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Fratello’s Fantasy Pick: Kemba Walker

The Charlotte Bobcats lost their last 23 games of the 2011-2012 season and finished 7-59. They were arguably one of the worst teams in NBA history.

In the 2011 draft, Charlotte selected guard Kemba Walker of UConn 9th overall after he led the Huskies to the NCAA title and earned Most Outstanding Player of the Tournament.

Like many other top NBA rookies, Walker went from a winning collegiate team to a struggling pro squad fighting for very few victories while attempting to gather talent. The transition is difficult at best and soul-sucking at worst, especially for a rookie whose team winds up with a winning percentage of .106.

Walker played in all 66 games his freshman season and started 25 times. He averaged 12.1 ppg, 4.4 apg, 3.5 rpg and .9 spg in 27.2 mpg.

This season Walker appears to be getting better in all aspects of the game, and his numbers have risen across the board. So far through 8 games Walker is averaging 18.8 ppg, 5.5 apg, 3.9 rpg and 2.5 spg in 36.6 mpg.

The sophomore has scored in double digits each night, and he’s achieved game highs of 30 points, 8 dimes (2X), 6 boards and 8 steals. He is an excellent free throw shooter at 86%, and his field goal percentage has risen from .366 last year to .423 this year.

Walker appears to be taking on a greater leadership role in Charlotte, and he’s gained a better understanding of how he can help his teammates win – they’ve already notched four W’s.

Kemba Walker is a good fantasy pick-up right now as his overall production will continue to improve along with the young Bobcats’ good fortune.

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