Kosta Koufos (PF/C, SAC) - NBA Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add for Underrated Production

OWNED: 33% of Yahoo! Leagues

ANALYSIS: Why did Kosta Koufos, after having the chance to break free of his backup role in Memphis, choose to sign with the Sacramento Kings, a team stacked at the center position with DeMarcus Cousins and Willie "Trill" Cauley-Stein? Maybe it was his familiarity with coach George Karl, or the 4-year, $33 million offer, but either way, fantasy owners should not be complaining.

Through 10 games, Koufos is seeing a career high 24 minutes per game. While he is susceptible to disappearance (he put up four points and three rebounds against Detroit), he is also capable of putting up eye opening stats (12 points and 10 rebounds against Golden State). He is averaging a solid 7.8 PPG and 7.0 RPG which, for a supposed backup, are stellar numbers.

It is no secret that DeMarcus Cousins has expanded his game this season, showcasing a plethora of post moves and even a nice midrange jump shot. A thriving Cousins allows Koufos to crash the offensive boards for easy rebounds and points, something that Koufos has done to the tune of 3.1 offensive rebounds a game. He has reached at least 6 rebounds in 9 out of 10 games this season, which does bode well for future production.

As a disclaimer of sorts, it is important to note that Koufos' minutes may decline as Willie Cauley-Stein becomes more accustomed to the NBA. As of now, however, Cauley-Stein remains too raw to take on a huge role, making Koufos a viable fantasy option both for points and for rebounds in deeper leagues.