Jakob Poeltl (C, SAS) - Week 23 Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add-In 10-Team Leagues

OWNED IN: 21% of leagues

ANALYSIS: Jakob Poeltl is playing a key role in the San Antonio Spurs playoff push. The Spurs (41-29) have reeled off eight straight wins to move into sixth place in the Western Conference playoff chase. Poeltl replaced Rudy Gay in the starting lineup at the start of this stretch on Feb. 27, although he did miss the March 6 game against the Hawks as a result of a hamstring injury.

Why have the Spurs been better with the 7-footer in the starting lineup? Because the Austrian native has provided the Spurs with consistent energy, defensive rebounding, offensive efficiency, and most importantly rim protection. Since Poeltl has been playing with the first unit, the Spurs lead the league in field goal percentage (50.1 percent), defensive rating (102.5) and point differential (plus 9.9). They are also second in defensive rebounding, third in block shots per game, eighth in defensive rebounding percentage and fourth in opponent's points in the paint. San Antonio ranked eighth in field goal percentage, 14th in defensive rebounds, 25th in blocked shots per game, 13th in plus/minus, 23rd in defensive rating, and eighth in opponent's points in the paint.

Poeltl does not provide a great deal on the offensive end, except for offensive rebounding and scoring around the basket.However, he has scored in double-figures twice and registered one double-double over his last seven outings, averaging 7.7 points along with 7.7 rebounds (2.7 offensive), 1.7 assists, one steal, and 2.4 blocks while shooting an astounding 71.4 percent from the field during this stretch. Poeltl has recorded five blocks in each of his last two contests. Overall, the Spurs are outscoring their opponents by 9.1 points when the third-year pro is on the court over this seven game stretch.

It appears that the 23-year-old will remain in the starting lineup for the foreseeable future. So, fantasy owners who are in need of an efficient center who is an outstanding offensive rebounder and quality shot-blocker should pluck Poeltl off of the waiver wire immediately.