8 Fantasy Hoops Players Expecting Bigger Roles as Starters

Meyers Leonard, F/C, Portland Trail Blazers

Starts Last Season: 7
Minutes Per Game: 15.4
Projected Minutes Per Game: 26.6

The Portland Trail Blazers had a dreadful summer as they said farewell to four of their five starters from last seson. Looking on the bright side, the big hole left by LaMarcus Aldridge will create a golden opportunity for Meyers Leonard to showcase his athleticism.

Last season, Leonard played 20-plus minutes in 16 games and averaged some pretty impressive stats: 11.4 points, 6.4 rebounds, 57% from the field, and 1.4 three-pointers made. Furthermore, during the Blazers' last two playoff games, Leonard averaged 11 points, 8.5 rebounds, 66% from the field, and 3 three-pointers in over 33 minutes per game. It's safe to say when Leonard got his minutes, he made sure that people noticed him.

The Blazers have added some new frontcourt faces to the squad including Noah Vonleh, Ed Davis, and Mason Plumlee. It'll be interesting to see how Leonard will fare amongst the group, but with a big increase in playing time, he'll have a great chance to stand out above them.