2023 NBA Rookies and their fantasy outlook for 2024/25

Let’s dive into some second-year players, reflecting on their rookie performances and projecting their fantasy potential for the upcoming season.

Scoot Henderson

After February 1st, Scoot Henderson delivered solid fantasy stats, averaging 17 points, 7 assists, and 1.1 steals while shooting 85% from the line over 32 minutes per game. These numbers put him on the fringe of the top 100 in 8-category leagues. His 2-point shooting sat at 42%, and while that’s not ideal, it's an area where second-year guards typically improve—think of guys like De’Aaron Fox and Darius Garland, who made big leaps in 2p% in their sophomore seasons. An improvement there boosts his fantasy value significantly. With the Trail Blazers investing the #2 pick in him and his role set to expand despite Anfernee Simons and Shaedon Sharpe on the roster, Scoot’s minutes should be steady or even increase. He’s a comfortable target around pick 100 in category leagues, and even higher in points leagues.

Keyonte George

While Keyonte George’s natural fit might eventually be at shooting guard (SG), he’s starting at point guard (PG) for the Utah Jazz, which is great for fantasy purposes. After February 1st last season, George posted averages of 15.6 points and 4.7 assists, both of which have room for growth, particularly his assists as he gains more experience running the offense. His 2-point shooting percentage has room for improvement too, although it wasn't as low as Scoot. The most promising part is that George will get plenty of opportunities to develop as the lead guard, which should boost his fantasy value. He’s worth considering around the same range as Scoot Henderson in drafts.

Taylor Hendricks

The Jazz's 9th overall pick, Taylor Hendricks, saw consistent minutes post-February 1, averaging 8 points, 6 rebounds, and just under a block over 25 minutes per game. While these stats aren’t eye-popping, Hendricks has a fantasy-friendly skill set, contributing in blocks, threes, points, and rebounds with solid percentages. If you recall in my draft coverage from last year, I had him at #4. Utah’s commitment to its youth movement could push his minutes above 30 per game this season, limiting John Collins’ upside. I like Hendricks’ potential after pick 120 in category leagues, as he should take on a larger role in Utah’s rotation.

Second-year players often show significant growth, making them prime candidates for fantasy value and worth considering in your drafts!

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-Karan