Week 2 NBA Fantasy Basketball Trade Targets

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Andrew Ortenberg

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Basketball season is officially underway, and there are already some great buy-low opportunities in fantasy basketball. Each week, we’ll be bringing you a list of guys you can buy-low on and should look to trade for in your leagues. Here’s who we have our eye on this week for Fantasy Basketball Trade Targets.

Dwight Howard

Howard is in a good buy-low spot, because he hasn’t been able to play this season. The Wizards have kept him out with a back injury, and since he isn’t traveling with the team on their current road trip, looks like he’ll miss at least the next four games. Owners of Howard are likely panicking because he’s had some injury concerns in the past, but all signs are that he’s actually ok. All indications are that Washington is just being extremely cautious with their new center, and he should be back on the court soon. Howard was a fantasy monster last year, averaging 16.6 points and 12.5 rebounds, and could do even better this year in a much better offense. Definitely look to trade for Howard.

Ricky Rubio

Rubio has gotten off to a very slow start, and can probably be had for a very low price. But the Jazz have struggled altogether, and will almost certainly figure it out soon. Rubio owners are surely panicking about the emergence of Dante Exum, but Rubio’s ability to keep the offense moving will keep him on the court for heavy minutes. Rubio has a seemingly annual tradition of starting slow and coming on strong as the season progresses, and I think that trend will continue here. He’s shown an improved three point stroke, and is getting plenty of volume on it.

D’Angelo Russell

Russell is another perfect buy-low opportunity. He’s started the year in a bit of a shooting slump, but his volume and usage rate are still very high. Owners are likely turned off by the poor shooting to start the year, but that’s more likely a fluke than anything. His secondary stats have improved a lot, as he’s averaging career highs in assists and rebounds, and he looks to finally be operating as more of a true point guard. He should see a ton of run and heavy minutes the entire season, and is a great option to trade for if you need guard help and scoring.

Jonathan Isaac

If you can find anyway to swing a trade for Isaac, you need to do so now. He had a slow first few games, but recently erupted for 18 points and 12 boards. You can still probably have him for a pretty low price since his minutes have been limited, but that’s only because of his injury. Magic coach Steve Clifford has said Isaac is still on a minutes restriction, so the time to trade for him is now before that gets lifted. Isaac is an extremely talented defender who will rack up steals and blocks for you. He’s also going to get plenty of offensive opportunity in an offense lacking playmakers. Isaac is my favorite trade target of the week, and I think he could have league-winning potential down the stretch.

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