UPDATE: In a major move affecting NBA fantasy leagues, Russell Westbrook has officially signed with the Sacramento Kings, instantly impacting player rankings across the board. This signing, confirmed just hours ago, solidifies Westbrook’s position as a top-100 fantasy prospect in points leagues, shaking up the dynamics within the Kings’ backcourt.
Westbrook joins a team already featuring Dennis Schroder, who was expected to be the starting point guard. Analysts predict that both players will see substantial minutes together, although Schroder may experience a slight dip in his projections due to the increased competition for playing time. Fantasy managers should be ready for a shift in game strategies as the NBA season heats up.
In another significant development, Keegan Murray is expected to miss the next 4-6 weeks due to a torn UCL ligament in his left thumb. This injury could sideline him for between 12 and 19 games, depending on his recovery. The loss of Murray will undoubtedly affect the Kings’ lineup and offers an opportunity for other players to step up.
Meanwhile, rookie Ace Bailey is dealing with knee tendinitis, which may limit his participation in the preseason. While it’s unclear whether this will affect his regular-season availability, his draft stock is likely to take a hit as teams weigh his health status against potential contributions.
As the fantasy basketball season approaches, updated player rankings are now live. The top players include:
1. Nikola Jokic, DEN, C1
2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, OKC, PG1
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, MIL, PF1 & C
4. Victor Wembanyama, SA, C2
5. Luka Doncic, LAL, PG2
With the Kings’ roster changes, fantasy managers will have to adapt quickly. The latest rankings reflect these shifts and are available for download as a PDF Cheat Sheet on ESPN’s fantasy platform.
What’s Next: Fantasy basketball enthusiasts should closely monitor player performances in the upcoming preseason games. The Kings will need to navigate these injuries and roster changes effectively to maintain competitiveness in the Western Conference. Be prepared for ongoing updates as the situation develops and impacts player values.
Stay tuned for the latest developments as the NBA season unfolds, and ensure your fantasy teams are ready for the action ahead!
