In fantasy, versatility is key for point turnouts. The reason why guys like Russell Westbrook, James Harden and Lebron James are so highly sought after in fantasy is because of their ability to simply “do it all”; score, rebound, pass, defend, etc. Having a player like this is truly a godsend for any team. The problem is, these types of talents usually come off the board quite early during draft day, leaving a majority of teams searching for “the next best thing”, whether it be through the later rounds or scouring the waiver wire. And while there aren’t many permanent roster additions in the free agent department, sometimes you can catch a big break. As for this years impactful free agent finds, is it possible Rajon Rondo could wind up being fantasy gold?
To say the veteran point guard is in the same category as the aforementioned players of Westbrook, Harden and James would simply be insanity. However, to say he’s an afterthought in fantasy would be just as ludicrous. While the 11-year veteran was nothing to write home about last season with the Bulls, if his most recent postseason performance is any indicator, Rondo could be on the verge of a resurgent season.
Again, Rondos lone season in Chicago last year was one to forget. With averages of 7.8 PPG (lowest since his rookie season), 6.7 APG (3rd lowest of career) and 5.1 RPG it’s no wonder the veteran had so little franchises vying for his services when hitting the open market back in June. The underwhelming statistics coupled with a season ending thumb injury is a common recipe for worry. However, what people tend to look past is his stellar postseason performance for the tumultuous ‘Windy City’ franchise.
In the 2 games prior to him breaking his right thumb, Rondo was putting up stellar numbers against the number 1 seeded Boston Celtics. Averaging nearly a triple double with 11.5 PPG, 10.0 APG and 8.5 RPG Rondo paved the way for a 2-0 series lead for the Chicago Bulls. With this performance, the veteran proved he still has some gas left in his tank after all.
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Now, coming to a Pelicans roster consisting of two of the most dominating forces in the game today in Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, continued success for Rondo is very likely. The guards game is not focused on scoring but, rather passing. A career 8.5 APG average, with 7 seasons averaging over 9 assists per game, Rondo will most likely flourish with the two aforementioned offensive juggernauts. Kick it to them down low and they’ll throw it down at the rim. Toss it to them in the mid range and they’ll flush it home.
The Pelicans also have other serviceable scoring options for Rondo to throw it to such as Jrue Holiday, E’Twaun Moore and Jameer Nelson to name a few. With these options at his disposal, it’s safe to say Rondo will garner quite a few assists, providing amble points for those rostering him in fantasy.
However, not only is he one of the best passers the game has ever seen, he is also a fine rebounder for his position. With a career average of 5 boards per game, Rondo has proven to be serviceable in that department, again adding points to his fantasy owners.
Above all else (the passing, defense, rebounding) versatility is Rondo’s game. For his career, the point guard has 29 triple-doubles, putting him ahead of NBA greats such as Michael Jordan, Walt Frazer and Kobe Bryant to name a few.
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Again, while Rondo may be up there in age (31), if last postseason is any indicator, he’s still got some tread left on those tires. Rajon Rondo is expected to return in the coming weeks, meaning fantasy owners should soon be on the waiver wire searching for his services.
All statistics provided by ESPN.com and Basketballreference.com