Jerome's 45-Point Opener Peaks Fantasy Value as Green's Stock Drops

Ty Jerome's fantasy value has reached its peak after a two-game scoring surge, prompting analysts to advise league managers to trade the Memphis Grizzlies guard for struggling veterans. The 26-year-old point guard recorded 45 points on opening night against the Utah Jazz and followed it with 28 points and five assists against the Golden State Warriors. Although Jerome is already rostered in 89.7% of ESPN leagues, his current production suggests he is a strong asset to move before his stats normalize against tougher competition.

The Grizzlies have structured their offense to support Jerome, but his early numbers are inflated by weak opponents. Both the Jazz and Warriors are underperforming this season, which has made it easier for Jerome to sustain a high shooting pace. Analysts suggest targeting players like Trey Murphy III or Brandon Miller, who are currently struggling but expected to bounce back. Moving Jerome now allows managers to capitalize on his inflated valuation while acquiring a player with more consistent long-term upside.

Dennis Schroder represents the primary waiver-wire opportunity for managers needing a guard. The Charlotte Hornets point guard has played for 12 teams in his career and remains a reliable source of points and assists. On Saturday, Schroder posted 25 points, six rebounds, four assists, and three three-pointers in a win over the Miami Heat. He is currently rostered in just 9.7% of leagues, making him an easy acquisition for those needing volume stats, though his availability depends on the return of Coby White from a calf strain.

Jalen Smith is the other notable add on the waiver wire, offering consistent production for the Chicago Bulls. The power forward has averaged 14.5 points and 8.0 rebounds in his first three games, while also recording 1.5 steals per game. Smith is the only big man currently providing significant minutes for Chicago, as Zach Collins and Tobe Awaka have seen limited action. His consistency makes him a viable starter in many leagues, provided managers can secure him before the return of other center options.

Myles Turner's stock has declined due to foul trouble and the emergence of Kel'el Ware for the Milwaukee Bucks. The center averaged just 7.7 points and 4.3 rebounds over his first three games and failed to score in Saturday's loss to Philadelphia. Turner played only 20 minutes due to personal foul issues, allowing Ware to finish with 19 points and 13 rebounds. While Turner retains his starting job, his low efficiency makes him a prime target for lowball trades in fantasy leagues where he is rostered in 52.4% of teams.

Draymond Green's early season performance suggests he may no longer warrant a roster spot in most leagues. The 36-year-old forward has scored just seven points total across two games, adding two blocks, one steal, and one three-pointer. Green sat out the second night of a back-to-back on Saturday, a move that signals the Warriors are managing minutes for him and Stephen Curry. His limited production and the team's overall struggles make him a candidate for a drop, with analysts suggesting replacements like Jalen Smith or Wendell Carter Jr. offer better statistical value.

Onyeka Okongwu has also struggled to find his rhythm with the Atlanta Hawks, failing to score more than 10 points in any of his first three games. The center has recorded no more than six rebounds in a single game and only logged his first block and steal on Saturday. While Okongwu possesses the skill set to produce across multiple categories, the hot starts of teammates like Aaron Wiggins have increased competition for offensive touches. His low early production makes him a risky hold, though his potential for a breakout remains a factor for managers who keep him.