T.J. Warren: 2019-20 Fantasy Basketball Sleeper

In perhaps the most bizarre move of the offseason, the Phoenix Suns traded forward T.J. Warren and the 32nd overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft to the Indiana Pacers for cash considerations.

Despite being stranded on the underachieving Suns, Warren managed to put up good numbers whenever he was on the floor. Warren has hovered just below the 20 point per game mark the past two years, but he still hasn't established himself as a household name. Part of that is due to injuries. He still hasn't played a full season and started only 36 games last season due to an ankle injury. Another key factor is the fact that he shot a mere 28% from three across his first four NBA seasons.

Now healthy and on a new team with a drastically improved jump shot, all signs seem to be pointing towards a breakout campaign for Warren.

2019-20 Fantasy Outlook - T.J. Warren

As I previously alluded to, Warren is a very talented scorer. Coming out of North Carolina State, he has always thrived in the mid-range, and his 6'8" size and ability to handle the basketball allowed him to score at the basket with ease. Despite how impressive his overall game was, Warren's struggles from three-point range held back his upside. In 2017-18, he averaged 19.6 points per game while only shooting 22.2% from three.

Last season, everything changed for Warren. He didn't just improve as a three-point shooter; suddenly, he looked like one of the best in the game. Warren shot an impressive 42.8% from deep, and tripled his three-point attempts to a career-high 4.2 a game.

Now equipped with an all-around arsenal, Warren has the capability of averaging more than his previous high of 19.6 points per game. The Pacers will give Warren every opportunity to do so, and he is expected to lead to the team in scoring in Victor Oladipo out. When Oladipo eventually returns, Warren will still be the clear number two option. Remember, he still managed to produce in Phoenix, despite having to share his workload with Devin Booker.

Warren's injury struggles also appear to behind him, as he is finally 100% healthy again. He has looked sharp in preseason play. He dropped 30 points against the Sacramento Kings on October 4th.

Warren will not only boost your team's scoring, but he will not bog down your field goal percentage. Warren has shot 49.6% from the field across his career, and his increase in three-point attempts last season only dropped his FG% to 48.6% for the year. In summary, Warren will still be a multi category producer due to his efficiency despite being a scoring specialist.

Unfortunately, Warren will not offer much in the assists or rebounds categories. His career averages of 4.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists are basically constant. He has been averaging around a steal per game, but that is as far as his versatility goes. If you are specifically looking for points and shooting in the 6th or 7th round of your draft, Warren is a great value. Just do not count on him for rebounds or assists.

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