2024 NBA Draft: 3 Fantasy Picks

Thank you for your patience during my hiatus as I moved to a new continent. I appreciate your support and I'm excited to get back to providing regular NBA fantasy updates to help you dominate your leagues.

In this piece, I cover 3 rookies from the 2024 NBA Draft that could be interesting in fantasy leagues.

1. Donovan Clingan

Per-Game Numbers In College: 13.0 points, 0.1 three-pointers, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.5 steals, 2.5 blocks, 63.9 FG%, 58.3 FT%, 22.5 minutes

Clingan was one of the top big men in the NCAA last season and stands out as one of the best rim protectors entering the draft in recent years. For fantasy, his strengths include high rebounds, a high FG%, and significant shot-blocking. However, he joins a crowded frontcourt in Portland with Ayton and Williams. It's crucial to monitor Ayton's potential PF minutes during pre-season and Williams' role to determine whether Clingan will be an 18-20 minute backup or a 27-minute player. Regardless, he is a viable late-round draft pick.

2. Zach Edey

Per-Game Numbers In College: 25.2 points, 0.0 three-pointers, 12.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.3 steals, 2.2 blocks, 62.3 FG%, 71.1 FT%, 32.0 minutes

Edey is a towering presence at 7’4" and 285 pounds, making him a polarizing figure among scouts and league pundits. Critics point to his lack of pick-and-roll versatility and his lateral quickness when switched on defense. However, supporters highlight his scoring prowess in the paint and his ability to dominate matchups offensively due to his size and skill. Memphis drafted him 9th, indicating significant draft capital. It will be interesting to see how his role develops in the preseason alongside Jackson Jr., Clarke, and Williams in the frontcourt. He seems poised for at least a 23-25 minute role, making him draftable.

3. Yves Missi

Per-Game Numbers In College: 10.7 points, 0.0 three-pointers, 5.6 rebounds, 0.4 assists, 0.6 steals, 1.5 blocks, 61.4 FG%, 61.6 FT%, 22.9 minutes

Missi's college tape showcases his athleticism, ability to run the court, and effectiveness as a lob threat who pressures the rim. He has also shown flashes of perimeter switchability. While his fit with Zion raises some questions due to his inability to stretch the floor, the current center depth in New Orleans consists only of Missi, with Nance Jr. and Valanciunas no longer on the roster. Although New Orleans is likely to add reinforcements via trade or free agency before the season starts, Missi has a clear pathway to secure a 25-27 minute starting role, making him a viable late-round draft pick.

Keep an eye on these players during summer league action in the coming weeks, while maintaining perspective to avoid overreacting to any performances, good or bad.

It's worth noting that among rookies, centers often present the best fantasy prospects initially, thanks to their capacity to contribute in rebounds, blocks, and FG%.

Thank you for sticking with me and hope you find this piece useful!

-Karan