Fantasy Basketball Sleeper Picks
The search for sleeper picks in fantasy basketball remains a thrilling aspect of drafting, with emerging talents consistently stepping into the spotlight. In the previous NBA season, Payton Pritchard stood out by nailing the fifth-most three-pointers, while Deni Avdija developed into a formidable offensive player as the season progressed. Meanwhile, Josh Giddey transformed into a triple-double threat post-All-Star break, highlighting the abundant potential hidden among less obvious draft options.
Identifying Valuable Players
With draft strategies evolving and fantasy managers becoming increasingly astute, the landscape for identifying valuable players continues to be dynamic. To assist in this quest, our editorial team has convened to discuss potential breakouts, persistent sleepers, and players to avoid, featuring names such as Kevin Porter Jr. as a backcourt sleeper for the revamped Milwaukee Bucks who could have a promising opportunity this season.
This analysis will pinpoint players likely to exceed their average draft positions, specifically those not typically selected among the top 100 players according to ESPN’s live drafts.
Key Sleeper Picks
Zach Edey, C, Memphis Grizzlies: For this towering center, patience will be crucial. Edey is currently recovering from a significant ankle injury, but upon his return, he is expected to play a central role in Coach Tuomas Iisalo’s strategy. His previous collaboration with Ja Morant showed promise, indicating he could emerge as a dual-threat fantasy asset this winter. Another player to watch within the Grizzlies is Scotty Pippen Jr., who displayed potential last spring and could be a valuable late-round pick.
Andrew Nembhard, PG/SG, Indiana Pacers: A hidden gem available in the middle rounds, Nembhard has demonstrated his capability in high-pressure situations. Despite not being a high-scoring player, his skills in three-pointers, assists, steals, and rebounds could make him an appealing pick as a combo guard. Additionally, consider Jay Huff, a center with the potential to stretch the floor and protect the rim, a worthwhile gamble in light of Myles Turner’s recent departure.
Tari Eason, SF/PF, Houston Rockets: Eason is known for his versatility and ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game. With a significant backcourt injury reshaping the team’s lineup, Eason’s role is projected to expand, and he could achieve high defensive statistics, including three combined steals and blocks.
Reed Sheppard, SG, Houston Rockets: A college standout with impressive defensive metrics, Sheppard’s lack of ideal size adds an element of uncertainty. However, with Fred VanVleet injured, Sheppard’s opportunity to make an impact could accelerate, as the Rockets are in dire need of playmaking and clutch scoring.
Jaden Ivey, SG/PG, Detroit Pistons: Building on a solid catch-and-shoot performance last season, Ivey shows promise as both an on-ball playmaker and a standout role player. With significant scoring departures from the Pistons’ lineup, Ivey’s potential to enhance his offensive role could be undervalued.
Toumani Camara, PF/SF, Portland Trail Blazers: Sharing similarities with Eason, Camara is becoming recognized as a potent and multifaceted defender within the league. His ability to contribute across various roles makes him an attractive option, especially for those looking to strengthen their roster depth.
Cam Whitmore, SF, Washington Wizards: Whitmore, known for his scoring prowess, has the potential to be a constant threat on the court, particularly as he seeks to rival fellow players known for their confidence. With a fluid forward rotation, he could easily find himself logging significant minutes as he settles in.
Matas Buzelis, SF/PF, Chicago Bulls: Following a strong conclusion to his rookie season, Buzelis is gaining momentum as a fantasy player. With the Bulls likely to give him more leeway, he could evolve into a rare 3-and-D wing capable of contributing impressive block totals, marking him as an exciting player to draft this season.
