Fantasy Basketball Draft Considerations
When it comes to fantasy basketball, making the right selections is crucial, especially if a player has a history of injuries or is likely to receive fewer minutes than in previous seasons. Such decisions can have a significant impact on the overall success of a fantasy team. Experienced players often identify these potential pitfalls ahead of their draft day and steer clear of such high-risk athletes. Here’s a look at five well-known players who might be best avoided this drafting season.
Players to Avoid
Joel Embiid, Center, Philadelphia 76ers
For the past nine seasons, Embiid has averaged only 50 games played, and amidst last year’s struggles, he only took the court for 19 games. Throughout his career, he has never exceeded 68 games in a single season, managing a maximum of 60 games on only four occasions. Despite his potential as a transformative fantasy asset when fit, the indications from the offseason raise concerns. While there’s a slim chance he could play 70 games, it’s more likely he will not, making him a candidate to pass on during the draft. Should he unexpectedly fall to you, consider prioritizing a player like Adem Bona instead, who may step in on nights Embiid is sidelined.
Anthony Davis, Forward/Center, Dallas Mavericks
Davis also comes with a considerable risk factor due to chronic injury woes. His transition to the Mavericks did little to alter his injury status, as seen last season. With rising star Cooper Flagg taking charge in Dallas and Kyrie Irving set to miss a significant portion of the season with an Achilles issue, the Mavericks’ prospects are dim. Therefore, Davis could quickly find himself sidelined for an extended period if he sustains an injury—which is highly likely for a player with his track record. While he managed to suit up for 76 games in the 2023-24 season, that’s an anomaly in his ongoing battle with injuries, making him a dubious choice for a first-round pick.
Paul George, Forward, Philadelphia 76ers
At 35, George’s fantasy performance has taken a turn for the worse, highlighted by his limited appearances of just 41 games last season, compounded by offseason knee surgery. His availability for the impending season remains uncertain. With the 76ers potentially in tank mode to secure a favorable draft pick, there’s an additional layer of risk involved. Coupled with Embiid’s own health uncertainties, George could very well miss more time this year, making him an unappealing draft selection no matter how late he may drop.
Ivica Zubac, Center, LA Clippers
Zubac turned in a stellar performance last season, averaging 16.8 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks while playing 32.8 minutes per game—his career best in every category. However, the acquisition of Brook Lopez poses a significant threat to his playing time. Limited to approximately 25 minutes per game this season seems a reasonable expectation, translating to a drop of eight minutes per outing. Although a complete timeshare isn’t expected, Zubac’s numbers are likely to see a decline, particularly considering his previous average of 11.7 points and 9.2 rebounds.
Kristaps Porzingis, Forward/Center, Atlanta Hawks
Porzingis is a capable player when he’s on the court, but historically, he has struggled with participating in consecutive games. His role last year with the Celtics often had him playing as an alternating-game center, and now with the Hawks, the presence of promising talent like Onyeka Okongwu complicates his situation. While a position switch could occur, Porzingis’s injury history suggests that sheer availability may hinder him; his career games-played numbers reflect a concerning trend: 42, 57, 65, 51, 43, 57, 0, 48, 66, and 72. It seems unlikely he will participate in more than 55 games this season.
Conclusion
As fantasy basketball enthusiasts prepare for their drafts, keeping a watch on these players can help avert potential hazards that could derail an otherwise promising season.
