Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports
TRADES
You mean a guy that hoisted nearly 19 shots per game at under 40% got traded?
Did you doubt my analysis? I tried to tell everyone that this would happen. This blockbuster should improve Jonas’ outlook for the rest of the season although he didn’t show it last night against the Lakers. It could have been because Amir caught fire, but we will see what the future holds for Jonas in his coming games.
With Vasquez on his way north, does this impact Kyle Lowry’s career season? I’m not sure if you have noticed, but Lowry has been a fantasy monster lately. In the past 9 games, he is ranked #9 overall! If Greivis sends Kyle into another time share, I’ll be shocked. There is no way he can outplay Lowry right now. I think Vasquez will see more time at the SG position because Terrence Ross hasn’t shown much consistency throughout his career. I agree with the folks at Basketball Monster. It is an opportune time to sell Lowry. If he has a few big games with Vasquez on the roster, look to move him quickly. Lowry might be the next Raptor to go, and he won’t land in a place as fantasy friendly as Toronto. As for the others…
DeRozan – Upgraded
Isaiah Thomas – Upgraded
Gay – I still think this one comes down to efficiency. He had way too much freedom to hoist above the border. Rudy usually contributes adequately across the board, so if his percentages climb, his value will improve. I think we need to see him in action to make a determination. At least he will become PF eligible.
Ross – Upgraded
Vasquez – This one remains to be seen. Can Greivis carve out some minutes at the SG slot while backing up Lowry? Keep a close eye on him.
Salmons – I can’t ever see Salmons permanently on someone’s fantasy roster. This waiver veteran will always be an option on the wire for the rest of his NBA days.
GRADES – Recent A+ Players
Jrue Holiday has stepped it up in a major way with Davis on the sideline.
Channing Frye has emerged as the Suns’ Dirk Nowitzki.
Jordan Crawford – Congrats if you snagged him on the wire. I am kicking myself for ignoring him.
Marcin Gortat is quietly putting together a great season in Washington. He is looking for a contract.
Jimmy Butler Owners – You have been listening. If you have not and he is available in your league, leap for your nearest electronic device. He is about to lead the NBA in minutes once this toe issue subsides.
Ryan Anderson – He isn’t slowing up.
Arron Afflalo – He isn’t either. I apologize for missing this one. I wasn’t touching a Magic player at the beginning of the season besides Oladipo. Tobias’ ankle and various other injuries have a lot to do with Afflalo’s rampage, but the Magic have a gem on their hands now. They will keep showcasing him and might even elect to keep him on their young team. If someone won’t give you what he’s worth, keep riding the horse.
Nicolas Batum – This is why people used their 2nd round pick on him. The Trailblazers look tough to beat, and they are developing the swagger necessary to make noise in the playoffs.
OTTO-MO-BEAL’S
It just made for a snazzy title. Did you really think I was going to waste lines on Otto Porter Jr? I’ll need to see production, and with Webster and Ariza holding down the slot, Otto is an afterthought. Beal should be returning soon, so that should satisfy my northeastern demographic.
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