In the realm of fantasy sports, uncovering hidden gems has become an art form. With the abundance of information available, identifying sleepers requires a combination of knowledge, speculation, and luck. To uncover these underrated players, it’s essential to analyze performance trends, preseason games, and whispers from training camps.
Here are some notable sleepers to keep an eye on, all of whom are found outside of the top 100 picks on average in live draft results:
Jabari Smith, PF/C, Houston Rockets – With his unique two-way skill set, Smith has the potential to break out this season under coach Ime Udoka’s guidance.
Deni Avdija, SF/PF, Portland Trail Blazers – At just 23, Avdija boasts a polished floor game, having set career bests in playmaking, scoring, and rebounding last season. He’s poised for major minutes on a Portland team in transition.
Keyonte George, PG/SG, and Taylor Hendricks, PF, Utah Jazz – George’s playmaking abilities and respectable volume from deep make him a potential breakout candidate. Hendricks, meanwhile, flashed impressive defensive and positional versatility as a rookie, and is likely to outproduce his draft price.
Brandin Podziemski, SG, and De’Anthony Melton, PG/SG, Golden State Warriors – Podziemski’s atypical rebounding volume and potential to erupt as a shooter and scorer make him an intriguing sleeper. Melton’s offensive profile and defensive skills could thrive in Steve Kerr’s system.
Herbert Jones, SF/PF, New Orleans Pelicans – Jones boasts a pure “3-and-D” profile, with an impressive effective field goal percentage on catch-and-shoot threes and elite defensive skills. He’s likely to set career highs in minutes and opportunities with the Pelicans’ small-ball identity.
Cameron Johnson, SF/PF, Brooklyn Nets – With Mikal Bridges gone, Johnson is due for a rise in offensive opportunities. His draft price remains reasonable, making him a potential sleeper.
Marcus Smart, PG/SG, and Vince Williams Jr., PG/SG, Memphis Grizzlies – Smart’s injuries last season have led to him being overlooked, but he still possesses top-notch defensive rates and passing chops. Williams, meanwhile, is poised for a massive role with the Grizzlies, having shown growth as a playmaker and complementary scorer last season.
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