8 Fantasy Hoops Players Expecting Bigger Roles as Starters

Al-Farouq Aminu, SF/PF, Portland Trail Blazers

Starts Last Season: 3
Minutes Per Game: 18.5
Projected Minutes Per Game: 22.8

Sorry Portland, but I'm going to repeat that it was a rough summer for the Blazers. To help fill the void left by Nicolas Batum, newcomer Al-Farouq Aminu steps in with his 7'3" wingspan to provide high-energy on both ends of the floor.

During his short-lived stint playing for the Dallas Mavericks last year, Aminu blossomed from being a mere substitute to being a valuable asset off the bench. Through his first 37 games, Aminu averaged 4.7 points, 3.2 rebounds,and 0.6 blocks in 13.9 minutes per game. In his remaining 37 games, Aminu's minutes jumped to 22.9 per game as he averaged 6.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks. Most notable was Aminu's playoff performance where in five games he averaged 11.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in 30 minutes per game.

As a meaningful starter, Aminu has the chance to put up solid numbers on a consistent basis. Playing alongside electrifying guard Damian Lillard could help ignite Aminu’s efforts as he aims for a career year.