As the NBA gears up for training camp and preseason, fantasy basketball managers should keep a close eye on key position battles across the league. Who wins and loses these competitions for starting spots and more minutes will go a long way toward shaping players' fantasy value. Success on the hardwood depends not just on individual skill but also on chemistry and fit with teammates.
Portland Trail Blazers backcourt: Damian Lillard, Ja Morant, Jrue Holiday, Scoot Henderson, Deni Avdija. Portland has a lot to sort out with Shaedon Sharpe (meniscus) sidelined for five months. What to watch for: How often Lillard and Morant's minutes are staggered, whether Avdija continues to initiate offense, and if Henderson controls the second unit.
New Orleans Pelicans center: Derik Queen and Yves Missi offer two different options. Queen brings scoring and playmaking, while Missi provides rebounding and rim protection. What to watch for: Which big man gets the majority of center minutes and who closes games. If Queen handles the larger role, his offensive game gives him the stronger fantasy ceiling.
Houston Rockets backcourt: Reed Sheppard, Fred Van Vleet, Marcus Smart. Sheppard averaged 13.5 points in 26.2 minutes last season. What to watch for: Whether Sheppard runs the offense when Van Vleet sits or spends most of his time off the ball. Orlando Magic backcourt: Jalen Suggs, Anthony Black, Jase Richardson. Black averaged 15.0 points in nearly 30 minutes per game last season.
Source: ESPN NBA · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing