Fantasy basketball interest starts to heat up in August. To get you prepared for the upcoming season, RotoWire has put together our early Top 10 players for the 2025-26 NBA Fantasy season. Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander should all remain top 3 picks, but there's some room for variance after that. The following rankings assume a category format, but most players here hold similar value in points formats.
Top 10 NBA Fantasy Rankings for the 2025-26 Season
1. Nikola Jokic, Nuggets 
Jokic remains the undisputed top player in fantasy basketball, consistently delivering big-time triple-doubles. He fills the stat sheet across all major categories, making him a cornerstone for any fantasy roster. The center's remarkable durability is a significant advantage in today's NBA as well. With a stable team environment and a secure role as the primary offensive engine, Jokic is the safest No. 1 pick in drafts.
2. Victor Wembanyama, Spurs 
Wembanyama offers upside to be the No. 1 player in fantasy, showcasing a unique ability to impact the game across multiple categories, particularly as a shot-blocker. He was performing at an elite level before deep vein thrombosis ended his season early. While San Antonio's medical staff expresses confidence in managing his condition, there's an inherent risk. His potential is immense, but it hinges on his ability to stay on the court.
3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder 
Gilgeous-Alexander is a remarkably safe and consistent option who is coming off an MVP season. He's a highly
Fantasy basketball interest starts to heat up in August. To get you prepared for the upcoming season, RotoWire has put together our early Top 10 players for the 2025-26 NBA Fantasy season. Nikola Jokic, Victor Wembanyama and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander should all remain top 3 picks, but there's some room for variance after that. The following rankings assume a category format, but most players here hold similar value in points formats.
Top 10 NBA Fantasy Rankings for the 2025-26 Season
1. Nikola Jokic, Nuggets
Jokic remains the undisputed top player in fantasy basketball, consistently delivering big-time triple-doubles. He fills the stat sheet across all major categories, making him a cornerstone for any fantasy roster. The center's remarkable durability is a significant advantage in today's NBA as well. With a stable team environment and a secure role as the primary offensive engine, Jokic is the safest No. 1 pick in drafts.
2. Victor Wembanyama, Spurs
Wembanyama offers upside to be the No. 1 player in fantasy, showcasing a unique ability to impact the game across multiple categories, particularly as a shot-blocker. He was performing at an elite level before deep vein thrombosis ended his season early. While San Antonio's medical staff expresses confidence in managing his condition, there's an inherent risk. His potential is immense, but it hinges on his ability to stay on the court.
3. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Thunder
Gilgeous-Alexander is a remarkably safe and consistent option who is coming off an MVP season. He's a highly efficient scorer who also contributes significantly on the defensive end, racking up steals and blocks. After overcoming early career health issues, he has been a picture of reliability. The Thunder winning the 2025 NBA title solidifies his position as a top-tier fantasy asset with a secure long-term outlook.
4. Luka Doncic, Lakers 
Doncic's production fluctuated after a mid-season trade to Los Angeles, where he joined a new-look Lakers squad. His overall output remained impressive, though there were subtle shifts in his efficiency and playmaking while adjusting to his new surroundings. The Lakers are clearly building their future around him, and with LeBron James' future murky, Doncic is poised to fully embrace the franchise leadership role.
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bucks 
Antetokounmpo is a dominant force as a relentless scorer and rebounder. However, his performance from the free-throw line can be a significant drag in category formats. Health has also been a recurring concern, as he's played 70 games just once in the past six years. Despite these drawbacks, when he plays, he delivers MVP-caliber production. With Damian Lillard gone, Giannis may see even more responsibility, but his fantasy value remains tied to his availability and free-throw efficiency.
6. Cade Cunningham, Pistons 
Cunningham is coming off his most impressive professional season, demonstrating significant growth as a primary playmaker and scorer. He showed improved efficiency and a greater ability to get to the free-throw line. While managing turnovers is an ongoing aspect of his game, his overall assist-to-turnover ratio is strong given his heavy workload. Importantly, he played 70 games after struggling with injuries to begin his career. With Detroit making additions to support him, Cunningham is well-positioned to be a highly valuable fantasy asset for years to come.
7. Anthony Davis, Mavericks 
Davis is an elite per-game fantasy contributor, consistently providing strong numbers in scoring, rebounding, and defensive categories. However, his injury history is a major factor, making him one of the more volatile first-round options. A surprising trade brought him to Dallas, where he faced more health challenges but still showcased his upside as a lead option. Ultimately, his value is immense whenever he is consistently playing.
8. Anthony Edwards, Timberwolves 
Edwards continues his steady ascent, delivering top-tier two-way production year after year. His game has evolved, particularly from beyond the arc, where he has significantly increased his volume and accuracy. Edwards has also been remarkably durable, having played at least 72 games in each of his first five seasons. With a stable team roster around him, he is a reliable and appealing option for fantasy managers.
9. Trae Young, Hawks 
Young delivers 25-and-10 with ease, making him a central figure for fantasy teams. While his shooting efficiency can fluctuate, it often correlates with how much usage he's forced to take on. With the Hawks' offseason additions, Young should benefit from a stronger supporting cast, potentially leading to improved efficiency while maintaining his high assist rate. He remains one of the league's most productive point guards and a strong consideration in the first round.
10. James Harden, Clippers 
Harden experienced a significant resurgence last season, returning to elite fantasy status, largely due to his improved health and more aggressive offensive role. His strong connection with Ivica Zubac and a myriad of offseason additions should provide even more opportunities for Harden's passing, though his shot attempts could decrease. To some extent, his role is tied to the health of Kawhi Leonard.
For up-to-the-minute updates on injuries, lineups, roster changes and more, head to RotoWire's NBA News or follow @RotoWireNBA on X.
Other Fantasy Basketball Resources
Check out RotoWire's How to Play Fantasy Basketball guide for a complete walkthrough, but here is some basic advice:
- Check out custom NBA Fantasy Projections
- Look into Fantasy Basketball Mock Drafts
- Listen to a Fantasy Basketball Podcast
- Check in on Fantasy Basketball Player News
- Read Fantasy Basketball Articles
- Dive into RotoWire's Fantasy Basketball Draft Kit
- Study NBA Depth Charts
- See RotoWire's Fantasy Basketball Dynasty Rankings
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