Warm Waiver Additions to Your Fantasy NBA Kitchen: Week 8

The holidays are upon us and fantasy basketball season is about to become more prominent in the fantasy mindset because football is almost over,  hockey's immediate future is looking more and more like a fantasy and fantasy baseball is pure speculation at this point.  Let's focus on some backcourt help..

The Calderon is a-Bubblin

Jose Calderon ( PG, Raptors)

Every time someone drops 17 dimes in a game, the fantasy basketball world will take notes.  Not impressive enough? My man had a triple-double against Houston a few days ago, going for 18 points, 14 assists and 10 rebounds. Thing is, Calderon has been bubbling like a cauldron lately in the wake of the Kyle Lowry injury.  In his last six, Calderon has picked up his scoring (14.0 ppg) along with outstanding assist numbers (10.2 apg)during a modest four-game Raptor streak, significant because the Toronto club was 4-19 overall last week.   Those owners who need more assists from the likes of recent adds Gary Neal or Ramon Sessions will appreciate Calderon’s 44% three pointers made (38% is his career high). He’s taking more as well.

"Jack" Up More Shots

Jarrett Jack (PG,SG / Warriors) For those who are looking for more scoring in the backcourt, Jarrett Jack jacks up enough shots with reasonable averages in assists and rebounds.  Jack has filled the void left by current Milwaukee Buck Monta Ellis in the historically high-scoring Golden State offense alongside Stephen Curry.   He’s averaging nearly 18 points a game with six assists and five rebounds and a couple treys in the last five contests.  He’s a good shooter from the field (48% for 2012-13) and the line (career 85%) if those things weigh heavily in your league, and especially as a “1”.

Warm Hand Luke

Luke Ridnour (PG,SG / Timberwolves) got rid of a mini-slump that had us telling you to drop him in November.  In fact, we also recommended Alexey Shved, albeit as the shooting guard of the future in Minnesota.  Well the 12-11 Wolves have an enviable problem when Ricky Rubio returns to the starting lineup; Ridnour may push Shved back to the bench given is recent solid play.  Ridnour is a hybrid; isn’t really a scorer as a “2” but will help fantasy owners the most in that department as he doesn’t drop dimes well enough (4.9 career) as a true point.  What we do know is that he’s dropped double-figures in eleven straight games.  Keep in mind, Ridnour has played and will play minutes in the near future.

Moving on to shooting guards in general, Marco Bellinelli (SG, Bulls) represents a great Week 8 add for those interested in scoring.  In eight games he’s emerging as the Rose-less Chicago Bulls primary scoring threat, he’s averaged 17.1 points shooting 44% from downtown and has been great from the line all season (87%).  He’s logged nearly 40 minutes in the last eight games but he’s still a deep add, mainly contributing in scoring and three-pointers; can’t really assist you in assists (2 .0 apg in those same eight) and doesn’t rebound well (3.1 rpg in the last eight games). He’s a hot add off the waiver but is only owned in 30% of leagues.

Matt Barnes (SF, Clippers) Of course I would be remiss not mentioning the Clippers current run of 11 straight wins.  Lob City has provided gifts for fantasy owners but their bench, and one swingman in particular, Matt Barnes can do a little bit of everything (scoring, threes, boards, steals, assists and blocks).  He normally won’t give you everything in one game but is traditionally a multi-category stocking stuffer.

Part 2: Fantasy Football Playoff MVP's: 'Tis Better To Receive..

Holidays are here..Sing with me now!!

On the fifth day of Christmas, fantasy gave to me..

Five champion rings..

400 yards on the Seabirds,

three picks by Brady...

two Pitta touchdowns..

and 200 yards from AP!

Back again with Part 2 of our fantasy playoff Most Valuable Players receivers edition.  The guys below found it in their hearts not to be Scrooges during the fantasy football playoff run and they represent the dreams of sugar plums dancing and all that good stuff for fantasy diehards.  Enjoy and indulge the following...

WR- Michael Crabtree (Average first 12 games:  7) (Average Weeks 13-15: 14.3)

No Coal Under This 'Tree

Since the 49ers don Christmas red, we'll start with them first. That Jim Harbaugh is a pretty smart guy.  He didn’t draft Michael Crabtree but he did draft Colin Kaeparnick; and the Kaeparnick-to-Crabtree show has been fun to watch for fantasy owners of both players.  Crabtree has had pedestrian production tied to the Alex Smith wagon and the up-and-down seasons of Vernon Davis, the 49ers most potent aerial threat.  Crabtree has made himself the preferred option in the 49ers downfield-leaning offense.  A showdown with division rival Seattle awaits, making him a decent WR2 play, considering he’s had 36 targets the last three and Seattle at home, will put points up. Their corners play a physical style of defense that will force this combo to be creative in getting Crabtree open seeing how he’s not a burner.

WR- Brandon Lloyd (Average first 12 games:  14.4) (Average Weeks 13-15: 27)

In case anyone hadn’t noticed, the Patriots can put up points in a hurry and aren’t hesistant to run up the score on the ne’er do wells of the National Football League.  Lloyd, for some reason, couldn’t get the targets that analysts has thought would come when he signed as a free agent.  His lack of production was more game plan than anything else, but he’s come around for the playoff run for faithful owners who stashed him on the bench.  Lloyd has put together two back-to-back 20 point masterpieces against the Texans and 49ers, hardly two craptastic defenses.  He’s got the Jaguars on the road in a game the Patriots should win handily; but will they get Lloyd involved? He seems to be their ace-in-the-hole lately and they may not need to go to him.  A risky start as a WR2, but a pretty decent flex play.

TE- Aaron Hernandez (Average first 12 games:  2.3*) (Average Weeks 13-15: 13.7) *Missed 7 games due to injury

Aaron It Out

Shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise that Hernandez would be the most valuable fantasy tight end after Rob Gronkowski went down to injury. What is surprising is how many owners dropped him after a few weeks into the season.  Hernandez has been productive in every games he’s played, grabbing 5 catches or more in every game except Week 12 against the Jets, his first game back.

TE- Heath Miller (Average first 12 games:  7.1) (Average Week 13-15: 12)

Pittsburgh's Favorite Candy Bar?

The 412’s favorite tight end has quietly become the third-highest scoring tight end in all of fantasy football saving his two top yardage games for Weeks 13 and 15, just as fantasy owners were questioning his startability (16 points in his previous 4 games.)  Miller has performed despite some questionable quarterback play.  His fantasy utilization will always depend on his ability to get in the red zone; speedster teammates Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown have had off seasons.  The Steelers even brought back Plaxico Burress to aid them in red-zone scoring.  He’s a good (but not great) start in Week 16. The Cincinnati Bengals haven’t allowed a TE to score in six straight.

TE- Dennis Pitta (Average first 12 games:  5) (Average Week 13-15: 12)

The deciding case for Pitta here is a 25-point outburst against the Broncos, as he turned a relatively routine catch into big yards, mushing would-be tacklers, and laughing all the way!  His season has been a sleigh ride up and down all year with a previous high of 13 fantasy points in Week 1 against Cincinnati, making him a big add early.  He then turned in performances of 6, 11, 0, 2, 3, 3, and then 3 again against Cleveland in Week 9 that had many owners benching/dropping him even in a thin TE market.  Since Week 10 he’s had two clunkers and four double digit outings.  The Ravens offense has slogged through an identity crisis all season and the porous Giants defense awaits.  Ed Dickson, his speedier tight end counterpart didn't get any targets last week, so Pitta is a great start in Week 16 with a bright future in 2013.

Week 16: 'Twas The Night Before Fantasy SuperBowl / Playoff Fantasy MVP's (Part 1)

Twas the night before Fantasy SuperBowl and all through the house;

The staring at matchups late night; not waking the spouse;

In hopes that fantasy money soon would appear

As soon as Tuesday the 27^th drew near...

Playoff MVP’s (So Far) Quarterbacks and Running Backs

QB – Cam Newton 

(Average first 12 games:  18.5)   (Average Weeks 13-15: 32)                                     

Superman Cam saved his best for last for fantasy owners who suffered through the first ten games where he averaged well under his typical draft selection in August (top five quarterback).  He’s got the fantasy owners and the Carolina faithful back into the fold with stellar production as of late.  The week’s matchup against the Raiders at home is as gift wrapped a matchup as you could wish for.

QB - Russell Wilson (Average first 12 games:  14.4) (Average Weeks 13-15: 27)

Can't Knock The Russell

Russell Wilson presents a fantasy enigma even in the playoff run but those who were “forced” to start him in Weeks 13 and 15 were treated to 30 and 40 point outburst from the Seahawks signal caller.  Wilson runs a ball control offense but unlike 2004 Ben Roethlisberger who has similar passing statistics, Wilson can get yards rushing to help your fantasy cause.  The 49ers, whose quarterback, Colin Kaepernick, may be a better fantasy matchup, have a defense that held Wilson to three points.  Wilson is still a risky start in Week 16 but has definitely made the case for fantasy relevance in 2013 and beyond. He’s averaged 25 fantasy points the last six games.

RB – Knowshon Moreno (Average first 12 games:  1.3) (Average Week 13-15: 15.7)

A No-Show on The Stat Sheet For That Chief

Knowshon Moreno is a real savior at the running back position. He's a MVP fantasy candidate..  Not because he has put up the most stats, that’s clearly Adrian Peterson.  It’s just that Peterson has been so otherworldly of late that is seemed redundant to mention him here. Which is exactly what I’m going to end up doing.  What owner drafting in bottom first or the top of the second in August is not kicking himself for pulling the trigger on All-Day? We really psyched ourselves into drafting in the first guys like Darren McFadden, who did exactly as he always does , a hit-or-miss Chris Johnson or a just now appeared DeMarco Murray? Never again.  If Peterson if ever available we know cannot be swayed by any other player. Period.

Anyway back to Knowshon Moreno.  Knowshon was a no-show for Weeks 1-11 and has since averaged 27 carries a game.  Ronnie Hillman is a complimentary back at this point, period. He was a waiver addition for many squads, highlighting the importance of managing waiver claims,etc.  He gets so many carries on a Peyton Manning-led offense and going into Week 16 (many leagues Super Bowl) he has the Cleveland Browns at home.  The Broncos at 11-3, are playing dominant football of late and handing Moreno the rock late.  A must-start and a great story; can’t say for sure what happens to the Denver backfield in 2013, however.

RB - DeMarco Murray  (Average first 12 games:  3.9*) (Average Week 13-15: 14.3)  * Missed five games due to injury

Murray's Cookies are More Sturdy

Out since Week 7, I kinda dissed DeMarco Murray earlier but it is good to see the former Oklahoma Sooner back in action during the playoffs in fantasy.  DeMarco was a top running back option in August, started decently and then was ghost.  He’s scored a touchdown in each game against the Eagles, Bengals, and Steelers- three decent defenses against the run.  The Saints defense in Week 16 awaits. He’s a great RB2. Will he ever be an RB1 again? With his injury history, it’s definitely questionable. This guy just gets injured a lot.

RB - DeAngelo Williams (Average first 12 games:  3.4) (Average Week 13-15: 13.3)

The DeAngelo Williams everyone thought they were drafting (a 8 to 10 point guy per week) hadn’t bother to show up in the first twelve games but here he is along with the rest of the Carolina offensive resurgence (or should I say redemption).  Jonathan Stewart, his main problem in fantasy, was hurt all year but Williams was still out on waivers for most of the year.  Another waiver wire find but with a better resume, Williams has averaged 49 yards receiving in the last two with two scores; bolstering his fantasy numbers.

Fantasy Basketball News You Can Use Week 7

Fantasy basketball 101; keep tabs on injuries and manage your roster to consider who still has value being on your team, even injured for long periods, and who needs to be added.  Consider the Kahwi Leonard situation.  Leonard plays a thin position and provides major help in multiple fantasy categories.  Some owners will keep him, add Gary Neal as well and then look for swingman help on the wire consistently.  Their are also owners who stay on top of who gets minutes because of injury, as the case for a injured Andrea Bargnani.  Don't be the worse team in your league; consider..

A Horse of Course?

Ed Davis, (PF/C Raptors). The former 2010 first-round pick from North Carolina has seen a bump in minutes with Andrea Bargnani (elbow- out indefinitely) and is definitely a major loss for the 4-20 Raptors.  But this may present good news for Ed Davis; he recently dropped 24 on the Nets in  45 minutes and since November 25^th has averaged 10.4 points and 7.6 rebounds in 10 games.  With three double-doubles in that time, Davis has shown the ability to produce given the minutes.  He may be a good temporary addition to your squad in need of rebounds and some points with Amir Johnson day-to-day as well.

C.J. Miles (G/F Cavaliers) C.J. has dropped 28 points in back to back games now for Cleveland and fantasy owners can definitely benefit as Miles benefits from Dion Waiters (knee) misses time.  Those two 28-point outbursts represent the only two starts for Miles this season.  He doesn’t contribute in assists or rebounds as much as I’d like but as a swingman he hits threes.

Starting To Beal-ieve?

Bradley Beal (G, Wizards) As much time as John Wall and now A.J Price have missed from injuries the backcourt of Beal and Jordan Crawford are now looking like better options by the day.  Beal was the third pick in the 2012 draft out of Florida and is scoring and contributing in the other categories more consistently as of late.  As a rookie “2” his season field goal percentage is Brandon Jennings’s rookie year-esque (i.e fantasy hurtful @ 36.2%) he’s averaged 15.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists over the last six games.

Shawn Marion (F, Suns) is no stranger to fantasy basketball owners but hasn’t been particularly healthy or relevant in 2012-13; lately he’s come around.  In his last eight games played, he’s averaged 13 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists while grinding for about thirty minutes a game while shooting 51% from the field.  Dirk Nowitzki is still weeks away from returning and Elton Branf hasn’t been too effective so Marion will get more looks at this rate.

While the Lakers have been struggling mightily, and (surprise) show very little interest in playing defense, Jodie Meeks (G, Lakers) has been playing efficient offensive basketball as of late, averaging 15.2 points in the last five games.  Meeks’s forte is knocking down the three and hasn’t disappointed in that category (40% over last five games).  As mentioned previously, he’s a one-category hitter but will continue to get time.

After being pretty highly drafted in fantasy owners, Ersan Ilyasova (F, Bucks)  has been sighted playing basketball for the Milwaukee Bucks recently.  It’s actually a good time to pick him up. He dropped 21 and 12 against the Bobcats 19 minutes on Dec. 9^th and two games later dropped 16 points and 14 boards against the Kings.  He’s coming off the bench now for Milwaukee and it’s just another example of guys that actually blossom in that role.  The Bucks are mild surprises so far this year and are on a modest four-game win streak.

Is It Time to go to Jared?

Another swingman, the Suns Jared Dudley, (G/F Suns) has put together some nice offensive games lately, including a 22-point outburst in 43 minutes in a week last night against the Jazz.  A pretty efficient scorer when does put the ball in the basket, Dudley is shooting nearly 50% from the field so far in 12-13.  He’s gotten 43, 43 and 37 minutes of grind the last three games which isn’t sustainable but with the small forward position so thin in fantasy…

Waiver Saviors for Week 15 Fantasy Football

If you have made it this far in your fantasy leagues or are just getting started in the playoffs, chances are you need some roster/matchup insurance just in case.  It's imperative that you hit the waivers to grab these guys and stay ahead of the competition.

This Is How We Do It

The “Bryce Brown for President” campaign stalled a bit after a 12-carry, 6-yard performance Sunday in but not to worry fantasy gamers, let me introduce you to your new golden goose, Montell Owens.  This is how he does it; 91 yards and a score against the Jets crappy run defense.  We’ve alluded toward a favorable Jaguar schedule in our previous post and why would Jacksonville hurry Maurice Jones-Drew back in a lost season? If anything, Owens gets some major carries so the ownership can see what they have.  Games against a stingy run defense of the Dolphins and the pretty stingy Patriots may temper expectations, but Owens gets carries and could surprise.

David Wilson showcased speed, agility, and big play ability in a 52-27 thumping off New Orleans. We knew he was fast from his days as a Hokie; but that’s all his running back career had been to this point; hokey.  The Giants gave him the rock after Ahmad Bradshaw left the game and Mr. Wilson was the menace on the Saints defense and special teams going 13 for 100 even and adding a 97-yard kickoff return that doesn’t count for us, but you get the point.  The Giants aren’t going into the next two games (at Atlanta and at Baltimore) with potential blowouts in mind, so Bradshaw owners would be smart to scoop Wilson up.  His production is tied to Bradshaw’s health but he’s earned a few more snaps.

The 49ers could be looking to rest workhorse Frank Gore, and Brandon Jacobs clearly isn’t getting the ball, so LaMichael James made his NFL season debut and looked pretty strong and fast with 8 carries for 30 yards, one catch for fifteen and some nice kick returns (26.3) against the Dolphins. Anthony Dixon will still figure for carries but coach Jim Harbaugh always seems to maximize talent (save Vernon Davis for whatever reason) so look for certain packages where James can make an impact.  He won’t be making an impact on you cashing out just yet, but Gore owners may want to scoop him up for the “rest” of the run.

More Targets for Britt?

What to say about the Titans big play wideout Kenny Britt..Finally glimpses of the guy who terrorized defensive backs in the three game stretches in 2011, is starting to remind us of jollier times.  It was against the Colts hapless secondary in a shootout, but we’ll take it. Britt caught 8 passes for 143 yards but didn’t score on Sunday.  It appears that new offensive coordinator is stressing getting him and Jared Cook some more targets.  Britt had scored a touchdown in the two previous games and now faces the Jets and the Packers next.  He’s moving his way into WR2 territory.  The Jets game, with their solid secondary, will show and prove.  FYI,  Jared Cook is out for the rest of the season with a shoulder injury.

Jason Avant made a spectacular catch against the woeful Buccaneers secondary Sunday in a 23-21 win.  Nick Foles may resemble Napoleon Dynamite,  but he exploded the Bucs secondary, throwing for nearly 400 and Avant may enjoy a related surge in passes his direction.  This game was about Foles letting it loose, and Andy Reid’s leash in allowing him to do so.  Tight end Brent Celek suffered a concussion meaning him and Maclin will be getting major targets as the Eagles will probably have to throw in games coming up (Cincinnati and Washington, both at home).

Hope You're Still Playing This Week (Week 14 Advice)

The drama intensifies this weekend after last nights snoozer.  The football fight to the finish includes some games that may replicate last nights blowout than a shootout.  Let’s look at games that have the potential to be pretty offensively minded.

Sure Bets:

Houston vs New England: 

The Monday night matchupThese two teams are offensive juggernauts, that much is obvious.  Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson and Arian Foster are all looked at as top-tier matchups for this week. The last two more so than Schaub.  On the Patriots side, they’ve replaced their most feared weapon, Ron Gronkowski, and kept it moving, despite ineffective play from supposed-to-be playmaker Brandon Lloyd.  One of the reasons is they still have Wes Welker and Aaron Hernandez, who might be the second best tight end for fantasy behind Jimmy Graham.  Owen Daniels is probably the third best tight end play this week; Aqib Talib will be hardpressed to stop Andre Johnson.  You know the Patriots are going to try to expose an overrated Texans defense. The Patriots weapons are all great top-end starts and don’t be scared to start Stevan Ridley.

Lloyd Have Mercy- Its Playoff Time

Surprise Baller: Brandon Lloyd, even though he's questionable will play. They need him.  It’s time for a breakout from the big-play receiver.  Houston corner Jonathan Joseph is banged up and won’t be 100%.

Tennessee at Indianapolis

New offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains was expected to change the offensive focus for the Tennessee Titans that actually has a lot of talent on that side of the ball.  I’d say Jared Cook’s underutilization was one of the main reasons Chris Palmer was booted.  Quarterback Jake Locker tried to get him involved with a season-high 12 targets.  We’ve been pushing Cook all season and a visit to the Indianapolis pass defense sets up nicely.  I’m saying this because Locker has thrown him two of his three scores on the season and you know Luck and company will put up some points.  This may be bad news for Chris Johnson owners and good for T.Y. Hilton owners.

Surprise Baller: Vick Ballard, No Donald Brown, nuff’ said.

Detroit at Green Bay

These team put up a min-season’s worth of offense last time they played at Lambeau.  The Lions are much more talented than their record suggests but no one finds better ways to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory than the Motor City Morons.  They’ll be up against a slighlty off-kilter Green Bay Packer attack that has some mini-problems.  Jordy Nelson is banged up as is James Starks; neither will likely play.  That means we are due for a Greg Jennings sighting.  For Detroit it begins and ends with Stafford-to-Megatron.  How valuable does Nate Burleson look now?  The Lions passing target pecking order is in a state flux but Brandon Pettigrew and Joique Bell figure to benefit from major attention to Calvin Johnson.  Mikel LeShoure is the team’s runner and Joique Bell is the receiving back; put them together and you’d have a complete player.  The Lions haven’t won since 1999 in Green Bay.

Surprise Baller: Jermichael Finley, Had 66 yards and a touchdown against them earlier this year ..With a reduced Packers receiving core and a Lions defense that gives up the fourth most points to tight ends..Start Finley as a Top 7 TE this week.

Jermichael: French For "Lion Hunting"

Surprise Sits and Starts:

Start Reggie Bush: Surpisingly, will shine back in his home state against a 49ers team that has had defensive lapses at times.  The offensive isn't quite in sync as they had hoped with Kaepaernick, keeping this game close.

Sit Jamaal Charles runs into a Browns team that has defended the run much better recently; how will the Chiefs emotions factor into this road game? The Browns, while under the radar at 4-8, have played much better lately.

Get Riled Up

Start Riley Cooper. The Eagles wideout is set to make an impact as the Buccaneers pass defense can't cover anyone. A sneaky flex play.

Fantasy Basketball Week 6 Gainers / The Pelican Brief

Week 6 in the NBA and there is a lot of talent still out there on the waiver wires.  I mean there are so many quality options out there in leagues; Greivis Vazquez (PG, Hornets) is still unowned in a couple leagues, for crying out loud.  I mean, he averages nearly 14 points and over 8 assists!  We also know that swingmen are high in demand; with rebounds in "stock price" for tired ex-2's like Vince Carter and Jason Richardson.  Here's what to be cognizant of for Week 6.  We also know the aforementioned Hornets are considering a name change.

Antawn Jamison (PF, Lakers)  has started two games with Pau Gasol out with tendinits in both knees.  In his last seven games he’s averaged a respectable 15.9 points to go with eight boards and he chips in threes pretty accurately.  Coach Mike D’Antoni will probably give Jamison a lot of minutes to try to balance the Gasol-Dwight Howard lineup when the Spaniard gets back.  He’s getting added quickly in most standard leagues.

Nikola Vucevic (PF/C, Magic)  Not many usable Magic players so far this year in fantasy, but the 7-footer has quietly put together 9.0 point, 9.9 rebound campaign and will block shots.  His ability to provide double-doubles outweigh his not-so-great 46% field goal percentage.  He’s averaging nearly 32 minutes so he’s probably going to be filling the stat sheets all season.  He’s owned in a majority of leagues but saw a spike recently.

Atta Foye!

Randy Foye, (SG/PG, Jazz)  Mr. Up-and-Down is on an “up” as Utah is tinkering with their lineup, giving Foye starts at shooting guard and in the last three games he has responded averaging 13.5 a game with a majority of those point coming from downtown.  He’s tearing it up from 3-point land, but doesn’t offer much in the way of assists this year (1.8 apg).  He shoots a high percentage for a backcourt player and may run away with his current role. He’s owned in about 25% of standard leagues.

Shved Light On The Subject

Coach Rick Adelman has dubbed Alexey Shved (SG/PG, Timberwolves) Minnesota’s shooting guard of the future.  He still comes off the bench but still averages around 30 minutes of run a game since mid-November.  He’s a steady contributor in threes and has scored 10 or more in the last four games.  He is 6’6”and recently became the 20^th rookie in history to make four or more three’s and shoot 50% or better in two consecutive games.  His stock is definitely on the rise; he’s crafty and the logical increase in minutes will probably up his rebound and assist totals.

Tayshaun Prince (SF, Pistons)   The wily veteran has been averaging nearly 16 points in his last five games and shooting 54% from downtown in 34.2 minutes a game all well above his career averages, but his season average is right in line with his career.  In a fantasy hoops world short on serviceable swingmen, Prince is an undervalued commodity.

Jordan Crawford (SG, Wizards)  Owned in approximately 20% of standard leagues and rising, the guard is making some heads turn; in the last nine games he’s averaging 16.3 points, 4.1 assists and 2.8 rebounds per contest.  As long as John Wall is still sidelined with the knee injury so Crawford could see more starts.

Notes:

The Lakers Jodie Meeks is a cheap source of threes.

Shannon Brown's play in the Valley of the Sun will soon border on fantasy relevance.

Chauncey Billups, all of a sudden, can't stay healthy.

Who in the Hell is Bryce Brown and Other Week 14 Surprises

Who in the Hell is Bryce Brown?

Bryce Yourself

Bryce Brown  has made NFL analysts and fantasy gamers like you and me stand up and take notice with two standout fantasy performances the last two weeks.  Gamers with their ears to the ground would have likely scooped him up during halftime of last Monday night’s game featuring two crappy clubs that saw him set an Eagles rookie record with 178 yards rushing with two scores to boot. Brown followed that up with 169 yards and two touchdowns against Dallas yesterday.  Waiver wire fantasy gold, once again, delivering big points at fantasy playoff time; to me, this is the most exciting thing in fantasy sports.

A top recruit out of high school, Brown, you may recall, decided to attend the University of Tennessee then transferred to Kansas State.  He had to sit all of 2010; then due to injuries carried the ball just three times as a Wildcat. He was drafted by the Eagles in the seventh round, and has revitalized the Eagles offense, to a point.  The Eagles can’t end the season soon enough, fire their coach, and some other key players, but Brown is definitely a keeper.  Is he a keeper in your league? Well All-Pro Shady McCoy, isn’t going anywhere. But for now he’s a surefire RB1 even heading into the matchup with the top-ranked run defense of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 14.  The Bengals in Week 15 and the Redskins in Week 16 are all tough against the run but Bryce Brown is averaging 6.5 and has a powerful, explosive style, attack the whole with a lot of want-to.  He’s got to eliminate the fumbles but two back-to-back 150 yard games don’t grow on trees. You can’t trade for him at this point but I would definitely consider him a league keeper as the Eagles are known to make big trades.

J. Stewart May Bear Watching

Who is J. Stewart for the Oakland Raiders? Jeremy Stewart, a backup fullback, had 9 carries for 46 yards in the 20-17 defeat to the Browns yesterday. The recently serviceable Marcel Reece started the game, as Darren McFadden was held out, but it was Stewart who ended up with more carries.  Coach Dennis Allen said after the game that McFadden is expected back for Week 14, but its December and we’re talking McFadden who has, to put it nicely, consistently worrisome injury concerns. Stay tuned.  Broncos are up next, and are stout against the run.

OTHER DEVELOPMENTS

Don’t look now, but Rams wideout Chris Givens is starting to heat up.  When anyone has 11 catches against the 49ers in a single game, fantasy owners had best take notice.  He didn’t score on 92 yards worth of catches, but put that next to 5 catches for 115 yards and a touchdown at Arizona in Week 12 and you clearly can see the 20 targets mean Sam Bradford has Givens on his radar early in the progressions.  No Danny Amendola either, makes matchups against the Bills next week quite tempting.

Seattle Seahawk Golden Tate is starting to be useful fantasy wideout in 12-team deeper leagues.  Sidney Rice gets more targets overall, but in the last four games they both have 15 catches apiece. Tate has converted 75% of his targets and has scored 4 times.  Seattle has three of its final fours games at home where Tate has scored 5 of his 7 touchdowns.

Don’t know if folks back east are paying attention but Russell Wilson could be a real option to pickup off waivers for keeper purposes if you play in those types of leagues. Also keep in mind a lot of guys like Willis McGahee, Danny Amendola, etc. may have been dropped to make room.  If you have room on your roster it may behoove to make a waiver move.

Hittin' The Wire/ Heat Check: Fantasy Basketball Advice Week 4

Patrick Patterson, PF, Houston Rockets / Heat Check: HOT

A Major Pat-Down

If Patrick Patterson is available on your wire, add him immediately. You remember him in college..a little light on the rebounds, but doesn’t turn the ball over and is averaging 14.2 a game for Houston. He needs to be added in your league, pronto ! The 6’9’ second year power forward from Kentucky is on a hot streak, scoring 19+ plus points in four of his last five.  He shoots well over 50% from the field and is averaging big minutes as the presumptive second or third offensive options most games.  He can he can shoot it from downtown (37%) and his rebounding is getting better and better. He has center eligibility in some fantasy engines, like Yahoo.  He's going to be added a phenomenal rate by this weekend so get in early.

OTHER WIRE NOTES:

Jason Thompson (PF/C, Kings) – A nice rebounder so far this season (7.1 rpg) Thompson has been getting added more and more off the wire. The Kings will continue to give him minutes and miss shots, so a little more well-rounded category-wise than Reggie Evans for those looking for boards.

Brooklyn and Blatche: A Good Match?

Andray Blatche (PF/C, Nets) – The former Wizard will definitely see an increase in grind due to Brook Lopez’s injury.  Blatche can fill a stat sheet if given the opportunity, and recorded his first double-double as a Net.  The Brooklyn Nets have been a great story so far (10-4) and will be a force to be reckoned with in the East.

Staying with  native New Yorkers, there was a Charlie Villanueva (PF, Pistons) sighting Wednesday night against the Suns as the big man went 7 for 8 in 21 minutes against Phoenix.  After getting in Lawrence Frank’s doghouse (nine DNPs in first 12 games) things may start to turn around.  Someone to monitor, surely.

There was a Chauncey Billups (PG/ SG, Clippers) sighting in Los Angeles as the clutch guard has recovered quicker than previously expected. He went 1 for 5 scoring seven points and dishing out three assists.

Kawhi Leonard, (SF/SG, Spurs) is expected back December 1, check the wire to see if anyone dropped the talented swingman, something to be aware of if you own Gary Neal, the major beneficiary in Leonard’s absence. Ricky Rubio (PG, T-Wolves) is getting closer and closer to a December 12^th return, according the Minnesota Star Tribune.

Jermaine O’Neal (C, Suns) was languishing on the Suns bench as well, but coach Alvin Gentry put O’Neal in the regular rotation and the veteran has responded.  O’Neal won’t start for you but he can be useful in spots; in the last five games he’s average a shade under 13 with six rebounds and 1.8 blocks. He offers some help at center.

If you need help from long range, chances are Ben Gordon(G, Bobcats), who is not owned in the majority of fantasy leagues, may be able to help you while Gerald Henderson is out.  He scored 26  in a loss to the Hawks hitting 7 of 10 from downtown.  He has been recommended earlier in the season on this blog only to disappoint. He’s still isn’t particular interested in rebounding or assisting but think a poor-man’s Dell Curry in the late 1990s.

If you need help in rebounds, Brooklyn Net, Reggie Evans, (F, Nets)  has been collecting them at a great rate lately.  Another beneficiary of Brook Lopez’s injury, Evans has always been a one-trick pony in that category.

Speaking of good rebounders, Anderson Varejao ( C/Cavs)  has continued to play out of his mind on a not very good Cleveland team. They miss a lot of shots, but Varejao’s has been “vare” good at snagging boards.  His rebounding totals the last six games : 18, 22, 15,17,19,15.  Those are Moses Malone numbers on the glass.  With his 3.2 assists and 14.5 points a contest, he’s gotta be in the conversation for most improved.  For fantasy purposes, he’s probably got a lot of unexpected owners sitting pretty in terms of “bigs” depth.  He averaging 1.7 more rebounds than anyone else, unless you count one week’s worth of Kevin Love.

Week 13: Do or Die Time in Fantasy Football

It’s the final game of the regular fantasy season time for many owners or close to it.  The key is, just like real football, or even a blind date, is momentum.  Guys who were a bane to your existence in Week 4 and Week 5, are now hot commodities in early December.  Guys like Hakeem Nicks, Matthew Stafford, and Chris Johnson’s struggles early on could all be forgotten with playoff-clinching performances this week.  Let’s look at some situations in Week 13 that could make the difference.

GangGreene Has Set In On Shonn..

It's Die Time; Get Gang "Greene" On the Bench

As we’ve touched upon throughout the season, Shonn Greene has struggled this year to really, not be Shonn Greene.  He's a poor man's Michael Turner who has been mildly successful running behind a great offensive line with no viable timeshare threat.  Times have changed; Bilal Powell is now sharing reps with Shonn Greene, taking goalline carries away from the Jets struggling workhorse.  Powell has an agility and change of direction ability that allows the Jets more flexibility in passing situations, which their now-porous defense puts them in.  Actually, Mark Sanchez’s ineptitude puts the Jets in more passing situations as well.  We know the Jets need a major influx at talent in the draft; I would add running back to the needs list as well. Bilal Powell is a decent flex player and the Cardinals are middling at stopping the run but why would you waste a starting spot on Greene who has one good fantasy game all year?

Stay At The Hilton?

As a South Florida resident, we’ve had a little more exposure to T.Y. Hilton, current rookie wideout, aspiring-to-be-the-Colts-number-two-option-behind-Reggie-Wayne.  Hilton went to Florida International University in Sweetwater, which is in a western Miami suburb. Hilton has the wheels to get deep (4.34 speed) hands and isn't afraid of going over the middle. (Looks for Hilton). He's 5'9' - 183 pound speedster who has helped the 7-4 Indianapolis team on special teams, as every good fourth round draft pick should.  The Colts are going to sling it around the yard and will be right at home at Ford Field.  Looks for Hilton as a sneaky flex option, as the Lions and Colts are headed t for Shoot-Out-Ville.  Its like Farmville for Fantasy Owners.  He's got Dwayne Allen and Donnie Avery as contenders for targets. I'd feel better about him if he wasn't on special teams as that could limit snaps, but he's good to roll with this week as a low-end flex.  He's not Cecil Shorts, just yet, however.

Beanie Means Well? 

Is Beanie Back?

Will Beanie Wells be a reliable option going forward?  This guy doesn't think so, but are the Cardinals really that bad on offense? Who is Ryan Lindley? These are all questions owners willing to roll with Beanie Man have to ask themselves.  What you may not need to ask is in LaRod Stephens done “howling” at opponents end zone after an encouraging cameo as the Cardinals main guy. This week against the Jets, I'd roll with him as a flex, but not a RB2.  His plodding style and injury issues could resurface..but, given the running back issues league wide.  I'd saying right now the Cardinals will move the ball against the Jets and punch it in with Wells at least once.  He scored two last week against the Rams, LaRod Stephens is banged up. He has a nose for the endzone, like Shonn Greene was supposed to have.  The Jets have given up 100 yards rushing in like, 11 games this season, including 152 last week to the Patriots.

Jennings: Trying To Get It  Together

Greg Jennings Return?  Mr. Old Spice or Just Old ? How will he figure into the targets of an emerging  Randall Cobb, Jordy Nelson, James Jones, and a slightly resurgent Jermichael Finley?  He's not sure, but according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the Cover 2 defenses the Packers receivers are struggling with, may have Jennings playing more than anticipated. The Packers offense went into hiding against a very resurgent New York Giants club in Week 12, getting drubbed handily, 38-10.  They’ll be sure to want to get the passing game rolling early against the Vikings in Lambeau on Sunday. The Skinny: Jennings isn't likely to be in game shape, Cobb isn't going anywhere, and Nelson is Nelson, so any action Jennings receives probably negatively impacts James Jones.   Jennings is a flex play at best.  Random thought..did you know Donald Driver is still on the team?