Last Updated on August 7, 2026 9:22 am by André Lemos | Published: February 3, 2026

Trying to predict the trade deadline is a fool’s errand. In the last 16 hours alone we have news that James Harden’s tenure with the Clippers might be coming to an end, and the Grizzlies signaling a full rebuild with Jaren Jackson Jr. sent to Utah for a “haul” that is mostly about three first-round picks — two in 2027 and one in 2031.

There’s the much-discussed rumor mill and always a few trades that drop out of the sky. They all have the potential to shake up the league and airdrop legitimate fantasy difference-makers onto rosters for managers who are proactive and attentive. This week we’re going to shine more of a light on some of the guys whose fortunes could change thanks to some rumored transactions given the spirit of the season, but you’ll still get the regular batch of merit-based adds.

Not every fantasy manager can afford to stash players but you’ll want to be quick on the draw. Those who can may end up dropping legitimate contributors on the promise of something more, so it’s a critical time to be mindful of the waiver wire even if you’re not always going to be first in line for the hot new option.

This Week’s Pickups

We’re going to be referencing Yahoo roster percentages for the most part. In one of my 12-team leagues, the highest-rostered player who is still a free agent is Isaiah Collier (21%). As such, we’re going to focus on guys who are under 20% rostered.

Guys who are already on the standard-league radar but may still be available to you: De’Anthony Melton (12%), Malik Monk (19%), Jay Huff (18%), Jalen Smith (19%), Egor Demin (13%), Sandro Mamukelashvili (20%), Daniel Gafford (15%), Tim Hardaway Jr. (17%), Jock Landale (17%), Michell Robinson (11%)

Scoot Henderson (8%)

Henderson has yet to make his season debut thanks to a torn left hamstring, but word on the street is that he could be back in the next couple of games. Fantasy GMs should temper expectations between the length of Henderson’s layoff and the fact that Jrue Holiday and Shaedon Sharpe are playing well, but Henderson offers some real upside that is worth taking a swing on.

Profile: Upside pickup with a low floor

Keon Ellis (2%)

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Mike Passador

Mike graduated from Boston University’s Dual Degree Program with a BA in Economics and a BS in Business with Concentrations in Marketing and Operations Management. He is a faithful supporter of Toronto sports and the Detroit Lions and is always ready to be let down. Tweet to him @Mike_Pandador, but if you badmouth Jose Calderon you might get blocked.

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