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

Ty Jerome's fantasy value hit a high point in the first week of the 2026 NBA season, prompting analysts to recommend trading the Memphis Grizzlies guard while demand is elevated.

Jerome scored 45 points against the Utah Jazz on opening night and followed that performance with 28 points and five assists against the Golden State Warriors. He is rostered in 89.7 percent of ESPN fantasy leagues, making him a prime candidate for a trade rather than a waiver wire add. Analysts note that both teams he faced started the season poorly, which may inflate his current numbers. The Grizzlies have structured their offense to support his role, but sustaining his shooting pace for a full season is unlikely. Managers holding Jerome are advised to seek a struggling veteran such as Trey Murphy III or Brandon Miller in return.

Dennis Schroder and Jalen Smith have emerged as strong early risers in fantasy rankings. Schroder, who is rostered in only 9.7 percent of leagues, recorded 25 points, six rebounds, four assists, and three three-pointers in a game against the Miami Heat. He has played for 12 teams in his career and continues to produce in Charlotte. His strong start is partly due to Coby White, who is currently dealing with a calf strain. Schroder is recommended for managers needing assists and points, though his value may drop once White returns. Jalen Smith of the Chicago Bulls has scored 14 or 15 points in each of his first three games. He has also averaged 8.0 rebounds and 1.5 steals. Smith is the only consistent big man for the Bulls, as Zach Collins and Tobe Awaka have seen limited playing time. He is rostered in 22.8 percent of leagues and is viewed as a safe waiver wire add if available.

Myles Turner, Onyeka Okongwu, and Draymond Green have seen their stock decline in the early weeks of the season. Turner, rostered in 52.4 percent of leagues, scored zero points in a loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday. He has averaged 7.7 points and 4.3 rebounds over three games. His playing time has been limited by foul trouble, and he faces increased competition from Kel'el Ware, who recorded 19 points and 13 rebounds in 29 minutes against Philadelphia. Turner remains a starter for the Milwaukee Bucks but is considered a low-risk trade target if Ware continues to perform well.

Okongwu, who is rostered in 80 percent of leagues, 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. The Atlanta Hawks have several other players starting strong, including Jalen Johnson and Aaron Wiggins, which may limit Okongwu's offensive opportunities. Analysts suggest making trade offers for Okongwu now before he potentially regains his form. Draymond Green, rostered in 26.7 percent of leagues, has scored just seven points, recorded two blocks, one steal, and one three-pointer in two games. He is 36 years old and sat out the second night of a back-to-back set. The Warriors are struggling, and both Green and Stephen Curry are taking rest nights. Analysts recommend dropping Green for younger players such as Jalen Smith, Yaxel Lendeborg, or Wendell Carter Jr.