Fantasy Basketball Mailbag: November 30th

After taking a week off, the Fantasy Basketball mailbag is back! This week features some trade talk and some of the year’s disappointing players.

Q. Who is the year’s biggest disappointment so far? Also, is there anyway that disappointing player becomes an intriguing buy-low candidate? – Earl

A. Every fantasy basketball season features its fair share of disappointments, with this year being no-different. Early round picks such as Marc Gasol and Klay Thompson certainly are worth mentioning, but are at least providing some level of production. My pick has to be Ty Lawson, who has had little to no production on a struggling Rockets team.

 The Rockets planned on starting Lawson alongside Harden, which proved to be problematic as both need the ball in their hand to create. Lawson has since moved to the bench, but his production has still been lackluster. There is a chance he could carve a role, but until then, he shouldn’t be owned in most leagues.

Next: Is Something Wrong With John Wall?

Nov 6, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Washington Wizards guard John Wall (2) shoots the ball against the Boston Celtics during the first half at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports

Q.What is wrong with John Wall, and for that matter the Wizards in general? – Ryan Feyre

A. John Wall is one of the most dynamic guards in the NBA, but has been off to a surprisingly slow start. Labeled as a top 10 talent in fantasy drafts, Wall has struggled with his shot, shooting only 39% from the field. His assists are also notably down, and he is averaging an ugly 4.3 turnovers per game.

 However, it’s way too early to give up on Wall and the Wizards. They are a young team that has started slowly in past years as well. As the season goes on and the team gets more comfortable, Wall should return to his regular solid production, although his days of being a top 10 talent may perhaps be over.

Next: Did You Lose A Trade? Ask The Mailbag!

Q. I traded away Reggie Jackson and Jarett Jack for Marc Gasol and Nikola Mirotic. However, both players are not at their best right now, especially Mirotic who is struggling big time. Should I be worried about him and did I make the wrong decision with this trade? – Stefan Stanculovic

A. Hindsight in fantasy is 20/20, and in hindsight, you are sadly at the losing end of this deal. Jackson has continued to be one of the consistent point guards in the NBA, and while Jack is not efficient, he certainly stuffs the stat sheet. However, it is not the time to be fearful, as no owner has a perfect trade history.

 Even with that being the case, there is promise in both Mirotic and Gasol. Mirotic is frustratingly inconsistent, but when he is on, he produces strong scoring and rebound totals. I’d look to trade him, as he has many hot and cold streaks throughout the season. Wait for a hot streak to get a better offer. Gasol on the other hand contributes in all categories, and is a solid building block for every team. He may not be producing at the high-level some expected, but should continue to be a staple in the Grizzles offense.

Next: Should You Accept A Deal? Ask the Mailbag!

Nov 3, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Al Horford (15) dunks the ball against the Miami Heat during the second half at American Airlines Arena. The Hawks won 98-92. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Q.I was offered Michael Carter-Williams and Tyson Chandler for Al Horford in a 20 team points league with keepers. Which is the best side of the two? – Mike Marteny

A. In a deeper league like that, every player’s value increases substantially. Michael Carter-Williams is an intriguing prospect, offering some statsheet stuffing potential in a few games. However, he has not been nearly consistent enough, essentially being a background player on a talented Bucks team. Chandler on the other hand is a throwaway, as his age and injury history makes him a bad asset.

On the other hand, Al Horford is one of the few elite centers in Fantasy. He is still only 29 years old, and has been a consistent producer throughout his whole career. Hold onto Horford, unless someone offers a substantially better offer.

Hope I was able to help with any Fantasy Basketball related questions. If you would like to have a question submitted, feel free to either email me wej32@ymail.com or Tweet me @MattKhanway sometime before Sunday 12 PM EST.