The NBA regular season is winding down, and fantasy managers are gearing up for the playoffs while also planning for next year. With insights from experts, key players who have excelled this season are highlighted, including Dyson Daniels of the Atlanta Hawks, who is leading the league in steals and is projected to be a top pick next year. Cade Cunningham has rebounded significantly for the Detroit Pistons, now a top-5 fantasy player. Darius Garland has also risen, contributing strongly for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Other notable mentions include Trey Murphy III from the New Orleans Pelicans, who is emerging as a cornerstone for his team, and Ivica Zubac of the LA Clippers, who has become a valuable fantasy asset despite entering the season undrafted.

Conversely, Paul George's struggles with injuries have derailed his performance for the Philadelphia 76ers, and Lauri Markkanen's shooting woes have impacted his value for the Utah Jazz. Ja Morant has faced challenges as well, while LaMelo Ball's injury issues continue to plague his season. Joel Embiid's diminished numbers this season raise concerns about his future dominance. The analysis emphasizes the importance of tracking player performance trends as managers prepare for their next fantasy drafts.

As the fantasy playoffs commence in Week 20 for Yahoo! leagues, managers must navigate a landscape peppered with injury absences and opportunities for lesser-known players to shine.

Several players are recommended for waiver wire consideration, including Quentin Grimes of the Philadelphia 76ers, who is poised to take on a larger scoring role. Meanwhile, Naji Marshall's recent performances for the Dallas Mavericks highlight his potential value despite the team's limited game schedule. Tari Eason of the Houston Rockets also stands out with favorable matchups that could benefit fantasy teams, as does Stephon Castle, who is expected to step into a bigger role following De'Aaron Fox's injury. Other notable mentions include Caris LeVert and Kyshawn George, who have the potential to deliver solid contributions.

On March 14, 2025, the Los Angeles Clippers and Atlanta Hawks clash at State Farm Arena with both teams riding high. The Clippers hold a 36-30 record, while the Hawks sit at 32-34. Los Angeles boasts a 14-20 road record but won their earlier matchup decisively, 131-105. Atlanta, however, has won four straight games, showcasing their recent form.

The game features a tight betting line, with the Clippers at -154 on the moneyline and a spread of 3 points. Notably, Kawhi Leonard's return has rejuvenated the Clippers, and he will likely be defended by Dyson Daniels, a key player for Atlanta. The matchup could also see Trae Young going toe-to-toe with James Harden, adding to the game's excitement.

As the NBA gears up for free agency in 2025, a number of high-profile players are set to explore their options. LeBron James, now 40, continues to impress with his All-NBA level play, and his future with the Lakers appears secure, especially with his son Bronny contracted with the team. Meanwhile, Kyrie Irving's season-ending ACL injury casts doubts on his immediate future, possibly delaying his free agency plans.

James Harden, Julius Randle, and John Collins are also among notable names with player options, while up-and-comers like Jonathan Kuminga and Naz Reid are set to attract attention. The dynamics of player movement will be critical as teams evaluate their rosters amidst playoff pushes.

The fantasy basketball landscape is shifting, with under-the-radar players gaining prominence as the season progresses. Toronto Raptors' Jared Rhoden, rostered in under one percent of Yahoo! leagues, dazzled with a career-best performance, including 25 points, 12 rebounds, and four steals in 43 minutes against the 76ers. AJ Lawson and Orlando Robinson also stepped up, recording significant scoring and rebounding numbers. As the Raptors focus on developing younger talent, fantasy managers should consider these emerging players. Tari Eason of the Houston Rockets and Caris LeVert of the Atlanta Hawks are also gaining traction, showing consistent performances that could be beneficial for deep league rosters. Eason, still under 50% rostered, is a solid contributor, while LeVert's recent form places him among the top performers. With upcoming games, these players could provide valuable support during the fantasy playoffs.