The journey to building a championship-winning fantasy basketball team requires not just strategy and knowledge but also a knack for calculated risk-taking. A key component to this formula is the consistent production from players beyond the prized top draft picks. This article delves into the performance outlook for some of the NBA's prominent stars projected to have a significant impact on fantasy leagues this season.
Heavy Hitters and Consistency Issues
Joel Embiid, the towering Philadelphia 76ers center, remains a force to be reckoned with. After averaging 61 fantasy points per game last season, Embiid is projected to continue his dominance, with expectations surpassing 60 fantasy points per game. However, the big man has never played more than 68 games in a season and managed only 39 appearances last year. This inconsistency in availability could be a concern for fantasy owners who bank on his high production.
Conversely, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets exemplifies reliability. Jokic played 79 games last season, and remarkably, he has never played fewer than 69 games in his career. This steadfastness, combined with his all-around game, makes him an invaluable asset in any fantasy league.
Aging Veterans and Their Impact
LeBron James and Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers continue to influence the fantasy landscape. James, turning 40 this season, played 71 games last year, a stark improvement over his previous three seasons where he averaged 52 games. Davis, who played 76 games last season, had averaged only 44 games over the past three seasons. Notably, Davis has managed to play more than 70 games in consecutive seasons only once in his 12-year career. Their ability to stay healthy and maintain this trend will be pivotal for fantasy managers relying on their contributions.
The Enigma of Ja Morant and Kyrie Irving
Memphis Grizzlies' Ja Morant is another player whose fantasy value is a subject of discussion. Missing 73 games last season due to suspension and injury, Morant still boasts impressive stats, averaging 26.7 points per game (PPG), 7.5 assists per game (APG), and 5.8 rebounds per game (RPG) over the past three seasons. At 25 years old, Morant's potential remains sky-high if he can avoid extended absences.
Kyrie Irving, though supremely talented, offers a more unpredictable prospect. Over his last five seasons, Irving has delivered averages of 26.7 PPG, a shooting efficiency of 49.3% from the field, 39.9% from beyond the arc, and 91.2% from the free-throw line. However, he has also averaged just 44.2 games per season over this span, finishing 22nd in fantasy points per game last season, but only 47th in total fantasy points. This inconsistency can be a gamble for fantasy owners.
The Rising and the Resilient
Zion Williamson's performance between the 2020-21 and 2022-23 seasons showcases his potential when healthy, averaging 26.7 PPG, 7.1 RPG, and 4.0 APG. Nevertheless, Williamson played only 90 of 236 possible regular-season games during this period, though he reached a career-high 70 games last season. His late-season surge, including a 27.1 PPG average over a 10-game stretch, underscores his scoring abilities when on the court.
Veteran forward Kevin Durant moves into his 18th NBA season at 36 years old. Durant, having played 75 games last season, continues to be a significant contributor. His longevity and performance could be pivotal for fantasy teams looking to leverage his experience and skill.
Kawhi Leonard, a critical player for the Los Angeles Clippers, played 68 games last season, ending up 27th in total fantasy points. However, Leonard's history of knee issues, which caused him to miss 12 of the Clippers’ last 14 games, including the playoffs, signals a potential risk for fantasy managers considering him for their rosters.
Building a winning fantasy basketball team involves more than just drafting the biggest names. It’s about understanding player consistency, potential for missed games, and overall contributions. Navigating through the season with informed choices can be the difference between a championship run and a disappointing finish.