The only constant in sports (and life) is change. While consistency is key to a winning strategy, the ebb and flow of production often can't be avoided.
Tracking the endless ups and downs over 40 games and nearly four months can become a heady operation. Segmenting the journey, however, into weekly updates allows managers to live (and play) in the now.
That's exactly what my Risers and Fallers column aims to accomplish, as we utilize ESPN's metrics database for a deeper look at the numbers.
Risers
Kamilla Cardoso, C, Chicago Sky (73.7% rostered, +9.2)
The third overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft, Cardoso's entrance to the league was highly anticipated. Unfortunately, a preseason shoulder injury forced the former Gamecock to the bench for six games. Cardoso, however, was cleared to play late last week, making her pro debut in the Sky's much-discussed loss to the Fever.
In 18 minutes, the 23-year-old sunk five of seven field goal attempts, registering 11 points. Her frontcourt prowess was additionally highlighted as Cardoso collected six boards (5 DREB, 1 OREB). Expected to be eased into Chicago's gameplan, Cardoso is likely to average around 20 minutes per game for the time being. That number, however, figures to increase over the summer. With Elizabeth Williams putting together a fantastic effort, the rookie's fantasy ceiling is capped. Still, Cardoso remains a fantastic stash and potential utility play down the stretch. She's an ideal target for managers interested in playing the long game.
Kate Martin, G, Las Vegas Aces (11.1% rostered, +3)
Martin has emerged as fantasy's 41st most productive player, averaging 13 fantasy points per contest. Those aren't stellar numbers and Martin isn't a star... yet. She is, however, a consistent bench contributor on a team with the fastest pace (99.20) and second-highest offensive rating (104.8). Learning behind and gaining the respect of Kelsey Plum and Jackie Young figures to be key to Martin's growth and eventual success.
The rookie's total minutes have hovered just above 20 for three straight contests. While her shooting has been matchup-dependent, her contributions on the glass and as a facilitator have remained consistent, as she's posted at least three boards and two dimes in back-to-back efforts. Martin is a rookie on a stacked squad, but with Chelsea Gray (lower-leg) banged up, she has a fantastic opportunity to gain favor and log additional playing time.
Fallers
Cheyenne Parker-Tyus, F, Atlanta Dream (92.9% rostered, -2.8)
Parker-Tyus carved out an impressive role for herself, recording a total of 73 starts (out of 75) during the past two seasons with the Dream. She remains an integral part of Atlanta's game plan, averaging nearly 23 minutes per outing. Still, Tina Charles' presence (and solid play) have decreased Parker-Tyus' opportunities and created a dip in her overall numbers from last year.
Parker-Tyus has, additionally, struggled from the field in back-to-back efforts, recording just two field goals (out of total 12 attempts) in each of her last two outings. Her contributions in secondary categories (at least three rebounds and 1 block in two straight) have buoyed her fantasy numbers, but a lack of long distance shots (just one 3-pointer made so far this season) lowers her overall ceiling. The 31-year-old could rebound while chasing points versus the Liberty on Thursday, though she may continue to struggle with turnovers (2.6 per game).
Shakira Austin, C, Washington Mystics (79.8% rostered, -2.5)
Austin was on pace for a career year in 2023 before suffering a labrum tear that ultimately cost her 21 games. The injury required surgery in December, putting the 23-year-old's availability in question at the start of the season. While she did start in the season opener, Austin has barely cleared 20 minutes per game (21.2) and has recorded two DNPs since May 14. Her hip issue is clearly lingering, and she has already been ruled out for Tuesday night, her third missed game of 2024.
While Austin has managed double-digit points and at least four boards in each start, her durability is becoming a concern. Given that she's averaging nearly 23 fantasy points per contest, it wouldn't be smart to drop the Ole Miss (by way of Maryland) standout. However, her health needs to be monitored closely and investors should prepare for constant roster-tweaking until Austin's hip injury is definitively in the past.
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