RADIO
We have a little more to talk about from the small forward position this time around. It was important to play conservative earlier in the season because the small forward position is shallow and dropping your drafted player could likely come back and haunt you. We are now almost at the halfway point of the season, so its time to make some big moves if you're looking to make a push for the championship in the second half. Since the last piece on small forwards, DeMarre Carroll returned and then got injured again. Make sure he is on the waiver wire at this point. Chandler Parsons was a player we looked to hold but his inconsistency has continued. We'll revisit Parsons and then look at two other struggling small forwards.
NBA Under-Performing Stars: Small Forward Edition
Chandler Parsons (SF, DAL)
Chandler Parsons has definitely been more helpful to your fantasy team than he was earlier this season. This is simply because he is actually healthy now and playing in all the games. However, his efficiency has dipped with just a slightly increased production in volume scoring. In the last month, Parsons has averaged 10.5 points with 4.5 rebounds and 3.8 assists. He has shot 42.9% from the field and only 28.0% from three. His production can really be only described as disappointing. In a crowded team of capable offensive players, Parsons's number simply gets lost in the shuffle at times, and his production relies on him shooting well early. Given his inconsistencies, should you look to move Parsons?
Hold him.
The issue here isn't that Parsons is going to average 15 points a game the rest of the way. That is probably not going to happen. This is really more about the lack of interest in Parsons's trade value. It would be extremely hard to move him for a worthwhile piece that will be worth playing down the stretch. If you're in a good position to make the playoffs in a H2H league, then definitely hold on to Parsons. At least he is providing some production every game. If you're playing Roto, use the limits to your advantage and stream someone else in the meantime. Shabazz Muhammad and Chris Johnson are both worthwhile temporary options to plug in for Parsons.
Tobias Harris (SF, ORL)
Tobias Harris has been frustrating to own this season. He has put up some great games, but has also provided plenty of duds for fantasy owners. His production has been particularly lacking as of late, as he has failed to score 15 points in nine straight games. Over the last month, Harris has averaged 11.9 points with 6.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists. He has shot 46.3% from the field and 29.2% from three. A key issue that becomes pretty clear when watching Harris is that being a small forward may not be his best position. Harris is a capable shot blocker and volume rebounder. He is most comfortable closer to the basket and may be better off as a power forward in terms of fantasy production. However, playing there seems like it's not going to happen in the Magic's offense, so what should you do with Harris?
Trade him.
Harris makes for a perfect candidate to sell high if he can string together some good games for you. Harris's inconsistency will continue with his play style and the other players around him putting up so many shots. Harris was a better fantasy player last year due to his solid three point shooting and priority on the offense. This is simply not the case this year, with players emerging around him as capable scorers. His big drop in three-point shooting has made him much less effective in terms of scoring. Look for him to get hot for a few games and move him for someone more reliable. Giannis Antetokounmpo and Tyreke Evans would both be great trade targets if you can do some sweet talking.
Rudy Gay (SF, SAC)
In terms of ADP, Rudy Gay isn't the disappointment that Chandler Parsons has been. However, Gay has suffered a noticeable drop in production this season. After averaging 21.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists on 45.5% shooting last season, Gay has dipped to 17.8 points with 6.7 rebounds and 1.8 assists this season. The reasoning behind this drop is relatively straightforward. His shoulder issues from earlier this season has likely affected his play. His three point percentage was decent last season but it has dipped to 31.8% this season. Another aspect of Gay's dips in production could be attributed to Rajon Rondo. Rondo is handling the ball for most of the game now, and tends to incorporate everyone into the scoring. With all this in mind, should you look to sell high on Gay following some nice performances these past few games?
Trade him.
The reason for trading Gay isn't that his production will decrease the rest of the season. On the contrary, his production will likely even out as he gets completely healthy and meshes more with Rondo's passing. Gay's scoring can be very flashy at times and the Kings are playing at a faster pace this season. As a result, Gay becomes a great candidate to sell high on and add someone even better to your roster. This is one of those times where you may prey on a more inexperienced fantasy player who wants to chase points. If Gay can keep up his scoring for a few more games, don't blink as you offer him for Draymond Green straight up.
