Anthony Black, a former standout guard at Arkansas and now a rookie with the Orlando Magic, is off to a terrific start. His eye popping performances have certainly turned heads. As a point guard/shooting guard, he has recently become an instrumental part of the Magic’s backcourt, contributing consistently to the team’s success. Black is still rostered in just 27.0% of ESPN leagues. His sudden ascension presents a rare opening for savvy fantasy basketball players—as we’ll explain below, and even more so following a recent announcement.
In the past few games, Black has proved he can excel when the clock is ticking. He’s put up a mind-boggling 32.9 fppg over his previous five games. This statistic does highlight his growing importance to the squad. He beat this line of 23.5 points, rebounds, and assists in four of those five games. While his role on the squad was always valuable, his contributions have become more crucial as the season has worn on.
Even if Black doesn’t start, he’s still a great choice for fantasy managers. As a dependable streamer, he will go a long way to solidifying their lineups. His play extends beyond his scoring to major plays in rebounding and assists. And then — you guessed it — the Miami Heat await. Black’s highly favorable matchup against this high-paced team could potentially open up even more usage for him to really break out.
Rising Star in the Backcourt
Tony Black’s rise to the top of the Magic’s roster is likely the most crucial moment for the team. Now he’s going to be entering one of the most important positions on the floor — starting point guard. His numbers are proof that he’s already exceeded expectations and then some. On the season, he’s currently averaging 34.3 minutes a game, just below last year’s 37-minute clip. Even with this drop, he’s setting career highs in every other category.
Over this prolific run, he’s shooting an average of 13.4 field-goal attempts per game. He creates 11.6 rebound chances and hands out a staggering 8.6 assists. These figures highlight his immense versatility and ability to affect multiple aspects of the game. Black has been sharpening his skills and gaining confidence on the court. He is fast turning into a guy that defensive coordinators can’t leave home without worrying about.
What’s more, with fellow Orlando Magic fifth overall pick teammate Franz Wagner out injured, Black has the chance to step up his duties even more. This would only serve to increase his already outsized impact on the game. Second, it will provide him even greater chances to strut his stuff!
A Favorable Matchup Against Miami
The next matchup with the Miami Heat will be an interesting test for Anthony Black and the Magic. The Heat have struggled to keep point guards out of the paint all year. They are tied for ninth in points allowed, second in rebounds allowed, and they are first in assists per game allowed to opposing PFs. This statistic shows that Black’s versatility could take advantage of the holes in Miami’s defense.
Considering Miami’s up-and-down style of play, which is first in the NBA in pace, Black is set to reap major rewards. He’s very capable in creating ice for scoring chances and making plays. His scoring abilities will be necessary in capitalizing on any Heat defensive breakdowns. And finally, fantasy players, sit up! With this matchup, there will be lots of chances for Black to improve on his already-great averages.
Black is constantly growing, expanding in a more prominent direction within the Magic. This combination of skills and charisma continues to make him a popular pick among casual fans and serious fantasy players. Where he really shines is in creating multifaceted contributions. This versatility is uncommonly rare with players that are non starters, too.
The Impact of Anthony Black on Fantasy Leagues
In light of Anthony Black’s recent performances and favorable matchup against the Miami Heat, it becomes apparent why he represents an excellent streaming option for fantasy basketball managers. This combination of portability, thus enabling him to produce meaningful numbers while playing close to 35 mpg, makes him a potential franchise-changer.
Fantasy managers need to get Black on their rosters. His upward trajectory and the current environment around the Magic all make him an excellent choice. With Franz Wagner out, Black’s role will increase tremendously. This improvement in ability will provide him significantly more opportunities to score and assist.
Analysts have begun to document and track player performances all season long. TSF’s Anthony Black is developing into one of the most talented players in the country who will change the game (and fantasy leagues) to a high degree. Combine his consistent production with the ideal circumstances around him and you’ve got a player who can and should be a huge asset going forward.
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