Last Updated on January 1, 2026 12:52 pm by Keston Paul | Published: January 1, 2026

The waiver wires should be hopping in most leagues. This column will look at players who should be rostered in most leagues, players that may be available in 12-team leagues, and some options who are possibly available in deeper leagues. The deep-league options might also make for nice streaming options, as well. This column was written on Tuesday, Dec. 30 prior to that night’s games.

Should Be Rostered In Most Leagues

Collin Gillespie, G, Phoenix Suns 37% rostered in Yahoo! Leagues

Gillespie, a SportsEthos favorite coming into the season, has been doing it all year and is averaging 16.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.7 steals and 3.2 3-pointers on 46% shooting in December. Grayson Allen is still hurt and Gillespie’s fantasy value looks nearly untouchable, even if Allen ever gets back on the floor. He should be rostered everywhere, even in eight-team leagues.

Bobby Portis, PF/C, Milwaukee Bucks 36% rostered

Giannis Antetokounmpo is back but a trade could still be coming, and Portis has been solid in December with Giannis in street clothes for most of the month. He’s averaging 16.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 0.9 steals, 0.3 blocks and 2.4 3-pointers on 51% shooting in December. The lack of blocks is a concern, as is the 72% free throw shooting, but with a Giannis trade possibly looming, Portis is nearly a must-own player, despite the lack of blocks. Shockingly, he’s only blocked four shots in 33 games this year.

Dennis Schroder, G, Sacramento Kings 32% rostered

 Want full access to Dr. A’s Hot Waiver Wire Pickups? You’ll need to have an Ethos 360, All-Sport or NBA FantasyPass membership. Click here to learn more and sign up! Premium Access Required  

Join the SportsEthos team! Fill out an application by clicking here!