The Mavericks' Game-Day Challenges and Player Replacements

Nov 26, 2024 at 7:49 AM
The Mavericks entered Monday's game in Atlanta facing a significant setback with three perimeter players sidelined. Luka Doncic was already out, and Klay Thompson and Quentin Grimes joined him on the sidelines. This left Naji Marshall (17%) and Jaden Hardy (1%) as the replacements, and both stepped up to deliver impressive performances in Dallas' win over the Hawks.

Marshall's Rising Fantasy Value

Marshall played 28 minutes and put up an outstanding stat line of 22 points, six rebounds, one assist, and two 3-pointers. This was his third consecutive game of 20 or more points. Since Doncic went down, his fantasy value has seen a notable increase, and he is expected to miss at least one more game (Wednesday vs. New York).

His ability to contribute on both ends of the court has made him a valuable asset. He shows great scoring prowess and is also involved in other aspects of the game, such as rebounding and making crucial 3-pointers.

Marshall's consistent performance has caught the attention of fantasy managers, and his role in the team is likely to grow in the coming games.

Hardy's Value and Team Dynamics

Hardy had a season-high 23 points, along with three rebounds, two assists, three steals (a career-high), and two 3-pointers. His value depends on the availability of Thompson and Grimes. If they are unable to play, Hardy's minutes and scoring opportunities will increase.

However, the team's injury situation is constantly changing, and Hardy's role remains somewhat uncertain. He needs to continue performing well to solidify his place in the lineup.

Also, we can't overlook Spencer Dinwiddie (2%), who had a solid game with 22 points, three rebounds, four assists, and four 3-pointers. His fantasy status moving forward is similar to Hardy's; he'll need multiple people to sit to be worth the risk.

Other Notable Pickups

Moussa Diabate (20%), Charlotte Hornets

Diabate didn't start Monday's loss to the Magic (Taj Gibson did), but he played significant minutes off the bench. He didn't score much but had eight rebounds and impressive defensive stats with two steals and four blocks. As long as the Hornets remain without Mark Williams and Nick Richards (with no concrete return timeline), Diabate will be worth rostering.

His ability to contribute on the defensive end and provide rebounding help makes him a valuable asset in the team's rotation.

Anthony Black (14%), Orlando Magic

Already without Jalen Suggs, the Magic lost another key player in the starting lineup five minutes into Monday's matchup with the Hornets. Gary Harris suffered a strained hamstring, leading to Black starting the second half. Although his final stat line wasn't overly impressive with 10 points, three rebounds, one assist, three steals, and two 3-pointers in 22 minutes, he will have more opportunities to produce if Suggs and Harris remain sidelined.

Black's potential is significant, and his performance in these circumstances could lead to a more prominent role in the team.

Yves Missi (13%) and Elfrid Payton (2%), New Orleans Pelicans

New Orleans received good news with CJ McCollum's return from a strained adductor. However, with the team still missing multiple contributors, Missi and Payton stepped up. Missi played 31 minutes off the bench and had 16 points, 13 rebounds, two steals, and two blocked shots. Payton, on the other hand, set a new career-high with 21 assists while also contributing 14 points, seven rebounds, and two steals in 31 minutes.

Missi's performance shows his ability to contribute in various ways, and he should have value for the rest of the season. Payton's fantasy relevance may end once Dejounte Murray returns from a broken hand.

Keon Ellis (8%), Sacramento Kings

Malik Monk's return from a sprained ankle was a significant change in the Kings' rotation, but Keon Ellis also made an impact. Ellis started his second game of the season on Monday, replacing Kevin Huerter. The matchup influenced the decision, as Sacramento needed to defend Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Ellis played 28 minutes and had eight points, one rebound, three assists, one steal, and two 3-pointers.

His performance gives him a chance to remain in the starting lineup, especially considering the Kings' issues defending on the perimeter. If he can continue to contribute, he could become a valuable player for the team.

Jalen Wilson (2%) and Ziaire Williams (2%), Brooklyn Nets

Despite being down multiple rotation players and losing Cameron Johnson and Cam Thomas during Monday's game, the Nets managed to erase an 18-point deficit and beat Golden State. Wilson and Williams, starting in place of Dorian Finney-Smith and Nic Claxton, made vital contributions. Wilson scored a career-high 18 points with seven rebounds, two assists, one block, and three 3-pointers. Williams had a double-double with 19 points, 10 rebounds, four assists, two steals, and two 3-pointers.

Their values for Wednesday's game against the Suns will depend on the Nets' injury report. If the injured players are unable to return, Wilson and Williams will likely continue to play important roles.

Neemias Queta (2%), Boston Celtics

While Kristaps Porzingis made his season debut on Monday, the Celtics were without Al Horford and Luke Kornet. Neemias Queta remained in the rotation and had a stellar performance in 25 minutes off the bench. He finished with 12 points, nine rebounds, three assists, two steals, and four blocked shots.

Queta's performance benefited the few managers who had him on their rosters and he will be a schedule play moving forward. The Celtics' Sunday/Monday back-to-back against the Cavaliers and Heat will provide another opportunity to consider streaming him.