Fantasy NBA: Jerome's value peaks as Green struggles

Ty Jerome's early scoring surge has made him a prime candidate for fantasy managers to trade, while Draymond Green's lackluster start suggests it is time to drop the veteran from rosters.

Jerome, who is rostered in nearly 90% of ESPN leagues, has been a high-volume scorer since the season opened. He recorded 45 points in the Grizzlies' opener against Utah and followed it up with 28 points and five assists in a game against Golden State. Although his opponents have struggled to start the year, the Grizzlies have structured their offense to facilitate his success. However, sustaining this pace for a full season is unlikely. Managers holding Jerome should consider trading him for established veterans like Trey Murphy III or Brandon Miller, who are expected to stabilize their production.

Dennis Schroder offers a strong waiver-wire opportunity for teams needing guards. The Charlotte Hornets point guard has played for 12 teams in his career and is currently averaging strong numbers. On Saturday, he scored 25 points, grabbed six rebounds, dished out four assists, and made three three-pointers against Miami. His performance comes as Coby White is sidelined with a calf strain. While Schroder is a solid source of points and assists, he is not a primary option for steals or three-pointers. Managers should expect to lose his minutes once White returns to the lineup.

Jalen Smith has emerged as the only consistent big man for the Chicago Bulls. With the center position thin due to injuries and limited playing time for Zach Collins and Tobe Awaka, Smith has secured significant minutes. He has scored between 14 and 15 points in each of his first three games, averaging eight rebounds and 1.5 steals per contest. He also hit four three-pointers in his last two games. While his health is a long-term concern, his current role suggests he could see around 25 minutes per game. Managers should pick him up if he is available, though the return of Nic Claxton may eventually reduce his impact.

On the falling side, Myles Turner's value has dipped due to inconsistent scoring and foul trouble. He scored just seven points and four rebounds on average in his first three games. In Saturday's loss to Philadelphia, he did not score at all and played only 20 minutes. Meanwhile, Kel'el Ware delivered a double-double with 19 points and 13 rebounds. Turner remains the starter, but his production makes him a target for lowball trades or a candidate for a bench spot.

Onyeka Okongwu has also seen a decline in fantasy appeal. The Atlanta Hawks center has not scored more than 10 points or grabbed more than six rebounds in any of his first three games. He recorded his first block and steal of the season on Saturday. While teammates like Aaron Wiggins are having hot starts, Okongwu's offensive role is shrinking. His ability to shoot threes keeps him on rosters, but managers might consider making offers for him before his value drops further.

Draymond Green's early season has been the weakest of the group. The 36-year-old has scored just seven points through two games, adding two blocks, one steal, and one three-pointer. He sat out the second game of a back-to-back on Saturday. With the Warriors struggling competitively and Stephen Curry also receiving rest days, Green's workload may continue to decrease. His current production does not justify a roster spot in most leagues. Managers are advised to drop him in favor of players like Jalen Smith, Yaxel Lendeborg, or Wendell Carter Jr.