Building a championship-winning fantasy basketball team requires a blend of strategy, knowledge, and calculated risk-taking. Ensuring consistent production from players selected beyond the top draft picks can often make the difference between winning and losing. In the upcoming season, fantasy managers must pay close attention to key players and their histories to make informed decisions.
Joel Embiid's Complex Equation
Joel Embiid, who is projected to average more than 60 fantasy points per game, remains a tantalizing option for any fantasy roster. Last season, he averaged an impressive 61 fantasy points per game. However, Embiid's durability is a significant concern. He has never played more than 68 games in a season and only appeared in 39 games last season. His presence on the court can significantly impact fantasy outcomes, making his health a double-edged sword for fantasy managers.
The Reliable Nikola Jokic
In contrast, Nikola Jokic exemplifies reliability and consistency. He played 79 games last season and has never played fewer than 69 games in his career. This kind of dependability makes Jokic a highly desirable pick for any fantasy team, providing managers with peace of mind regarding his availability and performance.
The LeBron and Davis Dilemma
LeBron James, turning 40 this season, played 71 games last season. However, he averaged only 52 games over the previous three seasons. His teammate, Anthony Davis, played 76 games last season but has averaged just 44 games per season over the past three seasons. Davis has managed to play more than 70 games in consecutive seasons only once in his 12-year career. Both players offer high upside but come with significant risk due to their recent injury histories.
Ja Morant's Potential and Pitfalls
Ja Morant, one of the league's rising stars, offers impressive stats with 26.7 PPG, 7.5 APG, and 5.8 RPG over the past three seasons. Now 25 years old, Morant missed 73 games last season due to suspension and injury. While his potential is undeniable, his availability remains a crucial factor that could affect his fantasy value.
Kevin Durant's Longevity
Kevin Durant is entering his 18th NBA season at the age of 36. Last season, he played 75 games, showcasing his ability to remain competitive and productive. Fantasy managers should consider his experience and skill, but also be mindful of the potential for age-related decline.
Kyrie Irving's Inconsistent Availability
Kyrie Irving's playmaking abilities are well-documented, averaging 26.7 PPG, with shooting percentages of 49.3 FG%, 39.9 3P%, and 91.2 FT% over his last five seasons. Despite these stellar numbers, Irving's availability has been a concern, averaging only 44.2 games per season over the past five years. Last season, Irving ranked 22nd in fantasy points per game but only 47th in total fantasy points due to the limited number of games he played.
Zion Williamson's Rollercoaster Ride
Zion Williamson offers another intriguing case. With an average of 26.7 PPG, 7.1 RPG, and 4.0 APG between the 2020-21 and 2022-23 seasons, his talent is evident. However, his ability to stay on the court has been less consistent, playing only 90 of 236 possible regular-season games during that time span. Yet, last season, he played a career-high 70 games, showing a glimpse of what he could achieve if he remains healthy. His 27.1 PPG average over a 10-game stretch late last season highlighted his potential to be a fantasy powerhouse.
Kawhi Leonard's Late-Season Struggles
Kawhi Leonard played 68 games last season and finished with the 27th-most fantasy points in the league. However, knee issues caused him to miss 12 of the Clippers’ last 14 games, including the playoffs. His health remains a critical factor in his fantasy value.
In summary, drafting a successful fantasy basketball team involves assessing both the potential and the pitfalls of top players. Whether it's Embiid's exceptional talent tempered by his health concerns, Jokic's unparalleled reliability, or the mixed fortunes of veterans like James and Davis, careful consideration of each player's history and prospects is essential. Managers must navigate these complexities to build a team capable of winning a championship.