| NBA BASKETBALL |
Apr 2, 2003 |
Fantasy Basketball Guide
By Answerman
The Answerman has been participating in fantasy leagues since the
basketball community was stunned by the selection of Michael Olowakandi
as a #1 draft pick. Then again, I guess we still are.
I am here to answer all your fantasy questions:
Dear Answerman:
Since I began reading your columns, I've moved into 2nd place in my roto
league. Trying to inch my way up. I know sometimes players play less
in the last week. Who should I be nervous about?
VTY - Answer Fan.
Dear Fan:
As a general rule, watch out for a) veteran players on bad teams; b)
players who are fighting injury; c) a woman who has a tatoo of a dagger
anywhere on her body (thanks Coach Finstock) and d) starters on good
teams locked in playoff position.
Also know, players don't really take the game off. They just go from 35
minutes to 28 minutes a game. It just slightly throws off production.
Sac's starters will all play less. Specifically Webber and Vlade.
Knicks starters will play less. Don Chaney already talked about benching K.Thomas due to injury.
By the end of the season - barring a tremendous fall off - Pierce and
Walker will play less (42 minutes reduced to 35 minutes).
Shaq and Kobe will both see less minutes.
All your Spurs and Mavs will play.
Your Cavs, Nuggets, Bulls, Raptors (except Davis) and Warriors will play
and play better. Younger players are always trying to prove something
and earn dollars. They miraculously play better when the pressure is
off.
Malone and Stockton will play because they are Malone and Stockton.
Nets, Pacers, 76ers, and Pistons will all play until they lock in. Once
locked in, watch J.O'Neal, Kidd, Kittles, C.Rob, and Coleman all play
less.
Jordan will play until the bitter end.
TMac is a question. He needs the rest but he's playing for a scoring
title. I think he plays full minutes until the season ends.
Good luck. Remember, any questions, write the answerman@insidehoops.net.
InsideHoops.com is the online leader in pro basketball coverage. We are not responsible for any crazy advice Answerman gives in email.
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