Fantasy basketball pickups: Add Dejounte Murray, Precious Achiuwa before it's too late - ESPN

ESPN

by Andre Snellings

March 2, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

In the midst of March Madness for fantasy basketball playoffs, it's crucial for teams to bolster their rosters with undervalued talent. According to ESPN’s André Snellings, Dejounte Murray and Precious Achiuwa are two key players worth targeting before they become hot commodities. With the season winding down and playoff contention on the line, these players have emerged as reliable contributors due to increased playing time and consistent performance. Dejounte Murray, a versatile guard/forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, made his season debut recently after recovering from an Achilles injury. Despite limited minutes early in his return, Murray has shown he can still be an impact player when healthy, offering scoring, playmaking, and defensive contributions. His ability to fill up the stat sheet even with restricted action makes him a valuable pickup for fantasy teams needing depth or a game-changer. Precious Achiuwa, another rising star, has been a standout performer for the Sacramento Kings. Since joining the team earlier in the season, Achiuwa has consistently delivered double-digit scoring and rebounding numbers. His role has solidified as he continues to showcase his all-around skills, including strong rim protection and clutch performances. With 21.2% rostered in ESPN leagues, Achiuwa represents a low-risk, high-reward addition for fantasy managers looking to shore up their frontcourt. The article highlights how March Madness amplifies opportunities for bench players and young talent to shine. Teams with injured stars often turn to their reserves, creating chances for lesser-known players to step up. This trend benefits fantasy owners who can capitalize on these overlooked gems to gain an edge in their leagues. By keeping a close eye on the waiver wire and identifying players like Murray and Achiuwa early, fantasy managers can bolster their rosters with minimal competition. With playoffs looming, the window to strengthen lineups is narrowing. Players like Javon Small of the Memphis Grizzlies and Brandon Williams of the Dallas Mavericks also offer solid contributions at under 10% rostered rates. Their consistent production and versatile skill sets make them valuable additions for teams in need of scoring or playmaking. As the fantasy season reaches its climax, timely pickups can be the difference between advancing deep into the playoffs or falling short. By staying proactive and targeting players like Murray, Achiuwa, Small, and Williams, fantasy managers can enhance their rosters and improve their chances of securing a championship.

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Originally published on ESPN on 3/2/2026