Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire: Week 17 Pickups and Schedule Strategy

Waiver Wire Gems: Isaiah Collier, Bennedict Mathurin and Nique Clifford are identified as players with increased roles and scoring potential. Why this matters: These players can provide a significant boost to your roster as teams adjust rotations.

Strategic Scheduling: Target players from teams with favorable five-game slates during the extended scoring period, including Hawks, Nets, Hornets, Bulls, Cavaliers, Nuggets, Pacers, Clippers, Lakers, Bucks, Knicks, Thunder, Magic, 76ers, Suns, and Trail Blazers. Why this matters: Maximizing games played is crucial during this extended week.

Favorable Matchups: The Cavaliers, Nets, Pacers, and 76ers have advantageous matchups. Specifically, target players who can exploit opponents' weaknesses in 3-point defense and points in the paint. Why this matters: Exploiting favorable matchups can lead to category boosts and higher scores.

Isaiah Collier (Utah Jazz): With Keyonte George's injury, Collier has demonstrated high assist numbers and scoring ability. Even with George's return, Collier's performance as a sixth man makes him a valuable addition.

Bennedict Mathurin (LA Clippers): Mathurin's trade to the Clippers positions him for a potentially significant role as a scorer. His scoring potential makes him a high-upside pickup.

Nique Clifford (Sacramento Kings): Clifford's recent 30-point game indicates his potential for increased playing time, especially if the Kings prioritize player development.

Cavaliers: Exploit the Nuggets' vulnerability to 3-pointers with Donovan Mitchell. Target opportunities against the Wizards and Nets, who give up significant points and turnovers.

Nets: Capitalize on matchups against the Bulls and Pacers, who struggle with defensive efficiency. Egor Dёmin can excel against teams like the Thunder that allow many 3-pointers.

Pacers: Focus on inside scoring against the Nets, Wizards and Mavericks. Jarace Walker could benefit from these matchups.

76ers: VJ Edgecombe and Kelly Oubre can take advantage of the Trail Blazers' vulnerability to turnovers. Dominick Barlow can leverage matchups against the Hawks, who struggle with rebounding and points in the paint.

Q: What is the key strategy for Week 17?

Q: Which teams have the most favorable matchups?

Key waiver wire pickups like Collier, Mathurin, and Clifford can provide immediate value.

Strategic scheduling is essential to maximize games played during the extended scoring period.

Targeting favorable matchups can lead to category boosts in points, rebounds, and 3-pointers.