Locked On Fantasy Basketball – Daily NBA Fantasy Basketball Podcast

Monday's nine-game NBA slate brings unique fantasy basketball streaming challenges, but there are still quality streaming opportunities and injury-influenced plays to exploit. I walk through key players to watch, updated injury news, and realistic paths for maximizing streaming value this week, especially given Boston’s schedule advantages.

• Dennis Schroder remains widely available despite clear top-85 value in multiple formats and is the top stream for 10-team leagues while Coby White is out; don't hesitate to grab him despite his reputation.
• Pelle Larsson's rising minutes (37 last game) put him on the radar as a 12-team stream option, but success hinges on whether his role stabilizes at 29 or 33 minutes a night.
• Tari Eason's fantasy outcome depends completely on his minutes—if he holds even low-20s, he’s a speculative add, but 30+ minutes makes him a very strong play.
• Khaman Maluach may see increased minutes if Oso Ighodaro remains out; monitor his foul trouble and lineup priority for holding through a weak schedule stretch.
• Kyle Kuzma, De’Anthony Melton, and Draymond Green all grade as streaming candidates in standard leagues, each with situational upside due to injuries or temporary opportunity.
• In deeper formats, keep an eye on Justin Champagnie, Marcus Sasser, and Max Christie, all of whom are benefiting from absences and could deliver value in specific categories.
• With AJ Dybantsa out, Bilal Koulibaly is a defensive stats play, and Quentin Jackson could see a surprise uptick if Tyrese Haliburton is held out on the back-to-back.
• Boston is the only team with a Monday-Tuesday back-to-back, making their fringe rotation players appealing as short-term streamers for chunks of quality games.

0:00 Introduction
0:34 What I’m Watching Monday
2:31 Key Player Minutes and Upside Risks
4:13 Injury Updates
6:46 Streamers of the Day: 10, 12, 14, and Deeper Leagues
8:32 Sponsor Reads and Middle Segment
10:26 Monday Streaming Strategies
11:02 Monday’s Key Streaming Options (Schroder, Risacher, Draymond, Kuzma)
12:20 12-Team and Deep League Streamers
14:13 Defensive Stat Streamers and Deeper-League Flyers
15:28 Schedule Chunks & Quality Game Hacks
17:05 Boston Advantage and Multi-Day Strategies
18:56 Recap of Key Streams and What I’m Watching

Quo
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Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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This episode of Locked On Fantasy Basketball tackles the first waiver wire show of the year, focusing on players who should be added or dropped in fantasy basketball after the initial games. I break down which moves are reactionary and which are forward-thinking, discuss when to get ahead on speculative adds, and highlight key transaction trends to help you make better decisions in both category and points leagues.

• I emphasize being proactive with adds like Tristan da Silva and Pelle Larsson when clear short-term opportunity arises from injuries, even if the move is speculative and has possible downside.
• Droppable players are those you can move on from if something better appears on waivers—not mandatory cuts. Examples include Duncan Robinson, Saddiq Bey, and DeMar DeRozan, particularly when they are over-rostered relative to their actual upside and minutes.
• Players like Paul Reed are priority roster adds in all formats right now due to opportunity and proven per-minute production, especially with Jalen Duren dealing with injury risks.
• Some hot early-season starts (such as Kris Dunn, Dennis Schroder, and Zaccharie Risacher) are likely unsustainable for the long haul but should be taken advantage of until injured starters return or the small-sample production falls off.
• Caution is needed with speculative young players like Trayvon Brazile—I’m all for adding if you’re cutting dead weight, but paths to lasting value are tricky unless rotation logjams clear.
• Overreactions—like dropping Onyeka Okongwu or panicking three games into the season—should be avoided; context and long-term projections are still important after a few games.
• Monitoring transaction trends across platforms (e.g., Yahoo vs. Basketball Monster) helps contextualize market sentiment but doesn't mean you should blindly follow the crowd.
• Deep-league fliers such as Graham Ike may have value if current rotation trends hold—worth monitoring if you play in 16- or 20-team leagues.

0:00 Introduction
0:33 Waiver wire strategy and panic management
3:31 Priority speculative adds and the value of getting ahead
6:28 Droppable players explained
13:34 Reviewing transaction trends across platforms
17:48 Most frequently dropped players and rationale
22:00 Josh’s Hotties: Hot starts and sustainability
27:16 Watchlist names and speculative upside
33:32 Closing thoughts and housekeeping

Quo
Money is on the line. Always say hello with QUO. Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/LOCKEDONNBA. 

Wayfair
Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life.  Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase.  
Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home.
 

KALSHI
Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Sunday's Locked On Fantasy Basketball focuses on maximizing your fantasy basketball lineup at the end of Week 1 with streaming recommendations, injury impact analysis, and key schedule quirks. I break down actionable advice for players to add, sell, or hold and highlight when not to panic even after a slow fantasy start. The episode offers targeted streaming strategies based on league size, injuries, and back-to-back schedule advantages.

• Don't overreact to two games — it's way too early to make drastic drops or trades for struggling players like Josh Giddey or Matas Buzelis. Context and sample size are everything.
• Selling low is rarely justified; give underperforming but talented players time unless your original valuation was low to start.
• Streaming for Sunday should prioritize Tristan da Silva (especially if Anthony Black is limited), Precious Achiuwa, Obi Toppin, Derrick Jones Jr., and Keon Ellis depending on league format and player availability.
• Paul Reed is a strong watch in Detroit — if his minutes rise above 30 out of necessity, his fantasy value jumps; the same goes for Jaxson Hayes who delivers in blocks and steals across formats.
• Don't rush to add or drop Mikal Bridges; letting go in shallow or points leagues may make sense, but hold in most 12-team formats unless alternatives are clearly better.
• Schedule is a huge edge: Sacramento and Memphis both play three quality games in the next five days, making Precious Achiuwa the top short-term add.
• The Suns' sparse upcoming schedule (two games in eight nights) severely limits the utility of their role players for streaming or short-term holds.
• Back-to-backs give you a leg up — streaming options like Jeremy Grant, DeAndre Hunter, and Isaiah Stewart should be adjusted based on schedule clustering.

• Basketball Monster — for advanced stats and competitive league numbers.
• joshloydfantasy.com/shop — for fantasy gear (explicitly mentioned Isaiah Stewart tribute shirt).
• Week 2 preview episode referenced for detailed injury news.

Apply the recommended streaming picks and hold strategies to your Sunday and early Week 2 fantasy basketball lineups, keeping in mind context before making moves.

0:00 Introduction
0:31 Early Sunday Schedule & Injury Overview
3:20 What I'm Watching For — Key Players and Overreactions
7:00 Injury Updates and Absence Impact
11:46 Sunday Streamer Recommendations
13:30 Streaming Options by League Size
17:07 Points League Streamers
18:45 Deep League and Additional Stream Choices
20:32 Schedule Exploits & Back-to-Backs
23:46 Recap and Final Thoughts

Quo
Money is on the line. Always say hello with QUO. Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/LOCKEDONNBA. 

Wayfair
Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life.  Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase.  
Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home.
 

KALSHI
Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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This episode previews fantasy basketball strategies for Week 2, breaking down the NBA schedule, how to leverage streaming options, and which injuries and player changes matter most for managers. I walk through the best- and worst-case scenarios for maximizing games played, discuss critical injury replacements, and identify players to add, hold, or sit based on matchup volume and role.

• The Boston Celtics have the top fantasy schedule for Week 2, playing all four of their games on low-volume days, offering strong streaming potential.
• The Phoenix Suns have the worst schedule this week with only two games and a poor spread, making almost all Suns players sits in weekly lock leagues.
• There are minimal usable back-to-backs and no actionable three-in-four or four-in-six night streaming stretches this week due to the NBA Cup's impact on the schedule, so fantasy managers should focus on quality games, not just raw totals.
• Paolo Banchero is out 4–6 weeks with a high ankle sprain; Tristan da Silva and Anthony Black are speculative adds, though da Silva is likely a stream rather than a long-term hold.
• Jalen Duren's hamstring injury makes Paul Reed a must-add in all formats, even if the absence is short-term.
• Managers shouldn't rush drops based on one bad game during a multi-game stretch, especially with so few quality streaming opportunities this week.
• Weekly leagues require careful sits: avoid locking in Suns players, Cason Wallace, DeMar DeRozan, Keaton Wagler, Ace Bailey, and Christian Braun—all profile poorly for Week 2 volume.
• Priority adds for the week include Precious Achiuwa (especially early), Obi Toppin, Aaron Wiggins, Jaylon Tyson, and possibly Tristan da Silva (with low confidence on long-term upside).

0:00 Introduction
0:38 Week 2 schedule breakdown
2:05 Identifying best and worst schedules
5:06 Injury updates and reacts
7:28 Streaming, schedule density, and pitfalls
13:17 Back-to-backs and sit/hold guidelines
17:55 Additional injuries and long-term adds
23:05 Streaming plans and target waiver adds
27:28 Weekly league sit/start recommendations
29:05 Wrap-up and housekeeping

Quo
Money is on the line. Always say hello with QUO. Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://Quo.com/LOCKEDONNBA. 

Wayfair
Transform your space with pieces that hold up to real life.  Join Wayfair Rewards today and get five percent back on every purchase.  
Head to https://Wayfair.com or shop the Wayfair app for all things home. Every style. Every home.
 

KALSHI
Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started.
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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A loaded night of fantasy basketball action saw injuries piling up across the league, sparking key buy-low and sell-high opportunities. I break down Friday's 12 games, spotlighting player trends, usage shifts, and actionable takeaways — from disastrous starts and big performances to speculative injury adds and harsh roster drops you shouldn't hesitate to make.

• Injuries to major names like Cooper Flagg, Paolo Banchero, Jalen Duren, Ausar Thompson, and Yves Missi have opened short-term waiver adds, but fantasy managers should weigh a player's upside before dropping reliable holds for speculative injury replacements.
• Matas Buzelis and Josh Giddey have both stumbled out of the gate but are prime buy-low targets, as early struggles don't erase projected season-long value—rash drops or panic trades should be avoided at this stage.
• Jalen Smith, Leonard Miller, and Naji Marshall each stepped into valuable roles due to teammate injuries or rotation changes, showing streaming upside but needing close monitoring as player health situations change.
• Category leaguers can confidently cut bait on fringe or hype-driven adds like Andre Drummond, Calel Ware, Brayden Burries, and Kyle Filipowski unless meaningful, repeatable role changes occur.
• Defensive stat specialists such as Dyson Daniels, Jalen Williams, and Matisse Thybulle should be rostered for those category builds, but don't expect their scoring outbursts to last.
• Stars with slow starts, including Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, and Bam Adebayo, offer buy-low opportunities due to unsustainably poor shooting or minutes quirks—there’s no reason to panic after just a couple of games.
• Position or minute bumps for players like PJ Washington (center minutes), Jaden McDaniels, and Paul Reed substantially change their short-term fantasy value and warrant quick waiver action.
• Don’t overreact to one-game wonders or unexpected bench performances, as hot streaks and role adjustments can vanish fast without injury or coaching signals showing longevity.

• Basketball Monster (for waiver trends and advanced stats mentioned throughout the show)
• joshloydfantasy.com/shop (merch store, as mentioned at the end)

Keep a sharp eye on injury situations and waiver wire opportunities, but focus on sustainable role changes, not small-sample outliers.

0:00 Introduction
0:37 Chicago Bulls vs. Milwaukee Bucks recap
8:35 Charlotte Hornets vs. Atlanta Hawks recap
13:41 New York Knicks vs. Boston Celtics recap
22:14 Toronto Raptors vs. Washington Wizards recap
28:16 Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Orlando Magic recap
36:13 Dallas Mavericks vs. Indiana Pacers recap
41:38 Detroit Pistons vs. Miami Heat recap
46:58 New Orleans Pelicans vs. Utah Jazz recap
53:14 Houston Rockets vs. San Antonio Spurs recap
57:16 LA Clippers vs. LA Lakers recap
1:02:31 Portland Trail Blazers vs. Sacramento Kings recap
1:06:45 Golden State Warriors vs. Memphis Grizzlies recap
1:11:48 Lines of the Night and Closing

Indeed
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PrizePicks
Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA and use code LOCKEDONNBA and get $150 if you win your first $5 lineup!

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

KALSHI
Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started. 
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Visit Josh Lloyd Fantasy for more

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Saturday’s NBA fantasy basketball slate is complicated by 13 of 16 teams playing on back-to-backs, making streaming strategy and injury monitoring critical. I break down the best waiver wire adds, key names to monitor, and actionable streaming options for both category and points leagues, with special attention to opportunity shifts from player absences.

• Naji Marshall is my top streamer and waiver add for Saturday in all formats given his minutes, recent production, and likely Kyrie Irving absence, which should provide additional usage and ball-handling [08:06].
• Only three teams avoid a back-to-back, so short-term schedules should heavily influence all add/drop and streaming choices this weekend [01:55].
• Players like Gui Santos and Brandon Williams become strong 10- and 12-team streams respectively if Steph Curry and others rest for Golden State [07:20].
• Caution on Zaccharie Risacher: his strong fantasy line relied on five steals; remove those and his output looks far less appealing. He remains a speculative stream, not a must-roster [12:34].
• Dennis Schroder retains streaming value while Coby White is out, and Marcus Smart is confirmed to start for Houston with Fred VanVleet sidelined [12:01], [15:18].
• Given Brooklyn’s schedule advantage, Keon Ellis may be able to pile up valuable minutes, especially with Mikal Brown’s minutes management [21:24].

• Basketball Monster (site for tools referenced throughout)
• Josh Lloyd’s article on xStats at joshloydfantasy.com/research

Monitor injury news and adjust streaming picks accordingly for Saturday’s heavy back-to-back schedule.

0:00 Introduction
0:34 Saturday Overview and Back-to-Backs
2:22 Players and Roles to Watch
6:49 Streamers of the Day
8:40 Points League and ESPN/Yahoo Streams
11:17 Saturday’s NBA Games and Streaming Guide
15:27 Deep League and Backups
20:06 Chunks, Schedule Strategy, and Quality Games
22:53 Streaming Recap and Outro

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.
 

PrizePicks
Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA and use code LOCKEDONNBA and get $150 if you win your first $5 lineup!

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

KALSHI
Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started. 
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Visit Josh Lloyd Fantasy for more

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The latest Locked On Fantasy Basketball episode breaks down all the key fantasy basketball takeaways from Thursday's NBA slate, focusing on actionable insights from the Cavaliers–76ers and Nuggets–Thunder games. I analyze notable player performances, discuss waiver wire trends, and take a detailed look at how the new xStats work and what fantasy managers can learn from them.

• Donovan Mitchell produced a strong stat line, but a substantial drop in assists lowers his fantasy ceiling and shifts him outside first-round category-league value due to James Harden's presence.
• Tyrese Maxey continues to play big minutes with stellar efficiency, but his decreased usage suggests some upcoming regression, especially when the hot shooting cools off.
• Andre Drummond and Moussa Diabaté are being added in large numbers, but neither projects as a 12-team long-term hold outside spot streaming or injury stash scenarios.
• Players like Jared McCain and John Kuminga are popular pickups for streaming, but I don't see lasting value for McCain in standard formats.
• Gafford and Mitchell Robinson are trending toward droppability unless injury situations break in their favor, as their current minutes and production are insufficient.
• Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and much of the Nuggets roster struggled against Oklahoma City; aside from Aaron Gordon's hot shooting, Denver's top fantasy assets underperformed, but I don't see long-term concern for Jokic.
• The new xStats measure players’ expected stats based on league-wide context, not each player’s baseline; they're most robust for shooting and rebounds, less so for steals and turnovers, but will be refined through the season.
• Hold off on dropping Isaiah Hartenstein, Cason Wallace, and Ajay Mitchell unless you have a clearly better option, but they are trending away from must-roster status in 12-team leagues.

0:00 Introduction
0:33 News and Injury Updates
2:58 Waiver Wire Trends
6:51 Cavaliers vs. 76ers Fantasy Breakdown
14:19 xStats Explanation and Methodology
25:01 Nuggets vs. Thunder Fantasy Breakdown
33:18 Lines of the Night and Recap
34:30 What To Watch For on Friday
36:31 Closing Thoughts

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.
 

PrizePicks
Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA and use code LOCKEDONNBA and get $150 if you win your first $5 lineup!

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

KALSHI
Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started. 
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Visit Josh Lloyd Fantasy for more

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Fantasy basketball managers are facing a packed Friday slate with 12 NBA games, plenty of injury updates, and evolving streaming options. I break down which players are worth adding for short-term help, who to stream in both category and points leagues, and what minute distributions and roles to watch as lineups and rotations shift early in the season.

• Gui Santos is worth streaming for 10-team leagues despite a rough opener, especially with potential Warriors absences; don't overreact to one bad game.
• Dennis Schroder is my top streaming pick for 12-team leagues due to injuries in Charlotte and his increased opportunity, but his value is short-term until Coby White or others return.
• Matisse Thybulle and Robbie Williams can provide defensive stats or category-specific value for deeper leagues, with Thybulle especially valuable for steals and blocks.
• Watch the minutes for Kyrie Irving, Zach Edey, and Alex Sarr closely to see if their usage increases from opening night; this could drive their fantasy value.
• Bilal Koulibaly is not a long-term hold but is a viable stream when starting due to injuries for short-term defensive stats; don't expect sustained production.
• Paul Reed and Mitchell Robinson have category-specific appeal but are risky after lackluster first games—stream for blocks and boards, but don't expect all-around production.
• Julian Champagnie, Precious Achiuwa, Jaxson Hayes, and Derrick Jones Jr. are worth consideration based on roles and recent minutes, especially with injuries impacting rotations.
• Brooklyn Nets and Keon Ellis stand out with the best 5-day schedule for maximizing games played; managers should target these for streaming advantage in weekly formats.

0:00 Introduction
0:37 Friday Preview & Injury Updates
6:53 Friday Streaming Options
12:16 10-, 12-, 14-, and Deep-League Streamers
15:12 Additional Streaming and Points League Options
19:54 Back-to-Backs & Schedule Analysis
20:43 Five-Game Weeks & Bad Schedules
23:53 Final Streaming Recap & Closing

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Two days into the NBA season, fantasy basketball managers are dealing with early overreactions, evaluating rotations, and deciding what to do with hot pickups and disappointing starts. I walk through actionable advice on player drops, waiver priorities, and how much to read into minutes or single-game performances across formats. The big question: when to hold, when to flip, and when to panic—or not.

• Don't panic-drop high-draft capital players, like Josh Giddey, based on one poor game. Context and wider statistics matter more than a single bad shooting night.
• Keaton Wagler and Moussa Diabaté are both viable big-man pickups after strong opening games, but neither offers guaranteed league-changing upside or a clear long-term edge over the other.
• Isaiah Collier is not an "assist beast" this year and doesn't warrant standard-league consideration unless multiple injuries hit the roster.
• Sacrificing long-term potential for short-term streams like Keon Ellis or Chris Dunn is fine, but these are not must-hold guys with guaranteed roles. Use them as short-term steals/blocks streams only.
• Do not overreact to limited minutes in blowouts or ramp-up situations (examples: Jakob Pöltl and Zach Edey); usage and coach intent still matter this early.
• Cedric Coward’s lack of aggression and limited stat growth remains an issue; even with minutes, his passive game and usage hold him back from substantial fantasy impact.
• Rookie breakouts worth watching have yet to emerge after two days—early waiver standouts are mostly low-usage bigs, not high-ceiling wings or guards.
• Reed Sheppard isn’t close to standard-league viability; usage and coaching signals from Ime Udoka make sustained relevance unlikely in Houston.
• Be clear when interpreting injury reports and team communications; ambiguity around "out at least a week" does not mean a player will definitely return in seven days.
• Roster Bilal Coulibaly in deep leagues only as long as current absences last; his defensive outburst is unsustainable with a full-strength rotation.

0:00 Introduction
0:32 Early Season Impressions
2:32 Kevin Porter Jr., Waiver Holds
3:32 Jakob Pöltl, Zach Edey, and Minutes Panic
5:13 Waiver Priorities: Khaman Maluach, Bilal Coulibaly
6:53 Injury Report Misinterpretations
7:56 Devin Vassell, Role & Value
9:13 Marez Johnson and Dallas Rotation
10:22 Josh Giddey Outlook
14:08 Sponsor Messages
14:22 Defensive Streamers: Keon Ellis, Kris Dunn
16:23 Diabaté vs. Yves Missi vs. Other Big Man Pickups
18:17 Brandon Miller, Isaiah Collier Expectations
20:36 Moussa Diabaté vs. Kaleb Ware Decision
20:40 xBLOCKS Stat Explanation
22:02 Alex Sarr’s Rough Start
24:43 Sponsor Message
25:09 Cedric Coward’s Outlook
27:23 Giddey Drop Overreactions
28:01 Breakout Candidates, Rookies
29:13 Brooke Lopez vs. Moussa Diabaté, Reed Sheppard’s Prospect
30:38 Yahoo "Pro" League Drop Fiascos
31:38 Kyshawn George, 10-Team vs. 12-Team Leagues
 

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KALSHI
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Gametime
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FanDuel
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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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It's the true opening day with 11 NBA games to break down for fantasy basketball. I'm assessing notable performances, overreactions, minutes distribution, and key waiver decisions so you can separate actionable trends from noise in your leagues. This episode covers everything from early breakout and underwhelming players to recommended waiver wire moves and the impact of starter changes across various formats.

• Don't overreact to one-game outliers, especially in minutes, fouls, or hot shooting; wait for trends to develop before making major fantasy moves.
• Jalen Smith and Isaiah Jackson should have been rostered already, and Smith in particular is a clear short-term hold while relevant injuries persist.
• Drop Andre Drummond in most league formats—he's a wasted add with no consistent path to value.
• Waiver adds like Zaccharie Risacher and Jon Kuminga are likely to disappoint based on role and regressed counting stats from unsustainable defensive numbers.
• Ty Jerome's massive night is real for now, but extremely high shooting efficiency is unlikely to hold; consider selling high where possible.
• Several rookies, including Darryn Peterson and Darius Acuff Jr., struggled as expected—rookie guards are generally shaky in standard fantasy leagues.
• Caleb Wilson and Matas Buzelis command huge usage but will crush your field goal and free throw percentages; manage expectations accordingly.
• Don't chase one-night defensive explosions (e.g., Jackson Hayes' 6 blocks); these are typically massive outliers.
• Monitor rotations in Houston and Dallas for hints on Fred VanVleet, Alperen Sengun, and role players like Reed Sheppard and Daniel Gafford, who all had concerning playing time or usage red flags.
• Prioritize flexibility with the end of your bench—cycle out players with low upside or non-stable roles for fresh waiver targets.

0:00 Introduction
1:35 News, Injuries, and Waiver Trends
4:50 Game Recap: Milwaukee Bucks vs. Washington Wizards
13:44 Game Recap: Atlanta Hawks vs. Orlando Magic
21:04 Game Recap: Minnesota Timberwolves vs. Miami Heat
27:18 Game Recap: Chicago Bulls vs. Toronto Raptors
32:51 Game Recap: Charlotte Hornets vs. Brooklyn Nets
37:58 Game Recap: Utah Jazz vs. Memphis Grizzlies
43:16 Game Recap: Indiana Pacers vs. New Orleans Pelicans
49:03 Game Recap: Dallas Mavericks vs. Houston Rockets
54:26 Game Recap: Phoenix Suns vs. Portland Trail Blazers
58:58 Game Recap: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Golden State Warriors
1:02:47 Game Recap: Los Angeles Clippers vs. Sacramento Kings
1:07:05 Lines of the Night and Closing Thoughts

Indeed
Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.
 

PrizePicks
Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA and use code LOCKEDONNBA and get $150 if you win your first $5 lineup!

Odoo
Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

KALSHI
Today's episode is brought to you by Kalshi. For a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
This season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM  to get started. 
 

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Visit Josh Lloyd Fantasy for more

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.