NBA Preseason Wrap-Up
As the NBA preseason wraps up on October 17, many fantasy basketball players are gearing up for their league drafts this weekend. With no games to interfere during the break, teams will finalize their rosters, offering valuable insights into player rotations and potential absences ahead of the regular season which kicks off on October 21. Notably, fans can catch the NBA’s return on NBC and streaming via Peacock, featuring an opening night doubleheader:
- The Houston Rockets taking on the reigning champions, the Oklahoma City Thunder at 7:30 PM ET
- Followed by a matchup between the Golden State Warriors and the Los Angeles Lakers at 10 PM ET
Expert Drafting Insights
Fantasy basketball experts Raphielle Johnson, Noah Rubin, and Zak Hanshew from Rotoworld share their insights on how to navigate the drafting process effectively, especially for newcomers:
- Formulate a Draft Strategy but Stay Adaptable: Arrive at your draft with a list of players you’re excited about. However, be prepared to adjust your selections based on how the draft unfolds and the picks made by fellow managers.
- Don’t Hesitate to Reach for Key Players: If you have a strong desire to draft certain players, act decisively. Waiting for players to fall may result in missing out entirely, as they could be picked by other participants.
- Employ a Read-and-React Approach: Drafting in fantasy basketball requires flexibility. If a player you initially ruled out is available later in the draft, don’t be too rigid in your strategy—take the opportunity if it presents itself.
- Prioritize Quality Big Men Early: Beyond the top-tier centers like Nikola Jokić and Victor Wembanyama, it’s wise to secure a strong frontcourt player early on to maximize your draft value.
- Stay Informed on Player News and Injuries: The preseason has seen substantial injuries. Being aware of which players are sidelined can provide a critical advantage when selecting your team. Keeping abreast of updates can also highlight under-the-radar players who may get more playing time.
- Draft Players You Enjoy Watching: Incorporating your favorite or local players can enhance your enjoyment of the season—after all, fantasy basketball should be fun!
- Maintain Flexibility in Drafting: Sticking to one draft strategy can limit your success. Be open to switching tactics based on how the draft evolves.
- Stay Authentic to Your Preferences: Don’t let external rankings dictate your player choices. Trust your instincts when deciding on selections.
- Understand Your League’s Scoring System: Familiarizing yourself with your league’s specific rules can dramatically impact your drafting decisions, particularly regarding points leagues.
- Know the Roster Requirements: Understanding how your league operates, including the number of required positions, can prevent headaches on draft day.
- Mock Draft for Experience: Participate in mock drafts to gain familiarity with the drafting process and learn how player values fluctuate.
- Draft with Friends: Playing with known individuals can enhance the experience as it encourages communication and camaraderie throughout the season.
- Be Aware of Your Limits: Whether it’s financial or other commitments regarding league consequences, ensure you’re comfortable with what you’re entering into.
- Embrace the Fun Aspect: While strategy and analytics are crucial, never lose sight of the enjoyment fantasy basketball brings. Experiment with different formats and engage friends or family.
- Utilize Resources like the Rotoworld Prep Guide: Don’t forget to leverage available guides for rankings, draft strategies, and player profiles as you prepare for your draft.
By implementing these strategies, fantasy players can enjoy the drafting process and position themselves for a successful season ahead.
