The waiver wire is crucial in fantasy basketball, offering opportunities to pick up players who can significantly impact your team. This season, several players with an ADP outside the top 130 emerged as valuable assets. Dyson Daniels of the Atlanta Hawks, with a preseason ADP of 136, showcased remarkable talent, ranking 14th overall with averages of 14.1 points and a historic 229 steals. Christian Braun, starting for the Denver Nuggets, improved throughout the season, finishing with 15.4 points per game and a final month rank of 41.

Kelly Oubre of the Philadelphia 76ers had a rollercoaster season, affected by injuries but managing a solid 15.1 points when healthy. Jaden McDaniels displayed flashes of brilliance for the Minnesota Timberwolves, while Tari Eason from the Houston Rockets began slowly but became a potential draft target next season. Adem Bona and Toumani Camara both found their footing late in the season, suggesting they could be valuable picks as well.

The 2024-25 Fantasy Basketball Awards reveal a mix of triumph and disappointment. Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers takes the dubious title of Biggest Disappointment, with a season marred by injuries and a stark drop in stats, averaging just 16.2 points. On the flip side, rookie Stephon Castle of the San Antonio Spurs shines with a Rookie of the Year award, thriving in his starting role and averaging 19.1 points over the last 15 games. Dyson Daniels of the Atlanta Hawks earns the Breakout Player honor, elevating his game with averages of 14.3 points and 3.0 steals. Jaren Jackson Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies is recognized as the Defensive Player of the Year, showcasing his defensive skills with 1.3 steals and 1.5 blocks per game. In the midst of injuries to stars, Chicago Bulls’ Josh Giddey becomes the Fantasy Playoffs Hero, helping managers with averages of 20.8 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 9.2 assists. Finally, Josh Hart of the New York Knicks earns the title of Fantasy MVP, proving to be a valuable pick for those who drafted him late.

The Cleveland Cavaliers have officially signed Chuma Okeke, a former first-round pick, to fill their final roster spot. After being selected 16th overall by the Orlando Magic in 2019, Okeke spent four seasons with the Magic before signing two 10-day contracts with the Philadelphia 76ers this season. His performance this year includes averages of 6.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in 24.4 minutes per game with the Sixers.

Okeke's G League numbers reflect an impressive ability to contribute, averaging 16.7 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists in 45 games with the Westchester Knicks. Standing at 6'7" and weighing 229 pounds, the versatile forward adds depth to the Cavaliers' roster, potentially enhancing their frontcourt versatility as they aim to maintain their status as Eastern Conference leaders.

As the NBA regular season approaches its conclusion, fantasy managers are assessing their rosters and the performances of key players. Among the pleasant surprises this season is Dyson Daniels of the Atlanta Hawks. After being traded from the Pelicans, he has emerged as a valuable asset, averaging 14.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.1 steals per game while playing 34 minutes. His defensive prowess has been particularly beneficial for fantasy lineups looking for steals.

OG Anunoby of the New York Knicks has also impressed, playing a career-high 37 minutes per game and averaging 17.8 points. This marks a significant turnaround for a player who struggled with injuries in recent seasons. Meanwhile, Christian Braun has capitalized on increased playing time with the Denver Nuggets, posting solid stats and shooting over 57% from the field. Conversely, Paul George and Terry Rozier have fallen short of expectations, with injuries impacting their performance all season.

The Philadelphia 76ers faced their fourth consecutive loss against the Atlanta Hawks, falling 132-119. Trae Young dominated with 28 points and 12 assists, while Zaccharie Risacher, the projected top pick for 2024, added 22 points. Former Sixer Georges Niang also contributed significantly with 20 points.

For Philadelphia, Justin Edwards showcased his talent with 22 points, while Quentin Grimes led with a notable performance of 26 points, six assists, and five rebounds. Guerschon Yabusele added 11 points, supported by a solid effort from Chuma Okeke, who demonstrated potential during his 10-day contract.

The Sixers are now 23-48 this season as they prepare for the final game of their road trip against the New Orleans Pelicans. The team is looking to bounce back, especially with Edwards and Grimes showing promise amid the struggles.