Yao Ming Fantasy Perspective – Injury Update
February 26, 2008 by Stephen Kersey
Filed under Injuries, NBA News, NFL Player Analysis
The Houston Rockets got devastating news on Tuesday when they learned that Yao Ming will miss the rest of the season due to a stress fracture in his foot. The Rockets, who have won 12 games in a row, will now have to figure out a way to win without Yao in the middle.
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.
That’s a huge loss for The Rockets! That may be what side-lines their chances in they playoffs.