UPDATE: In a critical advisory for fantasy basketball enthusiasts, analyst Eric Karabell has unveiled his ‘Do Not Draft’ list for the upcoming 2024 season. Key players like LaMelo Ball, Ja Morant, and Joel Embiid are raising red flags due to injury concerns and inconsistent performances.
The Charlotte Hornets guard LaMelo Ball averaged an impressive 25.2 points per game last season, but his availability is a major issue. Over the last three seasons, Ball has only played a total of 105 games, with his most recent campaign ending prematurely due to surgeries on his ankle and wrist. This troubling trend reveals that while he is a remarkable talent, fantasy managers should consider passing on him in favor of more durable players.
Meanwhile, Ja Morant of the Memphis Grizzlies has also been flagged. Despite his electrifying plays, Morant has participated in just 59 games over the past two seasons and has yet to exceed 68 games in a single season. His current average draft position (ADP) of 28.4 is viewed as overly optimistic given his physical and personal setbacks.
Another player to be cautious of is Zion Williamson from the New Orleans Pelicans. With an ADP of 35.3, Williamson’s reliability is in question after playing only 30 games last season. His scoring prowess per minute is noteworthy, but his overall game time simply isn’t sufficient for fantasy success.
Adding to the concerns, Joel Embiid from the Philadelphia 76ers is on the list as well, largely due to his injury history. Having played in just 19 games last season because of a lingering knee issue, his ADP is expected to rise in October, but fantasy managers are encouraged to tread carefully.
Injuries are not limited to just a few high-profile players. Kyrie Irving of the Dallas Mavericks also faces a challenging season ahead after tearing his left ACL in March. Reports indicate that he may not return until after the All-Star break, making him a risky pick in the first 100 selections of fantasy drafts.
Additionally, Dejounte Murray of the Pelicans is recovering from an Achilles tear sustained on New Year’s Eve. His return isn’t expected until January, and managers should adjust their expectations accordingly.
The list doesn’t stop there. Mikal Bridges from the New York Knicks may play every game, but his fantasy contributions have consistently fallen short. Players like Kristaps Porzingis and John Collins are also under scrutiny for their ability to meet expectations in a new environment.
Fantasy managers must remain vigilant as the draft approaches. Knowing when to pass on injury-prone players is crucial for building a winning team. As the 2024 fantasy basketball season draws closer, stay tuned for more updates and strategies to optimize your draft choices.
The latest insights from experts like Eric Karabell can be pivotal in shaping your fantasy roster. Make sure to prioritize durability and consistent performance as you prepare for the upcoming season.
Stay informed, and get ready to dominate your fantasy league!
