The new NBA season is officially underway, and for fantasy basketball managers, the first week is a crucial time to make smart moves. Finding hidden gems on the waiver wire—the list of available players not on any team’s roster—can give you an early advantage that lasts all season. Here are a few players, available in over 50% of Yahoo leagues, who showed great potential in their opening games and might be worth adding to your team.
✨ VJ Edgecombe, Philadelphia 76ers
VJ Edgecombe made a huge splash in his debut, starting and playing 42 minutes in a win against the Celtics. He was fantastic, scoring 34 points with five three-pointers, seven rebounds, three assists, and a steal. His big opportunity came partly because star players Paul George (knee) and Joel Embiid were either out or playing limited minutes. While George will return, both he and Embiid have a history of injuries. Edgecombe is a key part of the 76ers’ future plans, so he should have a significant role this season, making him a great player to add to your fantasy roster.
💪 Jonathan Kuminga, Golden State Warriors
After signing a new contract right before the season, Jonathan Kuminga showed what he can do in the Warriors’ first game against the Lakers. He started and played 33 minutes, contributing an impressive all-around performance with 17 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and four three-pointers. In the past, his playing time wasn’t always consistent. However, if his new contract means he’ll get a bigger and more regular role, picking him up now could be a very smart move that pays off throughout the season.
🎯 Cason Wallace, Oklahoma City Thunder
Cason Wallace got his chance to shine when teammates Jalen Williams and Isaiah Joe were sidelined with injuries. Starting in their place, Wallace played an incredible 42 minutes in a double-overtime victory, filling the stat sheet with 14 points, seven rebounds, five assists, four steals, and three 3-pointers. While he may not play this much every night, Williams could miss more games. With the Thunder needing more help on the court, Wallace is an excellent short-term option who can contribute in many ways to your fantasy team.
📈 Isaiah Jackson, Indiana Pacers
The Pacers look very different this season, with key players like Myles Turner gone and others like Tyrese Haliburton and T.J. McConnell out with injuries. This opens up a huge opportunity for Isaiah Jackson, who now seems to be the team’s main starting center. With less competition for minutes, Jackson is expected to play around 25 minutes per game. In the past, he has shown he can produce solid points, rebounds, and especially blocks in limited time. His expanded role makes him a valuable player to watch and add for his defensive stats.
