As the NBA season draws to a close, teams face the challenge of strategizing for their final games. With many resting players, identifying key categories to target is critical for fantasy basketball managers. This article highlights five players available in fewer than 50% of Yahoo leagues who could turn your season around in these closing weeks.

Bobby Portis of the Milwaukee Bucks returns from suspension and is likely to see substantial playing time as the Bucks secure a playoff berth. His performance could be enhanced if stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo rest. Matas Buzelis from the Chicago Bulls shines with his all-around contributions, offering solid points, rebounds, and defensive stats. Adem Bona of the Philadelphia 76ers has emerged as a top contributor, with potential for high block numbers. Keon Ellis of the Sacramento Kings benefits from increased minutes with Malik Monk sidelined, focusing primarily on his defensive abilities. Lastly, Justin Champagnie of the Washington Wizards, despite the team's struggles, is stepping up with increased minutes and scoring. Each of these players presents an opportunity to maximize fantasy points down the stretch.

Pascal Siakam led the Indiana Pacers with 24 points and 10 rebounds, and Tyrese Haliburton added 22 points as the Pacers secured a 104-98 victory over the Washington Wizards, marking their fifth consecutive win. The Pacers pulled ahead late in the game, with crucial three-pointers from Aaron Nesmith and Myles Turner, solidifying their position for a potential playoff push.

Justin Champagnie was the standout for the Wizards, scoring 20 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. Despite a strong first half where the game was tied at halftime, the Wizards faltered in the second half, suffering their third straight loss and deepening their struggles as they sit at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. With only three games left, they now face the possibility of finishing with one of the worst records in franchise history.

Deni Avdija continues to impress, recently scoring 58 FanDuel points in just 33 minutes against Toronto. His consistent late-season performance makes him a top pick for today's slate against a defensively weak Chicago team. Fellow Portland Trail Blazers player, Shaedon Sharpe, also shines with a great run of form, scoring over 20 points in six of the last seven games, making both players essential for your lineups.

Utah's Kyle Filipowski is highlighted as a solid option, particularly with several starters out, allowing him to take on more responsibility. In tournament pivots, Kristaps Porzingis and rookie Stephon Castle provide great value. Today's value picks include Ja'Kobe Walter and Julian Champagnie, both expected to play significant minutes. Monitor injury reports closely, as they can heavily influence today’s decisions.

Justin Champagnie is expected to shine in tonight's matchup against the Wizards, especially with Jordan Poole sidelined due to an elbow injury. Having recently produced impressive numbers, including an eight-point, 11-rebound, three-assist game, Champagnie has consistently filled the stat sheet, achieving at least 19 points, rebounds, and assists in four of his last five games. Despite the strong defensive presence of the Magic, his increased usage could lead to a fruitful performance.

Meanwhile, Kyle Kuzma is poised to take on a pivotal role for the Bucks against the struggling 76ers. With both Damian Lillard and a questionable Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kuzma's offensive contributions could be crucial. After a less-than-stellar outing against the Suns, Kuzma looks to bounce back, having reached over 25.5 points, rebounds, and assists in five of his last eight games. His favorable matchup against a 76ers team in disarray bodes well for his performance.

In the highlight matchup of the night, LeBron James faces off against the Warriors. Despite a slight decline in his usage rate following the acquisition of Luka Doncic, James has still managed to record impressive totals. With at least 33 points, rebounds, and assists in four of his last five games, he is expected to step up in this crucial contest as the Lakers vie for a top playoff seed. The stakes are high, making this a potential breakout game for James.