"Leading up to the tip-off of the NBA season, all of us who play fantasy basketball set out to figure out what to expect from the players around the league. Generally, a look at last season's numbers can provide an idea, but that's only a rough estimate. Many factors, from age to roster changes and more, can alter expectations on a player by player basis."
"Knueppel stands out to me after the rookie went undrafted in many leagues. His playmaking and 3-point shooting have been impressive, and he rebounds well for his position. Knueppel has emerged as a legitimate Rookie of the Year candidate along with college teammate Cooper Flagg. He currently leads all rookies with 19.4 PPG and also tops the class in 3-pointers attempted and made, while shooting 47.9% from the field."
"George is scoring almost a time-and-a-half his rate from last season (24.3 PPG vs. 16.8 PPG), and all of his counting stats are up across the board. But the most impressive improvement might be his efficiency, where he shot 39.1% from the field and 81.8% from the line last season but is up to 45.2 FG% and 90.2 FT% this season. He is on pace for career bests everywhere, and in a magical Year 3, he looks like an All-Star in waiting."
Preseason statistical baselines provide only rough estimates because age, roster changes and other factors alter player outcomes. Multiple players have exceeded preseason expectations during the first half of the NBA season. Kon Knueppel, an undrafted rookie in many fantasy leagues, is leading all rookies with 19.4 PPG, topping the class in 3-point attempts and makes, shooting 47.9% from the field, and contributing rebounding and playmaking while providing the Hornets backcourt flexibility alongside LaMelo Ball. Keyonte George has jumped from 16.8 to 24.3 PPG while improving efficiency to 45.2 FG% and 90.2 FT%, and appears on pace for career bests and All-Star potential. Other players are similarly identified as surprises or disappointments through the season's first half.
Read at ESPN.com
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