UPDATE: As the February 5 NBA trade deadline approaches, the spotlight is on emerging talents and struggling stars, including Max Christie of the Dallas Mavericks and Domantas Sabonis of the Sacramento Kings. With the pressure mounting, fantasy league managers must make crucial decisions that could impact their teams significantly.
Max Christie has been making headlines, showcasing impressive performance for the Mavericks. After being included in the trade that sent him and Anthony Davis to Dallas in exchange for Luka Doncic, Christie has stepped up, averaging 17.0 points over the past month. Despite a recent dip in shooting—hitting only 30% from the field in his last two games—he previously scored at least 21 points in four consecutive outings, proving to be a valuable asset.
Currently, the Mavericks sit 4.5 games out of a play-in spot, and with their playoff hopes dwindling, Christie is expected to receive ample playing time. As he approaches his 23rd birthday on February 10, he is increasingly seen as a potential late-season hero in fantasy leagues, especially points leagues.
Meanwhile, Domantas Sabonis is struggling since returning from a meniscus tear, averaging just 12.6 points and 9.4 rebounds in January. His performance has raised concerns among fantasy managers, who are advised to explore trade options while his name still carries weight in discussions. If traded, Sabonis could face even more challenges in terms of fantasy value.
Deandre Ayton of the Los Angeles Lakers is also on the hot seat. Averaging only 10.7 points and 8.3 rebounds this month, Ayton’s declining performance could further diminish as teammate Austin Reaves is set to return from injury. Fantasy managers must weigh the risk of keeping Ayton on their rosters, especially with his trade value waning.
In contrast, Sam Hauser of the Boston Celtics is rising in fantasy circles, averaging 13.9 points and 3.8 three-pointers while shooting an impressive 51% from the field in January. With key players like Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum potentially limited in minutes as the Celtics aim for a playoff push, Hauser could see increased opportunities to shine.
On the other hand, Dylan Cardwell from the Kings is quietly making a name for himself. Though averaging just 5.0 points, he has contributed significantly with 8.5 rebounds and 1.5 blocks this January. As Sacramento contemplates roster changes, Cardwell could be primed for a breakout if given more minutes post-deadline.
With the trade deadline looming, fantasy managers must act swiftly. Key players like Christie and Hauser are trending upwards, while Sabonis and Ayton are at risk of falling further from fantasy relevance. Monitor the upcoming trades closely, as the landscape of the NBA and your fantasy team could shift dramatically in the coming days.
Stay tuned for more updates as the NBA trade deadline nears, and make sure your fantasy roster is equipped for the final stretch of the season!
