Talking Hoops: Week 8 Waiver Pickups

Posted by Tom Blaz on 12/18/2012 | 0 Comments

Tags: Tiago Splitter, Jason Thompson, C.J. Miles, Shawn Marion, J.J. Hickson, Marco Bellinelli, Jarrett Jack, Jose Calderon, Talking Hoops

Can you believe we have already reached the end of the first quarter of the season? A year ago at this time, the Association was just getting started on their abbreviated season. As with any fantasy sport, injuries are the biggest factor in creating opportunity and productive talent from the waiver wire. We keep and eye on that, along with rookies who settle in and begin to emerge. Teams are also preparing to wheel and deel as newly signed and/or acquired players are eligible to be traded. Let's take a look at some players that may be available through free agency in your league.

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Center

Tiago Splitter San Antonio-  Splitter has scored in double figures in eight straight games, earning a starting role at center in the last two. Over the past week, Splitter has averaged a dozen points, six rebounds and two and a half assists. With DeJuan Blair's balky knees and Tim Duncan sitting out on occassion, Splitter could be solid reserve material for your squad.

Jason Thompson Sacramento- Thompson is averaging a double/double over his past four games. Twelve and a half points and nearly eleven rebounds in the last week certainly could benefit any fantasy team. With Demarcus Cousins still trying to find himself and Thomas Robinson still learning the ropes, Thompson has a secure role with the Kings.

Forward

C.J. Miles Cleveland- Miles is a perfect example of a player emerging due to injury. For the same reason, Miles needs to be watched closely as Dion Waiters returns for the Cavs. Miles showed he is more than capable averaging 22.5 points over a four game period.  Miles averaging more than four bombs from beyond the arc was equally impressive.

Shawn Marion Dallas- Marion has come back strong after missing two games due to a groin injury. Over his last four games, Marion is averaging 14 points and 10.5 rebounds. Marion also dished out 3.5 assists and has always been a well rounded fantasy player, capable of contributing both steals and blocks.

J.J. Hickson Portland- With 24 points and 16 rebounds on Sunday night, how can Hickson not be on your fantasy radar. Over the past week, Hickson is averaging more than 17 points and 13 rebounds per contest. Although he has been starting at center, Hickson doesn't bring blocked shots, J.J. with only a pair of swats in his last six games.

Guard

Marco Bellinelli Chicago- The Bulls have not only finally found a shooting guard, they have found a go to scorer until Derrick Rose returns. Bellinelli has been averaging better than 16 and a half points a game over the past two weeks and has three point range. Bellinelli drilling more than two three's per contest, while pulling down nearly three and a half boards.

Jarrett Jack Golden State- Jack has emerged as a guard option over the last week, averaging 15 points per game as Stephen Curry's backcourt mate. Curry has been running as the two guard, but is a natural point. Jack has been very productive with six assists and five rebounds per contest. Jack's emergence has coincided with his teams improved play.

Jose Calderon Toronto- With Kyle Lowry sidelined, Toronto is getting the chance to showcase Calderon's ability. The Raptors will almost certainly move Calderon when Lowry returns, possibly to the Lakers. Calderon has been getting the job done, averaging 14 points and nearly 11 assists per game! Patience will be rewarded if you pickup Calderon.

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Tom Blaz is a writer for Fantasy Alarm and co-owner of The Recruiting Eagle a website focusing on Auburn University Athletics.