Friday, February 18, 2011

Players to Watch: February 18

These are players we're keeping an eye on over the next week. Stats listed below are from the last 7 days.

  1. Shane Battier (12.7 points, 2.3 three-pointers, 4.3 assists, 4 rebounds, 1 steal, 60% FG%): Battier's in the top 75 of our player ratings, yet many fantasy owners have ignored him because he's not putting up big numbers on a regular basis. Shane's the type of player that produces across the board and he's showcased that ability over the last few games. Recently he's been seeing additional playing time at the power forward spot, giving him potential to up his numbers. Battier should be owned in all formats.
  2. Mike Bibby (14.3 points, 3.7 three-pointers, 5 assists, 53.3% FG%): Bibby's been starting to heat up of late, though he's had a disappointing season overall. His recent output is more in line with what we expected from Bibby. With Jamal Crawford struggling mightily of late, Bibby could see some additional run until Crawford gets over his slump. If he can keep up the improved production after the All Star break, he may be worth picking up.
  3. Rodrigue Beaubois (11 points, 1 three-pointer, 4 assists, 2 steals): Beaubois recently made his season debut and in his second game he took over starting shooting guard duties. Beaubois was a popular sleeper pick in the preseason and it's looking like he'll have an opportunity to make an impact this season. If he holds on to the starting spot and gets decent minutes after the break, he's a player we'd strongly consider for a roster spot in standard formats.
  4. Troy Murphy (Has not played): Murphy's expiring contract is one of the most coveted as the trade deadline approaches. The Nets are almost guaranteed to move him in the next week, with rumors swirling that he's part of newly resurrected Carmelo Anthony talks. Murphy has proven in recent years that he can be a double-double machine that can stretch the floor given ample playing time. He's a player we'd stash until the deadline passes.
  5. Chris Kaman (4 points, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks): Like Beaubois, Kaman recently returned from an injury and has serious potential in the second half of the season. It'll take him some time to get into game shape, but he'll be a great source of points, rebounding, and blocks once he's fully healthy. Remember, he was an All Star last season and he has potential to put up top 50 numbers.

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