RADIO
As we enter into December, it's time to take a look at the struggling small forwards on our roster. I wanted to wait before writing this article because the small forward position is definitely the most complex group of players. If you don't have a top tier small forward like LeBron James or Kawhi Leonard, you're probably struggling to get the most out of your small forward slot. This is the most shallow position in basketball, but it is also the most flexible position in fantasy basketball. The top guys can fill up the stat sheet, but the lower tiered guys can specialize in certain stats for you or provide distributed production. With all this in mind, let's take a look at two big name small forwards.
Under-Performing Stars: Small Forward Edition
Chandler Parsons (SF, DAL)
Chandler Parsons is having a really rough reason, but it's not to be blamed on his skill. Parsons is still being eased back into the game. He is limited in terms of minutes and is given plenty of rest days. These restrictions have surely caused owners headaches, as Parsons has only averaged 8.1 points and 2.8 rebounds a game. The biggest issue in terms of buyer's remorse is the high draft pick you likely spent to grab Parsons. Teammate Wesley Matthews was ranked a lot lower than Parsons on many draft boards even right before the season, and Matthews has already shed the minutes restrictions. Parsons has actually looked comfortable on the floor during the time he has played, as he is currently holding a 46.2% field goal percentage. His three point stroke isn't quite there yet, but it seems safe to assume that his three point percentage will climb up as he gets more consistent playing time under his belt. With this unique situation, should you look to trade Parsons or ride out the storm?
Hold him.
It is certainly difficult to to deal with a star player missing games and providing middling production. However, there is just too much value in his potential for you to give up on Parsons. The Mavericks looked like they might struggle this season, but have really exceeded expectations and placed themselves in the playoff hunt. The storm will be tough, as Parsons has been relegated to a bench role. If you can somehow manage to get another owner to provide you with good value in return for Parsons, then go ahead and trade him. However, most owners might just look at his stats and dismiss his value. Roto league players should definitely look to hold on to him, as they may afford to sit him until he can play well consistently. Those who play H2H are in a trickier situation. My advice here is to stream smart and stream often in order to compensate for the missed production in the following weeks. It's a long season, and Parsons will reward those who are patient.
DeMarre Carroll (SF, TOR)
DeMarre Carroll has been extremely up and down this season. Savvy fantasy owners will be able to see through his volume stats and understand his struggles transitioning to his new team. On the surface, it seems like Carroll has performed well for his new team. He is averaging 12.4 points, with 5.0 rebounds and 1.9 steals. These numbers almost match his production last season with the Hawks. However, his efficiency has really dropped off. Carroll shot 48.7% in the Hawks offense last season. He also hit 70.2% of his free throws. This season, Carroll is only shooting 38.5% from the field, and 63.4% from the line. His shooting touch just hasn't been there, and these sub-par percentages have really limited his value. When Jonas Valanciunas went down to a hand injury, many thought that Carroll would be able to increase his production in order to fill the void. However, that has not happened. Is it time to move on from Carroll?
Drop him.
DeMarre Carroll's lack of efficiency this season is completely understandable, as he has moved to a more difficult offense to play in. Carroll had a great all-around team in Atlanta, where he was able to get plenty of wide open shots under coach Mike Budenholzer. This season, the offense for the Toronto Raptors has continued to revolve around Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan. Even though Carroll's efficiency will likely go up with time, there is very little opportunity cost in just dropping Carroll and picking up another small forward right now. Even though there are only a few top guys at this position, there is plenty of flexibility at the small forward position to round out your team. If you're desperate for steals, then go ahead and hold on to him. Otherwise, drop Carroll and assess your needs. If you need some threes, look for a swingman. If you want a reliable option, Omri Casspi should be a great pickup who can produce similar stats with better percentages. T.J. Warren also makes for a high upside pick up who has already shown a decent floor similar to that of Carroll's.
