Fantasy Basketball: Jump on Iman Shumpert

There is still room on the train, especially in Yahoo! leagues where New York guard Iman Shumpert is owned in about 30 percent of fantasy leagues. He’s not quite as available in ESPN leagues (55 percent), but there’s still time to add him.

Especially thanks to a modest effort last night that saw him score 11 points, grab two rebounds, dish out three assists and snatch one steal.

In three games since taking over for Toney Douglas, who has essentially lost all fantasy value right now, Shumpert is proving to be a multiple-category fantasy weapon, averaging 13.0 ppg, 3.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 0.7 blocks, 2.7 steals and 2.0 three-pointers. All while shooting 48.4 percent from the floor, 42.9 percent from downtown and 75.0 percent from the charity stripe.

Not bad for a rookie getting his first run.

He was a force at Georgia Tech last year, averaging 17.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 2.7 steals and 1.4 three-pointers. It’s not a lock for Shumpert to remain in the starting job. Toney Douglas is capable if Iman stumbles, and Baron Davis’ return is looming.

That’s tomorrow, though. While it’s good to keep those things in mind, you still have to play in the moment and take advantage of a player who is seeing an uptick.

He’s more valuable in Yahoo! leagues, which is odd considering that’s the one he’s owned in fewer leagues, because he has PG and SG eligibility. Most leagues have a generic “G” position and/or utility slots.

Shumpert will give you nice totals across the board, including a major bump in the steals category. Get him while he lasts.

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