Tier 7
Nikola Jovic (C)
Average: AST, STL, 3PM, FG%, FT%, TO | Bad: PTS, REB, BLK
It appears that Nikola Jovic will win the starting spot over Kel’el Ware, at least for now. The 22-year-old has flashed his ability to contribute to multiple categories, and with increased minutes, he can have a career year. However, he has yet to reach 50 games in his three-year career due to injuries, which is a cause for concern.
Tobias Harris (SF)
Good: BLK, FT%, TO | Average: PTS, REB, STL, FG% | Bad: AST, 3PM
Tobias Harris’ fantasy ranking and scoring took a considerable drop in his first season with the Pistons. That was the result of being a veteran on a team loaded with young talent and depth. The 33-year-old’s minutes were slightly reduced, and his production often fluctuated. Harris’ situation likely won’t improve, but he offers some defensive numbers and points on decent splits.
Jabari Smith Jr. (C)
Good: REB, TO | Average: PTS, BLK, 3PM, FT% | Bad: AST, STL, FG%
Jabari Smith Jr. is coming off a disappointing year. While the arrival of Kevin Durant doesn’t help his situation, VanVleet’s injury does. He slots in to start at the four and can provide some rebounds, blocks, points and threes.
Kyshawn George (SG, SF)
Average: STL, BLK, 3PM, FT%, TO | Bad: FG%, PTS, REB, AST
Kyshawn George finished outside the top 200 in category leagues in his rookie campaign, but he’s projected to finish higher this year. While it’ll be hard for him to do so immediately with two veterans taking up usage, the 21-year-old’s time should come later in the season. George has solid defensive abilities and should have a sixth-man role.
Jonathan Kuminga (SF)
Average: PTS, REB, STL, BLK, TO | Bad: FT%, AST, 3PM, FG%
The situation between the Warriors and Jonathan Kuminga is messy, raising concerns over his role. That makes him a risky pick, even for his scoring upside and defensive prowess. The best-case scenario for him and managers is a trade.
Tier 8
Aaron Gordon (C)
Good: FG% | Average: PTS, REB, AST, FT%, TO | Bad: STL, BLK, 3PM
Managers didn’t get to see much of Aaron Gordon last year as injuries limited him to 51 contests. He’s not the most appealing fantasy player, but he offers some points, rebounds and assists with good shooting efficiency.
Jerami Grant (SF)
Good: 3PM, BLK, FT% | Average: PTS, STL, TO | Bad: FG%, REB, AST
With the Trail Blazers embracing their youth movement, Jerami Grant’s impact is decreasing. He still offers some value for his points and defensive stats, but he’s a risky pick, and durability is his biggest weakness. Over the past five seasons, Grant’s suited up for 60+ games once.
Sam Hauser (SF)
Good: TO, 3PM | Average: FG%, FT% | Bad: AST, PTS, REB, STL, BLK
The Celtics look very different this season. One major change is Sam Hauser starting at power forward. He’s never finished inside the top 200, but this is his chance to climb the rankings and improve some of his numbers. The 27-year-old’s best assets are his scoring and three-point shooting.
P.J. Washington (SF)
Good: REB, BLK | Average: PTS, STL, 3PM | Bad: AST, FG%, FT%, TO
P.J. Washington is coming off one of his best seasons due to team injuries. However, his value is tied to the Mavericks’ health, as he doesn’t have as much of an impact when the team is at full strength. The 27-year-old is a 3-and-D guy.
