Yao Ming, Houston Rockets (Image: Flickr)

Despite Yao’s optimism, any news regarding a foot injury is scary news. He has missed a lot of time in recent years with foot and leg injuries and with the playoffs starting on April 18th, the Rockets can’t afford to have him sidelined for too long.

In the fantasy basketball world, one interesting name that is relevant if Yao misses a game is Dikembe Mutombo. The 43-year-old filled in for Yao against the Warriors and had a very impressive outing. In 35 minutes, Mutuombo had ten points, 15 rebounds and four blocked shots.

Luis Scola is another player who would get increased touches with Yao out. Versus Golden State, Scola finished with 28 points, nine rebounds and four assists in 38 minutes of play.

Post from: Expert Fantasy

In the fantasy basketball world, this is also devastating news to anyone who owned Yao. You will have to figure out a way to survive without one of the better fantasy centers in the game. While Yao’s numbers were slightly down from last year, he was still a force both in the NBA and in the fantasy world.

On the Rockets, you may consider picking up Luis Scola or Carl Landry. Scola should see plenty of shot attempts now that Yao is out. He’ll be the team’s go-to low post scorer. Don’t be surprised if he averages around 15 points from here on out.

Landry is more of a wildcard but he’s supremely talented. His per minute numbers are off the charts. If he gets a big boost in minutes, he could be a fantasy steal. Pick him up if you want a low-risk, high-reward player.

Are you in a huge league? Perhaps you should consider Dikembe Mutombo. He has filled in for Yao well in the past. Mutombo might finally be too old to do anything but there’s always a chance he could again find the fountain of youth.

Post from: Expert Fantasy