Jerome's 45-point burst triggers early fantasy NBA trade demands

Fantasy basketball managers face an immediate decision regarding roster composition following the first week of the 2026 NBA season. Analysts suggest moving Ty Jerome while his value remains elevated due to a strong start, while simultaneously removing underperforming veterans like Draymond Green.

Jerome, who is rostered in 89.7% of ESPN leagues, scored 45 points against the Utah Jazz on opening night. He followed that performance with 28 points and five assists against the Golden State Warriors. Despite the strong numbers, the source notes that both the Jazz and Warriors are struggling, which may have aided Jerome's output. The Grizzlies have built their offense around him, but the source argues he will struggle to sustain this shooting pace for the entire season.

The recommendation is to trade Jerome for a struggling veteran who is expected to rebound. Suggested targets include Trey Murphy III or Brandon Miller. The goal is to capitalize on the current hype before his production normalizes.

Other risers include Dennis Schroder of the Charlotte Hornets, who is rostered in only 9.7% of leagues. Schroder recorded 25 points, six rebounds, four assists, and three three-pointers in a game against the Miami Heat. He is considered a strong waiver wire pickup for points and assists, though his role may diminish when Coby White returns from a calf strain. Jalen Smith of the Chicago Bulls is another target, rostered in 22.8% of leagues. Smith has scored 14 or 15 points in each of his first three games while averaging 8.0 rebounds and 1.5 steals.

On the falling side, Myles Turner of the Milwaukee Bucks is a prime trade candidate. He scored zero points in a loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday. Turner has averaged just 7.7 points and 4.3 rebounds over three games. His minutes were limited to 20 on Saturday due to foul trouble, while Kel'el Ware provided 19 points and 13 rebounds in 29 minutes. Turner remains the starter but is viewed as an easy lowball trade target.

Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors is the primary drop candidate. Green is 36 years old and has scored a total of seven points across two games. He sat out the second night of a back-to-back on Saturday. The source suggests dropping Green for players like Jalen Smith, Yaxel Lendeborg, or Wendell Carter Jr., noting that his name is larger than his current production.

Onyeka Okongwu of the Atlanta Hawks is also a faller, though he is viewed as a potential buy-low target. He has not scored more than 10 points in any of his three games. The Hawks have several guards performing well, including Aaron Wiggins, which may limit Okongwu's offensive role. However, his ability to hit three-pointers makes him a viable asset if his production increases later in the season.