The 411 on Fantasy Basketball 02.12.2008 - Updated on 02.12.2008
 | | | | | | | | | | The NBA Trading deadline is still a week and a half away, and although there is always a lot
of talk about probable moves, the reality is that we may have already seen the two biggest
trades this season. Both have been somewhat of a surprise:
Pau Gasol going to the Lakers for a steal. I had expected him to be moved by the Grizzlies,
just not to the Lakers, who definitely got the better end of the deal in my opinion over Memphis
who could have shopped for a much better offer.
Insight - With only so many touches to go around this could be a problem for Kobe and Odom
owners. In his first week with LA, Gasol scored 105 fantasy points, a 24% increase in his
scoring over the past 10 games. Odom’s scoring initially has gone up 16%, while Kobe has
spiraled down 35%.
Outlook - Over the long haul I expect Kobe to get his points and for Gasol to continue at a good clip,
Odom will continue his slide and level off to his pre-trade level, and I expect him to be in a
different uniform in 2008/09.
Shawn Marion moving to Miami in the Suns effort to “go for it this year”. Marion had been
grumbling early on and finally got his wish and will be much better off playing with Wade.
As for the Suns, they probably felt they could win without Shaq too, as I doubt they’ll end up
getting many games out of him.
Insight - Marion played his first game with Miami Sunday, and I expect he’ll thrive along
side Wade and continue to be a top fantasy player. Blount also becomes the starting Center
outright., and I see positives for most Heat players.
Outlook - I see positives for most Heat players, with the exception of Ricky Davis, which may
be a moot point especially in 2008/09. Shaq owners should expect to get what they have been
getting, for better or worse.
On the Move next Week ?
PG Mike Bibby, Sac - Has played well since coming back, Kings would love to move him.
PG Sam Cassell, LAC - The last year of his contract, contenders may be looking for a vet.
SG Ricky Davis, Mia - With Heat out of it, he could help out someone else in a stretch run.
SF Corey Maggette, LAC - Does have a few years left, but he’s been shopped for a while.
SG Cuttino Mobley, LAC - Clips would like to move his salary, could come cheaply.
SF Wally Szczerbiak, Sea - Could be a big help, and Sonics would like the Cap room.
SF Bobby Simmons, Mil - Has been a major disappointment for Bucks, may give him away.
PF/SF Antoine Walker, Min - This savvy vet has been known to move and help contenders.
PG Jason Williams, Mia - On last year of his contract, and Heat have nothing to lose.
Down the Stretch Advice
Many Fantasy Leagues have already cut off Trading and Free Agents with the fantasy season’s
stretch run now in full gear. Owners have switched from finalizing their rosters to evaluating
weekly lineups in this critical time. Here are some quick tips:
- If you have the NBA backup to your starter at any position, now’s the time to play them as your
fantasy backup too. If your starter goes down, you’re covered.
- Keep an eye on who’s hot and who’s cold, don’t be afraid to switch things up on offense.
- Watch the Injury report, all these games down the stretch mean a lot and a zero at a position
can kill you.
Who’s Hot - Last 10 Games numbers
C/PF - Al Jefferson, Min 43.50
C/PF - Tim Duncan, SA 41.00
C/PF - Chris Bosh, Tor 40.60
C/PF - Amare Stoudemire, Pho 39.40
PF - Dirk Nowitzki, Dal 39.50
SF - LeBron James, Cle 50.44
SF - Carmelo Anthony, Den 41.00
SF - Corey Maggette, LAC 38.83
SG - Kobe Bryant, LAL 45.30
SG - Dwayne Wade, Mia 38.11
SG - Monta Ellis, GS 35.00
PG - Allen Iverson, Den 40.70
PG - Chris Paul, NO 36.80
PG - Baron Davis, GS 35.50
This Week’s Injury Updates
SF Caron Butler, Was
- Hip injuries can be tough, and prolonged. I would expect another few weeks of rest and you’ll
see him back in full swing. Andray Blatche has been no slouch, especially when he’s getting
minutes.
PG Antonio Daniels, Was
- The Wizards PG’s have been hit hard all season, and Daniels has been on and off the court
for most of it. With Roger Mason having a good season, they’ve been lucky.
SF Luol Deng, Chi
- I wouldn’t expect him on the court again this season, unless the Bulls miraculously make a
bid for the playoffs. Andres Nocioni has been filling in decently for him.
PF Kevin Garnett, Bos
- Expect the Celtics to be slow to get him back on the court. Their focus is the Playoffs and not
the Regular season. Bad news for Fantasy owners, so if you have Leon Powe, pencil him in
instead.
SG Ben Gordon, Chi
- This could continue to linger, as it may be more than just a bad wrist. If you have Duhon, make
him your guy.
PG Devin Harris, Dal
- It’s hard to say when or if he’ll be back in time to help fantasy owners, or if he’ll be in Dallas when
he does. Barea has been getting more minutes lately with him out.
PG Kirk Hinrich, Chi
- He could be back next week, but shouldn’t be out longer than two. Chris Duhon has been putting
it up in his absence.
PG Tony Parker, SA
- The Spurs know they need him for the playoffs, so don’t expect any help soon. They signed Damon
Stoudamire to replace him in the interim.
PG Jamaal Tinsley, Ind
- Another one that could be gone this year as far as fantasy help is concerned. Travis Diener has
picked up the pace though.
Rookie Watch
1 - SF Kevin Durant, Sea Still in the top spot, but slowing down considerably
2 - C/PF Al Horford, Atl Has been heating up, and closing in on Durant
3 - PG Mike Conley Jr, Mem Should get his chance now to shine down the stretch
4 - PF Luis Scola, Hou Has been solid all season for the Rockets
5 - SF Thaddeus Young, Phi With Korver gone, he’s been getting his game on
On a final note, keep your eye on the prize folks, I’ve seen fantasy players lose their focus down the
stretch only to miss their opportunity to succeed. After all, it’s all about the ring!
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