Top Power Forwards Available for Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire

Navigating the fantasy basketball waiver wire is crucial for success, especially with the myriad of games, injuries, and lineup changes throughout the season. To maximize your fantasy roster, it’s essential to scout for valuable players available in free agency.

Being open to competition for the last roster spots can be rewarding, as it allows you to secure players who contribute meaningfully to your team’s performance. When assessing potential additions to your roster, consider the available talent in free agency as direct competitors to your bench players.

The aim of this weekly series is to highlight players at each position who are widely available in free agency in ESPN leagues. Some players excel in specific categories, while others offer a broader range of statistical contributions. Below, I’ve ranked players at each position based on their priority for acquisition, rather than their roster percentage in ESPN leagues.

Point Guard

1. Immanuel Quickley, Toronto Raptors (69.7%): Quickley’s recent surge in stats is notable, particularly with Scottie Barnes sidelined. With 31 assists in his last three starts, Quickley’s role as a scorer and creator makes him a must-add player across formats.
2. Keyonte George, Utah Jazz (15.1%): Despite a veteran-heavy backcourt, George has taken charge of the Jazz offense, showcasing his scoring and passing abilities, making him a promising fantasy option.
3. Kyle Lowry, Philadelphia 76ers (11.3%): Lowry’s increased minutes due to injuries have led to impressive passing numbers and respectable three-point shooting, making him a valuable fantasy asset.

Shooting Guard

1. Josh Hart, New York Knicks (54.0%): Hart’s versatility and solid rebounding have translated into significant fantasy value, especially with increased responsibilities due to injuries within the team.
2. Bennedict Mathurin, Indiana Pacers (21.7%): Mathurin’s scoring prowess combined with improved defense and passing make him a player worth considering, especially with growing trust from the coaching staff.
3. Jordan Goodwin, Memphis Grizzlies (2.6%): Goodwin’s arrival from the Nets has provided the Grizzlies with valuable steals and passing skills, making him a viable option in deeper fantasy leagues.

Small Forward

1. Vince Williams Jr., Memphis Grizzlies (28.8%): Despite some fluctuations in production, Williams’ significant workload makes him a valuable addition to fantasy rosters, especially in leagues requiring multi-category contributions.
2. Royce O’Neale, Phoenix Suns (33.1%): O’Neale’s two-way playmaking skills and increased playing time make him a consistent contributor in fantasy leagues, particularly with his rising minutes.
3. Trey Murphy III, New Orleans Pelicans (17.5%): Murphy’s 3-and-D profile aligns well with category-driven fantasy formats, making him a solid choice for fantasy managers seeking specific statistical contributions.

Power Forward

1. Cameron Johnson, Brooklyn Nets (58.4%): Johnson’s recent performances as a volume shooter highlight his potential as a high-impact fantasy player, especially for teams in need of three-point shooting.
2. Kelly Olynyk, Toronto Raptors (15.5%): Olynyk’s unique role as a facilitator in the high post, coupled with increased opportunities in the absence of Barnes, makes him a valuable asset for fantasy teams looking beyond scoring.
3. Taylor Hendricks, Utah Jazz (3.1%): Hendricks’ growing role in the absence of key players presents an opportunity for fantasy managers to capitalize on his potential contributions, especially considering the team’s shifting dynamics.
4. Jabari Walker, Portland Trail Blazers (2.7%): Walker’s emergence in Portland’s experimental lineup configurations, combined with his NBA pedigree, positions him as a promising fantasy prospect, particularly in leagues favoring young talent.

Center

1. Marvin Bagley III, Washington Wizards (19.4%): Bagley’s improving performance and increased playing time following the trade to the Wizards make him a valuable addition for fantasy managers seeking scoring and rebounding.
2. Wendell Carter Jr., Orlando Magic (43.4%): Carter’s recent uptick in playing time and production, particularly in scoring and rebounding, presents an opportunity for fantasy managers to capitalize on his contributions, despite limited rim protection.

Specialists

For specific category needs, consider these specialists:

• 3-pointers: Malik Beasley (8.8%) of the Bucks provides valuable floor spacing, ranking second in added 3-point value on the Player Rater behind Stephen Curry.
• Steals: Ausar Thompson (46.3%) and Amen Thompson (21.4%) of the Pelicans excel defensively, ranking in the top seven for added steal value.
• Rebounds: Andre Drummond (15.1%) of the Hornets offers elite rebounding, while Nick Richards (11.8%) provides solid production on the boards for Charlotte.
• Blocks: Despite decreased minutes, Precious Achiuwa (19.5%) of the 76ers continues to provide rim protection, while Paul Reed (8.2%) is a reliable option in Philadelphia’s frontcourt rotation.

By actively monitoring the waiver wire and identifying players who can address specific needs, fantasy managers can strengthen their rosters and enhance their chances of success throughout the season.