Klay Thompson had a phenomenal season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers as the Golden State Warriors already look like a favorite in the Western Conference. Okay, so fantasy league owners, I know it's early, but there are plenty of fantasy basketball owners looking to take advantage of Thompson's hot start. What to do?
Trade Thompson if... you have enough three-point shooters on your team. Yes, he will consistently sink his threes, but not at 71 percent all night. Sure he might average anywhere between 15-20 points, maybe 20-25, he is that good, but he will not score 38 points nightly.
If you need rebounding in your team, Thompson could be a guy to give up. Analyze your opponents team. Do not go for somebody too prized like a Kevin Love or even a Brook Lopez, keep it simple. Trading for a guy like DeMarcus Cousins of the Sacramento Kings, who is a star in the making and averages double-doubles will get you more for your value and will bring an extra dimention to your team. Heck, maybe a guy like Nikola Pekovic from the Minnesota Timberwolves plus an add on if you have a scrub on your rooster could also do the trick.
Do no trade Thompson if... you are lacking three point shooters in your squad. Not only will Thompson average you a solid amount of points per game, but he will consistently knock down the three point ball game after game. Sure, he is new to the game as 2013 is only his third season in the NBA, but in 2011 and 2012, Thompson averaged over 40 percent shooting from beyond the arc.
The Warriors will compete in 2013 granted that they remain healthy. Stephen Curry is injury prone and not that they can manage without him, but the addition of Andre Iguodala has been huge for the Warriors. Bringing Iguodala over, though he is now a seasoned veteran, will help this young Warriors franchise. Winning is contagious and Iguodala has won throughout his career. This Warriors' team was already a winner last year and they really did not have a veteran to guide the team.
Iguodola can help guys like Thompson since he can penetrate and create havoc in the paint, attracting defenders. Like Curry, Thompson roams the three-point line and can hit the outside shot almost with his eyes closed. Also, like Curry, when Thompson has the hot hand... he has the hot hand.
Best of luck to all fantasy owners this season.
