As the fantasy basketball season heats up, savvy managers are always on the lookout for hidden gems on the waiver wire. While superstars dominate the headlines, it’s often the unsung heroes who can make or break your team’s success. This week, two young guns have emerged as must-add players: Gradey Dick of the Toronto Raptors and Tari Eason of the Houston Rockets.
Gradey Dick: The Sharpshooter
Gradey Dick, the rookie sensation out of Kansas, has been turning heads with his elite shooting ability. Through the first few games of the season, Dick is averaging an impressive 21.0 points per game while shooting a scorching 37% from beyond the arc and 92% from the free-throw line.
What makes Dick such an intriguing fantasy prospect is his ability to contribute in multiple categories. In addition to his scoring prowess, the young wing is also chipping in with solid rebounds and steals. As he continues to earn the trust of head coach Nick Nurse, expect Dick’s minutes and production to trend upward.
Gradey has been a revelation for us. His shooting stroke is pure, and he’s not afraid of the big moment. We’re excited to see him grow.
– Raptors teammate Fred VanVleet
Tari Eason: The Defensive Dynamo
While Gradey Dick is making his mark on the offensive end, Tari Eason is quickly establishing himself as one of the league’s most fearsome defenders. The second-year forward out of LSU has been a menace on the perimeter, racking up steals and blocks at an elite rate.
Eason’s defensive prowess alone makes him worth a roster spot, but he’s also shown flashes of offensive potential. With his ability to score in transition and crash the offensive glass, Eason is a player on the rise in fantasy circles.
Tari is a game-changer on defense. His length and instincts are off the charts, and he’s only scratching the surface of his potential.
– Rockets head coach Ime Udoka
Other Waiver Wire Targets
While Dick and Eason are the headliners, there are plenty of other players worth considering on the waiver wire. Here are a few more names to keep an eye on:
- Scotty Pippen Jr., PG, Memphis Grizzlies – A gifted passer with a growing role in the Grizzlies’ backcourt.
- Jordan Hawkins, SG, New Orleans Pelicans – A bucket-getter who should see increased opportunities with the Pelicans’ injury woes.
- Deni Avdija, PF, Portland Trail Blazers – A versatile forward who stuffs the stat sheet on a nightly basis.
- Brook Lopez, C, Milwaukee Bucks – The veteran big man remains an elite shot-blocker and could see a boost in scoring with Khris Middleton sidelined.
As always, the key to success on the waiver wire is staying vigilant and pouncing on opportunities before your league-mates. With players like Gradey Dick and Tari Eason emerging as potential difference-makers, now is the time to make your move. Happy hunting, fantasy hoops fans!
