Long-term projections for five fantasy basketball pro rookies

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: I'm surprised a tornado didn't stem from the sigh of relief Mama Robinson exhaled upon T-Rob's departure from Sacramento. An inept franchise fielding a team that doesn't mesh whatsoever, Robinson was placed in a difficult situation where success was but a myth.

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.

Fantasy Basketball Dynasty News: Trade for Earl Clark February 2013

By: Jake Bielecki

A player's situation is the most unaccounted for aspect of fantasy basketball, but at the same time it's unknowingly given too much credit.

Situation dictates your playing time, touches, and role on a team.

A couple quick examples: Paul Pierce immediately became a distributor once Rondo went down. Kyle Korver became a fantasy heartthrob when the Hawks dealt with a rash of injuries and lacked an outside scoring presence.

Earl Clark has recently found himself in an ideal situation. Once a highly touted prospect compared to Amare by then Phoenix head coach Mike D'Antoni, Clark struggled to find his way in the NBA. Reunited with D'Antoni on the Knicks, the same held true.

Now, playing for the Los Angeles coach once again, Clark has averaged 28 minutes and 35 minutes a game respectively the last two months. I think it's safe to say D'Antoni likes this kid.

Many in the fantasy basketball community believe Earl Clark won't be able to sustain those minutes, and given his lack of run early in his career, that is a valid train of thought.

My counterpoint, the Lakers are already on the hook for two steep head coaching contracts, Mike Brown and D'Antoni, so current Los Angeles coach isn't going anywhere soon.

Clark fits D'Antoni's stretch-four mold to a tee. Athletic, doesn't need the ball in his hands, can guard four positions, and hits the open three. I expect this marriage to be a long, fruitful one.

Check the former Louisville Cardinal's stats the last 30 days: nearly three combined three-pointers/steals/blocks, 12 points and eight rebounds. Trade now, send a thank you note later.

Video via NBA official YouTube Channel.