Fantasy basketball managers should prioritize Jusuf Nurkic on waivers following Walker Kessler's season-ending torn labrum diagnosis. The experienced center offers reliable production in rebounds, assists, and defensive stats as Utah's new full-time starter.
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Recent Nurkic Performances Showcase NBA Fantasy Upside
Over the past two games while Kessler was awaiting his diagnosis, Nurkic started at center. The first game was a blowout loss to the Hornets on Sunday that limited the veteran to 22 minutes, posting three points, nine rebounds, two assists and two steals. However, a close game the next day against the Celtics proved Nurkic's upside. In 31 minutes, he posted 11 points, 11 rebounds and four assists -- not to mention the game-winning tip-in for the Jazz.
Nurkic isn't the scorer or shot-blocker he once was, but he can still provide must-roster fantasy value in a starting role. Per 36 minutes this season, he's averaging 13.6 points, 14.9 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 2.3 steals. There will be nights where the Jazz are blown out and Nurkic doesn't play much in the fourth quarter, but the overall week-to-week production should be solid.
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Fantasy Basketball Waiver Wire Alternatives: Kyle Filipowski and Taylor Hendricks
If you miss out on grabbing Nurkic off your waiver wire, you can also consider Kyle Filipowski and Taylor Hendricks, though those options may be more suited for deep leagues. Both young players can play center and may get extra run in blowouts. Their production this season has been mixed, but there's upside to be had, especially if Lauri Markkanen misses any time. For managers in extremely deep leagues, it's possible we see Oscar Tshiebwe brought up from the G League. He's on a two-way contract but has been a good per-minute producer in his 22 games at the NBA level.
Stay up to date on who is in and who is out with RotoWire's NBA Injury Report!
