As we head into Week 4 of the NBA season, it’s clear that some of the things around the league are going very differently from what people expect. Warriors are struggling, for one. And Jazz music rebuilds near the top of the Western Conference charts. All of this, and the players behind it, had a huge impact on fantasy basketball.
So what would our fantasy basketball pros do differently if they could redefine their team today?
Here are André Snellings, Eric Moody, Eric Karabell and Jim McCormick giving the biggest rehearsals of their draft day.
Crossing Kawhi
During the War Room tournament, in round 3, I was hoping that one of the Darius Garland, Jalen Brunsonor Paul George will fall into my hands. I even had Julius Randle in my queue, thought this would be a comeback season for him, and with 7th pick in round 3 of the 14-team tournament, he was worth it. Of course, my queue was empty before I picked and I was stuck looking at it Kawhi Leonard.
I don’t usually pick Leonard, because even when healthy he sits about a quarter of the game for load management. That’s what I’ve come to expect from him this season, 16 months after his ACL surgery. But, after knocking out a tough but boneless player in round two (DeMar DeRozanchoose later LeBron James already done), I swing for the fence above.
Of course, Kawhi is still struggling with his knees and it’s unclear if/when he will be able to return to even 75% of the game anywhere near full fitness. Also, two options after I take Kawhi, Donovan Mitchell Go. I would have thought Mitchell would depreciate this season playing on such a talented, deep Cavs team… and he might slow down a bit, as Darius Garland is now back.. .but Mitchell is one of the fastest risers in my rankings. this week because his production has been excellent. With Kawhi struggling, my team was leading 0-3. If I put Mitchell past Kawhi, I might just be 3-0, and I’ll certainly look at a more positive outlook going forward. – Snellings
Looking to get SGA, Fox and Banchero
The first thing that comes to mind is priority Shai Gilgeous-Alexander more in fantasy drafts. He’s had five games with 65 or more fantasy points this season. De’Aaron Fox also exceeded expectations with 26.5 PPG, 5.4 RPG and 4.8 APG, showing a significantly improved jump.
Another name that I wish I’d jumped at the chance to have – Paolo Banchero. He should have been an exception to my rule about not approaching rookies in fantasy basketball. Banchero recently became only the second Magic rookie to average 30 points and 10 rebounds in two games, along with Shaquille O’Neal (1992-93). There is no doubt that all three of these players have exceeded ADP’s expectations. – sad
Don’t be shy about Shai
I wish I was bolder in pursuing Gilgeous-Alexander in drafts. I mentioned in a pre-season roundtable that the blurriness could be too strong for tank teams and especially for “SGA”, as the vague knee disease casts some doubt. in the start of his season. It’s clear that Gilgeous-Alexander is a statistical superstar, as confirmed by placing third overall on Top Reviewer. Likewise, those who boldly invested in lottery-related listings theoretically like Utah and Orlando were rewarded. – McCormick
Jazz it up
I will invest more in a few Utah Jazz player. Lauri Markkanen burned me through a couple of seasons during his Bulls days, as I thought he could hit all 3 pointers with an average of 20 PPG. What’s interesting here is that he hits 3 less, but gets so many hits that it works and he recovers more. It looks legit. With Mike Conley, it’s generally about games played, but I like him more as a player – he’s never averaged 7 APG! – and less shooters. And who knows? Jordan Clarkson can average 5 APG. So much for being an empty fantasy option. – Karabell
