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Five trade rules for the early part of the season

A few weeks of data can fool you. These rules help you tell a real change from a small sample.

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By Dana Whitfield · · 1 min read

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Early in the season, every box score feels like news. Most of it is not. The first rule of trading in these weeks is to trust roles over results. Changes in minutes and shot attempts tend to last, while a hot shooting stretch usually does not.

Second, buy stars who are slumping rather than breakouts who are shining. It is much easier to convince a nervous owner to sell than to outbid the league for the newest name. Third, know your league. Some managers will overpay for a big name like Trae Young, while others value quieter stats.

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Barney O'Kon · 2 days ago

Would you make this move in a shallow league as well, or only in a deep one?

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Bridie Shanahan · 2 days ago

That last paragraph is the part most people miss.

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Bridie Shanahan · 2 days ago

Good stuff as always. Keep it coming.

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