Nikola Jokic has been the undisputed top fantasy basketball pick for seasons, but San Antonio Spurs star Victor Wembanyama could challenge him this year with his elite defense and shooting potential.
Bollywood Fever: For several seasons, Nikola Jokic has been the undisputed number-one overall pick in fantasy basketball drafts, thanks to his exceptional scoring, rebounding, and passing abilities.
His well-rounded offensive game has consistently placed him above other elite players like Luka Doncic, Joel Embiid, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, who, while dominant, do not offer the same level of all-around production.
However, this season, a new contender is emerging to challenge Jokic’s reign at the top: San Antonio Spurs’ superstar Victor Wembanyama.
While Wembanyama didn’t quite match Jokic’s nightly scoring, rebounding, or assists last season, he brings to the table two critical elements that Jokic doesn’t: prolific outside shooting and top-tier defense.
According to Yahoo Sports’ Dan Titus, “Jokic offers you the highest, safest floor available, Wembanyama has no ceiling.”
Selecting Jokic with the first overall pick is hardly a mistake—he’s widely regarded as the best player in the world, with unparalleled offensive output.
However, Wembanyama’s combination of defensive prowess and untapped potential gives fantasy owners something to think about.
Last season, Wembanyama led the league in blocks and is expected to repeat that feat. If he can maintain a three-point shooting percentage around 35% next season, he could transform into a fantasy basketball juggernaut.
Unlike most players in the league, Wembanyama is capable of posting six or more “stocks” (steals and blocks) per game consistently, a stat line that is invaluable to fantasy managers.
He averaged 4.8 stocks last season, but after the All-Star break, he elevated that to an impressive six per game.
“His stock potential sets him into an echelon we haven’t seen in fantasy since Hakeem Olajuwon and David Robinson,” Titus continued. “He could legitimately be a three-point-shooting David Robinson, which is scary AF.”
While Jokic remains the safe choice for the top pick, and other MVP candidates like Embiid, Antetokounmpo, and Doncic are sure to have stellar fantasy seasons, Wembanyama’s unique skill set could make him a popular first overall pick in many leagues.
His combination of defense, shooting, and untapped potential presents a tantalizing option for fantasy basketball managers looking to dominate their leagues.
As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Wembanyama to see if he can deliver on the hype and possibly dethrone Jokic as the top fantasy player.
Also Read Latest Sports News, ESPN Anchor Gary Striewski Takes a Jab at Florida State Ahead of College GameDay
Yankees’ Old Timers’ Day Celebrates 2009 Team, But Brett Gardner Declines Invitation
Greg McElroy Picks Ohio State as 2024 National Champion Ahead of College Football Week