Jamir

Watkins

Whitmore’s limited role off the bench hasn’t resulted in much fantasy production this season. If he were to miss a game for the first time this year, Jamir Watkins and Malaki Branham would likely see a bump in minutes, though there wouldn’t be a clear streaming option based on Whitmore’s absence.

While Justin Champagnie is available for Thursday’s game, he has been bumped from the Wizards’ starting lineup in favor of Watkins. A second-round pick, the rookie wing will make his first NBA start. Watkins’ offensive ceiling is relatively low, but he may be able to pick up some defensive stats for those who have him in dynasty leagues.

While it wasn’t an efficient offensive night for Watkins, he was a menace defensively. He helped limit VJ Edgecombe to 4-of-14, and he tied the Summer League record for steals in a game while also adding three blocks. It will be difficult for Watkins to carve out a role on a team that is loaded with young talent, but games like this will help make his case.

Utah made this selection, but Watkins will be headed to Washington once the teams’ proposed trade becomes official. At 6'5, 215 pounds, Watkins has excellent size for a wing to be a multi-positional defender in the NBA. He spent three seasons with VCU before spending the last two with Florida State, Last season, he averaged a healthy 18.4 points, 5.7 rebounds. 2.4 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.5 blocks. His three-point shooting is still underdeveloped, but he makes up for it with frequent trips to the charity stripe, averaging 7.7 FTA last season. Watkins’s most significant strength is on defense, but if he can improve his shooting, he’ll be a solid two-way option. While Washington is loaded with young perimeter players, the second-round pick’s defensive ability will give Watkins an opportunity to earn playing time as a rookie.