As the NBA season heats up, savvy fantasy basketball managers know that working the waiver wire is crucial to success. While star players may grab the headlines, finding hidden gems and rising stars can give your team the edge it needs to dominate. This week, two rookies in particular have emerged as must-add players: Shaedon Sharpe of the Portland Trail Blazers and Alexandre Sarr of the Washington Wizards.
Shaedon Sharpe: The Scoring Sensation
Shaedon Sharpe, the seventh overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, has wasted no time making his presence felt in Portland. The 6’6″ shooting guard out of Kentucky has showcased his elite scoring ability, pouring in 65 points over his last two games. Sharpe’s smooth shooting stroke and explosive athleticism make him a threat to put up big numbers on any given night.
While Sharpe’s scoring prowess is his main selling point, he also contributes in other categories. Over the past week, he’s averaged 5.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. As he continues to adapt to the NBA game and earns more minutes in Portland’s rotation, Sharpe’s fantasy value should only rise.
Shaedon has all the tools to be a special player in this league. His ability to create his own shot and score at all three levels is rare for a rookie.
– An anonymous NBA scout
Why You Should Add Sharpe Now
- Sharpe is rostered in just 28.6% of ESPN leagues, making him widely available
- Anfernee Simons’ injury has opened up more minutes and touches for Sharpe
- The Trail Blazers are in rebuilding mode, giving Sharpe ample opportunity to develop
- Sharpe’s scoring upside alone makes him worth a speculative add in all formats
Alexandre Sarr: The Defensive Dynamo
While Sharpe is making waves with his offense, Alexandre Sarr is turning heads with his defensive prowess. The rookie center out of France has quickly become a force in the paint for the Washington Wizards, swatting shots and snatching rebounds at an impressive rate.
Over the past two weeks, Sarr has averaged an eye-popping 2.3 blocks and 1.7 steals per game, numbers that would make him an elite fantasy contributor in those categories over a full season. He’s also pulling down 8.2 rebounds per game and scoring efficiently, shooting 57% from the field.
Alexandre’s defensive instincts and timing are remarkable for a rookie. He has the potential to be a game-changer on that end of the floor.
– Wizards head coach Wes Unseld Jr.
Why You Should Add Sarr Now
- Sarr is rostered in just 32.1% of ESPN leagues
- The Wizards are giving him a long leash to play through mistakes and develop
- Even if his offense remains raw, Sarr’s defensive stats alone make him valuable
- He has the potential to be a rare steals and blocks contributor at the center position
Other Waiver Wire Targets to Consider
While Sharpe and Sarr are the headliners, there are a few other players worth monitoring on the waiver wire this week:
- Dyson Daniels, PG, New Orleans Pelicans: Daniels has been stuffing the stat sheet lately and is a top steals contributor.
- Jordan Clarkson, SG/SF, Utah Jazz: With the Jazz focusing on player development, Clarkson has taken on a larger offensive role and is scoring in bunches.
- Donovan Clingan, C, Portland Trail Blazers: Like his teammate Sharpe, Clingan is a rookie on the rise, with elite shot-blocking potential.
Remember, the key to winning your fantasy basketball league is staying active on the waiver wire and identifying breakout players before your rivals do. By adding high-upside rookies like Shaedon Sharpe and Alexandre Sarr now, you could be setting your team up for success down the stretch. Keep a close eye on their progress and don’t be afraid to make bold moves to bolster your roster.
