In preparation for the 2016-17 Fantasy Basketball season, it's time to get to know some of the new guys in the player pool. The 2015 draft brought in a massive influx of fantasy relevant NBA talent, from a burgeoning super-star at the top of the draft (Minnesota's Karl-Anthony Towns) to a hidden jewel in the middle of the 2nd round (Miami's Josh Richardson). While this draft doesn't have as much guaranteed talent in the lottery, it does feature its own star at the top and a depth of intriguing players who could make an impact from out of the 2nd round.
The Wolves have been stockpiling high upside players over the last few years, including Andrew Wiggins, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Zach LaVine. They continued that tradition this season, as they drafted another highly talented guard, as they need to prepare for a potential Ricky Rubio departure. While Rubio isn't a free agent, he has publicly stated that he wants to play for a contender, and Dunn could take over the starting point guard job if the Wolves want to trade Rubio.
NBA Rookie Fantasy Profile: Kris Dunn
Position: PG
Team: Minnesota Timberwolves
Draft Spot: 1.05
Analysis: Kris Dunn’s name was swirling around in multiple rumors on draft day. There were talks about the Celtics taking him with the third overall pick, but they decided to select Jaylen Brown. There were also rumors that the Wolves and Bulls were discussing a team involving Kris Dunn and Jimmy Butler. The Wolves would not budge on their offer, though, and that deal fell through. Still, they felt comfortable enough to draft Dunn with the fifth overall pick.
Dunn is one of the more NBA ready prospects in the draft, as he spent multiple years at Providence. That being said, he didn’t land in an ideal situation, as the Wolves have two good young guards in Rubio and LaVine in front of him. Dunn will likely be the first guard off the bench, but he likely won’t see starter's minutes unless the Wolves trade Ricky Rubio. Instead, Dunn will be more of a sixth man and he should bring instant offense off the bench. He isn’t an overly efficient shooter, but he is a good slasher and he has the ability to play with the ball in his hands. He will also be able to contribute steals, as well as rebounds and assists during his rookie season.
Dunn is one of the more interesting prospects in dynasty leagues. It seems like it's only a matter of time until Rubio is traded. That will open the door for Dunn to play with the ball in his hands, which is when he’s the most dangerous. He will become a triple double threat when playing big minutes in the NBA after displaying elite triple double potential at Providence. His 3-point shooting percentage has also increased in each of his three seasons in the NCAA, and he’ll continue to progress as a shooter. Dunn may never be the most consistent long-range option, but he can become a poor man's Russell Westbrook who can contribute at a high level without being a great three point shooter. He’s a great dynasty league option.
Bottom Line: Could immediately produce points, rebounds, assists, and steals if he gets big minutes off the bench. Will struggle with FT%, FG%, and turnovers. Worth a late round flier based on upside potential.
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