As the NBA season surpasses the one-month mark, fans are witnessing an exciting increase in gameplay intensity and scoring. This season, the league is on pace for an average of 100.4 possessions per game, a rise from 98.8 last season and 98.5 the year before. This fast-paced action has led to a surge in scoring, with teams averaging 117.0 points per game compared to 113.8 last season. The elevated pace is creating numerous opportunities for players to enhance their statistics, notably for those stepping up in the absence of injured teammates.
This article highlights several lesser-known players who are making significant contributions and warrant attention in fantasy basketball leagues.
At point guard, Collin Gillespie (27.4% rostered) and Jordan Goodwin (5.5%) of the Phoenix Suns have both seen increased playing time due to injuries to Jalen Green and Grayson Allen. While Gillespie has showcased his scoring ability and all-around game with impressive numbers off the bench, Goodwin has also been productive with consistent contributions, positioning them as potential fantasy assets.
Anthony Black of the Orlando Magic (11.9% rostered) is another player making waves. Now in his third season, Black has excelled, particularly in absence of Jalen Suggs, consistently demonstrating scoring potential and solid defensive stats.
Shooting guard Vince Williams Jr. (9.0% rostered), filling in for Ja Morant with the Memphis Grizzlies, has shown the ability to produce triple-doubles and offers valuable contributions across multiple categories.
Bilal Coulibaly (11.8% rostered), a small forward for the Washington Wizards, has been a versatile player, contributing effectively in points, rebounds, assists, and steals, enriching fantasy roster depth.
Peyton Watson (10.6% rostered) of the Denver Nuggets has recently solidified his role as a starter, demonstrating strong rebounding and defensive capabilities while benefiting from the playmaking of his teammates.
Keldon Johnson of the San Antonio Spurs (15.7% rostered) is making the most of his increased role, showing he can reliably score and rebound. Similarly, veteran Harrison Barnes (16.1%) is stepping up significantly for the Spurs, providing consistent scoring as a starting power forward.
Furthermore, rookie Derik Queen (43.8% rostered) has made an immediate impact for the New Orleans Pelicans, contributing impressive statistics across multiple games, positioning him as a strong contender for Rookie of the Year.
Lastly, both Jusuf Nurkic (21.0% rostered) of the Utah Jazz and Zach Edey (40.5% rostered) of the Memphis Grizzlies are making their marks as reliable centers, with Edey returning effectively from offseason surgery to reclaim his double-double production.
The early season developments present promising opportunities for fantasy basketball managers to enhance their rosters with emerging talents. As these players continue to seize their moments, they not only add depth to fantasy teams but also enthrall audiences with their growth and contributions to their respective franchises.