With a host of players moving teams in the off-season, and some big names returning from injury, there is a long list of potential bounce-back players for the 2019-20 season. The three players below are at the top of that list.
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Fantasy Basketball Bounce-Back Players
Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors
Draymond started last season out of shape and clearly lacking the motivation needed to be an All-NBA level player.
In 2019-20, things are different. The Warriors are being doubted as true contenders and Draymond is ready to prove the doubters wrong:
“I like it. You know, being the underdog, it’s been a while since we’ve been the underdog. But it brings that underdog chip back, and I miss that chip. I’m pretty sure Steph missed that chip. And some of the stuff Klay been texting me this summer, I’m positive he misses the chip.”
Before Durant arrived in The Bay Area in 2016-17, Green finished off the best statistical season of his career. He appeared in 81 games (all starts), averaging career-highs of 14.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists and 1.40 blocks to go with 1.47 steals in 34.7 minutes.
Draymond looks to be in better shape than last year and if he trends back towards his incredible 2015-16 numbers, he will be well inside the top 40 players in all formats of fantasy basketball.
I’m not saying he will reach those lofty numbers again this season, but he is going to get you over 10 points, close to 10 rebounds, over 7 assists and nearly 1.5 blocks and steals per game. Those types of numbers vault him back up to the top echelon of fantasy producers. Day Day is ready to fire again.
Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
Tatum was on a roll during his first playoff appearance two seasons ago. His numbers were on the rise and many expected him to take another big leap last year. But with team conflict and dubious shot selection, his efficiency took a hit and reliability became an issue.
Without Kyrie Irving and Al Horford in Bean Town, Tatum and Kemba Walker will be Boston’s primary scoring options. I expect a return to his rookie season efficiency with a usage increase as well.
Tatum shot over 47% from the field and 45% from three post-All-Star in his rookie year. The Celtics rolled into the Eastern Conference playoffs without Kyrie and Brad Stevens had control of the team.
Tatum has been performing well for Team USA in their recent camp in California and Australia in the lead up to the World Cup.
With Kemba Walker regarded as one of the best teammates in the league, he will no doubt have a positive impact on Tatum and the team. Tatum is in perfect position to be one of this year’s top bounce-back players with a rejuvenated Celtics squad.
Dejounte Murray, San Antonio Spurs
Dejounte Murray spent last season rehabbing after a torn ACL in the third preseason game in 2018. During his second year, Murray was showing good signs of improvement and was slated to be the starting point guard for the 2018-19 season.
Murray is a great defender and rebounder. He has a nearly 7-foot wingspan that helped pull in 9.5 boards and 2.0 steals per 36 minutes in 2017-18. These numbers put him in the top echelon of defensive point guards.
Where he needs to improve is on offensive. He is a below-average passer with less than 3.0 assists per game. And he doesn’t shoot the three much; less than 1 per game.
Murray has had plenty of time to work on his weaknesses during his time off. He has put some weight on his slender frame and has been working hard on his jump shot. Additionally, The Spurs are famous for improving the shooting of various players over the years, namely Kawhi Leonard. I expect Murray to continue to improve the consistency of his shot under the guidance of super shooting coach, Chip England.
Given Murray’s age, talent and apparent work ethic, I am expecting him to bounce back from injury and be a great target later in fantasy drafts.
Who are your favorite bounce-back players for this season? For more great analysis check out the 2019 Fantrax Fantasy Basketball Guide!
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