Toronto Raptors Fantasy Basketball: Who should you target?

Pascal Siakam:

When Kawhi Leonard was off the floor, Pascal averaged 20.2 points, 8.3 rebounds and 3.6 assists per 36 minutes. On the defensive end, he put up 1.9 combined blocks/steals per 36 minutes (Per Yahoo Sports). Managers can expect a similar offensive output this season, with a reasonable spike in point production as Pascal settles in as the primary offensive option on a playoff team.

Pascal will likely see a significant hit to his field goal percentage as he is funnelled more possessions throughout the game. In contrast, he should be a plus .800 FT shooter as he gets more attempts at the line showcasing his consistent form, which he no doubt worked this summer.

Defensively, Pascal will continue to utilize his athletic gifts, and without a Kawhi safety blanket, he should be playing at a higher defensive intensity throughout the season. In order to accommodate an Ibaka-Gasol frontcourt, he will likely be slid up to spend some time at small forward, picking up tougher offensive matchups.

Pascal Siakam will undoubtedly see an increased opportunity to put up a rare combination of statistics. He’s also been incredibly durable to this point in his career.

From a fantasy perspective, Pascal was a waiver wire pick up in the 2017-18 season and was a mid to late pick the season past. Due to the low-cost typically associated with his acquisition, Pascal has provided tremendous value.

The biggest fantasy concern here this season is his draft position. He is no longer a diamond in the rough. Yahoo has him projected at 26th overall, ahead of the explosive De’Aaron Fox, Donovan Mitchell, and the great LeBron James.

With your second-round pick, there will be plenty of players with either higher upside or higher floors. Wait until he has taken that superstar step next season, instead of expecting it for this one.

Verdict: Do Not Draft