Fantasy Fallout: And Dirk Nowitzki owners collectively hold their breath

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Here are the fantasy implications following the Achilles injury to Dallas Mavericks PF Dirk Nowitzki. He will be out at least a week according to ESPN reporter Tim McMahon:

Wait it out

For the moment, there isn't much you can do but wait. Fortunately, the Mavericks only play three games over the next week including a game against the Golden State Warriors where his upside would potentially be stifled. Losing his output against the Milwaukee Bucks and Los Angeles Lakers is a bitter pill to swallow.

You had to see this coming to a degree, though. He was listed as questionable because of the sore Achilles ahead of Friday's game. He'd already missed games this season, though for an illness, and is one of the oldest players in the NBA at 38. Drafting him in fantasy meant a calculated risk that he wouldn't be at his most durable.

For now, however, you hold onto him. He's not heading to the inactive list and he can't be dropped. Best case scenario is the week off is enough time for him to be healthy and ready to play at a high level against the New York Knicks on Monday, November 14. Worst case scenario is...

Ouch. This is frustrating unless your league uses IL+ slots. Without those, the ambiguity behind his injury designation could prevent Nowitzki from being moved, forcing rosters to use a bench slot for a player who can't take the court. When healthy, Nowitzki can be a solid source of scoring and rebounds. He just needs to be healthy. If the Mavericks lose a few more, what rush are they really in?

Waiver-Wire Targets

If Nowitzki gains eligibility to be added to an IL+ spot, here are two possible replacements for your fantasy team:

• SF Jaylen Brown, Celtics: If Nowitzki occupied a forward spot on your fantasy team, add Brown to fill the void. With Jae Crowder sidelined, the rookie is expected to receive ample floor time. In his first start he picked up 19 points, five rebounds, two assists, three steals and block against the Cavaliers. The Celtics drafted him third overall for a reason.

• SF/PF Terrence Jones, Pelicans: Jones racked up 19 points, seven boards, six dimes, four blocks and a steal while playing 28 minutes on Friday night against the Suns. The Pelicans are already hurting on the injury front, so expect Jones to continue to receive plenty of playing time as long as he continues to produce.