3 sleeper picks at center to target in drafts

Last week, I wrote about the players I’m fading in fantasy basketball drafts for the upcoming 2023-24 NBA season. Now, let’s dive into the sleepers – those underrated players outside the top 100 in average draft position that will provide value to your fantasy team. After covering guards and forwards, it’s time to focus on the underrated centers that should be targeted in the later rounds.

Nurkic, acquired by the Suns after the trade of Deandre Ayton to Portland, has an astonishingly low ADP. Although he finished outside the top 130 last season due to injuries, he is now part of a strong starting lineup where his main responsibilities are rebounding and protecting the paint. With the Suns, Nurkic will have ample opportunities to contribute and has a proven track record of double-digit points, rebounds, and stocks over the past three seasons. Don’t sleep on him.

Zach Collins, a power forward/center for the San Antonio Spurs, is one of the top starting centers available after pick 100. With a strong finish to the previous season, Collins displayed his ability to produce efficiently on both ends of the court. Additionally, the Spurs’ fast pace of play will benefit his fantasy value. Collins has shown promise during the preseason, and with increased minutes this year, he is poised to exceed expectations.

Paul Reed of the Philadelphia 76ers is another sleeper candidate. Despite limited playing time in the past, Reed is expected to have a larger role under the team’s new head coach, Nick Nurse. Reed’s energy, rebounding skills, and defensive versatility make him a valuable asset. With projected increased minutes per game, Reed has the potential to provide solid points, rebounds, and stocks for fantasy managers.