Building a championship-winning fantasy basketball team is no small feat, relying heavily on strategy, knowledge, and calculated risk-taking. The key to success lies in securing consistent production from your players, especially those drafted beyond the top picks. With the 2023-24 NBA season on the horizon, understanding player performance and durability is crucial for fantasy managers aiming to dominate their leagues.
The Highs and Lows of Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid stands out as a powerhouse in fantasy basketball, projected to average over 60 fantasy points per game this season. Last year, Embiid lived up to expectations, averaging 61 fantasy points per game. However, Embiid's durability remains a significant concern. Despite his impressive averages, he has never played more than 68 games in a season and managed only 39 games last year. Fantasy managers must weigh the risk of potential missed games against the high reward of his performance when healthy.
Nikola Jokic: The Pillar of Consistency
In stark contrast, Nikola Jokic boasts an exemplary record of consistency. Playing 79 games last season, Jokic has never played fewer than 69 games in his career. This reliability, combined with his consistent production, makes him a cornerstone for any fantasy team. Jokic’s ability to stay on the court is a significant advantage, providing a steady stream of fantasy points throughout the season.
Veteran Stars: LeBron James and Kevin Durant
LeBron James, entering his 40th year, played 71 games last season, a notable improvement compared to his average of 52 games over the previous three seasons. Despite his age, LeBron remains a valuable asset in fantasy basketball, though managers should remain cautious of potential injuries and rest days.
Similarly, Kevin Durant, who played 75 games last season, is heading into his 18th NBA season. At 36 years old, Durant continues to deliver high-level performance, but his advancing age could pose risks for sustained availability throughout the season.
Anthony Davis: Balancing Act of Performance and Availability
Anthony Davis presents a complex case for fantasy managers. Last season, he played 76 games, a significant uptick from his previous average of 44 games over the past three seasons. However, Davis has only managed to exceed 70 games in consecutive seasons once in his 12-year career. While his potential for high fantasy points is undeniable, his historical inconsistency in game participation remains a concern.
Ja Morant: Youthful Exuberance and Recent Setbacks
Ja Morant, now 25 years old, missed 73 games last season due to suspension and injury. Despite these setbacks, he has shown tremendous promise, averaging 26.7 points, 7.5 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game over the past three seasons. Fantasy managers betting on Morant will hope for a healthier and more disciplined season, banking on his potential to deliver standout performances.
Kyrie Irving and Zion Williamson: High Upside, High Risk
Kyrie Irving’s recent history in fantasy basketball is marked by brilliance and inconsistency. Averaging 26.7 points, 49.3% from the field, 39.9% from beyond the arc, and 91.2% from the free-throw line over the last five seasons, his production is elite. However, his average of 44.2 games per season during that span poses a significant risk. Last season, Irving ranked 22nd in fantasy points per game but dropped to 47th in total fantasy points due to missed games.
Zion Williamson’s trajectory has been similarly tumultuous. Between the 2020-21 and 2022-23 seasons, Williamson averaged 26.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. Yet, his participation has been sporadic, playing just 90 of 236 possible regular-season games. Notably, Williamson did manage to play a career-high 70 games last season, offering a glimmer of hope for increased reliability moving forward.
Kawhi Leonard: The Unpredictable Star
Kawhi Leonard, who played 68 games last season, finished with the 27th-most fantasy points in the league. However, he missed 12 of the Clippers’ last 14 games, including the playoffs, due to knee issues. Leonard’s performance when on the court is undeniable, but his recurring knee problems add a layer of unpredictability that fantasy managers must navigate with caution.
In conclusion, constructing a triumphant fantasy basketball team demands a nuanced understanding of player performance and durability. Balancing the allure of high-scoring stars with the practicalities of their game attendance will be the ultimate test for fantasy managers aiming for championship glory this season.