Special to Yahoo Sports
We’ve already seen the upside that stashing players can bring in fantasy basketball. Look at what T.J. McConnell has been doing for the Pacers with Tyrese Haliburton (knee, elbow) out. Let’s highlight five more players to consider stashing now who could thrive if their team suffers a critical injury or if a trade occurs.
Isaiah Jackson, Indiana Pacers (71 percent available)
When Myles Turner went down with an injury last season, Jackson showed the type of upside he could bring to the table. Over his final 20 games, Jackson averaged 11.6 points, 5.5 rebounds and 2.1 blocks in 20 minutes per game. He shot 59.2% from the field while also chipping in 0.9 steals. However, with Turner mostly healthy, Jackson has only averaged 16 minutes per game this season.
Turner recently missed two games with back spasms. Jackson started both games in his place, logging at least 26 minutes both times. He posted 10 points, 10 rebounds and 7 blocks against the Hawks, then followed that up with 12 points, 7 rebounds and 4 blocks against the Grizzlies. With Turner returning Monday against the Bucks, Jackson logged just one minute off the bench.
Consider stashing Isaiah Jackson in fantasy leagues now. (Photo by Soobum Im/Getty Images)
If Turner were to get injured again, which isn’t exactly a stretch given his history, Jackson could be a difference-maker in terms of blocks in fantasy. If Turner is traded, Jackson could also be in line for a more prominent role.
Mark Williams, Charlotte Hornets (95 percent available)
The Hornets didn’t have much quality depth entering the season, and injuries have put them in a tough spot. LaMelo Ball missed a lot of games at the beginning of the season, Gordon Hayward (hamstring) is hurt again, and key reserve Kelly Oubre Jr. (hand) is going to miss at least a month. They are just fighting to stay out of the basement of the Eastern Conference. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see them be sellers at the trade deadline.
One player they could look to deal is Mason Plumlee, who likely won’t be a part of their long-term plan since he will turn 33 years old in March. If they trade…
..
