’s locked into a starting role and coming off an efficient performance against the Hornets, where he tallied 24 points, seven rebounds and three assists while shooting a perfect 8-for-8 from the free-throw line. Seeing him log 33 minutes and contribute across the board is certainly encouraging.
This efficient, all-around performance is a sign of things to come for Hunter. The Hawks play at a fast pace, which typically translates to high-scoring games and plenty of opportunities for fantasy production. Hunter’s ability to score, rebound and chip in with assists makes him a valuable asset in this up-tempo system.
Jeremy Sochan is exceeding expectations early this season, and his impressive start has him poised for a breakout year. He’s averaging a stellar 17.5 points, 9.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game, showcasing a level of comfort and confidence. Sochan is attacking the basket, crashing the boards with authority and displaying improved playmaking skills.
It’s clear playing alongside veteran point guard Chris Paul has had a positive impact on Sochan’s development. Paul’s leadership and court vision create opportunities for Sochan to thrive in the Spurs’ offense. With his well-rounded skillset and increased opportunity, Sochan is someone to keep an eye out for all season long.
Rostered in 0-14% of Leagues
Christian Braun is proving he belongs in the Nuggets’ starting lineup. Despite the Nuggets’ slow 0-2 start, Braun has been a bright spot, averaging 31.5 minutes per game and showcasing his all-around contributions. He’s making the most of his opportunity to play alongside Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, stuffing the stat sheet with 13.5 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 2.0 blocks and 1.5 steals per game.
Braun’s well-rounded production makes him an appealing fantasy asset, especially in category leagues. He’s contributing across the board, providing points, rebounds and defensive stats. With Kentavious Caldwell-Pope now in Orlando, Braun has stepped into a key role for the Nuggets. His fantasy value is on the rise.
Jordan Hawkins has quickly made his presence felt coming off the bench, averaging an impressive 18.5 points and 6.0 rebounds per game. With Dejounte Murray sidelined with a hand injury until at least late November, Hawkins is poised for a significant boost in minutes and offensive responsibility.
It’s clear the Pelicans have given him the green light on offense, and he’s responding with confidence. Hawkins is a natural scorer with a smooth shooting stroke and the ability to attack the basket.
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