While some of the first 24 picks have focused on some players that can be considered statistical specialists (Andrei Kirilenko or Ben Wallace with blocks and steals, Steve Nash with assists and free throw percentage), this team that is already comprised of LeBron James and Amare Stoudemire appears to have a firm foundation of well-rounded contributions.  James is a triple-double threat every night, while Stoudemire can put up 20 and 10 with a couple blocks thrown in for good measure at the drop of a…dime.  Thus, drafting for value, and attempting to not group this tandem with any one that could kill any certain category, I see no better option at this stage than to go with the off-guard from the New Jersey Nets.

Round 3, Pick 1: Vince Carter, SG, New Jersey Nets

Some NBA fans may hate Vince Carter the person.  But, unless you’re from Toronto, I’d find it very difficult to hate Vince Carter the player.

Going into the eighth year of his career, VC has put up numbers from day one.  Aside from his rookie season of 18 points per game, Carter has yet to average under 20 points for any season in which he’s played. 

Take a look at Carter’s stats since his trade to New Jersey.  Compare the stat lines from 2004 to that of 2005. 

2004: 24.5 ppg, 4.2 apg, 5.2 rpg, 1.42 spg, 2.2 topg, 45.2% FG, 79.8% FT
2005: 24.2 ppg, 4.3 apg, 5.9 rpg, 1.20 spg, 2.7 topg, 43.0% FG, 80.0% FT

Now, I don’t know about you, but this seems to be about the most consistent year-over-year stat line that I’ve ever seen, not to mention one that contributes across the board at the same time.  Add in the fact that Carter was top-10 in the league in free throw attempts, and that 80% looks even better. 

Yes, turnovers can be a concern, and Vince totes about 2.5 a game.  If this is a head-to-head league, future picks can decide to punt the category, while roto drafts will have to tailor their picks to accommodate this issue.  For now, I’ll take my 24 a game with solid contribution at each statistical category.  LeBron and Amare will be very happy playing alongside VC on this fantasy roster.

Other Team Members:

1.1. LeBron James, SF, Cleveland Cavaliers
2.12. Amare Stoudemire, FC, Phoenix Suns