Stretch run for Fantasy NBA! Get your games played — don’t give up! We have some diamonds in the rough (ok, cubic zirconia in the rough) for you. Don’t scoff, CZ is still worth more than dirt!

Mickael Pietrus, F, Warriors — Well, well, look who is in the starting line up. He’s a potential 1 3pt, 1stl, 1 blk per game guy. As usual, watch the boxscores closely since every warrior is at Nellie’s whim except BD, SJax and Monta.

Nesterovic, C, Raptors — While Bosh is out, Rasho has been putting up decent (for free agents) stats. He’ll get you pts, some rebs and a block or so per game. Worth starting as long as Bosh is out.

Stackhouse, G, Mavs — He’s been in the starting lineup recently. If you need some points and good FT%, he’s your man. Just be aware that he’s only getting about 25 min/g as the starter.

Tim Thomas, F, Clippers — Thornton is banged up. If he continues to play banged up or has to sit out, Thomas should see a big uptick in value. Good for 3s and pts.

Josh Childress, F, Hawks — Still not starting but gets 30+ min/g and with the Hawks fighting for a playoff spot, he should see alot of PT. If you’re in a close race for FG% and FT%, he is a great pickup.

Flip Murray, G, Pacers — For some reason Deiner has lost his starting PG job. It doesn’t matter as Flip is the PG now. He’s more of a scorer, but should still get you some assists.

Ronny Turiaf, C, Lakers — Gasol is dinged up and missing games. Bynum should be out until April. That leaves big minutes for Turiaf, who can get you some REB and BLKs.

I would also start keeping an eye on young up and coming players on teams that are out of the playoff race — they might get a chance to play.

sportsnut