As the NBA season unfolds, it’s essential to look beyond the surface-level statistics and delve into the nuances of each player’s performance. The marathon-like nature of the season means that players can experience significant surges and slumps, making it crucial to identify which trends are sustainable and which are fleeting.
One player who has generated significant buzz is Victor Wembanyama, who catapulted to new heights after the All-Star break last season. With his impressive stats and league-average efficiency, Wembanyama is poised to dominate the fantasy scene. However, it’s equally important to examine other players who showed remarkable improvement towards the end of last season.
Jonathan Kuminga, for instance, demonstrated a new level of slashing and cutting acumen, leading to a significant increase in his offensive production. His ability to average 1.7 combined steals and blocks per 36 minutes suggests that his growth is more than just a flash in the pan. With his current draft position hovering around pick 100, there’s still room for profit.
Brandon Miller, on the other hand, had a quiet rookie season, but his impressive second-half performance shouldn’t be overlooked. He became an effective and efficient three-level scorer, finishing at 67% shooting in the restricted area while also becoming a reliable high-volume shooter. As his draft stock rises, it’s worth speculating on another upswing for the emergent player.
P.J. Washington’s playoff production last summer was impressive, but a closer look reveals that his numbers closely mimicked his career averages. While he’s a capable 3-and-D player, it’s unlikely that his summer showing is sustainable.
Ayo Dosunmu and Patrick Williams, both from the Chicago Bulls, showed promising signs towards the end of last season. Dosunmu’s newfound scoring mentality and ability were revealed, but his playing time might be limited with the team’s focus on Josh Giddy. Williams, on the other hand, showed impressive scoring efficiency and defensive rates, making him an intriguing option in the final rounds of drafts.
Taylor Hendricks and Keyonte George, both from the Utah Jazz, demonstrated strong numbers after the All-Star break. Hendricks started 23 straight games and posted impressive numbers as a combo forward, while George showed off scoring prowess that wasn’t always obvious in his scouting profile. Of the two, George is more appealing due to his potential to provide assists and playmaking duties.
Vince Williams Jr.’s second-half performance was impressive, but a recent foot injury has soured his outlook. However, his experience and exposure last year make him a believer in his ability to help fantasy teams this season. Finally, Jonathan Isaac’s wild 34-game showing in the 2019-20 season shouldn’t be forgotten. Despite injuries keeping him sidelined, he played well last spring and into the playoffs, showcasing his all-world defensive upside. If he can mimic his playoff role for Orlando this year, he has real sleeper status.
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