Ryan Anderson: Scores 14 points in season opener

Julius Randle (18 points, seven boards, six assists) got the better of Anderson in the matchup between the two starting power forwards, but Anderson’s high volume of shot attempts is probably the most important takeaway for his season-long fantasy outlook. While James Harden is the unquestioned alpha dog for the Rockets and figures to assume one of the league’s highest usage rates, Houston’s up-tempo, high-possession attack should afford plenty of opportunities for Anderson and Eric Gordon in secondary roles with their new team. With a 42.3 percent career mark from the field, Anderson’s shooting percentage will pale in comparison to most big men, but his contributions in terms of scoring and three-pointers figure to make him an above-average fantasy option at his position.