Fantasy basketball managers are entering Week 4 of the season with a clearer picture of their roster dynamics. While some players have exceeded expectations, others are struggling to meet preseason projections. The upcoming week features a varied schedule, with 14 teams playing four games, another 14 playing three, and both Brooklyn and Minnesota playing just two games. These game counts are crucial factors when deciding which players to start or sit, particularly in head-to-head formats where total production matters.
For guards, Jeremiah Fears of the New Orleans Pelicans is the recommended start. Despite the return of Dejounte Murray, Fears has maintained his momentum, scoring at least 19 points in five of his last six games. He has also improved his defensive play, averaging 1.5 steals per game over that span. With four games on the schedule, his consistency across multiple categories makes him a strong candidate for a starting spot.
Conversely, CJ McCollum of the Atlanta Hawks should be benched. His role has diminished recently, averaging just 9.3 points and 23.1 minutes per game in three recent appearances. With Kingston Flemings moving into the starting lineup, McCollum's playing time may increase slightly to 25 minutes, but with only three games this week, the risk remains high for fantasy managers.
Nolan Traore of the Brooklyn Nets is another guard to consider sitting. Although he has been a pleasant surprise as a starter, averaging 15.1 points and 1.9 steals in his last seven games, his minutes have been capped at around 25 per game. This limited usage suggests a ceiling on his production. Given that Brooklyn only plays two games this week, moving him to the bench is a prudent decision.
Among forwards, Collin Murray-Boyles of the Toronto Raptors deserves a start after delivering his best performance of the season in a recent win over the Bucks. He played nearly 34 minutes and has averaged 16.7 points and 5.7 rebounds over the past week. With four games scheduled, his recent uptick in form makes him a viable option for those looking for a boost.
Saddiq Bey of the New Orleans Pelicans is also a strong starting candidate. Coming off the bench, he has scored in double figures in six straight games, including a 25-point outing against the Hawks. Averaging 16.8 points and 28.8 minutes per game over the last two weeks, he has established himself as a fantasy-relevant player in the short term.
Christian Braun of the Denver Nuggets is recommended for the bench. After a strong start, his production has regressed to more typical levels, averaging 10.3 points in recent games. With key teammates returning to the court, his role as the fifth starter may limit his upside. With only three games this week, his lack of explosive potential warrants a sit.
At center, Aday Mara of the Oklahoma City Thunder is a solid start for those needing rebounds and blocks. He has averaged 10 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks over the past two weeks, shooting over 65 percent from the field. While his starting status is not guaranteed, his efficiency makes him a valuable option in lineups focused on interior defense.
Rudy Gobert of the Minnesota Timberwolves is the primary sit candidate for centers. His season has been slow, averaging 7.8 points and 12.1 rebounds in ten games. Despite a slight positive trend in his production, he is still below preseason expectations. With only two games on the schedule, keeping him on the bench is a smart move for fantasy managers looking to maximize their weekly output.
