Fantasy Basketball 12 Team 1st Round Mock Drafts
If you are thinking about building your own fantasy basketball team, there are several players you should consider. We’ve covered Anthony Davis, Kevin Durant, Jabari Smith, and Cameron Johnson. If you have a limited budget, there are also many options that won’t break the bank. Jimmy Butler, a new addition to the Miami Heat, has been a strong return on investment. While he has missed some games over the years, he has consistently returned top-15 value over the last four seasons, which is more than you can say about any other player in this round. Additionally, his strong showings with the USA basketball team has increased his usage rate and decreased turnovers.
Anthony Davis
As one of the best players in the NBA, Anthony Davis is worth considering in your Fantasy Basketball 12 Team. However, it is important to remember that while he can easily reach the top ten in your team, injuries have plagued his career. Last season, he only played 40 games. This season, however, he has recovered from injuries and will likely be a top-10 fantasy performer.
While Davis can play at center, he’s more effective as a second option in a closing lineup. His game is different than most, so he will be more effective when paired with a playmaker. San Antonio doesn’t specifically need a guard, but Davis would be a great fit if they couldn’t land one of the top-tier bigs. Mark Williams and Jalen Duren could be options in this scenario.
Jabari Smith
Jabari Smith has already been mentioned in several mock drafts. His high ceiling and potential to be a first-round pick is hard to ignore, and his impressive athleticism makes him a top prospect. However, some critics question his upside, noting that he lacks a dribble game and relies too heavily on contested midrange shots. Regardless of these concerns, Smith has the size and shooting ability to make an immediate impact in Orlando.
Smith’s emergence has lowered Banchero’s case for a No. 1 pick, but Banchero has plenty of fans around the NBA, and his size and strength make him a solid pick. While he has a streaky jump shooter, he has All-Star potential and can be a high-usage offensive fulcrum.
Cameron Johnson
Despite being undersold throughout the draft process, Cam Johnson has made a big impact on his team’s defense. While he’s often overmatched as a small-ball 4 in the NBA, Johnson is able to guard 2s and 3s with surprising focus. The player’s defense is a strength that coach Lou Williams consistently praises. He’s third on the team in charges drawn, and the Suns are three points per 100 possessions stingier with Cam Johnson on the floor.
If you’re looking to add a point guard to your team, consider taking Cameron Johnson. He’s an explosive shooter and has a strong defensive motor. The North Carolina product averaged 16.3 points per game last season in just 16 starts. If he can make the transition to full-time starting, Johnson could jump as high as the top 20. He’s an option for the Hawks, who are in need of a point guard. Moreover, the Timberwolves could use a point guard.
Robert Williams
Fantasy basketball managers should be aware of the injuries that could derail Robert Williams’ season. The 23-year-old center has already undergone surgery on his left knee to repair a torn meniscus. As a result, he is expected to miss at least eight to twelve weeks before he is back in the lineup.
The closest comparison for Williams would be Mason Plumlee, who averages 10 PPG, nine rebounds, and two assists per game. Plumlee also averages a 72 FG% and has two blocks per game. In ESPN leagues, Plumlee is rostered in 82% of teams, while Williams is rostered in 19% of them.