In a game where the Dallas Mavericks were missing three perimeter players, including Luka Dončić, Klay Thompson, and Quentin Grimes, Naji Marshall and Jaden Hardy rose to the occasion in a decisive victory over the Atlanta Hawks. Both players turned in stellar performances, making them top fantasy pickups for those in need of some boost.
Naji Marshall and Jaden Hardy Shine in Mavericks Win
- Naji Marshall (17% owned) has seen an increase in fantasy value since Dončić’s injury. Playing 28 minutes, Marshall recorded 22 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2 three-pointers, marking his third consecutive game with 20 or more points.
- Jaden Hardy (1% owned) also stepped up with a season-high 23 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals (career-high), and 2 three-pointers.
While Marshall’s role is secured due to Dončić’s absence, Hardy’s fantasy value is dependent on the availability of Thompson and Grimes. Meanwhile, Spencer Dinwiddie (2% owned) posted 22 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists, and 4 three-pointers, continuing to be a potential waiver wire option, but only if multiple players remain sidelined.
Other Notable Fantasy Basketball Pickups from Monday’s Games
| Player | Team | Ownership % | Key Stats | Fantasy Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moussa Diabate | Charlotte Hornets | 20% | 8 rebounds, 2 steals, 4 blocks | Valuable while Mark Williams and Nick Richards are out. |
| Anthony Black | Orlando Magic | 14% | 10 points, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 three-pointers | Should be added if Suggs and Harris stay sidelined. |
| Cole Anthony | Orlando Magic | 1% | 16 points, 8 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 three-pointers | Monitor for consistency before adding. |
| Yves Missi | New Orleans Pelicans | 13% | 16 points, 13 rebounds, 2 steals, 2 blocks | Should have value even after team injuries heal. |
| Elfrid Payton | New Orleans Pelicans | 2% | 14 points, 7 rebounds, 21 assists | Career-high assists; value ends once Dejounte Murray returns. |
| Keon Ellis | Sacramento Kings | 8% | 8 points, 3 assists, 2 three-pointers | Watch for consistency if he remains in the starting lineup. |
| Jalen Wilson | Brooklyn Nets | 2% | 18 points, 7 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 three-pointers | Potential pickup if Nets’ injuries persist. |
| Ziaire Williams | Brooklyn Nets | 2% | 19 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 steals | Strong performance with double-double; monitor injuries. |
| Neemias Queta | Boston Celtics | 2% | 12 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 4 blocks | Use as a schedule play in back-to-back situations. |
Additional Notes:
- Moussa Diabate was pivotal for the Hornets in Monday’s loss to Orlando, contributing 8 rebounds and 4 blocks off the bench.
- Anthony Black capitalized on an injury to Gary Harris, stepping into the starting lineup and contributing in multiple areas.
- Keon Ellis played 28 minutes in a win for the Kings, showcasing his value if he continues in a starting role.
As the season continues, managers should monitor these emerging players for consistent production, especially with injuries playing a key role in their expanded minutes and opportunities.
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