There have been a number of injuries and roster changes in the NBA over the first couple of months, and as we’re approaching the New Year, it’s time to take a look at a few guys on the waiver wire that deserve some love.
Here are five guys that are available in over 50% of all leagues that can help you in one way or another immediately, or should be targeted in the coming weeks:
Luke Ridnour, PG, Milwaukee Bucks (Available in 73% of all leagues)
Ridnour isn’t playing his traditional point guard role this season, as rookie Brandon Jennings has permanently taken over his former starting spot. However, Ridnour has been used frequently as a go-to scoring option, specifically at the end of games, and has maintained excellent shooting percentages.
He is shooting over 51% from the field on the year, while averaging over 11 points and nearly four assists per game.
He has battles with inconsistency, but Ridnour is a solid source of points, and has been shooting great percentages over the last month. He could make for a fine Utility play if your team is in need of a point guard who can do it all.
Kirk Hinrich, PG, Chicago Bulls (68%)
Much like Ridnour, Hinrich is being used more as a shooting guard this season, which has allowed him to roam freely and maneuver through the offense without worrying as much about getting his teammates involved.
Until recently his shooting percentages were keeping him on the waiver wire and preventing him from making a fantasy impact, but a return to the starting line-up the past two games could finally be the spark he needs to get his career back on track.
Hinrich has scored at least 10 points in five of his last seven games, and remains a solid source of rebounds and assists for his position, while also remaining extremely active on defense and helping out on steals. His percentages could be much better, but he definitely has the makings of a solid Utility player, and his value could be on the rise.
Omri Casspi, SF, Sacramento Kings (79%)
Casspi’s ability to shoot strong percentages and help out as a scorer have been no secret in this young season, but his ability to take over lately has been even more encouraging. Casspi has topped 11 points in eight of his last 10 contests, while shooting 49% overall and 43% from three-point range on the season.
Four games of at least 15 points in his last 10 outings show an increased offensive role, while his work ethic has shown through on his improvement on the boards (at least six in three straight games).
His role will undoubtedly lessen once star Kevin Martin returns, but until that happens, the rookie should continue to put up solid numbers across the board.
Tyler Hansbrough, PF, Indiana Pacers (89%)
Hansbrough had been enjoying limited success as a rookie with the Pacers for the past month and a half, as he’s showed an ability to chip-in with solid point production from time-to-time, and has also displayed the ability to rack up the boards.
Hansbrough has had issues with poor shooting percentages all season, and currently is dealing with an inner ear infection, but his recent rise of playing time (over 25 MPG ) and production in his last two games show improvement and a growing role.
Hansbrough has notched a double-double in each of his past two games, and has now scored 10+ points in seven of his past 11 contests. The role and production are clearly there, while the percentages should soon follow.
Erik Dampier, C, Dallas Mavericks (53%)
Dampier has always been a solid source of rebounds and blocks, but his recent tear has been too impressive to ignore. While his season averages are well below-average and don’t garner much fantasy attention, his recent role and production definitely warrant a second glance.
Never known for his scoring, Dampier has topped at least eight points in nine straight contests, while also bringing down at least 10 rebounds in six games during that span.
With the ability to add blocks and a solid field goal percentage to the table, Dampier could provide solid Center stats if you’re hurting at the position.