Fantasy Basketball Trade Tips: Moves One Week Before Fantasy Deadline
With the fantasy basketball trade deadline set for March 5, managers have exactly one week to make final roster adjustments before the playoffs. The dust has settled from the NBA’s own chaotic deadline earlier this month, but the fantasy implications are still crystallizing. The landscape has shifted dramatically following blockbuster moves like James Harden joining the Cleveland Cavaliers and Jaren Jackson Jr. landing with the Utah Jazz, leaving managers to navigate a minefield of shutdown risks and schedule quirks.
The most pressing situation involves the Cleveland Cavaliers. While the acquisition of James Harden adds star power, fantasy managers must look ahead to the schedule. The Cavaliers play only two games during Week 19 (beginning March 2), which coincides with the first round of the playoffs in many leagues. If you are holding Harden or Donovan Mitchell, now is the moment to explore a "sell-high" trade. Moving a superstar for a package of players with four-game weeks could be the difference between a championship run and an early exit.
In Indiana, the arrival of Ivica Zubac has created a deceptive value trap. While Zubac has been productive, the Pacers are incentivized to protect their top-four protected first-round pick. This makes Zubac and veteran forward Pascal Siakam prime candidates for late-season shutdowns. Smart managers should pivot immediately to Jarace Walker, who is poised for a massive usage spike as the Pacers prioritize youth development down the stretch.
On the buying side, look at the Utah Jazz. The acquisition of Jaren Jackson Jr. has transformed their frontcourt, and unlike the tanking teams, Utah appears committed to integrating their new star. Jackson’s block rate and three-point shooting make him a league-winner, and his role is secure. Similarly, Bennedict Mathurin, now with the Los Angeles Clippers, is seeing increased offensive responsibility with Kawhi Leonard managing his usual load.
Be ruthless this week. Name value means nothing if a player is sitting on the bench during your elimination games. Target players on teams like the Washington Wizards or Boston Celtics who have favorable playoff schedules, and don't be afraid to cut bait on shutdown candidates before the deadline locks.
The most pressing situation involves the Cleveland Cavaliers. While the acquisition of James Harden adds star power, fantasy managers must look ahead to the schedule. The Cavaliers play only two games during Week 19 (beginning March 2), which coincides with the first round of the playoffs in many leagues. If you are holding Harden or Donovan Mitchell, now is the moment to explore a "sell-high" trade. Moving a superstar for a package of players with four-game weeks could be the difference between a championship run and an early exit.
In Indiana, the arrival of Ivica Zubac has created a deceptive value trap. While Zubac has been productive, the Pacers are incentivized to protect their top-four protected first-round pick. This makes Zubac and veteran forward Pascal Siakam prime candidates for late-season shutdowns. Smart managers should pivot immediately to Jarace Walker, who is poised for a massive usage spike as the Pacers prioritize youth development down the stretch.
On the buying side, look at the Utah Jazz. The acquisition of Jaren Jackson Jr. has transformed their frontcourt, and unlike the tanking teams, Utah appears committed to integrating their new star. Jackson’s block rate and three-point shooting make him a league-winner, and his role is secure. Similarly, Bennedict Mathurin, now with the Los Angeles Clippers, is seeing increased offensive responsibility with Kawhi Leonard managing his usual load.
Be ruthless this week. Name value means nothing if a player is sitting on the bench during your elimination games. Target players on teams like the Washington Wizards or Boston Celtics who have favorable playoff schedules, and don't be afraid to cut bait on shutdown candidates before the deadline locks.
