Your Fantasy Basketball Week 8 Guide: Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em
Fantasy Basketball Week 8 is shaping up to be a unique one with the introduction of the Emirates NBA Cup, potentially limiting game opportunities for many players. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’re highlighting valuable players who may be overlooked based on their start rates and offering solid advice on who to start and sit this week.
Unique Week 8 Schedule: Limited Games Impact Starting Strategy
The upcoming week features an unusual schedule due to the Emirates NBA Cup, meaning some teams will only play once or twice. This shift in the norm can drastically change traditional fantasy basketball strategies. So, before you finalize your roster, pay close attention to which teams are participating and how many games they’ll be playing.
The following teams are guaranteed to play one game this week:
- Miami Heat
- Detroit Pistons
- Philadelphia 76ers
- Charlotte Hornets
- Cleveland Cavaliers
- Brooklyn Nets
- Chicago Bulls
- Denver Nuggets
- Sacramento Kings
- Utah Jazz
- Los Angeles Clippers
The following teams could play one game if they lose in the quarterfinals but only two teams will:
- Oklahoma City Thunder
- Dallas Mavericks
- Houston Rockets
- Golden State Warriors
- Milwaukee Bucks
- Orlando Magic
- Atlanta Hawks
Week 8 Fantasy Basketball Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em
Guards
**Start: Payton Pritchard, Celtics (14% start rate)**
Pritchard continues to be undervalued even with his expanded ceiling this season. Despite a rare scoreless game last week, his overall production remains strong. With some extra rest this week, he presents a great opportunity for multi-category contributions.
**Start: Scoot Henderson, Trail Blazers (7% start rate)**
Henderson is back after a short injury absence and ready to contribute. His game log includes impressive performances, and while his shooting needs work, his secure second-unit role provides ample opportunity.
ALSO CONSIDER: Shaedon Sharpe, Trail Blazers (29% start rate)
**Sit: Jamal Murray, Nuggets (63% start rate)**
Murray’s recent hamstring inflammation warrants a speculative sit. While he could recover for Friday’s game, it’s better to be safe than sorry given his recent offensive struggles.
Forwards
**Start: Jeremy Sochan, Spurs (42% start rate)**
Sochan returned after thumb surgery and has seamlessly re-integrated into the starting lineup. Expect continued strong production in points, rebounds, assists, and blocks.
**Start: Gradey Dick, Raptors (46% roster rate)**
Dick is quickly making an impact following his calf injury, averaging impressive points, rebounds, and steals per game. With a pair of games this week, he’s a strong start for your fantasy squad.
ALSO CONSIDER: Julian Champagnie, Spurs (27% roster rate)
**Sit: Tobias Harris, Pistons (53% start rate)**
Harris has been inconsistent this season and only has one game scheduled this week. With limited opportunity, he’s better left on the bench for now.
Centers
**Start: Brandon Clarke, Grizzlies (7% roster rate)**
Clarke has stepped up admirably with Zach Edey sidelined. Brace yourself for consistent double-figure points, rebounds, assists, and blocks throughout Week 8.
**Start: Yves Missi, Pelicans (34% roster rate)**
Missi’s role has grown significantly, leading to consistent double doubles. He’s a steal for your fantasy team and a must-start this week.
ALSO CONSIDER: Kelly Olynyk, Raptors (17% roster rate)