Notes from games of 12-06

Hawk rookie Boris Diaw is seeing increased minutes at the expense of Dion Glover who was not shooting well (11-48 over his last five games). In his most recent game Diaw showed the potential to contribute in the 5 core categories with 8 pts, 5 ast, 8 reb, 2 st, and 2 bl. He has played over 30 mpg in three of his last five games. Like most rookies though, he can't make a 15 foot uncontested shot (a free throw).

The Raptors want offense from Jalen Rose and Donyell Marshall which should bode well for their fantasy value. Marshall is seeing over 39 mpg and scoring over 23 ppg in three games for the Raptors. The trade should also allow Rose to fulfill his fantasy potential as he nearly had a triple double on Friday night.

With Rose gone from the Bulls, Kirk Hinrich should get some extra minutes. I attended the Sixers-Bulls game recently and thought Kirk was extremely quick for a caucasian. He had the ability to penetrate the lane and either finish the deal or dish for an assist. He showed some moxy the way he pushed Iverson away at the beginning of his drive. Over his last five games he is averaging 9 pts, 5 ast, 1 steal, and a 1 trey.

Amare Stoudamire may miss some games with a sprained ankle. While he is out we can see if he is the reason Shawn Marion's numbers have been sub par.

Vin Baker has his 5th 20+ scoring performance. I have been impressed by his comeback - something I did not foresee.

While Marc Jackson is out with a broken finger, Samuel Dalembert will be a good fit for teams in need of blocks and not points.

Joe Smiths numbers over the past five games have been good: 15 ppg, 8 rpg, 1.4 bpg, 1.2 spg. Also, he is currently 9th in the NBA in FT% at 91%!.

Apparently, Jamaal Magloire used the first month of the season to get into shape. He has averaged 14 ppg and 2.6 rpg though over the last five games.

Drew Gooden has been very productive in 35 mpg in his last two games so perhaps the scare for his owners is over. I think the new coach felt obligated to shake things up to start but will quickly realize Gooden is one of his better players.

Much of Bonzi Wells' fantasy value should be restored in Memphis. He played 27 mpg in only his first game though although his presence will further muddle the playing time for the other Grizzlies particularly James Posey and Shane Battier. In Portland, the departure of Wells should lock in the value of McInnis for the remainder of the season. Looks like he will end up as nice sleeper player this season.

Over the last five games Voshon Lenard has averaged 23 ppg and over 3 treys per game. He should maintain his role along as he is playing OK.

Mutombo has seen a resurgence recently however the return of McDyess may cut into his playing time.

Mike James has hit 13 treys in his last four games.