Basketball Pickups: Norman Powell’s worth a look

When Russell Westbrook volunteered to come off the bench to improve the chemistry of the starting lineup, it was expected that his fantasy value might increase or remain steady due to fewer minutes with him and James Harden on the court together. However, there’s another Clippers reserve who could benefit from the changes. Norman Powell, rostered in 36% of Yahoo leagues, has scored in double figures in six of the seven games the Clippers have played since adding Harden to the rotation.

In Monday’s win over the Spurs, Powell had an impressive performance with 19 points, five rebounds, two steals, one block, and two 3-pointers in 30 minutes. While Powell’s season-long fantasy value has been lower, his ability to score points in bunches offers appeal, especially with a reliable point guard on the floor. With the Clippers playing three more games in Week 5, now is a good time to consider Powell as an option if you missed out on Monday.

Daniel Theis (1%) is further down the pecking order, but he contributed significantly in the win with 19 points, seven rebounds, two assists, one steal, and one 3-pointer in 22 minutes. The belief that starter Ivica Zubac performs best with fewer minutes per game leaves room for Theis in the rotation while the Clippers wait for the return of Mason Plumlee (knee). Keep an eye on Theis in the upcoming games at the very least.

Now, let’s explore a few more top pickups from Monday’s games.

Dario Saric (27%) came off the bench but played a significant role in Monday’s win over the Rockets, thriving as part of the closing lineup. Ranked just outside the top 100 in 9-cat per-game value over the last week, Saric finished with 18 points, five rebounds, two assists, one steal, one block, and three 3-pointers in 26 minutes. His value persists while the Warriors play without the suspended Draymond Green. Green has two more games left to serve on his suspension, coinciding with Golden State’s Week 5 schedule. While the matchups may not be easy, Saric is worth considering in deeper leagues.

Jaime Jaquez Jr. (18%) was predicted to make an immediate contribution to a contender after being picked, and he hasn’t disappointed. Jaquez finished Monday’s game over the Bulls with 19 points, three rebounds, four assists, two steals, and three 3-pointers in 33 minutes. With consistent playing time and valuable contributions, Jaquez is not going anywhere, especially with Tyler Herro still sidelined. The Heat also play three more games in Week 5, making Jaquez an enticing option.

Marvin Bagley III (15%) returned to the starting lineup and put up a strong performance with 18 points, eight rebounds, and one assist in Detroit’s game against the Nuggets. Although Week 5 will be a two-game week for Detroit, it’s worth monitoring Bagley, especially as Jalen Duren (ankle) has made progress in playing 3-on-3.

Payton Pritchard (3%) shined in Boston’s game, scoring 16 points in the first half with one rebound, two steals, and four 3-pointers. While his production dipped in the second half, Pritchard is a promising pickup, especially considering his standout performances. On the other hand, Sam Hauser (24% rostered) struggled in the game, making Pritchard the preferred choice with Derrick White’s absence.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker (1%) took advantage of additional minutes after starter Jaden McDaniels’ injury, contributing 11 points, three rebounds, three assists, and three 3-pointers in Minnesota’s game against the Knicks. With Minnesota playing three more games in Week 5, Alexander-Walker is a potential asset in deep leagues if McDaniels misses more games.