Must-Starts in Fantasy Basketball: Jrue Holiday's Hot Streak and More

Maximizing Your Fantasy Basketball Weekend

In the world of head-to-head leagues, every weekend is pivotal. You could be leading comfortably in various categories, but neglecting to seize weekend opportunities can result in a surprising loss. As we analyze this weekend's matchups, understanding which players to start can make all the difference.

This Weekend's Play Schedule

Only 14 teams will play just once this weekend: the Hawks, Nets, Bulls, Cavaliers, Nuggets, Warriors, Grizzlies, Thunder, 76ers, Kings, Raptors, Jazz, and Wizards. If you're aiming to maximize your lineup's potential, it's wise to steer clear of these teams and focus on those with multiple opportunities.

Game Strategies

For leagues with a games cap or best ball formats—like Yahoo!'s High Score leagues—the focus isn't solely on volume of games. Having two chances at a high-scoring night undeniably enhances your chances in best ball leagues. Let's dive right into our must-start players who can help secure a victory this weekend.

Top Must-Start Player: Jrue Holiday, Portland Trail Blazers

After a season hampered by injuries, Jrue Holiday has found his stride. Over the past month, he has averaged an impressive 20.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 5.8 assists, and an exceptional 3.0 three-pointers per game while shooting 52% from the floor and 90.9% from the charity stripe. His standout moment came this week with a jaw-dropping performance tallying a season-high 35 points, 11 assists, and a career-matching eight three-pointers.

Holiday's weekend includes a battle against the Rockets, followed by a matchup with the Pacers, who rank last in defensive rating in their recent outings. This combination presents an ideal opportunity for Holiday to shine.

Key Guards to Start

Ryan Rollins, Milwaukee Bucks

With Kevin Porter Jr. sidelined, Ryan Rollins has stepped into the starting role and made an impactful return with 13 points, combined with 12 assists, in his last game. The Bucks face a favorable matchup against the Jazz, making him a must-start this weekend.

Collin Sexton, Chicago Bulls

Due to injuries, Sexton finds himself in the starting unit and netted a season-high 30 points recently. Despite only one game this weekend against the Kings—who have the league's worst defensive rating—Sexton's current momentum is worth capitalizing on.

Ausar Thompson, Detroit Pistons

Before his recent injury setback, Thompson averaged 13.5 points with impressive peripheral stats. With a weekend opponent list comprising Brooklyn and Miami, defenses that have struggled recently should give Thompson an avenue to reclaim his scoring and assist abilities.

Must-Start Forwards

Saddiq Bey, New Orleans Pelicans

Saddiq Bey is poised for a strong weekend against the Suns and Wizards, both of whom have had issues on the boards. With the Wizards' pace and lack of defensive prowess, Bey could easily rack up counting stats.

Jerami Grant, Portland Trail Blazers

Similar to Holiday, Grant has been hot in recent games, achieving over 20 points in five of his last six. He faces the Rockets and Pacers, providing a compelling case for starting him on both days.

Ace Bailey, Utah Jazz

Bailey's explosive game saw him register a career-high 32 points recently. This weekend's matchup, while critical, aligns well enough to justify him as a priority in your fantasy lineup.

Top Centers to Consider

Oso Ighodaro, Phoenix Suns

With Mark Williams injured, Ighodaro has stepped into the limelight. His debut as a starter against the Bulls yielded solid numbers, making him a player to watch against the Pelicans this weekend.

Onyeka Okongwu, Atlanta Hawks

Though the Hawks have one game, it's against the 76ers, who are currently struggling in rebounding. Approaching this game with confidence, Okongwu could offer significant value if he maintains his recent rebounding efficiency.

Donovan Clingan, Portland Trail Blazers

While it seems excessive to suggest three Blazers this weekend, the offensive potential against the Pacers, particularly in the paint, can lead to monster fantasy performances.

Final Thoughts

This weekend presents a mix of opportunities that could tip the scales in your favor. Selecting the right roster can truly maximize your fantasy potential. Recognizing when to lean into hot players like Jrue Holiday, Collin Sexton, and others is crucial for clinching those coveted wins.

Remember, in fantasy basketball—just like the real game—every point counts!