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2011 NBA Draft: Picks 11-15 plus fantasy implications

11. Golden State Warriors: Klay Thompson, SG, Washington State

Analysis: In fantasy terms, this draft pick could go one of two ways. If shooting guard Monta Ellis remains with the team, Thompson is, at best, a reserve who will come off the bench as an offensive spark. The versatile shooting guard will not hold any fantasy value if that happens, but if Ellis is dealt, he becomes a huge player in fantasy leagues. He would enter a starting role in a free-for-all Golden State offense alongside Stephen Curry. Keep your eye on this one, because Thompson has the range to be a valuable fantasy asset if the minutes are there.

Depth Chart: Monta Ellis, Klay Thompson, Reggie Williams

Projected Stats: 7.0 ppg, 3.0 apg, 3.5 rpg, 1.0 3pg

12. Utah Jazz: Alec Burks, SG, Colorado

Analysis: The Jazz would have liked Brandon Knight to have fallen to them, but instead they go with the best player available and the biggest need for the team. Burks enters the best situation for himself fantasy-wise in Utah, where he will compete with Raja Bell and Gordon Hayward for playing time. He could very easily wind up with a starting gig before long, which would make him a viable fantasy asset. Burks still has plenty of fine-tuning to do, but the numbers could be there for the 6-foot, 6-inch scorer.

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Depth Chart: Alec Burks, Gordon Hayward, Raja Bell

Projected Stats: 10.0 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 1.0 3pg, 43.0 FG%

13. Phoenix Suns: Markieff Morris, PF, Kansas

Analysis: The Suns hope the world is looking at the new and improved (OK, maybe not improved) version of Amare Stoudemire. Many expected Markieff's brother, Marcus, to be selected first, but Markieff stole the show in a workout last week with the Suns. Defense is the name of the game for this Morris brother and he will be a valuable asset off the bench in 2011. There is a chance he becomes fantasy worthy if he can grab enough rebounds in a crowded yet average Phoenix front court.

Depth Chart: Channing Frye, Markieff Morris, Hakim Warrick, Gani Lawal

Projected Stats: 5.5 ppg, 5.5 rpg, 1.0 bpg, 48.0 FG%

14. Houston Rockets: Marcus Morris, PF, Kansas

Analysis: Well that didn't take long. Just one selection later, the Rockets went with the other Morris brother, Marcus. It's a tricky fantasy situation for Morris, who will have to battle with the likes of Luis Scola, Patrick Patterson and Jordan Hill for minutes at power forward. Chase Budinger and Terrence Williams have the small forward spot locked up, so it will be interesting to see if Morris can put on a show and earn himself some minutes. Until then, expect fantasy fringe from the talented Jayhawk.

Depth Chart: Luis Scola, Patrick Patterson, Chuck Hayes, Marcus Morris

Projected Stats: 5.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 46.0 FG%, 1.5 apg

15. Indiana Pacers (traded to San Antonio): Kawhi Leonard, SF, San Diego State

Analysis: The Pacers have traded this selection to the Spurs in return for point guard George Hill. This is excellent value for Leonard, who was projected as high as No. 6 to the Wizards in some mocks. Unfortunately for fantasy owners, Leonard is more of a player who will help in the wins category rather than the box score. He is an outstanding defender but still needs some work offensively, meaning his fantasy value will be limited. Still, you can never doubt San Antonio on how its players will progress.

Depth Chart: Richard Jefferson, Kawhi Leonard, Steve Novak

Projected Stats: 4.5 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 1.5 apg, 1.0 spg

By

Fantasy Basketball Examiner

Mark Strotman is currently a junior at Marquette University, majoring in journalism. He has played fantasy basketball for six years and is an...

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