New Year, Same Game
First off, Happy New Year and all the best in 2008 (unless you happen to be in one of my fantasy pools, than replace the word “best” with “worst”).
If anyone can appreciate the holiday season that is quickly ending, it is the sports fanatic. With the NFL’s last regular season games, millions of College Football Bowl games, tons of hockey (including an intriguing outdoor game in Buffalo), and loads of NBA games on New Years Eve, we have been more than spoiled. By the way, did anyone see that “throw back shorts” game in LA? There’s something sinister inside me that really enjoys watching a ton of trendy, cool, style-conscious NBAers walk around awkwardly during warmup because they feel naked in those short shorts. I know most of you enjoyed that too.
Lets get on to a couple roster moves that could have a fantasy impact.
1. The Bulls firing of Scott Skiles could be the spark that seems long overdue. I have been telling you all to grab Hinrich, Gordon and Deng for awhile now and I will continue to do so. Jim Boylan gave Gordon the 6th man role he used to thrive in and he is playing Manu-esque. This team WILL turn it around, I hope.
2. Utah trades Gordon Giricek for Kyle Korver. A minor deal that should impact the Sixers moreso than the Jazz. Korver will hit his two 3’s a game, but dont expect a huge change in his fantasy production. Giricek shouldn’t receive too many minutes as Philly was simply trading for his expiring contract, but look for Louis Williams to get a lot more PT. He has produced well all year when given the chance, and if he can stay on the court for 25-30 mins a game, he should be a 14 ppg, 4apg, 3 rpg which is valuable in deeper leagues.
Here is a look at a few Free Agents that may be avaliable in your league:
Shallow League:
Anderson Varejao
He will not put up All Star numbers, but he is getting a lot of minutes and is a great rebounder. He will grab 7-10 rebs a game and can put up 10-15 pts on good %s, so give him a look.
Mid-Range League:
Kurt Thomas
This grisled veteran has been on a defensive tear since healing up from a sore knee. Over the past 4 games he is averaging 13 rebs and 2 blks a game. He doesn’t do much else, but he does not hurt you anywhere either. If you need blocks and rebounds, go get this 60 year old grinder.
Deep Leagues:
Antonio Daniels
He was dropped in most leagues but should be back in no time now and continue to produce the way that he was. Monitor his comeback and if he has a decent first game back, then grab him.
Louis Williams
For reasons as written above.
Once again, feel free to write in any questions pertaining to trades or pickups if you have them (via the comments link).
