With the February 8 NBA trade deadline rapidly approaching, there’s an opportunity to make some fantasy basketball stashes. These players could have more fantasy value if their team makes a move.
Now, most of these players do not have to be added. But if you have space on your roster and want to make a stash, consider some of the names below.
Fantasy Basketball Stashes Ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline
Onyeka Okongwu
The Atlanta Hawks are expected to be very active at the trade deadline. They’ve reportedly only made Trae Young and Jalen Johnson untouchable, and some teams have already expressed interest in veteran center Clint Capela. If traded, this can mean a starting spot and more minutes for Onyeka Okongwu. He’s only started three games this season, but he’s averaged 16.3 PPG, 8.7 RPG, and 1.3 BPG in that role. Across 18 games as a starter last year, Okongwu averaged almost a double-double (10.3 PPG and 9.2 RPG) with 2.0 BPG. While he hasn’t been a great fantasy option, and his numbers are down from 2022-23, Okongwu could have an opportunity to make a bigger impact.
Alex Caruso and Ayo Dosunmu
Fantasy managers have seen how Alex Caruso and Ayo Dosunmu can thrive when Zach LaVine is sidelined. One of the biggest names left on the trade market, it’s almost certain LaVine will be in a new uniform within a week. With the Chicago Bulls appearing to be on the brink of blowing up the roster, DeMar DeRozan could also be on the move. As a result, Caruso and Dosunmu would benefit from extended roles. Caruso is the better fantasy option, but Dosunmu is more available on the waivers. While Dosunmu has struggled with consistency, he’s also flashed his potential.
Ausar Thompson
With how the Detroit Pistons’ season has gone so far, it wouldn’t be surprising if they made some moves. Bojan Bogdanovic’s name has popped up in numerous rumours, and he replaced Ausar Thompson in the starting lineup after returning from injury. LaVine is also linked to the Pistons, and the Bulls are rumoured to be interested in Bogdanovic. A potential package centred around him would include other role players, freeing up minutes for Thompson. Ultimately, the rookie was excellent early in the season, and Detroit could be willing to give him that chance to shine again.
Jabari Walker and Scoot Henderson
The Portland Trail Blazers are likely to trade Jerami Grant and Malcolm Brogdon before the deadline. In that case, Jabari Walker would benefit from absorbing Grant’s minutes and playing a more consistent role in the frontcourt. Across 10 games in the first unit this season, he’s averaged 8.9 PPG, 8.5 RPG, and almost one stock. He could average a double-double with Grant gone, making him an enticing stash. Likewise, Scoot Henderson has improved his game over the past few weeks, showing signs of turning around a rough first half of the season. Moving Brogdon would put a heavier workload on the third-overall pick as he develops.
Bilal Coulibaly
Washington Wizards rookie Bilal Coulibaly has recorded some impressive outings but lacks consistent playing time. But the Wizards have had an atrocious season and could start making rebuilding moves. They’ve entertained packages for Kyle Kuzma and could pull the trigger if the return is sweet enough. Trading away their highest usage player (30.3%) would free up more minutes for Coulibaly. A few other Wizards are drawing trade interest, including Tyus Jones, Deni Avdija, and Daniel Gafford (Marvin Bagley III would benefit significantly if Gafford were dealt). Ultimately, the Wizards have plenty of options to explore for trades and seem intent on getting picks. So, there is an opportunity for their promising 19-year-old young gun to receive an extended role.
Keyonte George
Several players on the Utah Jazz, namely Kelly Olynyk and Jordan Clarkson, are being mentioned in trade rumours. The team is expected to be sellers at the deadline, and that means we could see more of Keyonte George, who may move from a reserve to a starting role. Efficiency and turnovers are two things the rookie has struggled with, but those are less important in points leagues (and possibly categories, if punting them). George is a riskier fantasy basketball stash, as sometimes, even when given significant minutes, he doesn’t produce. Still, he has a high upside and has shown his fantasy relevance.
