Julius Randle is exceeding fantasy basketball expectations in his second season with the Minnesota Timberwolves. He is averaging a career-high in points and assists, outperforming his previous season and his preseason fantasy draft position. Randle is currently ranked fifth overall in fantasy scoring and is a top-five player in the Player Rater, surpassing teammate Anthony Edwards in fantasy points despite Edwards's high scoring average. Edwards's fantasy value is limited by a lack of production in other categories and a recent hamstring injury.
Russell Westbrook, a late signing for the Sacramento Kings, is also outperforming expectations and is on track to be a top-50 fantasy player. In his age-37 season, Westbrook has excelled when starting, averaging a triple-double in points, rebounds, and assists, along with multiple three-pointers. While less effective off the bench, his starting production is considered usable for fantasy leagues. The Kings' poor record and potential team moves could see Westbrook remain in a starting role, motivated to earn another contract.
Andrew Nembhard, a point guard for the Indiana Pacers, is also proving to be a valuable fantasy asset after an early-season shoulder injury. Now healthy and playing significant minutes, Nembhard is averaging strong scoring and assist numbers, outperforming some of his more established teammates. Despite the Pacers' losing record, Nembhard's consistent play suggests his fantasy production will continue, even with the return of other guards.
The season-ending injury to Bradley Beal of the Phoenix Suns is expected to have minimal impact on fantasy leagues due to his low production and roster percentage prior to the injury. Beal was averaging a low number of points and fantasy points per game in limited minutes. Unlike situations where a productive player's absence creates opportunities for others, Beal's lack of performance means there are few obvious fantasy beneficiaries stepping into increased roles.
