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 Nets took one of the biggest risks in the NBA Draft. They traded a proven starter for the 20th overall pick, which was smart based on the rebuilding stage they are in. They took a chance on a huge talent with injury concerns. If it pans out, they could have a star with a late round draft pick. If it doesn't, the Nets wasted another first round pick without being able to step forward.
NBA Rookie Fantasy Profile: Caris LeVert
Position: SG
Team: Brooklyn Nets
Draft Spot: 1.20
Analysis: The Brooklyn Nets traded away Thaddeus Young to the Indiana Pacers for the 20th overall pick and a future second round pick. While this wasn’t spectacular value for a starting caliber power forward, the Nets need to rebuild and a first round pick is a great way to do that. Ultimately, they made a reach on Caris LeVert, who is coming off a serious injury. If he can come back healthy, this is great value for the Nets, and a good rebuilding piece.
LeVert was one of the most complete players in the NBA Draft this season. He has great size with good athleticism and the ability to do anything on the court. He is a great passer with the ability to create his only shots and a smooth jump shot. He likely won’t begin the season in the Nets rotation, but he is NBA ready, as soon as he is fully healthy from his injury. It was a very serious injury, but Kevin Durant suffered the same injury in his career and was able to come back from that. LeVert will likely contribute much more at the end of the season than in the beginning because of his rehab. It's not like there are a ton of elite wings on the Nets who will block his path to playing time.
LeVert has the ability to be one of the best players in this draft in five years if he can prove that he can stay healthy. He dealt with a ton of injuries while at Michigan, but he also averaged 21.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, 6.4 assists, and 1.3 steals per 40 minutes his senior season. He is oozing with potential, but he may never turn into anything if he can’t get over the injuries that he has been dealing with. He’s a tough player to get a grip on, but if you’re willing to take a risk on a player, LeVert has elite upside in dynasty leagues.
Bottom Line: If given playing time, he could immediately produce points, steals, assists, 3PM, and rebounds. Will struggle with minutes early in his career, but could earn more minutes as he returns to full health. Not worth drafting in most re-draft leagues, but worth a pick in very deep leagues and as a watch list option as a second-half waiver add.
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