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Over the years, Giannis Antetokounmpo has consistently thrilled NBA Fantasy enthusiasts, delivering stellar stats encompassing points, blocks, steals, rebounds, and assists. However, the 2022-23 season saw a surprising dip in "The Greek Freak's" usual meteoric performance.
But this upcoming season promises a potential resurgence. During the last season, Antetokounmpo graced the court for 63 games, notching up an impressive average of 31.1 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists. Furthermore, he managed 0.8 steals and 0.8 blocks per game.
While these numbers firmly place him within the top-10, it was concerning to see his lowest career averages in blocks and assists. On the percentages front, his 57.2% free throw success rate was his lowest since the 2017-18 season, although his field goal accuracy held firm at 55.3%.
Alarmingly, his turnovers soared to a career-high average of 3.9 per game. These discrepancies caused the dominant Bucks forward to tumble out of Yahoo! Fantasy's top five, placing him behind NBA luminaries such as Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, Joel Embiid, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jayson Tatum, Tyrese Haliburton, and Steph Curry.
Lillard Boosts Bucks
However, with Damian Lillard now donning a Bucks jersey, the former MVP Antetokounmpo gains an elite point guard as an ally. This partnership is anticipated to drive the Bucks' quest for the best regular season record.
Lillard's presence in the starting lineup is also predicted to enhance Antetokounmpo's field goal percentage while mitigating turnovers. This notable shift has made Giannis a h*t favorite among NBA fantasy aficionados, many of whom are scooping him up as early as the third overall pick.
Ranked eighth in Yahoo! Fantasy, Antetokounmpo remains a cornerstone player for fantasy team builders. He's a compelling choice for the fourth overall pick, especially with heavyweights like Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, and Joel Embiid already claimed.
If you're angling for the eighth pick, you'd be fortunate to snag him. Given Antetokounmpo's indisputable prowess, strategizing your subsequent selections is crucial. Prioritize players who excel in free throw percentages (around 78%) to offset Giannis's occasional shortcomings.
Also, secure players boasting high assist rates during your subsequent picks to complement Antetokounmpo's contributions.