Marcus Williams

Williams was considered one of the top point guard prospects in the 2006 NBA Draft, and when he fell to the Nets at 22nd, most observers thought Jersey got a steal. But Williams’s two years at the Meadowlands fell short of expectations – he was limited both by Jason Kidd’s excellent play and then by a series of injuries. This year, he’ll have a real opportunity to show what he can do, joining a Golden State team that lost Baron Davis to free agency and then saw Monta Ellis – who Don Nelson intended to start at the point this season – lost for the first six to eight weeks of the year due to ankle surgery. Unless general manager Chris Mullin makes another roster move – he’s reportedly considering an offer to Shaun Livingston – Williams will open the season as the Warriors’ starting point guard.

Williams started the year strong as Jason Kidd's backup at the point, but hit the rookie wall hard in March and April. His pre-All-Star game offensive numbers (7.1 points, 41% field-goal) were much higher than his post-All-Star splits (5.5 points, 34% from the field). Williams was also limited last year by the fact that Kidd absolutely refused to age, which we expect to occur this year as well. Kidd simply plays too well to cede significant minutes to Williams, lessening Williams' fantasy value. Williams' lack of a jump shot also hurts his fantasy relevance, and he should only be seen as a waiver wire pickup in the event that Kidd gets hurt.

Williams was the Nets first pick in the 2005-2006 NBA Draft. He was the top assist man in UConn history and brings the leadership ability and creativity needed to thrive at the next level. His propensity to knock down the big shot in college has given him a cockiness that is evident on the court. If not beset by the injuries that have plagued him throughout his young career, Williams should be a valuable asset to the team, allowing Jason Kidd to rest his balky knees more often throughout the year. Williams was the Nets best player this summer.