The 2024 NBA Draft and free agency have come to a close, but the fantasy basketball world is buzzing with anticipation as some of the lottery picks from this year could potentially have high value in the upcoming 2024-25 season. Despite the initial perception of this draft class being weaker than previous years, each rookie has the opportunity to make a significant impact both in real-life and in fantasy leagues.
Let’s delve into the fantasy value of the top 10 picks from the 2024 NBA Draft.
#1 Zaccharie Risacher
Zaccharie Risacher, a young talent from France, is making waves in the basketball world as he joins the Washington Wizards. Standing tall at seven feet, Risacher is looking to make a mark as a power forward for the team, especially with the recent addition of Jonas Valanciunas. Known for his defensive prowess, Risacher’s athleticism and length give him the ability to block shots and secure rebounds. However, his offensive game is still a work in progress, with room for improvement in his outside shooting and playmaking skills. Despite his raw offensive abilities, Risacher has the potential to become a scoring threat around the rim and develop a reliable jump shot over time. Fantasy managers are excited about Risacher’s potential, as he is expected to be a focal point of the Wizards’ rebuilding efforts. With Washington likely to give him ample playing time, Risacher is a promising fantasy prospect who could be worth considering around the 100th pick in drafts.
#2 Alex Sarr
Switching gears to Alex Sarr, the talented guard from Kentucky, who saw himself being selected as the second pick overall by the Houston Rockets. Sarr’s numbers in college outshine those of the top pick, showcasing his scoring ability, rebounding skills, and playmaking prowess. A versatile player known for his efficiency beyond the arc, Sarr can score from anywhere on the court with ease. His defensive acumen is also impressive, as he has a knack for generating steals and disrupting opponents’ offenses. However, Sarr’s scoring can be inconsistent at times, and his relatively smaller build might pose challenges in creating shots against tougher defenders. Joining a Rockets team brimming with young talent, Sarr will have to compete for playing time and may find himself as a rotational player off the bench. Fantasy managers should view Sarr as a streaming option, primarily to be utilized during injuries or favorable matchups.
As the 2024-25 NBA season approaches, these rookies have the potential to shake up the fantasy basketball landscape with their unique skills and contributions to their respective teams. Keep an eye on these young prospects as they embark on their NBA journey and aim to leave a lasting impact in the realm of fantasy basketball.
