Lakers: Anthony Davis’ place in age 28 and under fantasy draft

28 and under fantasy draft, picks 4-6:

4) Nikola Jokic | Denver Nuggets | Age 26

Well, well, well. I’ve done this fantasy draft in past years and I never would’ve guessed the Joker would fall this high in this year’s edition. But, the proper choice for the 2021 NBA MVP has surprised everyone in league circles throughout his career so I guess it’s meant to be.

Much like his peer Doncic, he is the definition of not looking or jumping the part. He can’t hop over your local curb. But nonetheless, Jokic is a complete three-level scorer with amazing footwork.

Most notably, he’s established himself as the greatest passing big man in league history. This is why I feel comfortable drafting him before the slew of young guards fitting for this pick at four, as he can operate and facilitate the half-court offense as well or better than all of them.

He broke out specifically this season averaging 26.4 points 10.9 rebounds and 8.4 assists, all career highs. But, most impressive of all he continued to win and kept his Nuggets in the top three of the western conference even after his star partner Jamal Murray tore his ACL a month ago.

He may be 26 years old and therefore on the older and higher mileage side of this draft. But, given his high durability with the fact that his game and success is not predicated on athleticism whatsoever and can play like this for another ten plus years, and having established himself as one of the most complete offensive players in the league, the MVP is worthy of one of these top spots.

5) Giannis Antetokounmpo | Milwaukee Bucks | Age 26

The two-way impact of this two-time MVP, who has shown incredible durability at age 26, commanded a top-five selection. Of all of the reasons, Giannis is an absolute marvel, the most captivating might be the durability given the heavily ferocious and aggressive nature of his game.

I don’t believe his build, style, and composure off the dribble will ever allow him to be a reliable perimeter scorer outside of the standstill, time-consuming, no contest three that he’s gained an ability with to an extent. But that’s basically the only thing preventing him from being a top-three selection. Attitude, ability, and availability all check out quite nicely.

6) Donovan Mitchell | Utah Jazz | Age 24

This will ruffle some casuals feathers I imagine. Yes, I considered a handful of other guards for this fifth draft pick. But in the end, the guy who is the closest thing to Dwyane Wade the league has seen since he was in his prime, one of the four best two guards in league history, gets the nod.

Mitchell shares the explosiveness, well-rounded middle game, and craftiness around the tin that ‘flash’ Wade had. But, he’s a markedly better perimeter shooter than Wade was by the end of his fourth season in Miami. He’s also improved as a facilitator each year.

Let’s see if Mitchell can put together a serious playoff run with some not-yet-seen expectation and pressure as the west’s top seed.