When it comes to fantasy basketball, understanding which players are trending upwards or downwards can make a crucial difference in your strategy. But here's where it gets controversial—some players suddenly become hot commodities, while others seem to fall off the radar, and these shifts aren't always what you expect. The upcoming NBA In-Season Tournament has a lighter schedule this week, meaning fewer games and opportunities for players to showcase their skills. This change creates a perfect window to identify those who are gaining momentum or losing ground, which can significantly influence your fantasy lineup decisions.
A notable emerging standout is Raynaud, who has firmly established himself as a reliable backup center. Until Domantas Sabonis returns from injury, Raynaud is likely to continue starting, providing steady contributions.
Stock on the Rise
Derrick White — Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Boston Celtics
While this is a short-term snapshot, White has been exceptional during early December. Over four games, he's averaging an impressive 24.5 points per game with shooting splits of 51.4% from the field, 40.8% from three, and 80.0% from the free-throw line. It's important to note his surge in three-point attempts—about 12.3 per game—highlighting his increased role as a primary scorer for the Celtics. His recent rise in rebounds and assists adds further value for fantasy managers. This uptick suggests that White might be finding his rhythm and adjusting well to a bigger offensive role, which makes his stock skyrocket.
Kevin Porter Jr. — Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Milwaukee Bucks
Initially overlooked due to an injury in Game 1 and Ryan Rollins’ rapid rise, Porter Jr. has quickly reasserted his importance in Milwaukee. Since rejoining the team over a week ago, he's posted averages of 24.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 2.4 steals across five games, with shooting splits of 55.6% from the field, 61.3% from deep, and 88.0% at the free-throw line. He's even recorded a couple of 30-point games with five or more three-pointers. The questions about how well Porter Jr. would reintegrate and fit alongside Rollins now seem answered, which makes him a very appealing fantasy option.
Dylan Harper — Point Guard/Shooting Guard, San Antonio Spurs
After returning from an early-season calf injury, Harper’s rhythm took a few games to develop. However, in the last five games, he’s scored at least 15 points four times and has dished out five or more assists in each of those contests. His standout moment was a career-high 22-point performance against the Pelicans, capped off with a game-winning layup scored with his off-hand—a testament to his growing confidence and skill. All signs point toward Harper gaining more minutes, boosting his production, and increasing his impact as a rookie. With more game experience, his potential ceiling remains very high.
Stock on the Decline
Myles Turner — Center, Milwaukee Bucks
The Bucks' season has been tumultuous, with inconsistent results and struggles to establish their team identity. Turner, a key offseason acquisition, has experienced a significant dip in performance. Since November 26, he hasn't grabbed more than three rebounds in a single game and has scored over 12 points just once. Moreover, his playing time has decreased to under 24 minutes per game since December started. As the team tries to find its footing, Turner’s early-season form has waned, and his fantasy value has diminished accordingly.
De’Andre Hunter — Small Forward/Power Forward, Cleveland Cavaliers
Hunter has hit a rough patch recently, with the Cavaliers experiencing a series of wins and losses over their last five games. He's failed to reach double figures in scoring in two of those matchups, with a high of only 13 points. His rebounding has been minimal, with exactly three rebounds in each game during this stretch, coupled with just nine assists total. Until Hunter turns things around with a significant performance, his fantasy value remains subdued.
Reed Sheppard — Point Guard/Shooting Guard, Houston Rockets
Not long ago, Sheppard showcased promising potential, posting averages of 17.1 points and three three-pointers per game over ten contests. His standout moment was a 31-point performance that helped lead the Rockets to a victory over the Warriors, signaling a possible breakthrough. However, with Kevin Durant returning from injury, Sheppard’s role has become less prominent. Over the past five games, his average has dipped to 9.0 points, and his playing time has decreased, sometimes falling below that of backup point guard Aaron Holiday. Though he remains a talented second-year player, whether Sheppard can regain his earlier form remains uncertain, making his current fantasy outlook somewhat volatile.
