In preparation for the 2016-17 Fantasy Basketball season, it's time to get to know some of the new guys in the player pool.  The 2015 draft brought in a massive influx of fantasy relevant NBA talent, from a burgeoning super-star at the top of the draft (Minnesota's Karl-Anthony Towns) to a hidden jewel in the middle of the 2nd round (Miami's Josh Richardson).  While this draft doesn't have as much guaranteed talent in the lottery, it does feature its own star at the top and a depth of intriguing players who could make an impact from out of the 2nd round.

Wade Baldwin was one of the biggest surprises at the NBA Combine. He isn't all that tall, but he has a tremendous wingspan, which intrigued NBA teams and caused him to shoot up the draft boards. There were talks of him being selected in the top-10, but he was selected by the Grizzlies, who were in need of some depth at point guard in case they lost Mike Conley in free agency.

NBA Rookie Fantasy Profile: Wade Baldwin

Position: PG/SG

Team: Memphis Grizzlies

Draft Spot: 1.17

Analysis: Baldwin was a sexy pick to a lot of teams before the draft. The two most popular options were the Chicago Bulls and Memphis Grizzlies. Ultimately, the latter selected him with the 17th overall pick in the draft.

The Grizzlies were dealing with a lot of uncertainty when they drafted Baldwin, but they were able to re-sign Mike Conley and add Chandler Parsons via free agency, which will hurt Baldwin’s immediate value. He isn’t the most NBA ready prospect, but his length will help him find minutes early in his career. He will likely play minutes at both point and shooting guard, as well. Baldwin’s size alone will help him score and rebound, while also adding a few defensive stats. He likely won’t be playing with the ball in his hands all that much this season, and I wouldn’t be expecting elite fantasy production his rookie year.

Baldwin has elite upside in dynasty leagues. He’s hurt a bit by the big contract Conley recently signed, but with Grizzlies shooting guards Tony Allen and Vince Carter advancing in years, minutes could open up quickly at the 2 for Baldwin. He has a solid jump shot, but he’s elite at attacking the basket. Baldwin also has the length and skill set to be a triple double threat once he adds a bit of weight to his frame. He’s a high upside prospect, but it could take him a bit of time to develop, especially with Mike Conley locked into the starting point guard job for the next few years.

Bottom Line: If given playing time, he could immediately produce points, steals, and rebounds. Will struggle with efficiency early in his career, but could earn more minutes as he becomes more adapted to the NBA style of play. Worth a late round pick in some re-draft leagues.