Before we get started this week, let me apologize to anyone who took my hunch last week about Dennis Schroder. In case you have not realized, there is nothing to see here and you can move on.
Now with that out of the way, it is time to look at some guards, whether of the “sleeper” variety or just cashing in temporarily on an unforeseen opportunity, that may be on your waiver wire during the fourth week of the NBA season. Do not forget to check out our other articles highlighting forwards and centers.
Waver Wire Guard for Right Now
Evan Fournier (ORL, SG) - 52% Owned
Remember the talk of Elfrid Payton having little competition for the starting point-guard spot, and that he would have plenty of time to learn on the fly? So much for that, as the return of Victor Olidipo has left Payton as the odd man out for now.
Most of this development in the Magic rotation has to do with the Fournier's strong start. The Orlando guard has scored in double figures every time out so far this season and has hit two or more three pointers in his last seven games. Those are Bradley Beal-type numbers, and as long as Fournier is a part of the starting lineup, he needs to be owned in all leagues.
Waiver Wire Guard for Deeper Leagues
Jason Terry (HOU, PG/SG) - 4% owned
Yes, Terry is old relatively (age 37) and playing barely 20 minutes per contest. However, even in limited minutes, the guy can still shoot the rock.
Terry is currently averaging two threes per game at close to a 48-percent clip. That is top-25 production so far, and on a Rockets team that has James Harden and Dwight Howard, Terry is sure to get a fair share of open looks. Barring injury, Terry could certainly continue to produce at this level going forward.
At this stage, Terry is as one-dimensional as they come, so it is not advisable to roster him in any league made up of less than 12 teams. Even in a 12-team league, it is probably still best to pass on him unless you are desperate for three pointers or three-point percentage. In a format larger than 12 teams, Terry is certainly worth a look.
Waiver Wire Guard to Keep An Eye On
Zach LaVine (MIN, PG) - 9% owned
LaVine had a terrible summer league, and so far, it has continued into the regular season. The rookie point guard has been foul and turnover prone thus far. In addition, he is not a skilled shooter.
So why is LaVine here? Well, he is currently the starting point guard for the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Following Ricky Rubio's ankle injury, most thought the Wolves would hand the starting point-guard role to veteran Mo Williams. However, Coach Flip Saunders threw a curve ball to fantasy owners, going with LaVine instead.
LaVine is still only playing 20 minutes per game and should not be owned in any league right now, but he does have enough upside to merit attention. If he continues to start and his minutes increase, LaVine could end up figuring it out this season.