The fantasy basketball season is right around the corner and there are a few hazards to be weary of. For instance, make sure you're aware of any roster changes a team has made in the offseason. Sometimes a big trade or signing can drastically affect a player's statistical production. I will give you my top 5 shooting guards to take in this year's fantasy games. When reading this post keep in mind that the fantasy game that I'm guiding you through is the Sportingnews Ultimate Salary Cap Challenge. In this particular fantasy game you are given a 35 million dollar salary cap. You need 2 guards, 2 forwards, a center, and a sixth man.
1. Dwyane Wade (MIA)
Estimated cost: 12.2 million $
D-Wade is a living legend, the plays he makes and the shots he hits are reminiscent of a young Michael Jordan. Last season Wade lead the NBA in scoring with 30.2 PPG. Add in his 7.5 APG and Wade will be easily worth the large portion of your payroll his services will require. Wade's one potential problem is his durability, Wade has had major injuries to both his left knee and his right shoulder. The all out hustle style in which Wade plays makes him more prone to injury, and thus is more likely to miss games. Still, if you have cheap PFs in mind, take the chance on Wade.
2. Kobe Bryant (LAL)
Estimated cost: 11.7 million $
Yes, Kobe is a better player than Wade. However, not only does Wade have better numbers, but the addition of Ron Artest to the Lakers will hinder Kobe's PPG. Kobe's 26.8 PPG average will drop one or two points, this is strictly because Kobe will have to be less selfish this year. If he isn't, don't be surprised to see turmoil in the Lakers locker room. Artest is just as egotistical as Bryant, we saw how well it worked out the last time Kobe had a big ego alongside him. Kobe is very consistent, if you find yourself in the lead of your league make the necessary moves to obtain him. He'll put up 25-27 every night, unlike Wade who will have 17 one night, 43 the next night, and 23 the night after that. Wade might put you in the lead but Kobe will definitely keep you there.
3. Brandon Roy (POR)
Estimated cost: 9.9 million $
There is a significant drop off in SGs after Kobe and Wade. Roy is one of those guys who plays better than his numbers show, unfortunately the world of fantasy basketball doesn't care. With numbers like 22.6 PPG and 5.1 APG Roy would be a good choice on a balanced team. What I mean is, if you're not going to pick a high priced superstar; and balance your team will all players in the 6-9 million dollar range, Roy is not a bad choice. With the addition of veteran PG Andre Miller, Roy's numbers will slightly rise. However, not enough to raise any eyebrows. Don't get me wrong, Roy is a sensational young SG, it's just that fantasy basketball does not suite him well.
4. Andre Iguodala (PHI)
Estimated cost: 7.8 million $
There are better SGs in the league than Iguodala, but you will most likely get a good deal on him. A good enough deal that you can get him, along with a marquis PG, SF, or PF. Iggy's numbers (18.8 PPG, 5.3 APG) did not stand out last season but I have a strong hunch that he's due for an offensive explosion. Iguodala is somewhat frustrating because he shows flashes of being a great scorer but has an enormous demon with consistency. This is the year that he'll finally get it right. Also, having lost PG Andre Miller to free agency, Iggy will be taking more shots. This is great news for a fantasy basketball player. You want guys that are going to have the potential to put up 40+ on any given night and Iggy is definitely one of them.
5. Ben Gordon (DET)
Estimated cost: 6.5 million $
It is with great reluctancy that I put Gordon on this list, I am all to familiar with his inconsistency. Gordon is a player who you're going to have to monitor on a nightly basis. Don't keep him on your team for more than 2 games at a time. While Gordon is more than capable of going off for 50, he could just as easily shoot 3 for 24 and have 8 points. People got a false glimpse of Gordon during the nationally televised Bulls vs. Celtics' first round mêlée. I can confidently say with great emphasis that Ben Gordon has never had a stretch of seven games where he played anywhere close to how he did against the Celtics. His numbers of 20.7 PPG, 3.4 APG will for the most part stay where they are. In a time of desperation take Gordon and pray that he has a big night. Other than that, leave him in the free agent pool.
