Undervalued players, often referred to as “sleepers,” continue to emerge in fantasy basketball. Last season, we witnessed examples such as Payton Pritchard ranking fifth in NBA three-pointers, Deni Avdija`s late-season offensive surge, and Josh Giddey`s consistent triple-double performances post-All-Star break.
While fantasy managers, rankings, and the overall draft market are more sophisticated than ever, the right blend of talent and opportunity consistently unveils exciting new prospects each season. Focusing on value, I previously highlighted Kevin Porter Jr. as a backcourt sleeper for the revamped Milwaukee Bucks, anticipating a potentially significant workload for him.
This analysis aims to identify players who can outperform their draft positions, specifically focusing on those typically selected outside the top 100 picks in live fantasy drafts.
Key Sleepers to Watch:
Zach Edey, C, Memphis Grizzlies: Patience will be key for Edey. The imposing Memphis center is currently sidelined with a significant ankle injury. However, upon his return, he could see a substantial workload as a central figure in Tuomas Iisalo`s offensive scheme. Last season, Edey`s pace and involvement alongside Ja Morant showed promise, hinting that the young big man could develop into a valuable two-way fantasy asset as early as this winter. Additionally, teammate Scotty Pippen Jr. is a dark-horse sleeper, having been favored by Iisalo during their brief collaboration last spring.
Andrew Nembhard, PG/SG, Indiana Pacers: Often available in the later-middle rounds, Nembhard has already proven his capability in high-pressure playmaking roles. While his scoring might not be flashy, don`t underestimate his potential to provide above-average contributions in three-pointers, assists, steals, and rebounds as a versatile combo guard. Keep an eye on center Jay Huff as well; he`s a stretch big with rim-protecting abilities who could be worth stashing if he secures a significant portion of the minutes left vacant by Myles Turner.
Tari Eason, SF/PF, Houston Rockets: Eason is a versatile player who contributes effectively across the court. Following a significant backcourt injury, the Rockets are expected to deploy larger lineups, which should grant Eason a pivotal role in their rotation. Renowned for maximizing his playing time, Eason`s increased responsibilities this season could see him achieve the rare feat of averaging three combined steals and blocks.
Reed Sheppard, SG, Houston Rockets: Sheppard displayed exceptional defensive stats during his college career, a quality that typically translates well to the professional game. However, his atypical size and length present a slight risk. Fred VanVleet`s injury could accelerate Sheppard`s path to significant playing time. The Rockets are entering the season needing more playmaking and clutch shooting, offering a prime opportunity for this gifted prospect.
Jaden Ivey, SG/PG, Detroit Pistons: Last season, Ivey showcased remarkable catch-and-shoot efficiency, albeit in a limited sample size. He has also demonstrated the potential to excel both as an off-ball threat and an on-ball playmaker, enhancing his versatility ahead of a crucial season. With the Pistons having lost significant complementary scoring from their previous roster, Ivey`s offensive upside appears to be undervalued.
Toumani Camara, PF/SF, Portland Trail Blazers: Similar to Eason, Camara stands out as one of the league`s most effective and versatile wing defenders. This specialized skill often translates into significant playing time. When building a deep fantasy roster, especially in roto and category leagues where “stocks” (steals + blocks) are highly impactful, these “glue” players should not be overlooked.
Cam Whitmore, SF, Washington Wizards: A pure scorer, Whitmore is poised to rival Brooklyn`s Cam Thomas in terms of “irrational confidence.” This Villanova alum could command significant minutes and has the green light to shoot from anywhere on the perimeter for a team that boasts one of the league`s more fluid forward rotations entering the new season.
Matas Buzelis, SF/PF, Chicago Bulls: Following a strong conclusion to his rookie season, there`s growing anticipation for Buzelis to emerge as a significant fantasy contributor. With the Bulls expected to give their second-year forward more responsibility, Buzelis has the potential to stand out as a rare 3-and-D wing who also provides strong block numbers.
