Week 19 brings a return to normalcy in the NBA schedule, with many teams poised for four-game matchups. This expanded slate provides ample opportunity for fantasy players to capitalize on underutilized talent. Malik Beasley of the Detroit Pistons stands out as a must-start option, showcasing an impressive scoring ability off the bench. Also, Keyonte George of the Utah Jazz is expected to flourish amid injuries to key players, with his recent production mirroring starter-level efficiency.

Conversely, Darius Garland, who has not played recent games due to injury, should be benched this week, especially with a tough slate against the Magic and Celtics. In the forward category, Toumani Camara is a rising star for the Trail Blazers, while Ausar Thompson is holding his own on the Pistons. Lastly, centers like Kel'el Ware and Yves Missi are valuable additions in favorable matchups.

The NBA season has seen an impressive influx of rookies making their mark, and several more players are starting to show promise. Zach Edey from the Memphis Grizzlies stands out with his enormous frame (7-foot-4, 300 pounds) and the ability to score 9.1 points and grab 7.7 rebounds in just over 20 minutes per game. His efficiency (57.3% shooting) bodes well for his potential as a future starter.

Meanwhile, Matas Buzelis of the Chicago Bulls is gradually discovering his capabilities, with room for significant growth following Zach LaVine's departure. He has averaged 6.5 points in limited minutes but possesses the talent to become a valuable contributor as he gains experience.

In Washington, Carlton Carrington is making waves as a young guard, averaging 9.1 points, 4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists. His combination of size and skill allows him to contribute in multiple areas, especially as the Wizards seek to integrate him further into their plans.

The Miami Heat's Kel'el Ware, a 7-foot lob threat with shooting range, is also on the radar for his raw potential. Despite limited playing time, his future looks bright. Lastly, Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans has become a reliable presence on the court, showcasing his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities, making him a potential long-term fixture for the team.

Week 16 in NBA fantasy is crucial as it sits right before the All-Star Break, with many leagues counting the first four days of this week alongside the last four of the following week for scoring. Teams are gearing up for the fantasy playoffs that are just weeks away, which makes aggressive moves on the waiver wire more important than ever. Key additions for standard leagues this week include Isaiah Collier, Buddy Hield, and Matas Buzelis, all of whom have been seeing significant playing time and production lately.

Collier, now the starting point guard for the Utah Jazz, is averaging over 9 assists per game and is poised to keep racking up numbers. Hield has solidified his role in Golden State with consistent minutes and sharpshooting, while Buzelis is making waves as a rookie in Chicago, stepping into a starting role that offers him ample opportunity to showcase his scoring ability. Other valuable players to consider this week are Max Christie and Yves Missi, who provide different strengths that could benefit fantasy squads.

The NBA's 2024-25 rookie class continues to impress, with players like Kel'el Ware of the Miami Heat leading the charge. Ware has stepped up significantly in Jimmy Butler's absence, averaging 14.4 points and 8.8 rebounds over his last ten games, making him a must-roster in fantasy leagues. Other notable rookies include Alex Sarr from the Washington Wizards, whose early season success has slowed down, and Isaiah Collier of the Utah Jazz, who has elevated his game since moving into the starting lineup.

Fantasy managers should also keep an eye on Yves Missi of the New Orleans Pelicans and Zach Edey from the Memphis Grizzlies, both of whom are battling injuries but show potential for recovery. For those in need of streaming options, players like Donovan Clingan of the Portland Trail Blazers and Jaylen Wells from the Memphis Grizzlies are emerging as viable picks. Meanwhile, rookies like Stephon Castle of the San Antonio Spurs and Dalton Knecht of the Los Angeles Lakers are still finding their footing and should be monitored closely.

CJ McCollum scored an impressive 45 points, leading the New Orleans Pelicans to a thrilling 123-119 overtime victory against the Utah Jazz, marking the largest comeback in franchise history from a 25-point deficit. Despite struggling with injuries, the Pelicans proved their resilience, with coach Willie Green praising the team's camaraderie.

Zion Williamson and Herb Jones were sidelined, but McCollum's stellar performance, complemented by Dejounte Murray's near triple-double and strong contributions from Trey Murphy III, propelled the team to their fourth consecutive win.