As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches its climax, fantasy league strategies are being put to the test. With some teams resting key players and others vying for improved lottery odds, managers face unique challenges in roster management. The up-and-down performances of players like Tristan Vukcevic emphasize the importance of reliable waiver wire options.

Players like Kelly Olynyk are emerging as solid picks, showing promise with a recent 14-point, 11-rebound game. Similarly, Aaron Nesmith has bounced back from injury to contribute effectively for the Indiana Pacers, while Anthony Black's performances could elevate if Cole Anthony stays sidelined.

The 2024-25 regular season is winding down, with teams adjusting their rosters for various reasons, creating challenges in fantasy leagues. As some clubs focus on improving their lottery odds or resting stars, reliable waiver wire additions become scarcer. Players like Kelly Olynyk are gaining traction, showcasing strong performances despite limited games remaining.

Olynyk, now a starter for the New Orleans Pelicans, recently had a standout game, and carries solid averages over the past weeks. Alongside him, Aaron Nesmith and Anthony Black are also emerging as viable streaming options with fluctuating minutes. Meanwhile, rookies such as Bub Carrington and Kai Jones have displayed promising potential, making them worth monitoring during this critical stretch.

Dallas is facing a significant setback as Kyrie Irving has been diagnosed with a torn ACL, ruling him out for the remainder of the season. This presents an opportunity for Spencer Dinwiddie, who is likely to become the Mavs' starting point guard. Currently only 22% rostered in Yahoo! leagues, Dinwiddie averages 14.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 1.2 steals over his 19 starts this season. He could fill the void left by Irving's absence and potentially aid fantasy teams struggling with injuries.

Elsewhere, Ja'Kobe Walter from the Toronto Raptors is stepping into the starting lineup in light of Gradey Dick's knee injury, showing promise with a strong performance in his debut. Atlanta's Caris LeVert, traded from Cleveland, is thriving with consistent scoring. Quentin Grimes of the Philadelphia 76ers is proving to be a key asset, posting multiple 30-point games this season. In the frontcourt, Zach Collins and Kelly Olynyk are both capitalizing on injury situations, making them valuable additions for fantasy managers.

Week 20 presents an exciting opportunity for fantasy basketball players, with all teams slated for at least three games, many with four. The influx of late-season injuries and surprises makes for intriguing decisions. Players under 50% rostered in Yahoo leagues are highlighted as potential starts, with Malik Beasley of the Pistons and Donte DiVincenzo of the Timberwolves standing out. Both have shown recent form and could be crucial to fantasy lineups. On the other hand, Fred VanVleet of the Rockets is advised to sit, given his recent struggles and health concerns.

Forwards like Toumani Camara of the Trail Blazers and Quentin Grimes of the 76ers also enter the spotlight, with their rising roles due to teammates' absences. Camara is riding a career-high performance wave, while Grimes has showcased his scoring ability, making him a valuable asset. However, Andrew Wiggins' ongoing ankle issues raise a red flag for fantasy managers considering him.

In the center position, Santi Aldama of the Grizzlies and Kelly Olynyk of the Pelicans emerge as players to start, both having demonstrated solid contributions in recent games.

The New Orleans Pelicans are set to resume their season after the All-Star break with a challenging matchup against the Dallas Mavericks, who are currently grappling with injuries. The Pelicans, however, have faced an even tougher battle with significant player absences, including Herb Jones and Dejounte Murray. In a notable move, the Pelicans traded Brandon Ingram to the Toronto Raptors ahead of the deadline, bringing in Kelly Olynyk, who will make his debut in the starting lineup. This marks Olynyk's seventh team in 12 NBA seasons, where he has been a reliable presence. With the Mavericks lacking size due to injuries to their frontcourt, Olynyk's addition enhances the Pelicans' height advantage, allowing them to capitalize on the paint.