Critical Decisions for Fantasy Managers

As the fantasy basketball season enters its final stretch, managers are faced with crucial decisions. With teams having varying game schedules, it’s essential to make informed choices to maximize your roster’s potential.

This week, we highlight key start and sit decisions for guards, forwards, and centers. Let’s dive into the top candidates for Week 23.

Guards: Start and Sit Recommendations

Start: Stephon Castle, Spurs

Stephon Castle is a must-start for Week 23. The rookie has been impressive, averaging 20.0 points, 4.8 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals over his last six games. With the Spurs making a push for a play-in spot, Castle’s aggressive play could be even sharper down the stretch.

Start: Ziaire Williams, Nets

Ziaire Williams is another strong start candidate. Over his last five games, Williams has averaged 15.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.0 steals. With D’Angelo Russell and Cam Thomas sidelined, Williams is poised for increased usage.

Consider: Keon Johnson, Nets and Jeff Dowtin Jr., 76ers

Keon Johnson and Jeff Dowtin Jr. are also worth considering for your roster. Johnson has a 24% roster rate, while Dowtin Jr. has a 5% roster rate.

Sit: Bradley Beal, Suns

Bradley Beal should be sat this week. The veteran guard is dealing with a hamstring strain and is unlikely to see action in more than half of the Suns’ four games. With his durability concerns, it’s best to avoid risking minimal output.

Forwards: Start and Sit Recommendations

Start: Naji Marshall, Mavericks

Naji Marshall has been a standout performer, averaging 22.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.3 steals over his last nine games. Despite Anthony Davis’ potential return, Marshall’s production makes him a solid start candidate.

Start: P.J. Washington, Mavericks

P.J. Washington has also been on fire, shooting 56.9% from the field and 41.2% from three-point range, averaging 27.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, 1.3 steals, and 1.3 blocks over his last three games. His hot hand makes him a strong start option.

Consider: Kyshawn George, Wizards

Kyshawn George is another forward worth considering, with a 29% roster rate.

Sit: Lauri Markkanen, Jazz

Lauri Markkanen should be sat this week. Markkanen has missed three consecutive games due to personal issues and illness, making his availability uncertain for the upcoming week.

Centers: Start and Sit Recommendations

Start: Alex Sarr, Wizards

Alex Sarr has been a consistent performer, averaging 18.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.6 blocks over his last nine games. Despite a recent dud, Sarr’s overall production makes him a solid start candidate.

Start: Nick Richards, Suns

Nick Richards has been on a nice run, averaging 13.0 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 0.9 blocks over his last 10 games. His solid production makes him a reliable start option.

Consider: Wendell Carter Jr., Magic and Kai Jones, Mavericks

Wendell Carter Jr. and Kai Jones are also worth considering, with 33% and 17% roster rates, respectively.

Sit: Chet Holmgren, Thunder

Chet Holmgren should be sat this week. Holmgren is dealing with a hip strain and the Thunder has secured the No. 1 seed in the West, reducing his minutes. His production, while solid, is replaceable.

Teams with Four Games

• Brooklyn Nets
• Cleveland Cavaliers
• Dallas Mavericks
• Indiana Pacers
• Los Angeles Lakers
• Milwaukee Bucks
• New York Knicks
• Orlando Magic
• Philadelphia 76ers
• Phoenix Suns
• Sacramento Kings
• San Antonio Spurs
• Toronto Raptors
• Washington Wizards

Teams with Three Games

• Atlanta Hawks
• Boston Celtics
• Charlotte Hornets
• Chicago Bulls
• Denver Nuggets
• Detroit Pistons
• Golden State Warriors
• Houston Rockets
• Los Angeles Clippers
• Memphis Grizzlies
• Miami Heat
• Minnesota Timberwolves
• New Orleans Pelicans
• Oklahoma City Thunder
• Portland Trail Blazers
• Utah Jazz

FAQ

Who are the top start candidates for Week 23?

The top start candidates for Week 23 include Stephon Castle, Ziaire Williams, Naji Marshall, P.J. Washington, Alex Sarr, and Nick Richards.

Who should be sat this week?

Players to sit this week include Bradley Beal, Lauri Markkanen, and Chet Holmgren.

Which teams have the most games this week?

Teams with four games this week include the Brooklyn Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Dallas Mavericks, and others. Teams with three games include the Atlanta Hawks, Boston Celtics, and others.

Did You Know?

Stephon Castle, the fourth overall pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, has shown remarkable improvement and consistency, making him a valuable asset for fantasy managers.

Pro Tips

When making start/sit decisions, consider the player’s recent performance, injury status, and team schedule. Always prioritize players with consistent production and minimal injury risks.

Reader Questions

Do you have any specific players you’re unsure about starting or sitting this week? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Conclusion

Week 23 of the fantasy basketball season is filled with critical decisions. By following our start and sit recommendations, you can maximize your roster’s potential and stay competitive. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the season progresses.

Call to Action

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