FANTASY BASKETBALL Daily Show: Week 7 (Feb 6th – Feb 13th)

FANTASY BASKETBALL Daily Show: Week 7 (Feb 6th – Feb 13th)

By: Muntradamus

This article will be updated every day this week. Saturday and Sunday are specifically designed for Q&A, though questions will be answered throughout the week.

Last Updated: 2/11/12 (am)

In this column, Muntradamus will share Fantasy Basketball Observations that you can take or leave to help your team get better.  Feel free to ask questions, our experts will answer them. Check this page daily to see what I have to say about your players.

(For a Recap of all the Fantasy Players up to date Prt. 1)
(For a Recap of all the Fantasy Players up to date Prt. 2)
(Trade Market)

Articles coming this week:

(Daily Player Rankings)
(Waiver Wire)
More Coming…

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Monday (2/6/12)

Los Angeles Lakers 90 @ Philadelphia 76ers 95

LAL:

• Kobe Bryant (28 Points, 6 Assists, 5 Rebounds, 4 3PTM)
• Andrew Bynum (20 Points, 20 Rebounds, 3 Blocks)
• Pau Gasol (16 Points, 11 Rebounds, 1 Block)

Kobe Bryant continues to play like the #1 Guard in all of fantasy.  His scoring is elite, and then he throws Lebron type numbers everywhere else.  Andrew Bynum is starting to get more involved in the offense and now has scored 20 Points or more in 5 straight games.  Pau Gasol will continue to have good games as long as the Lakers remains a three man fantasy basketball team.

PHI:

• Jrue Holiday (13 Points, 6 Assists, 3 Steals, 36 Minutes)
• Lou Williams (24 Points, 3 3PTM, 4 Assists, 7/12 FG, 25 Minutes)
• Evan Turner (8 Points, 3 Rebounds, 22 Minutes)
• Jodie Meeks (9 Points, 3 3PTM, 24 Minutes)
• Andre Iguodala (12 Points, 5 Assists, 4 Rebounds, 1 3PTM)
• Spencer Hawes (8 Points, 5 Assists, 5 Rebounds)
• Thaddeus Young (9 Points, 2 Steals)
• Elton Brand (DNP)

Jrue Holiday continues to get a majority of the minutes for Philly and continues to put up disappointing lines.  Eventually he will breakout.  Lou Williams is a scoring machine, Evan Turner is inconsistent off the bench, and Jodie continues to start.  Nothing has changed in the 76ers back court.  Andre Iguodala continues to help in the assist department, while Spencer Hawes is barely keeping his fantasy value alive.  Signs are not looking great for him to continue his hot streak.  Elton Brand did not play for the second straight game, and Thaddeus Young came off the bench to do nothing.  If you own a 76er patience is the key with just about all of them.

Los Angeles Clippers 107 @ Orlando Magic 102

LAC:

• Chris Paul (29 Points, 8 Assists, 7 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 3 3PTM)
• Chauncey Billups (18 Points, 3 Assists, 5 3PTM)
• Blake Griffin (18 Points, 10 Rebounds, 1 Block, 1 Steal)
• DeAndre Jordan (8 Points, 8 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 0 Blocks)
• Caron Butler (14 Points, 3 Steals, 4 3PTM)
• Mo Williams (32 Minutes, 9 Points, 4 Assists, 1 3PTM)

Chris Paul will play like a 1^st round pick if the Clippers play in close games.  Chauncey Billups and Mo Williams can co-exist, that is good news for both of their fantasy owners, but the bad news is Chauncey could be out an extended period of time.  Blake Griffin had just another double-double.  DeAndre Jordan had a good game against Dwight Howard, a block would have been nice.  Caron Butler continues to do what he does best which is, 3PTM and steals.

ORL:

• Dwight Howard (33 Points, 14 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 2 Blocks)
• Jason Richardson (20 Points, 3 Assists, 3 3PTM, 1 Steal)
• Jameer Nelson (15 Points, 12 Assists, 1 3PTM, 36 Minutes)
• Ryan Anderson (10 Points, 9 Rebounds, 2 3PTM)
• Hedo Turkoglu (0 Points, 4 Assists, 26 Minutes)
• J.J. Reddick (26 Minutes, 8 Points, 4 Assists, 2 3PTM)

Dwight Howard is by far the most dominant player in the NBA.  Nobody can guard him.  Jameer Nelson came back for a huge game.  That conditioning problem, was no problem as he played 36 Minutes.  Ryan Anderson continues to be semi-inconsistent.  Hedo Turkolgu proved that he can never be counted on, while Jason Richardson is starting to heat up with his 3^rd straight big game.  The Magic could definitely use his scoring, and if you need a SG short term, J-Rich is hot.

Toronto Raptors 108 @ Washington Wizards 111

TOR:

• Jerryd Bayless (30 Points, 2 Steals, 3 Assists, 6 3PTM, 9/23 FG)
• Jose Calderon (3 Points, 4 Assists, 1 3PTM, 35 Minutes)
• DeMar DeRozan (15 Points, 4 Rebounds, 1 Block)
• James Johnson (10 Points, 6 Assists, 0 Steals, 0 Blocks)
• Amir Johnson (21 Minutes, 6 Points, 10 Rebounds)
• Ed Davis (16 Minutes, 0 Points, 3 Rebounds)
• Leandro Barbosa (10 Minutes, 2 Points)
• Linas Kleiza (30 Points, 4 3PTM, 5 Rebounds)
• Andrea Bargnani (DNP)

Jerryd Bayless broke out for a huge night.  There will be plenty of nights like this for the great scoring guard out of Arizona.  Jose Calderon is holding onto his fantasy value by a thread, I would trade him when the chance comes.  DeMar DeRozan continues to put up decent numbers just because the team does not have a true #1 option right now.  That will change when Andrea Bargnani comes back.  James Johnson is starting to look bad with these steal and block problems, though he is quietly averaging 5 assists in his last two games.  Ed Davis continues to be a bench warmer, while Amir Johnson grabbed 9 offensive rebounds off the bench and should be starting for Aaron Gray.  Gray is not a fantasy option.  Linas Kleiza had his second explosion off the bench, but unless he does it again soon there is nothing to look into.

WASH:

• John Wall (31 Points, 7 Assists, 5 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, 2 Steals)
• Nick Young (29 Points, 2 3PTM, 1 Steal, 5 Rebounds)
• Jordan Crawford (13 Points, 3 Rebounds, 26 Minutes)
• Trevor Booker (19 Points, 3 Steals, 3 Blocks, 4 Rebounds, 44 Minutes)
• Javale McGee (8 Points, 8 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block)

John Wall continues to remind us that his fantasy value is great when the Wizards are competitive.  Better than great, elite.  Nick Young has been a scoring machine for Washington all season and now is averaging a solid 17.3 per game.  Jordan Crawford tries to be the explosive scorer off the bench but his FG% this season is a mere 38.1%.  He never has been a great shooter in his career, but the volume is there.  Javale McGee reminds me of DeAndre Jordan, while Trevor Booker is a solid short term fantasy option as the Wizards live life without Andray Blatche for a couple more weeks.

Chicago Bulls 108 @ New Jersey Nets 87

CHI:

• Derrick Rose (4 Points, 10 Minutes)
• Luol Deng (19 Points, 2 Steals, 2 Rebounds, 3 3PTM)
• Carlos Boozer (24 Points, 6 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 1 Steal)
• Joakim Noah (9 Points, 12 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, 1 Steal)
• C.J. Watson (14 Points, 11 Assists, 7 Rebounds, 2 Steals)

If Derrick Rose has to  miss anytime because of his back injury, C.J. Watson would be an excellent plug-n-play for that game.  Carlos Boozer came back with a monster performance after having a very bad game over the weekend.  Joakim Noah continues to get near double-double numbers while Luoul Deng is 2/2 in good games since coming back.  If his wrist starts to bother him he could call it quits, so far so good.

NJN:

• Deron Williams (25 Points, 5 Assists)
• Anthony Morrow (DNP)
• MarShon Brooks (DNP)
• Brook Lopez (DNP)
• Kris Humphries (10 Points, 9 Rebounds, 1 Steal)
• Jordan Farmar (11 Points, 5 Assists)

Deron Williams did what he can against one of the toughest defenses in the NBA.  He also had very little help as Kris Humphries was the only normal healthy starter.  Humphries is a solid fantasy option, but his value will take a hit when Brook Lopez comes back soon.  Jordan Farmar was solid off the bench and remains a good insurance policy for Deron Williams’s owners.

Phoenix Suns 99 @ Atlanta Hawks 90

PHX:

• Steve Nash (24 Points, 11 Assists, 4 3PTM)
• Jared Dudley (10 Points, 1 3PTM)
• Marcin Gortat (8 Points, 9 Rebounds, 1 Block)
• Channing Frye (8/16 FG, 19 Points, 9 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, 3 3PTM)
• Markieff Morris (7 Points, 7 Rebounds, 3 Blocks, 1 Steal)
• Grant Hill (2 Points, 5 Rebounds, 30 Minutes)

Channing Frye broke out for the second time in as many weeks.  If he show some consistency Frye would be an excellent piece to your championship puzzle.  Steve Nash continues to be up elite numbers with a poor team.  Grant Hill is really worthless and is making the Suns a worse team.  Markieff Morris had a nice game off the bench, but his minutes will be limited if Frye starts to heat up.  Marcin Gortat did not get a double-double.  The last time that happened was Jan 27^th and the time before that was Jan 2^nd.  So just consider this a hiccup.  Jared Dudley is now 3/4 as far as having good starts after this clunker.

ATL:

• Joe Johnson (17 Points, 2 Steals, 2 3PTM)
• Josh Smith (18 Points, 5 Assists, 3 Rebounds, 2 Steals)
• Jeff Teague (6 Points, 1 Assist, 28 Minutes)
• Kirk Hinrich (4 Points, 2 Assists, 20 Minutes)
• Zaza Pachulia (7 Points, 8 Rebounds, 3 Steals, 1 Block)
• Marvin Williams (8 Points, 5 Rebounds)

Joe Johnson did not score 20 Points, and the result was another loss.  The team is 10-1 when he scores 20+ in a game.  Josh Smith had an all around good fantasy game, owners want more however.  Jeff Teague had a typical clunker, the good news is Kirk Hinrich did nothing to impress.  Zaza had a nice game, while Marvin Williams is close to waiver wire material again.

Utah 88 @ New York Knicks 99

Utah:

• Al Jefferson (22 Points, 4 Rebounds, 3 Assists, 1 Block)
• Paul Millsap (9 Points, 13 Rebounds, 6 Fouls)
• Devin Harris (9 Points, 4 Assists, 2 Steals, 30 Minutes)
• Earl Watson (1 Steal, 19 Minutes)
• Raja Bell (34 Minutes, 15 Points, 4 Rebounds, 2 3PTM)
• Gordon Hayward (14 Points, 4 Rebounds, 4 Assists, 1 Steal, 1 Block)
• Derrick Favors (8 Points, 3 Rebounds, 19 Minutes)
• Josh Howard (2 Points, 15 Minutes)

Al Jefferson continues to score very consistently for a center.  It would be nice to see more than 4 Rebounds.  Paul Millsap was battling foul trouble all game, but still managed to grab 13 Rebounds.  Devin Harris outplayed Earl Watson who did absouletley nothing.  Both are not great fantasy option.  Raja Bell had a good game for him, while Josh Howard and C.J. Miles have been pushed to the bench.  Gordon Hayward was decent, fantasy owners who just picked him up would expect a little more scoring.  Derrick Favors owners continue to be patient for an injury.

NYK:

• Jeremy Lin (28 Points, 8 Assists, 8 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 1 3PTM)
• Amar’e Stoudemire (DNP)
• Camrelo Anthony (6 Minutes, 2 Points)
• Tyson Chandler (10 Points, 7 Rebounds, 3 Blocks, 2 Steals)
• Iman Shumpert (32 Minutes, 8 Points, 6 Rebounds, 6 Assists, 3 Steals, 1 Block)
• Landry Fields (6 Points, 5 Rebounds, 44 Minutes)
• Jared Jefferies (34 Minutes, 13 Points, 8 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 1 Block)

Carmelo Anthony may be out for a week or two, which continues to allow Jeremy Lin to breakout as the star player for this team.  After this performance, and the news that Baron Davis has a setback, it is time to pick up Lin.  You can see what I wrote about him coming into this week in the last waiver wire.  Iman Shumpert will continue to see good minutes while Melo is out, and Tyson Chandler should really start to pick up his offensive game with the big gap of shot attempts.  Jared Jefferies had a nice start in Amar’e Stoudemire’s place, but that cannot be counted on every night.  Landry Fields will get minutes, no guarantee he does much with them.

 

Sacramento Kings 100 @ New Orleans Hornets 92

SAC:

• Tyreke Evans (20 Points, 5 Rebounds, 4 Assists)
• Marcus Thornton (12 Points, 3 Assists, 1 Steal, 2 3PTM)
• DeMarcus Cousins (28 Points, 19 Rebounds, 3 Blocks, 1 Steal)
• John Salmons (29 Minutes, 10 Points)
• Jason Thompson (17 Minutes, 4 Points, 2 Rebounds, 4 Fouls)
• Isaiah Thomas (26 Minutes, 17 Points, 6 Assists, 5 Rebounds)
• Chuck Hayes (25 Minutes, 2 Points, 6 Rebounds)

Tyreke Evans value is not the same elite value it once was a couple weeks ago.  DeMarcus Cousins is on a huge hot streak as many teams do not have players that can stop him.  Only he can stop himself with dumb plays that put him in foul trouble.  Marcus Thornton had a bad scoring night, he is a bit inconsistent.  John Salmons is worthless, while Isaiah Thomas would have some serious value if the Kings played him consistently.  Jason Thompson and Chuck Hayes combined for a mediocre game as Thompson dealt with foul trouble.

NOH:

• Jarrett Jack (DNP)
• Greivis Vasquez (20 Points, 9 Assists, 40 Minutes)
• Emeka Okafor (19 Points, 7 Rebounds, 1 Steal)
• Marco Belinelli (18 Points, 4 Assists, 2 3PTM)
• Trevor Ariza (11 Points, 6 Rebounds, 4 Assists, 2 Steals, 1 Block)
• Chris Kaman (10 Points, 12 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, 23 Minutes)
• Gustavo Ayon (4 Points, 9 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, 1 Steal, 33 Minutes)
• Carl Landry (DNP)

Jarrett Jack was a scratch with the knee injury, which allowed Greivis Vasquez to have another huge fantasy night.  His value should still be fine as long as they play the 6’6 guard at the 2 spot.  Emeka Okafor had his first nice game since, Jan 21^st.  His fantasy owners were happy to see  Carl Landry go down, and the same can be said about Chris Kaman owners who saw a guy that many have dropped rack up a double-double in very limited minutes.  Kaman is the best post player on this team, and it will be in no time they put Gustavo Ayon and his hustle stats on the bench.  Trevor Ariza owners have to be satisfied with a line like this, not much value here.  Belinelli may have done enough damage to hurt Jack’s value when he returns, as he could create a log jam in the back court.

San Antonio Spurs 89 @ Memphis Grizzlies 84

SAS:

• Tim Duncan (19 Points, 17 Rebounds, 5 Blocks, 2 Steals, 32 Minutes)
• Tony Parker (21 Points, 7 Assists, 3 Steals)
• Tiago Splitter (14 Points, 6 Rebounds, 1 Steal)
• Manu Ginobili (DNP)
• Kawhi Leonard (4 Points, 28 Minutes)
• Richard Jefferson (5 Points, 19 Minutes)

Tim Duncan is playing amazing basketball right now.  Reminds me of the days when him and T-Mac were the best fantasy players to own, which means you should trade Duncan for a quality star such as Steve Nash or a modest upgrade such as Chris Bosh.  It is hard to imagine Duncan playing this well all season, especially when the schedule starts to bunch up.  Manu Ginobili will ruin the value of both Richard Jefferson and Kawhi Leonard.  Though both of their values are already ruined.  Tiago Splitter is a great option off the bench, and unless an injury occurs he should be on your bench or the waiver wire.  Tony Parker remains Tony Parker.

MEM:

• Mike Conley (19 Points, 8 Assists, 6 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 3PTM)
• Marc Gasol (22 Points, 9 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 2 Blocks)
• Rudy Gay (9/26 FG, 18 Points, 8 Rebounds, 4 Steals)
• O.J. Mayo (3/15 FG, 9 Points, 3 Steals, 1 Block, 6 Rebounds)
• Tony Allen (DNP)
• Zach Randolph (DNP)

Rudy Gay shot the ball like the world was going to end tomorrow.  His fantasy owners in non FG% leagues are happy with the outcome, but you have to expect more.  Marc Gasol had another beastly game, his value will take a hit when Zach Randolph returns soon.  O.J. Mayo had no Tony Allen to compete with, but he did not take advantage of the situation shooting 20% from the field.  Mike Conley had a good bounce back game and is looking to show off his most improved player of the year attributes.

Houston Rockets 99 @ Denver Nuggets 90

HOU:

• Kyle Lowry (20 Points, 5 3PTM, 6 Assists, 4 Rebounds, 1 Steal)
• Kevin Martin (8 Points, 4 Assists, 1/9 FG)
• Luis Scola (25 Points, 8 Rebounds, 2 Steals)
• Samuel Dalembert (2 Points, 1 Steal, 7 Minutes)
• Patrick Patterson (4 Points, 3 Rebounds, 28 Minutes)
• Courtney Lee (32 Minutes, 10 Points, 5 Rebounds)
• Chase Budinger (16 Points, 5 Rebounds, 4 3PTM, 27 Minutes)
• Chandler Parsons (16 Minutes, 2 Points, 2 Steals, 2 Blocks)

Kyle Lowry is back to his old ways of being Jason Kidd 2.0.  Kevin Martin is in a huge funk which makes him a great buy-low candidate.  Luis Scola is 3/3 with good games in a row.  With Samuel Dalembert getting benched for ineffectiveness, Scola remains an intriguing fantasy option.  Patrick Patterson has the best opportunity to play center while Jordan Hill sits, but Jordan Hill is the man I would pick up.  Courtney Lee is getting good minutes off the bench, and Chase Budinger is bringing good production off the bench.  Unfortunately for both of them, it is Chandler Parsons who starts making them all worthless in fantasy.

DEN:

• Ty Lawson (13 Points, 7 Assists, 1 Steal)
• Danilo Gallinari (14 Points, 2 Rebounds, 20 Minutes)
• Andre Miller (31 Minutes, 12 Points, 3 Assists)
• Al Harrington (33 Minutes, 5/16 FG, 12 Points, 15 Rebounds, 1 Steal)
• Rudy Fernandez (35 Minutes, 5/13 FG, 14 Points)
• Nene Hilario (DNP- Heel)
• Aaron Afflalo (DNP-CD)

Danilo Gallinari has been diagnosed with a bad ankle injury.  His fantasy owners can only wait to see how long he will be out for.  Ty Lawson is playing at a fraction of the level he was at to start the season, while Andre Miller is not putting up the elite numbers he once was.  I would be patient with both of them.  Al Harrington will continue to have big nights as long as Nene remains injured.

Oklahoma City Thunder 111 @ Portland Trail Blazers 107

OKC:

• Kevin Durant (33 Points, 7 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 1 Steal, 1 Block, 2 3PTM)
• Russell Westbrook (21 Points, 11 Rebounds, 8 Assists, 2 Steals)
• Serge Ibaka (12 Points, 13 Rebounds, 4 Blocks, 2 Steals)
• James Harden (19 Points, 4 Rebounds, 1 Block, 1 3PTM)

Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook continue to both play like 1^st round picks.  Serge Ibaka is playing like a monster as he is now entrenched as their best front court player by far.  James Harden continues to be a solid source of points off the bench.

POR:

• Raymond Felton (DNP)
• Jamal Crawford (17 Points, 5 Assists, 6/18 FG, 1 Steal, 1 Block)
• Wesley Matthews (37 Minutes, 18 Points, 2 Steals, 4 Assists)
• LaMarcus Aldridge (39 Points, 6 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block)
• Gerald Wallace (4 Points, 5 Rebounds, 4 Assists)
• Nicolas Batum (13 Points, 3 Rebounds, 3 Steals, 1 Block, 1 3PTM)
• Marcus Camby (8 Points, 15 Rebounds)

No Raymond Felton opened up the door for a free for all with the scoring.  LaMarcus Aldridge dominated with 39 Points, he has been an elite source all season long.  Jamal Crawford had a nice game as the start PG, he is good enough to start in all fantasy leagues despite coming off the bench when the team is healthy.  Wesley Matthews scoring only went up a tad with no Felton. Nicolas Batum could not follow up his dominate performance with only 13 Points, the intangibles were nice.  Gerald Wallace is free falling, while Marcus Camby has resurrected his career after a slow start.

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Tuesday (2/7/12)

Utah Jazz 99 @ Indiana Pacers 104

UTA:

• Al Jefferson (16 Points, 8 Rebounds, 3 Assists, 2 Blocks)
• Paul Millsap (18 Points, 10 Rebounds, 4 Assists)
• Derrick Favors (17 Minutes, 10 Points, 5 Rebounds, 1 Block)
• Devin Harris (11 Points, 3 Assists, 2 Steals, 26 Minutes)
• Earl Watson (0 Points, 7 Assists, 2 Blocks, 1 Steal, 22 Minutes)
• C.J. Miles (12 Points, 25 Minutes)
• Gordon Hayward (11 Points, 24 Minutes)
• Raja Bell (7 Points, 21 Minutes)
• Josh Howard (8 Points, 27 Minutes)

We officially have a SG/SF jam in Utah.  Same can be said about the PG spot as well.  The only safe fantasy plays on this team continue to be Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap.  Neither of the other players are solid fantasy options.  Though Devin Harris, Derrick Favors, and maybe Earl Watson should all be owned, Watson only if you’re desperate for assists.

IND:

• Darren Collison (25 Points, 5 Assists, 4 Rebounds)
• Paul George (14 Points, 3 Steals, 5 Rebounds, 2 3PTM)
• Danny Granger (16 Points, 5 Rebounds, 1 Steal)
• David West (30 Minutes, 8 Points, 6 Rebounds, 1 Block)
• Roy Hibbert (17 Points, 10 Rebounds, 4 Blocks)
• Tyler Hansbrough (19 Minutes, 8 Points, 3 Rebounds)
• George Hill (DNP)

Darren Collison had a huge game for the Pacers and looks to be a great start while George Hill is out.  Paul George is putting up some nice fantasy lines in hidden ways.  Danny Granger is not exploding with the potential he has lately, while Roy Hibbert is playing amazing basketball all season.  David West continues to hold Tyler Hansbrough to the bench.

Charlotte Bobcats 84 @ Boston Celtics 94

CHA:

• Kemba Walker (16 Points, 7 Rebounds, 2 Assists, 1 3PTM)
• Reggie Williams (21 Points, 5 Assists, 3 Rebounds, 2/8 3PTM)
• Bismack Biyombo (21 Minutes, 3 Points, 2 Rebounds)
• Boris Diaw (30 Minutes, 4 Points, 6 Rebounds, 3 Assists)
• Tyrus Thomas (2 Points, 3 Rebounds, 1 Block, 20 Minutes)
• Derrick Brown (28 Minutes, 10/10 FG, 20 Points, 4 Rebounds)
• Byron Mullens (26 Minutes, 11 Points, 6 Rebounds, 2 Steals)

Reggie Williams is ready to be added in all leagues.  He looks to be their go-to-guy along with Kemba Walker for most of the night.  Derrick Brown is a potential risk for Williams, but I see him effecting Boris Diaw and Tyrus Thomas much more.  Bismack Biyombo disappointed while Byron Mullens was semi-decent.  Right now both should be on the waiver wire, with Biyombo having more upside.  The change of offense and style is making it seem like Gerald Henderson is going to have a tough time getting back in this rotation.  You can drop him if you see a Free Agent you like, such as Reggie Williams.

BOS:

• Rajon Rondo (10 Points, 14 Assists, 1 Steal)
• Paul Pierce (15 Points, 9 Assists, 8 Rebounds, 2 3PTM)
• Kevin Garnett (22 Points, 7 Rebounds, 1 Block)
• Ray Allen (17 Points, 1 Steal, 1 3PTM)
• Brandon Bass (28 Minutes, 13 Points, 3 Rebounds, 1 Steal)

Paul Pierce is continuing his impressive play, and has officially passed Larry Bird as the all-time Celtic points leader.  Nice to have a future hall-of-fame player on your fantasy roster.  Kevin Garnett will also most likely be in the hall-of-fame especially with the season he is having this late into his career.  He is playing like a refreshed player.  Rajon Rondo continues to be solid since coming back from his wrist injury.  Ray Allen has had better nights with his 3PT shot, while Brandon Bass looks to be a better bench option in fantasy leagues right now.

Cleveland Cavaliers 91 @ Miami Heat 107

CLE:

• Kyrie Irving (16 Points, 6 Rebounds, 6 Assists, 2 Steals, 2 3PTM)
• Antwan Jamison (25 Points, 9 Rebounds, 2 3PTM, 2 Steals)
• Anderson Varejao (11 Points, 11 Rebounds, 3 Steals)
• Ramon Sessions (30 Minutes, 9 Points, 5 Rebounds, 4 Assists)
• Alonzo Gee (17 Points, 2 Steals, 1 Block, 1 3PTM, 35 Minutes)

Antwan Jamison is playing the best basketball right now then he has played all season.  His value is extremely high right now and you could probably get Chris Bosh for him if you are tempted.  Kyrie Irving continues to be a solid option, especially as a rookie.  Anderson Varejao is playing the best basketball of his career, while Ramon Sessions continues to come off the bench during the peak of his.  A trade is likely for Sessions.  Alonzo Gee is an interesting fantasy player to watch as he is now the starting SG for the Cavs.

MIA:

• Dwayne Wade (26 Points, 6 Assists, 4 Rebounds, 3 Steals, 1 Block)
• Lebron James (24 Points, 6 Assists, 5 Rebounds, 2 Steals)
• Chris Bosh (15 Points, 9 Rebounds, 1 Block)
• Mario Chalmers (14 Points, 4 Assists, 4 3PTM, 1 Steal)

Dwayne Wade had the breakout night his fantasy owners were waiting for.  Though Wade is capable of way more than this.  Lebron James had a good fantasy night against his old team.  His owners would expect more against the Cavs.  Chris Bosh remains a decent option, but his fantasy owners expect more as well.  Mario Chalmers is a decent option, his value would be higher if there was an injury to the big three.

Phoenix Suns 107 @ Milwaukee Bucks 105

PHX:

• Steve Nash (18 Points, 11 Assists, 1 Steal, 2 3PTM)
• Marcin Gortat (21 Points, 9 Rebounds, 1 Steal)
• Jared Dudley (28 Minutes, 19 Points, 4 Rebounds, 3 3PTM)
• Grant Hill (32 Minutes, 13 Points, 5 Assists, 4 Rebounds)
• Channing Frye (14 Points, 5 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, 2 3PTM, 27 Minutes)
• Michael Redd (14 Points, 19 Minutes)
• Markieff Morris (2 Points, 2 Steals, 1 Block, 20 Minutes)
• Josh Childress (12 Rebounds, 0 Points, 15 Minutes)

Steve Nash and Marcin Gortat are the only players on this Suns roster who you can say are safe fantasy plays every night.  Jared Dudley is 4/5 with good starts after tonight, but Michael Redd is going to eat into his playing time if he continues to play well.  Grant Hill had a decent night and his owners have to be worried about Josh Childress.  Channing Frye was in foul trouble but still had a big night and looks to be way ahead of Markieff Morris for that PF spot.

MIL:

• Brandon Jennings (1/4 FG, 3 Points, 5 Rebounds, 4 Assists, 28 Minutes)
• Drew Gooden (25 Points, 4 Rebounds, 1 Block, 12/21 FG)
• Mike Dunleavy (17 Points, 37 Minutes, 4 3PTM)
• Ersan Illysova (33 Minutes, 17 Points, 12 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, 1 3PTM)
•  Stephen Jackson (30 Minutes, 4/12 FG, 12 Points, 4 Assists, 2 3PTM)

I am going to list these Bucks as the only Bucks that are worth owning in fantasy.  Mike Dunleavy should be starting over Shaun Livingston and Carlos Delfino any day.  Same situation goes for Stephen Jackson.  Ersan Illysova has great potential in fantasy leagues, especially if Drew Gooden goes through a cold streak.  Brandon Jennings fantasy value is heading down as he has not been himself sine the 40+ Point performance against Miami last week.  Time to buy low.

Sacramento Kings 84 @ Minnesota Timberwolves 86

SAC:

• Marcus Thornton (22 Points, 4 Rebounds, 3 3PTM)
• Tyreke Evans (11 Points, 4 Assists, 3 Rebounds, 1 3PTM)
• DeMarcus Cousins (3/13 FG, 10 Points, 11 Rebounds, 5 Fouls)
• Jason Thompson (24 Minutes, 7 Points, 3 Rebounds)
• John Salmons (7 Points, 25 Minutes)
• Donte Greene (11 Points, 23 Minutes)
• Jimmer Fredette (13 Points, 3 3PTM, 17 Minutes)

Tyreke Evans is losing his fantasy value quickly with Marcus Thornton back as the #1 scorer for this offense.  Hopefully you sold high when I warned you earlier.  DeMarcus Cousins had a nice game with foul trouble, that is encouraging for his fantasy owners.  Jason Thompson played little minutes while Cousins was in foul trouble, which is bad news.  John Salmons was outplayed by Donte Greene who is suppose to be a special player.  Neither are great players to own right now in the fantasy basketball world.  Jimmer is best left for the waiver wire, but he is showing his scoring potential.

MIN:

• Kevin Love (DNP-Suspension)
• Nikola Pekovic (23 Points, 10 Rebounds, 3 Steals, 2 Blocks)
• Ricky Rubio (6 Points, 5 Steals, 14 Assists, 6 Rebounds)
• Luke Ridnour (8 Points, 6 Rebounds, 31 Minutes)
• Derrick Williams (26 Minutes, 14 Points, 8 Rebounds, 3 Blocks, 1 Steal)
• Michael Beasley (30 Minutes, 7/21 FG, 17 Points, 14 Rebounds, 1 3PTM)

Kevin Love’s DNP opened up the door for Derrick Williams to draw the start.  He had a great performance and as great as it was, it is hard to be excited as his fantasy value is completely up in the air when Love returns.  For now continue to roll with the rookie in these two games, and if you can sell high.  Now is the time.  Ricky Rubio continues to rack up steals at a ridiculous rate.  He is averaging 4.66 steals a game in his last three.  Luke Ridnour continues to get enough minutes to justify a roster spot, while Michael Beasley shoots the ball so much it is always a good time to acquire him on your team if you can.  He exceeded his rule (1 shot attempts for every 2 Minutes played).  Oh ya, hopefully you picked up Marcin Gortat 2.0, aka Nikola Pekovic.

Oklahoma City Thunder 119 @ Golden State Warriors 116

OKC:

• Russell Westbrook (31 Points, 7 Assists, 6 Rebounds, 9 TO, 1 3PTM)
• Kevin Durant (33 Points, 10 Rebounds, 7 Assists, 1 Steal, 1 Block)
• Serge Ibaka (7 Points, 6 Rebounds, 0 Blocks, 0 Steals, 27 Minutes)
• James Harden (19 Points, 7 Assists, 4 Steals, 3 3PTM)

Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden took a combined 61 of the teams 84 shot attempts.  All three are excellent consistent fantasy options.  Serge Ibaka had a rough night, but he can easily make up for it any game.

GSW:

• Stephen Curry (16 Points, 10 Assists, 7 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 1 3PTM)
• Monta Ellis (48 Points, 7 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 1 Block, 3 3PTM)
• David Lee (25 Points, 11 Rebounds, 10 Assists)
• Dorrell Wright (9 Points, 6 Rebounds, 4 Assists, 2 Steals, 1 3PTM, 40 Minutes)
• Brandon Rush (27 Minutes, 9 Points, 3 3PTM)

Monta Ellis broke out for the monster performance of the year scoring 48 Points.  That is very Kobe-esk for Monta, who is out to prove he is past his inconsistency hump.  Stephen Curry had a huge night and remains an elite fantasy option as long as he is healthy.  David Lee put up his monster performance of the season as well getting a 3×2 of all things.  Adding 25 Points will make his owners very happy who could be an excellent sell high candidate if you can get DeMarcus Cousins.  Brandon Rush and Dorrell Wright continue to battle, the Warriors are rooting for Wright to win that matchup.

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Wednesday (2/8/12)

Miami Heat 89 @ Orlando Magic 102

MIA:

• Lebron James (17 Points, 10 Assists, 6 Rebounds, 3 Steals, 5/15 FG)
• Dwayne Wade (33 Points, 1 Steal, 3 Blocks, 2 Assists, 15/24 FG)
• Chris Bosh (12 Points, 9 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block, 5/13 FG)
• Mario Chalmers (DNP)
• Norris Cole (9 Points, 4 Assists, 31 Minutes)

Dwayne Wade is starting to really heat up and play like the 1^st round pick his owners had to spend to get him.  Lebron James will find ways to fill the stat sheet if he isn’t scoring around 25+.  Chris Bosh’s value continues to decline, his value is about the range of Antwan Jamison.  Norris Cole did nothing to impress in Mario Chalmers absence.

ORL:

• Dwight Howard (25 Points, 24 Rebounds, 3 Steals, 2 Blocks, 7/10 FT)
• Ryan Anderson (27 Points, 11 Rebounds, 5 3PTM)
• Jason Richardson (32 Minutes, 9 Points, 3 3PTM, 3 Steals, 4 Assists)
• Jameer Nelson (32 Minutes, 12 Points, 2 3PTM, 1 Steal, 0 Assists)
• Hedo Turkoglu (5 Fouls, 3 Points, 7 Assists, 29 Minutes)
• J.J. Reddick (11 Points, 3 3PTM, 16 Minutes)

Dwight Howard is an absolute beast and nobody in the NBA can stop him.  He single handily beat the best team in the Eastern Conference improving his trade value for Orlando.  Jason Richardson had his first bad game in his last four.  He still put up a decent all-around game, and J.J. did nothing to impress off the bench.  Ryan Anderson had a monster night, consistency has been a problem.  Hedo Turkoglu had a decent game racking up 7 Assists, nothing else will make his owners happy.  Jameer had zero assists but proved his conditioning is fine.

Los Angeles Clippers 92 @ Cleveland Cavaliers 99

LAC:

• Chris Paul (16 Points, 12 Assists, 3 Steals)
• Mo Williams (35 Minutes, 5 Points, 3 Assists, 2 Steals)
• Randy Foye (28 Minutes, 15 Points, 2 Assists, 1 Steal)
• Blake Griffin (25 Points, 15 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 9/10 FT)
• DeAndre Jordan (0 Points, 2 Blocks, 4 Rebounds)
• Caron Butler (21 Points, 1 Block)

No more Chauncey Billups for the season means Randy Foye is the new starting SG.  He is a very capable fantasy option and should be added in the majority of leagues right away.  Foye has always thrived when given the opportunity, and he will get the opportunity for the rest of the season.  Blake Griffin is an animal and had another dominant night.  DeAndre Jordan had a bad game, which resulted into Caron Butler eating up enough scoring for the both of them.  Mo Williams had a bad shooting night (2/10) and you can expect him to bounce back as the minutes are there for him.  Chris Paul will have more explosive nights.

CLE:

• Kyrie Irving (DNP-Concussion)
• Anderson Varejao (15 Points, 11 Rebounds, 1 Block)
• Antwan Jamison (10/18 FG, 27 Points, 8 Rebounds, 1 Block, 1 3PTM)
• Daniel Gibson (36 Minutes, 17 Points, 2 Blocks, 1 Steal, 2 3PTM)
• Alonzo Gee (32 Minutes, 2/8 FG, 7 Points)
• Ramon Sessions (40 Minutes, 24 Points, 13 Assists, 1 Steal, 1 Block, 2 3PTM)

No Kyrie Irving meant Ramon Sessions got the chance to show his value for other teams.  By the end of the night his value went up and the Cavs cannot wait to see what they can get in return their trade bait.  His fantasy value is high and will only get higher if he gets traded to a team that needs him.  Antwan Jamison had another nice night and is red hot in four straight games.  Anderson Varejao is solid like always, surprise player of the year.  Alonzo Gee and Daniel Gibson split time tonight.  Gibson has some sleeper value for his 3PTM, but I want to see consistent playing time before adding him.

Milwaukee Bucks 105 @ Toronto Raptors 99

MIL:

• Brandon Jennings (3/12 FG, 1/7 3PTM, 4/8 FT, 4 Assists, 1 Steal)
• Drew Gooden (20 Points, 14 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block, 35 Minutes)
• Mike Dunleavy (32 Minutes, 3 3PTM, 18 Points, 2 Blocks, 1 Steal, 7 Rebounds)
• Stephen Jackson (33 Minutes, 17 Points, 2 3PTM, 3 Assists, 1 Block, 1 Steal)
• Carlos Delfino (25 Points, 4 Steals, 6 3PTM)
• Ersan Illysova (DNP)

Brandon Jennings is in a major funk, and I would use this time to buy low on the stud.  He is too good not to bounce back, and he always goes through this at random times in his career only to come back strong.  Drew Gooden had another monster night, it helped that Illysova was a late scratch.  Carlos Delfino exploded for a huge game that reminded of us his value before the concussion.  The Bucks are pretty stacked at the SG/SF spot with Mike Dunleavy and Stephen Jackson as the better players coming off the bench.  However Delfino gets his opportunities, and now is his time to heat up.

TOR:

• Jerryd Bayless (6 Points, 7 Assists, 1 Block)
• Jose Calderon (9 Points, 15 Assists, 2 Steals)
• DeMar DeRozan (25 Points, 4 Rebounds, 4 3PTM, 1 Steal)
• James Johnson (15 Points, 7 Rebounds, 3 Blocks, 2 Steals, 1 3PTM)
• Amir Johnson (Started, 7 Points, 6 Rebounds, 1 Block)
• Linas Kleiza (12 Points, 8 Rebounds, 3/11 FG, 5 Fouls)
• Ed Davis (6 Points, 7 Rebounds, 3 Steals)
• Leandro Barbosa (11 Points, 14 Minutes)
• Andrea Bargnani (DNP)

DeMar DeRozan is starting to heat up a bit.  He has been very cold for a while, but is now starting to put together some 20 Point games near each other.  He stepped up big tonight because Jerryd Bayless left with an ankle injury, he still put up 7 Assists in less than a full game.  Jose Calderon had a big night, he is scraping up the last of his fantasy value.  The assists are all he brings to the table.  Amir Johnson got the start tonight, nothing to brag about as Ed Davis was more effective from a fantasy standpoint.  Linas Kleiza played well enough where he gets another chance to show his stuff as far as being a fantasy add.  James Johnson showed off his Gerald Wallace 2.0 skills once again.  Leandro Barbosa is instant offense off the bench, looks to hurt Calderon and Bayless throughout the season.

New York Knicks 107 @ Washington Wizards 93

NYK:

• Carmelo Anthony (DNP)
• Amare Stoudemire (DNP)
• Jeremy Lin (23 Points, 10 Assists, 1 Steal, 1 Block)
• Landry Fields (16 Points, 8 Rebounds, 1 Steal)
• Iman Shumpert (37 Minutes, 17 Points, 3 Steals, 4 Rebounds, 1 3PTM)
• Steve Novak (5 3PTM, 19 Points)
• Tyson Chandler (25 Points, 11 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block)

No Carmelo Anthony or Amare Stoudemire, and the Knicks continue to win.  Jeremy Lin should not be on your waiver wire anymore.  Hopefully you grabbed him while you had the chance.  Landry Fields had a solid night, as well as Iman Shumpert.  Both players need to fill the void of the team without their stars.  Tyson Chandler dominated the game down-low which ultimately won the game for the Knicks.  Steve Novak was hot off the bench, this will probably be the best game of his season.

WAS:

• John Wall (12/21 FG, 29 Points, 6 Assists, 2 Steals, 1 Block)
• Nick Young (7 Points, 4 Rebounds, 3/11 FG)
• Javale McGee (8 Points, 3 Blocks, 5 Rebounds)
• Trevor Booker (17 Points, 7 Rebounds, 41 Minutes)
• Jordan Crawford (2/10 FG, 7 Points, 3 Assists, 1 Steal)

John Wall did all he could to lead the Wizards to a victory.  His fantasy owners will appreciate the effort.  Nick Young and Jordan Crawford had terrible shooting nights.  Javale McGee continues to be an inconsistent bust, and Trevor Booker’s value is growing because of it.  Soon Andray Blatche will be back and that should make Booker more inconsistent.

San Antonio Spurs 100 @ Philadelphia 76ers 90

SAS:

• Tony Parker (37 Points, 8 Assists, 1 Steal, 1 Block)
• Tim Duncan (16 Points, 11 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, 1 Steal)
• Tiago Splitter (15 Points, 2 Rebounds, 17 Minutes)
• Gary Neal (4 3PTM, 5 Rebounds, 6 Assists, 18 Points, 30 Minutes)
• Manu Ginobili (DNP)
• Dejuan Blair (6 Points, 6 Rebounds)

The Spurs are turning into a two man fantasy team while Manu Ginobili sits.  Rumor has it he will return by this weekend, hopefully he is not on your fantasy waiver wire.  Otherwise snatch him.  Tony Parker had another huge performance making him an excellent sell high candidate for even Josh Smith quality.  Parker will lose some touches and ball handling duties when Ginobili returns.  Gary Neal had a big night off the bench to prove that Richard Jefferson, and Kawhi Leonard have very little fantasy value left.  Tiago Splitter would be an excellent fantasy option if the red hot Tim Duncan or fat and slow Dejuan Blair were to go down.  Dejuan Blair should be on your waiver wire for good reason.

PHI:

• Jrue Holiday (15 Points, 7 Assists, 1 Steal, 39 Minutes)
• Jodie Meeks (3 Points, 25 Minutes)
• Louis Williams (29 Minutes, 22 Points, 3 3PTM, 4 Assists)
• Evan Turner (4 Points, 3 Assists, 18 Minutes)
• Andre Iguodala (17 Points, 7 Rebounds, 4 Assists, 2 Steals, 1 3PTM)
• Thaddeus Young (31 Minutes, 16 Points, 7 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block)
• Elton Brand (30 Minutes, 11 Points, 13 Rebounds, 3 Blocks)
• Spencer Hawes (DNP)

The guard situation continues to be a headache for fantasy owners, but Louis Williams and Jrue Holiday are starting to separate themselves from the pack.  Jrue gets consistent minutes, while Lou gets consistent scoring.  Thaddeus Young and Elton Brand had big performances while Spencer Hawes sits with his achillies barking up.  Bad fantasy situation for Spencer.  Andre Iguodala is the leader of this team, and put up an all-around typical fantasy performance from Iggy 2000.

Indiana Pacers 87 @ Atlanta Hawks 97

IND:

• Danny Granger (21 Points, 5 Rebounds, 4 Assists, 1 Steal, 3 3PTM)
• Darren Collison (9 Points, 9 Assists, 1 Steal, 1 Block)
• George Hill (DNP)
• Paul George (28 Minutes, 5 Points, 2 Steals, 1/8 FG)
• Roy Hibbert (10 Points, 13 Rebounds)
• David West (15 Points, 6 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 2 Blocks, 7/13 FG)
• Tyler Hansbrough (15 Points, 3 Rebounds, 18 Minutes)

Danny Granger bounced back from his poor scoring numbers to an okay game for him.  He is a great buy low candidate if owners are getting frustfrated with his outcome.  Darren Collison continues to play well in George Hill’s absence.  Paul George proved he still cannot be trusted as a fantasy option as games like this are due to happen for the young stud.  David West had a nice offensive game which limited Roy Hibbert.  Tyler Hansbrough is starting to look good again off the bench, but there is nowhere for him in this lineup.

ATL:

• Joe Johnson (20 Points, 8 Assists, 6 Rebounds, 2 3PTM)
• Josh Smith (28 Points, 12 Rebounds, 5 Steals, 3 Blocks, 2 3PTM)
• Jeff Teague (5 Points, 5 Rebounds, 4 Assists, 1 Block)
• Kirk Hinrich (17 Points, 4 Assists)
• Marvin Williams (5 Points, 7 Rebounds)
• Zaza Pachulia (9 Points, 8 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 1 Block)

Joe Johnson scored 20 Points which pushed the Hawks record to 12-1 when he eclipses that number.  Josh Smith had a monster performance, his fantasy owners were waiting for this one.  Jeff Teague is looking like he may be heading into a timeshare with Kirk Hinrich.  Too bad for the owners who did not sell in time.  Marvin Williams and Zaza Pachulia are average fantasy options at best.

Detroit Pistons 99 @ New Jersey Nets 92

DET:

• Ben Gordon (21 Minutes, 6/7 FG, 14 Points, 2 Steals, 5 Rebounds)
• Rodney Stuckey (12 Point, 2 Steals, 6 Assists, 35 Minutes)
• Brandon Knight (37 Minutes, 13 Points, 4 Assists)
• Greg Monroe (20 Points, 12 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 1 Block)
• Tayshaun Prince (15 Points, 5 Assists, 35 Minutes)
• Austin Daye (7 Minutes, 1 Rebound)

Ben Gordon returned and had a sharp shooting night.  I see this effecting Rodney Stuckey more than Brandon Knight, but either way this is not good for any of their values.  Greg Monroe dominated a team without a center, while Tayshaun Prince eats all of Austin Daye’s fantasy value away.  Austin Daye will be a fantasy basketball force once he gets his minutes back when Prince gets traded or goes down.  They have proved they can co-exist in the lineup together.

NJN:

• Deron Williams (34 Points, 7 Assists, 6 3PTM, 1 Block)
• Kris Humphries (9 Points, 16 Rebounds, 2 Blocks, 1 Steal)
• Anthony Morrow (3/12 FG, 6 Points, 5 Rebounds)
• Jordan Farmar (22 Points, 2 Steals, 8/13 FG, 37 Minutes)
• Brook Lopez (DNP)
• MarShon Brooks (DNP)

Deron Williams is the best fantasy PG right now.  He is consistent with his double digit assist numbers, and can always explode for monster scoring performances such as tonight.  Kris Humphries grabbed a bunch of rebounds, but disappointed with less than double digit scoring.  There is no competition down for touches right now and he needs to dominate.  I would still sell high before Brook Lopez comes back.  Anthony Morrow struggled which opened up the gates for Jordan Farmar to have a big game.  Farmar is great fantasy insurance for Deron Williams.

Chicago Bulls 90 @ New Orleans Hornets 67

CHI:

• Derrick Rose (22 Minutes, 6 Points, 6 Assists, 5 Rebounds)
• Luol Deng (9 Points, 7 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 1 3PTM, 34 Minutes)
• Carlos Boozer (18 Points, 6 Rebounds, 28 Minutes)
• Joakim Noah (29 Minutes, 13 Points, 10 Rebounds, 1 Steal)
• RIP Hamilton (DNP)

Derrick Rose played half the game returning from the back injury.  He should be fine going forward.  Luol Deng had an okay game that was saved by lots of playing time.  Carlos Boozer was a beast offensively, that will make his fantasy owners not worried about any loss of value.  Joakim Noah racked up a double-double in limited minutes.  Rip’s injury is allowing Kyle Korver and Ronnie Brewer to have some short term fantasy success.

NO:

• Jarrett Jack (2/11 FG, 28 Minutes, 4 Points, 1 Steal, 3 Assists)
• Greivis Vasquez (20 Minutes, 5 Points, 4 Assists)
• Chris Kaman (31 Minutes, 6/17 FG, 17 Points, 9 Rebounds, 3 Blocks)
• Emeka Okafor (10 Points, 9 Rebounds, 34 Minutes)
• Trevor Ariza (38 Minutes, 6 Points, 6 Rebounds, 4 Assists)
• Marco Belinelli (31 Minutes, 1 3PTM, 13 Points)
• Eric Gordon (DNP)

The Hornets are a really bad team.  Jarrett Jack did not look good returning from his knee injury.  Greivis Vasquez did not start or see enough playing time off the bench.  Chris Kaman is their best offensive player and he comes off the bench.  Emeka Okafor had another decent game and is two for his last two in that department.  Trevor Ariza gets big minutes and does nothing, while Belinelli is a decent option if you are looking for a cheap source of 3PTM.  He could lose his playing time to Vasquez at any point, and will lose all value once Eric Gordon returns.

Minnesota Timberwolves 80 @ Memphis Grizzlies 85

MIN:

• Kevin Love (DNP-Suspension)
• Ricky Rubio (4 Points, 2 Steals, 7 Rebounds, 1 Assist)
• Luke Ridnour (2 Points, 1/8 FG)
• Nickola Pekovic (10 Points, 9 Rebounds, 1 Steal)
• Derrick Williams (13 Points, 9 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block, 30 Minutes)
• Michael Beasley (27 Minutes, 6/11 FG, 13 Points, 6 Rebounds, 2 Steals)

No Kevin Love to eat up a ton of rebounds, so Ricky Rubio decided to chime in for 7.  He did nothing else special besides that and keep his steal numbers high.  Luke Ridnour will not get good minutes if he can’t bounce back from a game like this.  Nickola Pekovic had a decent game, still Marcin Gortat 2.0 in my eyes.  Derrick Williams real test comes next game when Kevin Love is back in the rotation.  He was better this time around then filling in for Beasley for a few weeks.  Michael Beasley did not shoot the ball as much as he usually does, his line suffered because of it.

MEM:

• Mike Conley (2 Points, 1/8 FG, 7 Assists, 4 Steals)
• Rudy Gay (19 Points, 9 Rebounds, 3 Steals, 1 Block, 9/21 FG)
• Marc Gasol (12 Points, 8 Rebounds, 3 Blocks, 1 Steal, 4/13 FG)
• O.J. Mayo (10 Points, 5 Rebounds, 3/11 FG, 30 Minutes)
• Tony Allen (DNP)
• Zach Randolph (DNP)

O.J. Mayo has been putting up better numbers when Tony Allen plays.  Maybe he likes the competition.  Mike Conley had a bad shooting night but made up for it with his usual assist/steal combo.  Rudy Gay was the offense for the Grizz tonight.  Marc Gasol had a rough game, and his value will take a hit when Zach Randolph returns.  They will not let Gasol shoot the ball all game if he is knocking down around 33% of his shots.

Dallas Maverick 105 @ Denver Nuggets 95

DAL:

• Dirk Nowitzki (25 Points, 9 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block, 1 3PTM)
• Shawn Marion (13 Points, 5 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 2 3PTM)
• Delonte West (9 Points, 7 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 31 Minutes)
• Jason Terry (5 Points, 5 Assists, 2 Steals, 1/9 FG)
• Vince Carter (17 Points, 8 Assists, 2 Steals, 1 Block, 3 3PTM, 29 Minutes)
• Jason Kidd (DNP)
• Lamar Odom (6 Points, 5 Rebounds, 20 Minutes)
• Roddy B. (5/7 FG, 13 Points, 20 Minutes)

The Mavericks are too deep at the guard position.  None of the those fantasy options are safe, and any one of them can be the best player of the night.  I would stay away from that situation as it is deeper than Philly’s guard situation.  Dirk Nowitzki is back, I am a believer and if I could buy him for Antwan Jamison I would be getting a steal of a deal.  Lamar Odom has no value as Shawn Marion is still an important piece to that puzzle.  Marion’s fantasy value has taken a small hit with the return of Dirk.

DEN:

• Ty Lawson (16 Points, 10 Assists, 3 Steals, 2 3PTM)
• Andre Miller (29 Minutes, 11 Points, 7 Rebounds, 6 Assists, 1 Steal)
• Nene Hilario (16 Points, 10 Rebounds, 36 Minutes)
• Al Harrington (34 Minutes, 17 Points, 5 Rebounds, 2 3PTM)
• Aaron Afflalo (12 Points, 2 Assists, 4/12 FG, 34 Minutes)
• Rudy Fernandez (17 Points, 2 3PTM, 29 Minutes)
• Danilo Gallinari (DNP)

Ty Lawson is going to have to step up the most with no Danilo Gallinari in the lineup.  Nene Hilario had his first good game in quite some time.  Aaron Afflalo and Al Harrington are going to get consistent minutes and opportunities with the Nuggets depleted.  Andre Miller is still a great fantasy option, especially with Danilo being out.  Rudy Fernandez is a little hard to trust, but he is working his way up there.  Watch him closely.

Houston Rockets 103 @ Portland Trail Blazers 96

HOU:

• Kyle Lowry (25 Minutes, 12 Points, 5 Assists, 3 Steals, 1 Block, 2 3PTM)
• Kevin Martin (4 Points, 2/5 FG)
• Samuel Dalembert (3 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block, 18 Minutes)
• Luis Scola (12 Points, 2 Rebounds)
• Chandler Parsons (7 Points, 8 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 1 Block)
• Chase Budinger (22 Points, 4 3PTM)
• Courtney Lee (16 Points, 4 3PTM)
• Jordan Hill (16 Minutes, 7 Points, 4 Rebounds)

Somehow the Rockets one this game on the road.  They won this game with Kyle Lowry getting hurt with a hyper-extended elbow, and Kevin Martin their best scorer only getting 4 Points.  Samuel Dalembert was worthless, and Luis Scola had a bad game in a tough matchup.  The triangle slash, is the nickname for Lee, Budinger, and Parsons.  They won this game for Houston.  Neither is good fantasy option, but combined they are elite.  Jordan Hill is on the verge of getting big minutes at the center position.

POR:

• Raymond Felton (9 Points, 6 Assists, 5 TO, 33 Minutes)
• Jamal Crawford (21 Points, 6 Assists, 3 3PTM)
• Wesley Matthews (17 Points, 2 Steals, 1 3PTM)
• LaMarcus Aldridge (13 Points, 5 Rebounds, 3 Steals, 2 Blocks)
• Gerald Wallace (20 Points, 9 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 1 Steal)
• Nicolas Batum (10 Points, 2 3PTM)
• Marcus Camby (2 Steals, 5 Rebounds)

Raymond Felton returned, and Jamal Crawford was still far superior.  I like Crawford a lot as a fantasy option on this Blazer squad.  Wesley Matthews is starting to play decent, but we all know he can come back with a 10 point game.  LaMarcus Aldridge had his worst game in sometime, still not bad with the steals and blocks.  Gerald Wallace had a mini-breakout game and I would take this chance to sell him while I can.  Target a player such as Danny Granger or Chris Bosh.  Nicolas Batum will be inconsistent off the bench, and Marcus Camby will be inconsistent with his age.

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Thursday (2/9/12)

Los Angeles Lakers 88 @ Boston Celtics 87

LAL:

• Kobe Bryant (27 Points, 5 Rebounds, 4 Assists, 11/24 FG)
• Andrew Bynum (16 Points, 17 Rebounds, 3 Blocks, 1 Steal)
• Pau Gasol (25 Points, 14 Rebounds, 2 Blocks)

Pau Gasol was the MVP of the night for LA.  His value as a fantasy player will always be elite as long as the Lakers don’t trade him away.  Andrew Bynum was a monster down low, and Kobe put up typical Kobe numbers.

BOS:

• Rajon Rondo (14 Points, 7 Assists, 2 Steals)
• Ray Allen (22 Points, 2 3PTM, 6 Rebounds, 1 Block, 40 Minutes)
• Paul Pierce (18 Points, 9 Rebounds, 7 Assists, 1 3PTM)
• Kevin Garnett (6/23 FG, 12 Points, 12 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block)
• Brandon Bass (24 Minutes, 8 Points, 5 Rebounds)

Paul Pierce continues to play like an elite option who has more value than Josh Smith.  Ray Allen was solid and is a consistent fantasy contributor.  Rajon Rondo has been a bit of disappointment on a fantasy level so far this season.  Kevin Garnett continues to drink from the fountain of youth and put up 23 FG attempts.  He is so close to center eligibility.  Brandon Bass is best left for the bench until an injury occurs to the Celtics front court.

Golden State Warriors 109 @ Denver Nuggets 101

GS:

• Stephen Curry (36 Points, 6 3PTM, 2 Blocks, 7 Rebounds, 7 Assists)
• Monta Ellis (14 Points, 2 Blocks, 3 Rebounds)
• David Lee (12 Points, 8 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 1 Block)
• Dorrell Wright (15 Points, 4 Assists, 3 3PTM)
• Brandon Rush (5 Points, 3 Rebounds)

Monta Ellis only had 14 Points after scoring 48 a game ago.  His fantasy owners are disappointed as his value drops to show he is not consistent.  Stephen Curry had another monster fantasy night, he gets one or two of these a week.  David Lee was mediocre a game after getting a 3×2.  Dorrell Wright is pushing way ahead of Brandon Rush.

DEN:

• Aaron Afflalo (26 Points, 5 3PTM)
• Rudy Fernandez (9 Points, 5 Assists, 1 3PTM)
• Ty Lawson (11 Points, 10 Assists, 1 Steal, 4/12 FG)
• Nene Hilario (31 Minutes, 15 Points, 5 Rebounds, 2 Steal, 6/7 FG)
• Al Harrington (11 Points, 2 Steals, 1 3PTM)
• Andre Miller (8 Points, 5 Assists)
• Danilo Gallinari (DNP)

Aaron Afflalo had a huge game which makes the Rudy Fernandez situation a little murky at this point.  I think Rudy will be fine in the long run, but Afflalo is another game away like this from making a lot of fantasy noise.  Nene was solid but appears to still be banged up.  Al Harrington had a bad performance in a Danilo Gallinari-less offense.  Andre Miller has seen better days.  I still think he has good fantasy value as many guards do not rack up assists like him.

Houston Rockets 96 @ Phoenix Suns 89

HOU:

• Kyle Lowry (14 Points, 1 Steal, 1 Block, 2 3PTM)
• Kevin Martin (13 Minutes, 1/2 FG, 2 Points)
• Samuel Dalembert (17 Minutes, 4 Points, 7 Rebounds, 1 Block)
• Luis Scola (16 Points, 6 Rebounds, 8/17 FG)
• Chase Budinger (32 Minutes, 12 Points, 7 Rebounds, 2 3PTM, 2 Steals)
• Courtney Lee (10 Points, 3 Rebounds, 2 3PTM)
• Chandler Parsons (3 Points, 5 Assists, 25 Minutes)
• Jordan Hill (24 Minutes, 10 Points, 6 Rebounds)

The bench won this game for Houston.  Not listed is Goran Dragic and Patrick Patterson who had good days but are waiver wire material for leagues with less than 12 teams.  Jordan Hill looked as he getting closer to that center spot with Samuel Dalmebert fading away.  Now is the time to buy low on Kevin Martin.  I would offer Mo Williams for him if I had the chance.  Everything will get back to normal for him soon.  Courntey Lee and Chase Budginer dominated Chandler Parsons in the “Triangle Slash.”

PHX:

• Steven Nash (14 Points, 13 Assists, 7/7 FG)
• Jared Dudley (14 Points, 2 3PTM, 4 Assists, 1 Steal)
• Marcin Gortat (41 Minutes, 16 Points, 9 Rebounds, 5/10 FG)
• Channing Frye (21 Points, 10 Rebounds, 4 3PTM, 2 Steals, 2 Blocks)
• Grant Hill (31 Minutes, 11 Points, 6 Rebounds, 4 Assists)

If you read the waiver wire article you can know everything about Channing Frye.  He should not be a free agent as you read this.  Marcin Gortat was solid, but his value will take a hit offensively if Channing Frye starts to score like this consistently.  Jared Dudley had an okay start, and I will give him 5/6 since returning to the lineup.  Grant Hill is amazingly still playing 30+ Minutes a night.

Oklahoma City Thunder 101 @ Sacramento Kings 106

OKC:

• Russell Westbrook (33 Points, 7 Assists, 6 Rebounds, 1 3PTM)
• Kevin Durant (27 Points, 8 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 1 Block, 2 3PTM)
• Serge Ibaka (6 Points, 9 Rebounds, 10 Blocks)
• James Harden (17 Points, 5 Rebounds, 1 Steal, 1 Block, 1 3PTM)

Russell Westbrook and Kevn Durant are elite fantasy options every night.  James Harden did most of his damage in the first half.  Serge Ibaka has his fantasy owners singing, “OOPS I DID IT AGAIN.” Serge has now got 10 block shots in a game for the second time in as many weeks.

SAC:

• Tyreke Evans (22 Points, 5 Rebounds, 5 Assists, 4 Steals)
• Marcus Thornton (15 Points, 2 Steals, 1 Block, 3 3PTM, 6 Fouls)
• DeMarcus Cousins (19 Points, 9 Rebounds, 2 Steals, 1 Block, 5 Fouls)
• John Salmons (36 Minutes, 2/10 FG, 7 Rebounds)
• Jason Thompson (11 Points, 10 Rebounds, 30 Minutes)

When Sacramento wants to win a game.  These five guys are the players to own in fantasy, as the Kings showed they trust this group.  The win was huge for the Kings franchise to beat a huge contender.  It will propel all of these players fantasy value.  DeMarcus Cousins was great despite being in foul trouble.  Marcus Thornton made an impact while fouling out.  Tyreke Evans had a great all-around game.  John Salmons was trusted as a veteran despite not shooting the ball well at all.  Jason Thompson is ahead of Chuck Hayes on the depth chart by a long shot after tonight’s monstrous double-double.

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Friday (2/10/12)

Continue to ask questions, and I will answer them.  Daily Show will be back with reports on Tuesday.

For now check out these great articles.

(Fantasy Basketball Trade Analyzer)
(Waiver Wire)
(Question of the Week)

More coming..