Five Fantasy Basketball Players to Skirt This Draft Season

Why Avoid Big Names?

Fantasy basketball can be exhilarating, but navigating the draft requires strategy akin to running a team. When you're gauging which players to draft, high-profile names can quickly cloud your judgment. Flashy stats may draw you in, but missing games can lead to significant downsides. As I dive into the high-risk players for this season, keep watch on these five names that could leave your fantasy team in a lurch.

1. Joel Embiid - C, Philadelphia 76ers

Joel Embiid is a fantasy favorite when healthy, but let's unpack that health factor. Over nine seasons, Embiid has averaged just 50 games played, and last year he appeared in a mere 19. The concern is not just about whether he will play; it's whether he'll be effective when he does. Most reports this summer were discouraging, making him a risky first-round selection in any draft. If I find myself in a position where drafting Embiid is necessary, I'd lean toward using a late-round pick on Adem Bona, who could step in when Embiid is sidelined.

2. Anthony Davis - PF/C, Dallas Mavericks

Davis is another superstar plagued by injuries. His trade to the Mavericks has not ironed out his availability issues. With new talent like Cooper Flagg emerging, the Mavericks' landscape is changing. Davis's health history is quite similar to Embiid's—with multiple season stoppages. Sure, he made it through 76 games last season, but how long will that last? An early-season shutdown isn't an outlier in his case, and it can turn a 'star' pick into a roster headache.

3. Paul George - SF/PF, Philadelphia 76ers

At 35 years old, George's consistency is fading. With last season witnessing him play only 41 games due to injury, you'd do well to think twice before investing heavily here. With offseason knee surgery and a questionable start to the season, George is another player I will avoid, especially given the Sixers' position this season. They seem to be eyeing a rebuild, which won't help George's aspirations of being a top fantasy player.

4. Ivica Zubac - C, LA Clippers

Zubac appeared to establish himself last season, averaging impressive numbers, but new additions have changed that. The signing of Brook Lopez will cut into Zubac's minutes and, ultimately, his numbers. Expect a significant decline in his output this season. When you're investing picks, you want players who can consistently deliver, and Zubac might not hit those marks this year.

5. Kristaps Porzingis - PF/C, Atlanta Hawks

Porzingis, another talent with all the tools, has similarly concerning health issues. His career games played show a long history of inconsistency. Given the Hawks have a promising prospect in Onyeka Okongwu, Porzingis may not see the full run he needs to justify a high pick. Historically, he has only reached 60 games played three times in ten years—this is a player to sideline in drafts.

Wrapping It Up

Every season, fantasy basketball drafts spark excitement, but keeping your finger on the pulse of player health is critical. A high-profile name might dazzle you, but understanding the risk attached can save you a world of hurt when you find yourself scrambling to replace injured stars. Avoiding these high-variance players could give you that leg-up needed to win your league.