Warriors rookie guard Brandin Podziemski (32% rostered, Yahoo) has been a pleasant surprise, averaging 9.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 0.9 steals, and 1.2 3-pointers in 25.5 minutes per game. Injuries have pushed him into Steve Kerr’s rotation, and he’s taken advantage of his opportunities. Podziemski played 39 minutes off the bench in Saturday’s 141-134 overtime loss to the Hawks, accounting for 15 points, 11 rebounds, five assists, and one blocked shot.
He hasn’t been a great fantasy option recently, providing 12th-round value in 9-cat formats over the past two weeks. However, the minutes have been there for Podziemski, especially with Chris Paul and Moses Moody among the rotation players currently sidelined. Also, Andrew Wiggins went down during the first half with a sprained ankle on Saturday and did not return. Podziemski started the third quarter, playing 26 minutes after halftime.
The Warriors begin their Week 16 slate in Brooklyn on Monday, so we’ll see if Wiggins is available to play. If not, that likely means a move back into the starting lineup for Podziemski, and his offensive skill set is needed to supplement Stephen Curry’s mastery. Let’s look at a few of Saturday’s top pickups, and the list includes a few players who will be solid options on Sunday.
Ayo Dosunmu (36%)
On Saturday afternoon, the Bulls announced that Zach LaVine will undergo season-ending surgery on his right foot. Add in Patrick Williams being sidelined with an ankle injury, and Dosunmu was well-positioned to add value to fantasy rosters. He started and played 39 minutes in Chicago’s loss to Sacramento, accounting for 15 points, four rebounds, five assists, two steals, and three 3-pointers. Williams is unlikely to return before the All-Star break, and there’s also the matter of the trade deadline to deal with. Now would be an excellent time to add Dosunmu because it will be more challenging if the Bulls move a veteran contributor (or more) at the deadline.
Luke Kennard (21%)
The Grizzlies didn’t play on Saturday but will visit the Celtics on Sunday. And they’ve got a lengthy injury report, which includes John Konchar and Vince…
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