
Fantasy Basketball: Players Seizing Their Opportunities
An analysis of players making the most of increased playing time as the season nears its end, highlighting Jared Butler and others.
As the season nears its conclusion, many teams realize they will not be heading to the playoffs. Accordingly, they are shifting their attention to offering more chances for players outside their regular lineups to show their potential. Additionally, injuries have led some teams to rely on their depth as they try to keep their playoff hopes alive. This article profiles several players who have recently capitalized on increased playing time and are demonstrating their readiness for the upcoming season. These individuals warrant close monitoring as they could provide great value in next year’s drafts.
The Philadelphia 76ers have focused on developing their younger players in the latter half of the season, showcasing impressive performances from their rising stars.
Jared Butler has made his mark, starting in 13 of the 76ers’ last 16 games. He’s averaged 12.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and 1.4 steals per game during this stretch, including a high of 21 points in one game. His ability to distribute and contribute defensively, along with limiting turnovers to just 1.7 in 28.6 minutes a night, suggests he can be a valuable backcourt option if given consistent playing time.
Guerschon Yabusele, a steady presence throughout the season, has shown significant progress compared to his earlier performances, now putting up averages of 11 points on 50.1% shooting, along with 5.6 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 27.1 minutes per game. He reached 20 points in nine games and secured double-digit rebounds on five occasions, proving he can contribute effectively if utilized properly in the future.
Adem Bona has recently emerged after limited play at the start of the season. Over six consecutive starts, he has averaged 14.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, and provided defensive stops with a notable three blocks per game, including a high of 28 points and three double-digit rebounds performances. His growth will attract attention from fantasy managers seeking late-season boosts, especially if he secures a more notable role for next season.
For the Bucks, injuries to starting point guard Damian Lillard have prompted them to rely on depth players. Kevin Porter, who has been impactful all season, is averaging 10.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.3 assists overall, but has recently stepped up considerably, raising his scoring to 13.6 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.3 assists since Lillard’s absence.
Ryan Rollins has seized his chance with nine starts in the last 11 games, averaging 11.1 points on 51.2% shooting, 3.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists, thereby showing promise for a more consistent role going forward.
Luke Kornet, now in his eighth season, is averaging a career-high 18.4 minutes as a backup for the Celtics. Despite not being a standout, he’s consistently contributed with scoring and rebounding, including several games in double figures.
Brice Sensabaugh is gaining more playing time in his second year with the Utah Jazz, averaging 12.6 points on 47.6% shooting, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists over the last several weeks. His recent performances prove his capability to deliver solid contributions.
Overall, each of these players could be critical in their respective teams’ plans as they prepare for the next season.