Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Week 16: NBA Trade Deadline Adds for All Leagues, Deep League Players to Sign

As the NBA trade deadline approaches, fantasy basketball managers need to stay ahead of the curve by identifying key waiver wire additions. Week 16 presents an excellent opportunity to capitalize on roster shakeups, player movement, and increased playing time for newly acquired or emerging talents. Whether you’re in a standard league or a deep league, there are several names to watch.

Waiver Wire Targets for All Leagues

1. Collin Sexton (Utah Jazz – PG/SG)

Sexton has taken on a more prominent offensive role in Utah, averaging over 20 points per game in recent weeks. With increased minutes and scoring opportunities, he should be a priority add in all formats.

2. Mark Williams (Charlotte Hornets – C)

With the Hornets looking to rebuild, Williams has been logging heavy minutes and producing double-doubles. His rebounding and shot-blocking make him an excellent pickup for those in need of big-man stats.

3. Donte DiVincenzo (New York Knicks – SG/SF)

DiVincenzo has benefitted from increased playing time due to injuries in the Knicks’ backcourt. He contributes across multiple categories, making him a strong all-around addition.

4. Jaden Ivey (Detroit Pistons – SG/PG)

The Pistons are giving Ivey a more significant role, and he has responded with improved scoring and assists. His upside makes him a must-add as Detroit continues to develop its young core.

5. Trey Murphy III (New Orleans Pelicans – SG/SF)

Murphy has been heating up, offering a combination of three-point shooting and defensive stats. If he remains available, he’s a great addition for fantasy managers looking for scoring and steals.

Deep League Waiver Wire Targets

1. Bilal Coulibaly (Washington Wizards – SF)

Coulibaly has been playing more minutes in Washington’s rotation, and his defensive versatility makes him a sneaky add in deeper leagues. He can contribute steals, blocks, and rebounds.

2. Cam Whitmore (Houston Rockets – SF/PF)

The Rockets are slowly integrating Whitmore into their rotation, and he has shown flashes of scoring ability. If Houston makes moves at the deadline, his role could expand significantly.

3. Nick Richards (Charlotte Hornets – C)

With Charlotte potentially moving veterans at the trade deadline, Richards could see increased minutes as a rebounding and shot-blocking specialist.

4. Dyson Daniels (New Orleans Pelicans – PG/SG)

Daniels provides defensive stats and occasional assists. While he isn’t a flashy option, his ability to contribute across multiple categories makes him valuable in deeper formats.

5. Jaime Jaquez Jr. (Miami Heat – SG/SF)

Jaquez has emerged as a solid contributor off the Heat bench. If Miami moves key pieces at the deadline, his role could expand further, making him an intriguing deep-league stash.

Players to Monitor Post-Trade Deadline

Several players could see a spike in value depending on how the trade deadline shakes out. Keep an eye on potential buyout candidates and teams offloading veterans in favor of younger players.

• Bones Hyland (LA Clippers – PG/SG) – If he gets moved to a team in need of backcourt help, his value could rise.
• Patrick Williams (Chicago Bulls – PF) – If he lands on a team with a more defined role, he could be a solid fantasy asset.
• Mo Bamba (Philadelphia 76ers – C) – If the Sixers make moves in the frontcourt, Bamba’s playing time could increase.

Final Thoughts

Week 16 of the fantasy basketball season is a crucial time to make strategic waiver wire pickups, especially with the trade deadline bringing unexpected changes. Stay vigilant, monitor player movement, and be ready to pounce on emerging opportunities. Adding the right players now could be the key to securing a playoff spot in your fantasy league!