The upcoming NBA season brings excitement around a fresh crop of rookies. Among them, Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper are generating significant buzz, as they prepare to make their mark in the league.
When to Select Rookies in Fantasy Basketball
Choosing the right rookies during fantasy drafts can be crucial for your team’s success. Some players are ready to contribute immediately, while others may need time to adjust to the NBA level. Understanding this can help you land valuable players at the right stage of the draft.
Key Rookies to Watch
- Cooper Flagg, SF/PF, Dallas Mavericks: Flagg is anticipated to make a significant impact this season. He excelled at Duke, leading his team in multiple categories, and demonstrated his readiness during the Las Vegas Summer League. With the Mavericks filling a gap in perimeter scoring, expect Flagg to be a primary offensive force early on.
- Dylan Harper, PG/SG, San Antonio Spurs: Harper showed remarkable talent at the Summer League, drawing favorable comparisons to past standout rookies. Although the Spurs’ depth may limit his immediate impact, his potential makes him worth keeping on your fantasy bench.
- Ace Bailey, SF/PF, Utah Jazz: With the Jazz focusing on rebuilding, Bailey’s role as a potential leading scorer could lead to impactful fantasy numbers. His readiness for NBA competition places him as a strong candidate for mid-to-late round selections.
- Egor Demin, PG, Brooklyn Nets: Demin’s size and skill make him an appealing option for immediate production alongside Cam Thomas. If he can recover from injury, he could be an all-around contributor for fantasy teams.
- VJ Edgecombe, SG, Philadelphia 76ers: Known for his athleticism and defensive capabilities, Edgecombe might secure a starting spot early in the season. His ability to generate steals and contribute offensively makes him an interesting late-round target.
Additional Rookies to Monitor
- Tre Johnson, SG, Washington Wizards: Johnson’s shooting ability positions him as a valuable late-round pick. His potential to score effectively could see him develop into a reliable contributor for a team in need.
- Kon Knueppel, SG, Charlotte Hornets: Known primarily for his shooting, Knueppel could benefit from spacing created by other playmakers in Charlotte. He’s a candidate for spot-up opportunities but may face challenges in consistency.
- Jeremiah Fears, PG/SG, New Orleans Pelicans: Fears brings scoring ability but may struggle for playing time initially. However, with injuries affecting the roster, he could emerge as a valuable player as the season progresses.
- Khaman Maluach, C, Phoenix Suns: As a backup center, Maluach might see more minutes if starter Mark Williams experiences injury issues again. His shot-blocking prowess could offer valuable contributions in category leagues.
- Nique Clifford, SG, Sacramento Kings: Clifford, an older rookie, has shown promise. While his early role may be limited, he could become a free-agent target worth considering later.
As you prepare for your fantasy basketball draft, identifying where to select players like Cooper Flagg and Dylan Harper, along with other promising rookies, can enhance your team’s strength. Balancing immediate contributors with players who might require time to develop is essential for long-term fantasy success.
