The end of the season is near and for those of you still in contention, be vigilant! Specifically, injuries always create opportunities for others. The biggest news last week was Dirk going down with a mid-high ankle sprain, which should keep him out of action for 2 weeks and possible until the playoffs, assuming the Mavs make it. So lets start here,,,
Jerry Stackhouse, G/F, Mavs — If there’s one thing Stack can do, it’s score. Someone needs to replace Dirk’s scoring and he should play a big role. If you need pts and FT%, then he is your man. Just beware the low FG%.
Vareajo, F/C, Cavs — Big Ben is out and Vareajo will fill his spot. If you need REB and decent steals (1/g) from the C slot, he can help. Strangely, he is a bricklayer, so he won’t help your FG% as typical big men do.
Al Harrington, F/C, Warrior — Lost his part time starting slot to Pietrus, but now Pietrus pulled his groin. He should regain the value he had before Pietrus started taking his minutes, which means 3 pointers from the F/C slot and points.
Anthony Johnson, G, Kings — Udrih is still dinged up and AJ should have value until he returns. If you need some assists, he can help.
Luke Ridnour, G, Sonics — Watson has a calf strain. As long as he stays out of the lineup, Ridnour will have great value — assists, stls and FT%.
What about Areans, J. O’neal and Brand? I think they’ll all come back this season, but when they do, they will play limited minutes. I really don’t see the reason for bringing back Brand this season, since the Clippers won’t be in the playoffs. However, word is he’ll play the last 5-6 games. As for O’neal, his PT will depend on how close Indiana can get to the last playoff spot. Arenas will probably play 20 min/g and then for the last few games of the season, play 30min/g in preparation for the playoffs. If you have dead weight on your roster to gamble on these guys, then I would look to pick up, in order, Arenas, O’neal and then Brand soley based on PT (you should also consider categories of stats they can contribute to).
sportsnut
Anthony Johnson didn’t think of him. Thanks!
– Freddie Footballer
update: TJ Ford Rumor is that TJ Ford will now start and Calderon will come off the bench.
jermaine o’neal two papers report he may play a few minutes tonight. if you have dead weight on your bench, can wait a week for o’neal to get up to 20min/g (possibly up to 30min/g for the last 5 games or so) and need reb and blocks — go get him now!