Fantasy basketball managers are facing early-season dilemmas as several proven producers struggle with shooting, role changes, and new lineup dynamics. CBS Sports breaks down 15 underperforming players, offering guidance on whether to hold, buy low, bench, or drop each one.
Among the notable names, Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey is averaging just 9.1 points on 36.9% shooting through seven games, though his rebounding and assists remain decent. New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy has lost consistency amid a crowded backcourt with Dejounte Murray and Jeremiah Fears. Cleveland Cavaliers veteran James Harden, 37, is posting 16.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 6.3 assists but shows signs of decline. Boston Celtics guard Derrick White has dipped to 11.1 points per game after back-to-back 16-plus-point seasons.
Other concerns include Chicago Bulls forward Matas Buzelis (13.0 points, 40.0% shooting), Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert (7.4 points, 42.5% shooting), and Milwaukee Bucks guard Ryan Rollins (11.0 points, 34.5% shooting, recently removed from starting lineup). New York Knicks forward Mikal Bridges is averaging only 6.1 points on 30.8% shooting, while Detroit Pistons forward John Collins struggles with 42.4% field-goal shooting and poor free-throw numbers.
Phoenix Suns guard Jalen Green (11.0 points, 41.8% shooting) faces increased competition from Miles Bridges and Dillon Brooks. Milwaukee Bucks center Myles Turner is at career lows (8.0 points, 38.6% shooting) and could lose minutes to Kel'el Ware. Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (11.5 points, 35.8% shooting) may be feeling age at 31. Boston Celtics center Mitchell Robinson has yet to record a double-double and may settle into a backup role. Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl is on pace for his worst season (4.6 points, 52.9% shooting) and has missed time with a shoulder injury. Portland Trail Blazers guard Scoot Henderson (8.7 points, 34.0% shooting) has not shown the leap expected from a former third-overall pick.
