Ty Jerome's 45-Point Opener Sparks Trade Advice

Fantasy basketball managers face early-season decisions regarding player values that may shift quickly.

Ty Jerome of the Memphis Grizzlies, rostered in 89.7% of ESPN leagues, posted a 45-point game against Utah and followed it with 28 points against Golden State. Analysts note that his opponents, the Jazz and Warriors, have had rough starts, yet the Grizzlies have built their offense around him. The recommendation is to trade Jerome for a struggling veteran like Trey Murphy III or Brandon Miller while his stock is high.

Dennis Schroder of the Charlotte Hornets has emerged as a waiver-wire option with a 25-point, six-rebound game against Miami. He is currently rostered in only 9.7% of leagues. However, his role may end when Coby White returns from a calf strain. Schroder provides points and assists but lacks steals, threes, and blocks, making him a temporary fit for specific needs.

Jalen Smith of the Chicago Bulls has averaged 14 or 15 points in his first three games, along with 8.0 rebounds and 1.5 steals. He is rostered in 22.8% of leagues. The Bulls are thin at center, with Zach Collins and Tobe Awaka seeing minimal minutes. Smith could see 25 minutes per game if he stays healthy, though Nic Claxton returning from a hamstring injury could alter the rotation.

Among the fallers, Myles Turner of the Milwaukee Bucks has averaged just 7.7 points and 4.3 rebounds in three games. He failed to score in Saturday's loss to Philadelphia. Kel'el Ware, who recorded 19 points and 13 rebounds in 29 minutes, is pushing for more playing time. Turner remains a starting center but is a lowball trade target.

Onyeka Okongwu of the Atlanta Hawks has not scored more than 10 points or grabbed more than six rebounds in any of his first three games. He is rostered in 80% of leagues. The Hawks have multiple players performing well, including Jalen Johnson and Aaron Wiggins, which limits Okongwu's offensive role. Analysts suggest making offers for him before he finds his rhythm, noting he is a three-point threat.

Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors has scored just seven points in two games, with two blocks, one steal, and one three-pointer. He is 36 years old and rostered in 26.7% of leagues. The Warriors are struggling, and Green sat out the second game of a back-to-back. Analysts advise dropping him for players like Jalen Smith or Wendell Carter Jr., as his name carries more weight than his current production.