This year’s rookie class, headlined by Victor Wembanyama, is likely to be one of the best ever. There are many rookies you can draft, however you’re probably wondering if they can help with your fantasy basketball team. Here are 3 rookies you should draft in your fantasy basketball draft.
Fantasy Basketball 2023: 3 Rookies You Should Draft
The Top Stars
Victor Wembanyama
The hype is real and Wembenyama has shown us that he is ready to take the Spurs into a new era. Even though his summer league debut wasn’t good, he made up for it by recording 27 points, 12 rebounds and 3 blocks. He also shot 9 of 14 from the field. However, it’s worth noting that Tim Duncan, Tony Parker and Manu Ginobili will mentor him. This is significant because Wembanyama can learn how to be a winner, and most importantly a champion. Even though he’s a rookie, he expects to lead the team by being the focal point of the Spurs offense.
Here are the categories Wembanyama can help you with: Points, rebounds and blocks.
Scoot Henderson
Scoot Henderson had a better debut than Wembanyama. He scored 15 points, 6 assists and 5 rebounds. Drafted by the Portland Trail Blazers with the 3rd pick, Henderson needs to help the Blazers move on from the Damian Lillard era.
Before he was drafted, Henderson played for the G League Ignite where he honed his skills in shooting and passing. This is a prime example of how the G League can help a player develop, however, it’s not ideal for every player. It worked out for Henderson because he had the opportunity to play against pro-level basketball players. Because of this, he was able to shine in his debut. Unfortunately, Scott’s injury caused him missed the rest of the summer league games.
With Damian Lillard wanting a trade, Henderson can step up and will likely be the Trail Blazer’s new starting point guard. Even though Lillard is being traded, the future is bright for the team because of the core of Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons and Shaedon Sharpe.
Here are the categories Henderson can help you with: Points and assists.
Look up for Keyonte George
Keyonte George, was drafted by the Utah Jazz with the 16th pick. George was a surprise at this year’s NBA Summer League. In 6 games, he averaged 18.7 points, 5.3 assists, 3.7 rebounds and 1.3 steals. These stats showcase that the Utah Jazz had the steal of the draft. At Baylor, he was the focal point of the offense and his scoring skills definitely translated to the pro level.
Even though George might not contribute right away, he still can provide a lot of scoring for the Jazz, who are currently in rebuild mode. When you are drafting, consider drafting George in the later rounds because he might not get a lot of minutes right away.
These aren’t the only rookies you should look to draft. Consider doing more research as you prepare for your draft and always think about how rookies can contribute later on in the season.
