B-Ball, B-Fast is a weekdaily look at last night's NBA action from a fantasy perspective. Bookmark it and visit often.Cup of Coffee
Deron Williams didn't really land in the "snub list" because of the abundance of guard talent in the Western Conference, but it's certainly conceivable (especially if you're Deron Williams) to think he got snubbed. He has averaged nearly a double double so far in the season (18.8 points, 9.6 assists) and the Jazz lead the Northwest Division. But as a fantasy owner, expect even better stats in the second half; Deron torched the Hornets -- and All Star Reserve and infinitely juxtaposed fellow draftee Chris Paul -- for 29 points and 11 assists while holding CP3 to six and six of the same. Deron clearly doesn't appreciate being left off the midseason recognition squad so expect him to respond accordingly. (Please note I had a chance to trade Paul for Deron and declined, however.)
Hot Cakes
The Mavericks started future-of-the-franchise Jose Barea last night, opting to bring Jason Terry off the bench; Barea didn't have a huge night (three points, four assists, four boards in nineteen minutes) but that's pretty sick multi-cat action for such limited minutes. The results (Mavs win over the Magic) could mean extended minutes for the youngster. Grab him while you can, even if it's only for the short run until Devin Harris' return.
T.J. Ford returned to action after a long layoff Monday night and chipped in with four points and four assists in about 17 minutes. Jose Calderon still started and picked up the dub-dub (11 points, 10 assists) but it's going to get tricky north of the border. The Raptors have been too good with Calderon to take away his PT, but Ford is going to cut into it some. Look to buy Calderon low if Ford starts snaking enough time; he's frequently sidelined and the Spaniard could be a steal (again).
Josh Smith is obviously a very good fantasy basketball player. But let's be clear -- he is going to record the next quadruple-double. He flirted with it last night, recording 19 points, nine assists, six rebounds and NINE BLOCKS. Nine! Bueller! Sickner! (Sorry, but it's really ridiculous.)
Chris Kaman is back from his illness related, um, sickness and he posted a casual 15 and nine against the Knicks off the bench. Say goodbye to any of Josh Powell's limited fantasy value and get Kamania back in your lineup.
Broken Eggs
Awkward double news for Brad Miller, as he was named Western Conference Player of the Week and immediately found out he would miss at least one game after slicing his finger open.
As Mr. Edwards alerted you, Kevin Garnett is still unavailable and could be unavailable for a while in the future. Try and trade for him -- seriously, what's the worst that could happen? (Or alternately, make a move for the suddenly kind of hot Leon Powe, whose catchy name will most certainly be used in a future headline.)
