By: Jake Bielecki
+ Anthony Davis:
Already posting impressive fantasy numbers across the board, notably his 1.2 steals and 1.8 blocks, yet only scratching the surface offensively. Projecting into the future he'll serve as a rare center shooting upwards of 80% from the line as his offensive repertoire improves in all facets. Durability is the only red flag at this juncture; given an uptick in minutes Davis could be a Kevin Garnett-esque fantasy stud in his prime.
Projected "prime" line: 34 minutes per game - 19 points, 10 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.5 steals, and 2.5 blocks per game.
+ Michael Kidd-Gilchrist:
Like his Kentucky teammate MKG hangs his hat on spectacular defense and consistent effort. Improving his jump shot and finding an offensive rhythm each-and-ever game remain priorities. He may never be as dynamite in fantasy as he could be in real life. His recent cold-streak provides an ample opportunity to buy on a sure thing long-term.
Projected "prime" line: 36 minutes per game - 14 points, 7.5 rebounds , 1.5 assists and 1.3 blocks per game.
+ Bradley Beal:
After a slow start to the season Beal has stepped up his game alongside a healthy John Wall. The range has been as good as advertised, and you can expect a healthy uptick in rebounds. Beal averaged nearly seven a game at Florida and rebounds typically transfers well from college to the pros. Still only 19-years-old he should progress into a quality number-two scoring option.
Projected "prime" line: 33 minutes per game - 18 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.
+ Dion Waiters:
With a quick first step the Cavaliers fourth-overall pick will always be able to get to the basket. Shooting touch is the issue here. Lacking the knockdown shooting ability of a typical two guard and the play-making ability of a point, Waiters is a classic tweener.
Asked to take on a larger role this season, he's most likely a high-end combo guard off the bench next year and beyond; think Jarrett Jack. If you are looking to trade, use the allure of a player posting respectable numbers and find a manager who expects him to build upon his rookie campaign.
Projected "prime" line: 28 minutes per game - 13 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1.3 steals per game.
+ Thomas Robinson:
Now on a Rockets team in desperate need of an interior presence, he should see more run alongside Omer Asik in a clearly defined role. Robinson's mid-range jumper is underrated; given his athleticism, anything resembling a post game and the Rockets now have a respectable offensive player. The ideal time to buy in a dynasty has passed but the window has not closed shut.
Projected "prime" line: 30 minutes per game - 9 points, 11 rebounds, 1.1 steals and 1.3 blocks per game.
Video via Kentucky Wildcats TV official YouTube channel.
[Editor's Note 26 February 2013] The title of this post changed to better reflect the objective of forecasting stat lines of these five rookies as they enter the prime of their careers.
Nice read.
ReplyDeleteI think Waiters' scoring and rebounding will be a bit higher. Once he trusts his shot more, him and Beal could wind up being the same player.
I think that projection is low for Waiters (on fire now that he changed shot selection) and Beal. Slightly high on MKG.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the input guys, I am admittedly lower than most on Waiters. I see him like I saw Brandon Knight last year, overrated and receiving far more opportunity than he deserves. IMO Jordan Crawford would be an upgrade at the Cavaliers SG.
DeleteOne thing that I like about MKG he's a Grade A+ athlete. I think that will translate to huge minutes and in turn more counting stats.
Beal is think has the ability to score between 20-24 ppg. The kid is already showing vast improvement in his game along side wall. He has a special talent.
ReplyDeleteAs for Waiters the #'s will probably be a little higher, but with Kyrie as a score first option I think Waiters maxes out at 14-16 ppg