As the new NBA season approaches, several players are emerging as potential sleepers and key contributors for their respective teams. Of those players, Zach Edey of the Memphis Grizzlies poses as the most intriguing center for the long-term. His electrifying chemistry with star guard Ja Morant emphasized a fun, up-tempo pace and high effectiveness that turned heads last season. This new partnership opens the path for Edey to be a two-way fantasy force.
Edey’s performance last season suggested he would be ready to make a huge impact on both sides of the floor this season. During his time with Memphis, he was irreplaceable in Memphis’s starting lineup. His jaw-dropping talent and statistically significant leaps made him the darling of fantasy basketball fans everywhere. With Morant facilitating opportunities, Edey could elevate his game further and solidify his status as a valuable asset in fantasy leagues.
At the same time, Matas Buzelis, a 6-foot-9 small forward and power forward, has peaked interest from Chicago Bulls. Best touted for his defensive prowess, Buzelis could really make an impact on the wing as a 3-and-D player with elite block production. His versatility on the court allows him to easily guard all five positions. This skill set is what makes him such a tantalizing pick to teams looking to enhance their defensive game plans.
In Boston, Payton Pritchard was one of the leaders in the headlines last year, finishing fifth in the NBA in made 3-pointers. Pritchard’s shooting prowess adds depth to the Celtics’ backcourt, providing them with a reliable perimeter option. Change his ability to stretch the floor that needs to be a major factor in the positive run the team will look to hope for a successful campaign.
In Houston, Tari Eason is going to be the guy to take a big jump in the rotation. This joint development opportunity suddenly became available by an injury to the backcourt. Eason has the potential to be one of the few defenders in league history to average three combined steals and blocks per game. His potential defensive tenacity is just what the Rockets need as they try to climb back into contention.
Deni Avdija has additionally stepped forward as an offensive weapon for the Washington Wizards, particularly in crunch time last May. His steady improvement as an offensive player has brought new life to the Wizards’ offense. This year, they’ll be able to turn to even more scoring avenues.
And this was the public narrative, especially in Oklahoma City, where Josh Giddey turned into a triple-double machine post All-Star break last season. His capacity to help in so many different statistical categories is what makes him such a prized player for the Thunder. Giddey’s skill set positions him as a key component in Oklahoma City’s future plans.
Another big developmental success to look for is the continued evolution of Jaden Ivey, who has already begun to flourish as a secondary and primary creator. His scoring opportunities created and ability to score himself can take the Detroit Pistons’ offense to new heights and make Ivey a great fantasy asset.
The Washington Wizards forward has recently become a sleeper pick for many analysts this year. He has elite scoring upside and playmaking potential. As long as he stays healthy and finds some consistency, he should play a key role for the Houston Rockets.
One more, Jay Huff, a stretch big with a high ceiling as a rim protector is creating a buzz. With Myles Turner now gone, Huff has a chance to take over. He’s got a tremendous opportunity to win back playing time and prove his worth on both sides of the floor.
Finally, Fred VanVleet’s recent injury could speed things up for rookie guard Shepard. This surprise turn of events will give Shepard some early opportunities to impress on a more competitive stage.
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