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Amen Thompson Ascending: Fantasy Value Rising

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 9th 2026 at 15:45 GMT by CBSSports.com
      Locale: UNITED STATES

The Evolving Guard Landscape

The guard position, traditionally a haven for high-scoring fantasy assets, is currently a mix of established stars and burgeoning young talents. Amen Thompson (Houston Rockets) is rapidly ascending, confirming early-season hype. His all-around game, impacting points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks, makes him a valuable asset in most league formats. While consistency remains a question mark, his upside is undeniable. Shaedon Sharpe (Portland Trail Blazers) continues to tease with explosive scoring bursts. Sharpe is a boom-or-bust player, but his potential for significant point production makes him worth a speculative add in deeper leagues. Jalen McDaniels (Philadelphia 76ers) is seeing increased opportunity due to Tobias Harris's recent absence. While not a flashy name, his consistent contributions across multiple categories offer steady value, particularly in points and defensive stats.

Forward Flexibility - Prioritizing Opportunity

At the forward position, opportunity is king. Brandon Ingram (New Orleans Pelicans) is currently on a hot streak, and continuing to capitalize on his increased usage is critical for fantasy managers. His scoring ability and decent all-around stats make him a strong addition if available. Jonathan Kuminga (Golden State Warriors) is a particularly interesting case. While he's always possessed athleticism, increased minutes in the Warriors' rotation offer a chance for consistent production. He's a high-risk, high-reward option, particularly strong in categories like rebounds and steals. Dillon Brooks (Houston Rockets) remains a polarizing figure, but his defensive contributions - steals and blocks - are valuable in category leagues. Don't overpay for his scoring, but his defensive floor makes him a useful asset.

Dominant Centers and Emerging Replacements

Walker Kessler (Utah Jazz) remains a fantasy stalwart at the center position. His rebounding and shot-blocking prowess are consistently elite, and he provides a reliable statistical base. Nic Claxton (Brooklyn Nets) offers similar consistent production, consistently delivering across multiple categories. These players are generally rostered in most leagues, but if either somehow remains available, prioritize their acquisition. Looking beyond the established names, the injury to Chet Holmgren (Oklahoma City Thunder) has opened the door for Olivier Sarr to see increased minutes. Sarr isn't a game-changer, but he provides a temporary boost in rebounding and blocks in deeper leagues.

Deep League Gems: Unearthing Hidden Potential

In deeper leagues, identifying players on the cusp of a breakthrough is essential. Keyonte George (Utah Jazz) is showing signs of finding his rhythm. His scoring potential, combined with emerging playmaking abilities, makes him a potential long-term asset. Tari Eason (Houston Rockets) is a high-energy role player who can provide a spark off the bench. He's valuable in leagues that reward hustle stats like steals and blocks.

Strategic Considerations for Week 13

Beyond individual player analysis, consider these broader trends: Injury reports are more critical than ever. Monitor the status of key players daily, as even short-term absences can create opportunities for waiver wire pickups. Focus on team needs. Don't chase shiny objects; address specific weaknesses on your roster. Understand your league's scoring system. Some leagues prioritize different stats, influencing the value of certain players. Be proactive. Don't wait for a crisis to hit your team; stay ahead of the curve by monitoring the waiver wire regularly. The mid-season scramble is underway, and those who adapt quickly will gain a significant edge.