Post-All-Star-break play doesn’t commence until Wednesday, yet we have an exciting fantasy week ahead with nine teams on a packed schedule (three games). However, the Kings have only one game, so managers must explore other options before including Sacramento players as starters.

TEAMS WITH THREE GAMES: Charlotte Hornets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Lakers, Memphis Grizzlies, Milwaukee Bucks, New York Knicks, Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, San Antonio Spurs

TEAMS WITH TWO GAMES: Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, Brooklyn Nets, Chicago Bulls, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Nuggets, Detroit Pistons, Golden State Warriors, Houston Rockets, Indiana Pacers, Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, New Orleans Pelicans, Oklahoma City Thunder, Philadelphia 76ers, Portland Trail Blazers, Toronto Raptors, Utah Jazz, Washington Wizards

TEAMS WITH ONE GAME: Sacramento Kings

Let’s review some start/sit strategies for Week 18:

Guards

• Start: Nick Smith Jr. (Hornets)
  30% roster rate, 14% start rate
  With LaMelo Ball frequently sidelined due to an ankle issue, the Hornets are in dire need of playmakers. Smith is generating momentum entering Week 18. His averages of 19.6 points, 3.2 assists, and 2.8 rebounds in the last five games reflect his performance. While Ball might return against the Lakers, Smith should secure substantial usage throughout the week.

• Start: Stephon Castle (Spurs)
  73% roster rate, 43% start rate
  Following a successful All-Star Weekend, including second place in the Dunk Contest and MVP from Rising Stars, Castle is well-positioned. He has averaged 18.3 points and 4.3 rebounds in the last ten games, showing consistent growth in his production.

• Sit: Malik Monk (Kings)
  98% roster rate, 76% start rate
  Monk is best benched due to the Kings’ one-game schedule, despite his solid recent play.

Forwards

• Start: Kyle Kuzma (Bucks)
  95% roster rate, 69% start rate
  Kuzma is adapting well with the Bucks, averaging 20 points and 9.5 rebounds recently. Giannis Antetokounmpo’s return may impact his usage, but Kuzma will benefit from the spotlight on his teammate.

• Sit: Keegan Murray (Kings)
  86% roster rate, 56% start rate
  Murray’s limited one-game schedule this week makes him a candidate for the bench, especially given his declining scoring average.

Centers

• Start: Jaxson Hayes (Lakers)
  29% roster rate, 10% start rate
  Following the trade of Anthony Davis, Hayes is expected to assume the starting center role. He has shown promising stats worth gambling on.

• Sit: Deandre Ayton (Trail Blazers)
  92% roster rate, 33% start rate
  Expected to be sidelined for two games due to a calf injury.