As the fantasy basketball season intensifies, many managers find themselves in a race for valuable players. With limited moves available, streaming options are crucial. Rostered in under 50% of leagues, players like Scotty Pippen Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies and Gary Trent Jr. from the Milwaukee Bucks are making waves. Pippen, thriving in Ja Morant's absence, averages 14.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 7.2 assists over his last six games. Similarly, Trent has stepped up significantly following Damian Lillard's indefinite absence, averaging 14.9 points with solid contributions in steals and three-pointers.

Completing the list are Kevin Porter Jr., Orlando Robinson, Ryan Dunn, and Jordan Hawkins. Porter, a risqué pick, offers high upside despite inconsistency, while Robinson is starting to find his footing as the Raptors close out the season. Dunn's recent surge for the Suns is noteworthy, and Hawkins has emerged as a scoring threat for a struggling Pelicans team. As the postseason approaches, these players could prove vital for your fantasy roster.

This week, fantasy basketball managers need to focus on maximizing player transactions and strategic streaming as playoff season intensifies. With games more evenly distributed, targeting players who are involved in multiple games within a short span can yield great dividends. Key players to consider adding include Justin Edwards of the Philadelphia 76ers, who has been outstanding with consistent scoring and a significant role in the team's lineup. Spencer Dinwiddie of the Dallas Mavericks is also a must-add, showing impressive form and a chance at high fantasy points given the injuries in the Mavs' backcourt.

Other players to keep an eye on include Ryan Dunn from the Phoenix Suns, whose performances are rising with increased minutes as the team vies for a playoff spot. Meanwhile, early-week streamers like Max Christie and Andrew Nembhard are appealing options due to their teams' busy schedules. Managers should also be cautious of teams like the Los Angeles Clippers and Washington Wizards, whose unpredictable rotations might hinder their fringe players' value.

Devin Booker led the Phoenix Suns to a resounding 129-89 victory over the Toronto Raptors, scoring 27 points, including a remarkable surge in the second quarter. Despite being without Bradley Beal, sidelined due to a hamstring injury, the Suns showcased their depth with seven players scoring in double figures. The team flipped a first-quarter deficit into a substantial halftime lead, outscoring Toronto 39-11 in the second period. Ryan Dunn contributed 17 points, while Kevin Durant added 14 points. For the Raptors, Scottie Barnes led with 16 points amid the absence of key players due to injury and rest.

Oso Ighodaro has stepped up impressively for the Suns as Mason Plumlee faced consecutive ejections, showcasing his strong potential in the NBA. In a recent matchup against the Sacramento Kings, Ighodaro scored 11 points, pulled down six rebounds, and recorded a career-high four blocks in just 32 minutes of play. This performance helped the Suns to snap a two-game losing streak, enhancing their chances in the play-in tournament.

With Plumlee's ejections, Ighodaro embraced the 'next-man-up' mentality, showing readiness and energy when called upon. His ability to capitalize on increased playing time demonstrates his importance to the team's depth as they strive for playoff positioning. Fellow rookie Ryan Dunn also contributed significantly, scoring 16 points and adding youthful energy which has been crucial during this stretch.

Kevin Durant has recently taken a liking to the Chicago White Sox, frequently spotted in a Sox cap and expressing interest in their City Connect Southside jersey. However, rather than choosing his own number, he wants a jersey featuring non-roster invitee Justin Dunn, who currently wears No. 67. Dunn, a 29-year-old right-hander, has faced challenges since his last major league appearance in 2022 due to shoulder injuries, making his inclusion on the final roster uncertain. Nevertheless, his connection to Durant stems from the bond between Durant and Dunn's younger brother, Ryan, a rookie for the Phoenix Suns.

This relationship highlights the camaraderie within sports, as Dunn appreciates Durant's mentorship towards his brother while Durant was supportive during Dunn’s recent outing, where he pitched two scoreless innings against the Brewers. The two share a strong friendship, further exemplifying the kinship of athletes navigating the complexities of professional sports.