Fantasy basketball: Players to pick and avoid

All 30 First Round Picks Of The 2023 #NBADraft

The conclusion of the 2023 NBA Draft marks the arrival of a promising batch of young talents into the league. The rookies are poised to impact the NBA and the upcoming 2023-24 fantasy basketball season.

The 58 drafted rookies also create an exciting opportunity to enhance the fantasy basketball experience. These fresh talents bring impressive skills that have the potential to outshine even some seasoned NBA veterans. With such potential, fantasy managers might have to consider dropping some veterans from their teams.

Players to pick

Now a center/forward for the San Antonio Spurs, Victor Wembanyama is expected to be a solid choice in the fantasy basketball drafts. The 7-foot-2 center has the frame and skill to dominate the paint for the Spurs.

Washington Wizards point guard Jordan Poole has landed in an ideal situation for his fantasy value. As a starter, Poole has showcased impressive statistics. With much playing time on a rebuilding Wizards team, he should be a mid-round selection in fantasy drafts.

The Wizards also has Bilal Coulibaly. He has landed in an advantageous situation with the team’s focus on rebuilding and developing young players.

Memphis Grizzlies shooting guard Desmond Bane is also in a favorable position due to the absence of Ja Morant. Bane has the potential to become a top-25 fantasy player and should be a consideration in drafts.

Brandon Miller, a small forward for the Charlotte Hornets, dominates the team’s frontcourt. With limited competition in his position, Miller is likely to see immediate playing time.

Portland Trail Blazers point guard Scoot Henderson also shows potential to be a fantasy asset in his first year. If the team goes through a rebuilding phase, he may become a key player in their offense.

Players to avoid

Kevin Porter Jr. was Houston Rockets’ second-best fantasy player last season. However, he is now on trade watch due to changes made by head coach Ime Udoka. The Rockets’ selection of Amen Thompson as the fourth overall pick adds to the uncertainty surrounding Porter Jr.’s future.

Golden State Warriors’ Chris Paul faces uncertainty about playing time. While Paul could be a valuable asset for assisting and stealing balls, his production has declined with age.

Meanwhile, Orlando Magic’s Anthony Black holds quite the fantasy appeal. However, considering the surplus of guards on the Magic’s roster, it’s unlikely that he will be an immediate asset in redraft leagues.