Wembanyama was well on his way to being the best fantasy basketball player not named Nikola Jokic before being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder following the All-Star break last season. The French phenom was shut down for the rest of the campaign and still finished as a top-20 player in eight-category leagues despite only 46 regular-season appearances. Before Wembanyama, no player in NBA history averaged at least three blocks and three made three-pointers per game for an entire campaign. He reached those plateaus in 2024-25, averaging 3.8 blocks and 3.1 threes, and that could be a yearly occurrence for the Unicorn of Unicorns. He was also one of eight players to average at least 11 rebounds per game. As for percentages, Wembanyama shot 35.2 percent on 8.8 3PA/G after shooting 32.5 percent on 5.5 tries as a rookie. He also improved his percentage from the charity stripe to 83.6, but attempted one fewer free throw per game. There isn't a player in the league with a higher upside than Wembanyama, but he comes with considerable risk, even if San Antonio's medical staff is confident they have found the crux of his medical issues and don't have any long-term concerns. The Spurs are expected to take a step forward in 2025-26, but it'll take significant internal growth. Mid-season acquisition De'Aaron Fox should be at his best after a full year adapting to his new squad, plus development from Wembanyama and Stephon Castle, who've won the last two Rookie of the Year awards. However, Devin Vassell has struggled to stay healthy, while Jeremy Sochan and Keldon Johnson have taken steps backward over the past two seasons. If they don't evolve as a team, it'll be difficult for Wembanyama to reach his fantasy potential and surpass Jokic as the consensus No. 1 pick.
Wembanyama was well on his way to being the best fantasy basketball player not named Nikola Jokic before being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder following the All-Star break last season. The French phenom was shut down for the rest of the campaign and still finished as a top-20 player in eight-category leagues despite only 46 regular-season appearances. Before Wembanyama, no player in NBA history averaged at least three blocks and three made three-pointers per game for an entire campaign. He reached those plateaus in 2024-25, averaging 3.8 blocks and 3.1 threes, and that could be a yearly occurrence for the Unicorn of Unicorns. He was also one of eight players to average at least 11 rebounds per game. As for percentages, Wembanyama shot 35.2 percent on 8.8 3PA/G after shooting 32.5 percent on 5.5 tries as a rookie. He also improved his percentage from the charity stripe to 83.6, but attempted one fewer free throw per game. There isn't a player in the league with a higher upside than Wembanyama, but he comes with considerable risk, even if San Antonio's medical staff is confident they have found the crux of his medical issues and don't have any long-term concerns. The Spurs are expected to take a step forward in 2025-26, but it'll take significant internal growth. Mid-season acquisition De'Aaron Fox should be at his best after a full year adapting to his new squad, plus development from Wembanyama and Stephon Castle, who've won the last two Rookie of the Year awards. However, Devin Vassell has struggled to stay healthy, while Jeremy Sochan and Keldon Johnson have taken steps backward over the past two seasons. If they don't evolve as a team, it'll be difficult for Wembanyama to reach his fantasy potential and surpass Jokic as the consensus No. 1 pick.
Jokic remains the undisputed King of fantasy basketball. Justifiably, French phenom Victor Wembanyama pressed Jokic for the top spot last season, going No. 1 overall in many drafts, but the youngster couldn't stay on the court, allowing Jokic to retain his title with ease. In 2024-25, the Serbian superstar averaged a triple-double for the first time in his career, setting high-water marks in points (29.6), assists (10.2) and steals (1.8) while grabbing at least 12 boards per game for the third time in four years. He also posted career-high marks in three-point attempts per game (4.7) and three-point percentage (41.7). More outside shots caused Jokic's field-goal percentage to drop, finishing with his lowest mark (57.7%) since 2020-21. However, the only player in the league who attempted at least 18 shots a night with a higher field-goal percentage was Giannis Antetokounmpo (60.1% on 19.7 FGA/G). Despite a solid record and past success, Denver fired Michael Malone ahead of the 2024-25 playoffs, and David Adelman seized the opportunity. He led Jokic and company as they pushed the eventual champion Thunder to Game 7 in the second round and was rewarded with the full-time head coaching job. The Nuggets also made a couple of big splashes this offseason, trading Michael Porter for Cameron Johnson and Dario Saric for Jonas Valanciunas, while bringing back Bruce Brown, who was an integral part of their 2023 title run. The rest of last year's rotation remains intact, and Jokic's spot as the offensive fulcrum is as secure as it gets. Not to mention, Jokic is an Iron Man in this era, appearing in at least 69 regular-season games in each of his first 10 NBA seasons. Don't think twice, take Jokic No. 1 in every league.
Jokic remains the undisputed King of fantasy basketball. Justifiably, French phenom Victor Wembanyama pressed Jokic for the top spot last season, going No. 1 overall in many drafts, but the youngster couldn't stay on the court, allowing Jokic to retain his title with ease. In 2024-25, the Serbian superstar averaged a triple-double for the first time in his career, setting high-water marks in points (29.6), assists (10.2) and steals (1.8) while grabbing at least 12 boards per game for the third time in four years. He also posted career-high marks in three-point attempts per game (4.7) and three-point percentage (41.7). More outside shots caused Jokic's field-goal percentage to drop, finishing with his lowest mark (57.7%) since 2020-21. However, the only player in the league who attempted at least 18 shots a night with a higher field-goal percentage was Giannis Antetokounmpo (60.1% on 19.7 FGA/G). Despite a solid record and past success, Denver fired Michael Malone ahead of the 2024-25 playoffs, and David Adelman seized the opportunity. He led Jokic and company as they pushed the eventual champion Thunder to Game 7 in the second round and was rewarded with the full-time head coaching job. The Nuggets also made a couple of big splashes this offseason, trading Michael Porter for Cameron Johnson and Dario Saric for Jonas Valanciunas, while bringing back Bruce Brown, who was an integral part of their 2023 title run. The rest of last year's rotation remains intact, and Jokic's spot as the offensive fulcrum is as secure as it gets. Not to mention, Jokic is an Iron Man in this era, appearing in at least 69 regular-season games in each of his first 10 NBA seasons. Don't think twice, take Jokic No. 1 in every league.
Gilgeous-Alexander won the scoring title, MVP and Finals MVP while leading the Thunder to their first title in 2024-25, joining a list of NBA legends that includes Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Shaquille O'Neal. Oklahoma City wasted no time signing Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams to long-term extensions this summer, locking in their championship core for years to come. After struggling to stay healthy early in his career, Gilgeous-Alexander has missed only 13 regular-season games over the last two seasons. He has improved steadily in each of his first seven seasons, with three-point shooting his current primary focus. In 2024-25, he set career highs in three-point attempts (5.7) and makes (2.1) per game, shooting 37.5 percent from deep. Gilgeous-Alexander is one of the most efficient scorers of this generation, shooting at least 51 percent from the field and 87 percent from the charity stripe in three straight seasons. He's no slouch defensively either, totaling at least 2.5 stocks in each of those campaigns. During that stretch, SGA has finished as a top-three player in eight-category leagues each year. While Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama have higher upside than SGA, the reigning MVP is one of the safest bets in all of fantasy sports.
Gilgeous-Alexander won the scoring title, MVP and Finals MVP while leading the Thunder to their first title in 2024-25, joining a list of NBA legends that includes Michael Jordan, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Shaquille O'Neal. Oklahoma City wasted no time signing Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams to long-term extensions this summer, locking in their championship core for years to come. After struggling to stay healthy early in his career, Gilgeous-Alexander has missed only 13 regular-season games over the last two seasons. He has improved steadily in each of his first seven seasons, with three-point shooting his current primary focus. In 2024-25, he set career highs in three-point attempts (5.7) and makes (2.1) per game, shooting 37.5 percent from deep. Gilgeous-Alexander is one of the most efficient scorers of this generation, shooting at least 51 percent from the field and 87 percent from the charity stripe in three straight seasons. He's no slouch defensively either, totaling at least 2.5 stocks in each of those campaigns. During that stretch, SGA has finished as a top-three player in eight-category leagues each year. While Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama have higher upside than SGA, the reigning MVP is one of the safest bets in all of fantasy sports.
Cunningham is coming off his best season in the NBA, setting career highs in points (26.1), assists (9.1) and rebounds (6.1) per game. He also improved his efficiency from the floor and took more trips to the free-throw line. Turnovers remained an issue, but the Pistons relied on him heavily as the primary playmaker, and a 2:1 AST:TO ratio is still strong. Health was another reason for Cunningham's jump in Year 4, making 70 regular-season appearances for the first time. Outside of his sophomore season, he's been relatively healthy, no more than 20 missed games in his other three campaigns, but it was important for Cunningham to submit a near-full campaign and put his early-career injury concerns to rest. After a historic bounce-back season, the Pistons were busy this offseason, replacing Tim Hardaway, Malik Beasley and Dennis Schroder with Duncan Robinson and Caris LeVert. Jaden Ivey is going to be healthy and will likely rejoin the returning starters - Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris and Jalen Duren, plus second-year guys Ronald Holland and Marcus Sasser could be more involved. Chaz Lanier could provide value as a floor spacer in Year 1, especially after losing 487 made threes between Beasley and Hardaway, but it'll be difficult for the rookie to carve out a role on a contending team. Early in his career, efficiency and injuries kept Cunningham out of the Top 50, but if he stays on the court and maintains strong efficiency on high usage, he'll be a perennial first-round pick as long as this Pistons squad stays relevant.
Cunningham is coming off his best season in the NBA, setting career highs in points (26.1), assists (9.1) and rebounds (6.1) per game. He also improved his efficiency from the floor and took more trips to the free-throw line. Turnovers remained an issue, but the Pistons relied on him heavily as the primary playmaker, and a 2:1 AST:TO ratio is still strong. Health was another reason for Cunningham's jump in Year 4, making 70 regular-season appearances for the first time. Outside of his sophomore season, he's been relatively healthy, no more than 20 missed games in his other three campaigns, but it was important for Cunningham to submit a near-full campaign and put his early-career injury concerns to rest. After a historic bounce-back season, the Pistons were busy this offseason, replacing Tim Hardaway, Malik Beasley and Dennis Schroder with Duncan Robinson and Caris LeVert. Jaden Ivey is going to be healthy and will likely rejoin the returning starters - Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris and Jalen Duren, plus second-year guys Ronald Holland and Marcus Sasser could be more involved. Chaz Lanier could provide value as a floor spacer in Year 1, especially after losing 487 made threes between Beasley and Hardaway, but it'll be difficult for the rookie to carve out a role on a contending team. Early in his career, efficiency and injuries kept Cunningham out of the Top 50, but if he stays on the court and maintains strong efficiency on high usage, he'll be a perennial first-round pick as long as this Pistons squad stays relevant.
After a blockbuster mid-season trade sent Doncic to Los Angeles in exchange for Anthony Davis, the new-look Lakers took some time to find their groove. They eventually started to click and made it through the Play-In Tournament, but couldn't pull off an upset against the Timberwolves in the first round. Doncic's first action in Purple and Gold was limited, and the production was a bit strange. When comparing his regular-season action with the Mavericks (22 games) and Lakers (28) last season, Doncic had a lower field-goal percentage but a higher three-point percentage with his new team. He also had more free-throw attempts and shot a higher percentage from the charity stripe. However, he turned the ball over more. The overall production in 2024-25 was still gaudy in relation to the rest of the league, but it was a significant drop compared to his final full year in Dallas, when he averaged 33.9 points, 9.8 assists and 9.2 rebounds in 2023-24. Doncic, Austin Reaves and newcomers Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart are the core players under contract through the next two years, while LeBron James will be operating on an expiring deal after picking up his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26. The front office is clearly pushing all of their chips into the middle to fit Doncic's timeline, and he's expected to be the franchise's future, though James' presence likely caps Doncic's fantasy upside. Surprisingly, Doncic has finished inside the top five in eight-category leagues only once in his seven-year career, and last season was the first time he failed to crack the top 15 since his rookie campaign.
After a blockbuster mid-season trade sent Doncic to Los Angeles in exchange for Anthony Davis, the new-look Lakers took some time to find their groove. They eventually started to click and made it through the Play-In Tournament, but couldn't pull off an upset against the Timberwolves in the first round. Doncic's first action in Purple and Gold was limited, and the production was a bit strange. When comparing his regular-season action with the Mavericks (22 games) and Lakers (28) last season, Doncic had a lower field-goal percentage but a higher three-point percentage with his new team. He also had more free-throw attempts and shot a higher percentage from the charity stripe. However, he turned the ball over more. The overall production in 2024-25 was still gaudy in relation to the rest of the league, but it was a significant drop compared to his final full year in Dallas, when he averaged 33.9 points, 9.8 assists and 9.2 rebounds in 2023-24. Doncic, Austin Reaves and newcomers Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart are the core players under contract through the next two years, while LeBron James will be operating on an expiring deal after picking up his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26. The front office is clearly pushing all of their chips into the middle to fit Doncic's timeline, and he's expected to be the franchise's future, though James' presence likely caps Doncic's fantasy upside. Surprisingly, Doncic has finished inside the top five in eight-category leagues only once in his seven-year career, and last season was the first time he failed to crack the top 15 since his rookie campaign.
From an accolades perspective, Edwards' 2024-25 season was nearly identical to his 2023-24 season. Both years, he made Second Team All-NBA, finished seventh in MVP voting and lost in the Western Conference Finals. The most significant change to Edwards' game was his prolific three-point shooting, especially pull-up threes. After taking 6.7 triples per game in 2023-24, he took 10.3 triples last season, drilling 4.1 per game. Edwards achieved this while also maintaining his free-throw rate, mainly cutting down on his mid-range jumper attempts. With Minnesota bringing back the same core roster, minus the loss of Nickeil Alexander-Walker, not much is expected to change for Edwards. He'll be entering his age-24 season, having consistently made minor improvements to his game and making the All-Star team each of the past three campaigns. He's also been one of the healthiest players in the NBA, playing at least 72 games in each of his five seasons. Fantasy managers can consider drafting him near the end of the first round in all formats.
From an accolades perspective, Edwards' 2024-25 season was nearly identical to his 2023-24 season. Both years, he made Second Team All-NBA, finished seventh in MVP voting and lost in the Western Conference Finals. The most significant change to Edwards' game was his prolific three-point shooting, especially pull-up threes. After taking 6.7 triples per game in 2023-24, he took 10.3 triples last season, drilling 4.1 per game. Edwards achieved this while also maintaining his free-throw rate, mainly cutting down on his mid-range jumper attempts. With Minnesota bringing back the same core roster, minus the loss of Nickeil Alexander-Walker, not much is expected to change for Edwards. He'll be entering his age-24 season, having consistently made minor improvements to his game and making the All-Star team each of the past three campaigns. He's also been one of the healthiest players in the NBA, playing at least 72 games in each of his five seasons. Fantasy managers can consider drafting him near the end of the first round in all formats.
Young continues to put up 25-and-10 with ease, being voted to his fourth All-Star team last season. It marked his sixth straight campaign averaging at least 24.2 points and 9.3 assists. His 11.6 assists per game last season led the NBA, with Young adding 24.2 points and 2.9 threes on 41/34/88 shooting, 3.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals in 36.0 minutes. While his efficiency wasn't great, Young wasn't surrounded by other reliable sources of offense following Jalen Johnson's season-ending injury - forcing him to launch tons of tough pull-up triples. The Hawks revamped this offseason, however. The biggest addition is Kristaps Porzingis, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard are also in the mix. Zaccharie Risacher is also due for second-year development. A better, and hopefully healthier, supporting cast should allow Young's assist rate to stay high while potentially allowing for better shooting efficiency. Ultimately, he still projects as one of the league's most productive point guards and is in contention to be drafted at the end of the first round in fantasy.
Young continues to put up 25-and-10 with ease, being voted to his fourth All-Star team last season. It marked his sixth straight campaign averaging at least 24.2 points and 9.3 assists. His 11.6 assists per game last season led the NBA, with Young adding 24.2 points and 2.9 threes on 41/34/88 shooting, 3.1 rebounds and 1.2 steals in 36.0 minutes. While his efficiency wasn't great, Young wasn't surrounded by other reliable sources of offense following Jalen Johnson's season-ending injury - forcing him to launch tons of tough pull-up triples. The Hawks revamped this offseason, however. The biggest addition is Kristaps Porzingis, while Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Luke Kennard are also in the mix. Zaccharie Risacher is also due for second-year development. A better, and hopefully healthier, supporting cast should allow Young's assist rate to stay high while potentially allowing for better shooting efficiency. Ultimately, he still projects as one of the league's most productive point guards and is in contention to be drafted at the end of the first round in fantasy.
Davis has averaged at least 20 points, nine rebounds, two blocks and one steal in all but one season since his rookie campaign in 2012-13, making him an elite per-game fantasy option. However, he's made more than 56 regular-season appearances only twice in the past seven years, making him one of the riskiest picks in fantasy sports. One of the most surprising trades of this generation saw Dallas ship Luka Doncic overnight to the Lakers in exchange for Davis last February. The superstar big man struggled to stay on the court for the Mavericks, who also lost Kyrie Irving to a torn ACL. However, when available, Davis was a force and nearly led his new squad through the Play-In Tournament as the 10th seed. He underwent offseason surgery to repair a detached retina but is expected to be healthy to start 2025-26. With Irving sidelined to start the year, Davis and 2025 No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg will have added offensive responsibility early on. Dallas also has a deep frontcourt, with Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively, Dwight Powell and P.J. Washington, so Davis shouldn't have to exclusively play center, which he's been vocally opposed to in the past. The shift to power forward likely wouldn't be the best thing for his overall fantasy potential, as the farther away he gets from the basket, the more his key fantasy categories would drop (REBs, BLKs, FG%). Regardless, when he's consistently playing, Davis has always been a top-tier fantasy contributor.
Davis has averaged at least 20 points, nine rebounds, two blocks and one steal in all but one season since his rookie campaign in 2012-13, making him an elite per-game fantasy option. However, he's made more than 56 regular-season appearances only twice in the past seven years, making him one of the riskiest picks in fantasy sports. One of the most surprising trades of this generation saw Dallas ship Luka Doncic overnight to the Lakers in exchange for Davis last February. The superstar big man struggled to stay on the court for the Mavericks, who also lost Kyrie Irving to a torn ACL. However, when available, Davis was a force and nearly led his new squad through the Play-In Tournament as the 10th seed. He underwent offseason surgery to repair a detached retina but is expected to be healthy to start 2025-26. With Irving sidelined to start the year, Davis and 2025 No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg will have added offensive responsibility early on. Dallas also has a deep frontcourt, with Daniel Gafford, Dereck Lively, Dwight Powell and P.J. Washington, so Davis shouldn't have to exclusively play center, which he's been vocally opposed to in the past. The shift to power forward likely wouldn't be the best thing for his overall fantasy potential, as the farther away he gets from the basket, the more his key fantasy categories would drop (REBs, BLKs, FG%). Regardless, when he's consistently playing, Davis has always been a top-tier fantasy contributor.
The Suns officially turned a page this offseason after trading Kevin Durant and buying out Bradley Beal. However, Booker remains the franchise player, signing a two-way extension that puts him under team control through the 2029-30 campaign. Phoenix also lost Tyus Jones this summer, but the overall depth should actually be better in 2025-26, with Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Mark Williams and Khaman Maluach joining returning rotation players in Booker, Grayson Allen, Ryan Dunn, Royce O'Neale, Nick Richards and Collin Gillespie. The Suns also signed Euroleague Finals MVP Nigel Hayes-Davis, plus they have 2024 second-round pick Oso Ighodaro and 2025 second-round pick Rasheer Fleming as intriguing prospects. While there are plenty of guys worthy of consistent minutes, the talent at the top will be thin, and this squad isn't expected to make the postseason. Regardless, Booker is a true star, finishing as a top-25 player in eight-category leagues in five of the last six seasons. The only time he failed to crack that benchmark was in 2022-23, when he played in a career-low 53 regular-season games. Booker was still a productive fantasy player last season, but his work from deep wasn't great. He attempted a career-high 7.3 three-pointers per game but shot 33.2 percent, his lowest mark since 2018-19, when the Suns won only 19 games, fewest since their inaugural season in 1968. That's a concerning trend, but over the last seven seasons, Booker has posted 48/88/35 shooting splits and will have the greenest of lights to shoot through any slumps moving forward.
The Suns officially turned a page this offseason after trading Kevin Durant and buying out Bradley Beal. However, Booker remains the franchise player, signing a two-way extension that puts him under team control through the 2029-30 campaign. Phoenix also lost Tyus Jones this summer, but the overall depth should actually be better in 2025-26, with Jalen Green, Dillon Brooks, Mark Williams and Khaman Maluach joining returning rotation players in Booker, Grayson Allen, Ryan Dunn, Royce O'Neale, Nick Richards and Collin Gillespie. The Suns also signed Euroleague Finals MVP Nigel Hayes-Davis, plus they have 2024 second-round pick Oso Ighodaro and 2025 second-round pick Rasheer Fleming as intriguing prospects. While there are plenty of guys worthy of consistent minutes, the talent at the top will be thin, and this squad isn't expected to make the postseason. Regardless, Booker is a true star, finishing as a top-25 player in eight-category leagues in five of the last six seasons. The only time he failed to crack that benchmark was in 2022-23, when he played in a career-low 53 regular-season games. Booker was still a productive fantasy player last season, but his work from deep wasn't great. He attempted a career-high 7.3 three-pointers per game but shot 33.2 percent, his lowest mark since 2018-19, when the Suns won only 19 games, fewest since their inaugural season in 1968. That's a concerning trend, but over the last seven seasons, Booker has posted 48/88/35 shooting splits and will have the greenest of lights to shoot through any slumps moving forward.
A points-league maven, Antetokounmpo hasn't delivered first-round value in category leagues since 2021-22, when he shot 72.2 percent from the free-throw line. Since then, he's shot 64.5, 65.7 and 61.7 percent from the charity stripe. For a guy who takes double-digit trips to the line every night, those numbers can irritate fantasy managers in category leagues who aren't punting free-throw percentage. The other glaring concern in Antetokounmpo's profile is missed time, as he's been in street clothes for at least 15 regular-season games in five of the last six seasons. Despite the obvious flaws, the two-time MVP remains an elite producer and could see even more usage in 2025-26 after the Bucks waived Damian Lillard, who tore his Achilles during their last playoff run. The roster around Antetokounmpo has changed drastically since winning the title in 2020-21, with Kevin Porter, Gary Trent, Kyle Kuzma and Myles Turner now surrounding the Greek superstar in the first five. It's unclear if that supporting cast will be enough to elevate the Bucks back into contention, but the idea is clear: add floor spacers to create more room for Antetokounmpo to operate offensively. If you're paying up for Antetokounmpo, you have to be wary of his flaws, but when available, he's as consistent an option as it gets. He's averaged at least 30 points, 11 rebounds, six assists and two stocks while shooting over 60 percent from the field in back-to-back campaigns.
A points-league maven, Antetokounmpo hasn't delivered first-round value in category leagues since 2021-22, when he shot 72.2 percent from the free-throw line. Since then, he's shot 64.5, 65.7 and 61.7 percent from the charity stripe. For a guy who takes double-digit trips to the line every night, those numbers can irritate fantasy managers in category leagues who aren't punting free-throw percentage. The other glaring concern in Antetokounmpo's profile is missed time, as he's been in street clothes for at least 15 regular-season games in five of the last six seasons. Despite the obvious flaws, the two-time MVP remains an elite producer and could see even more usage in 2025-26 after the Bucks waived Damian Lillard, who tore his Achilles during their last playoff run. The roster around Antetokounmpo has changed drastically since winning the title in 2020-21, with Kevin Porter, Gary Trent, Kyle Kuzma and Myles Turner now surrounding the Greek superstar in the first five. It's unclear if that supporting cast will be enough to elevate the Bucks back into contention, but the idea is clear: add floor spacers to create more room for Antetokounmpo to operate offensively. If you're paying up for Antetokounmpo, you have to be wary of his flaws, but when available, he's as consistent an option as it gets. He's averaged at least 30 points, 11 rebounds, six assists and two stocks while shooting over 60 percent from the field in back-to-back campaigns.
Harden was a perennial top-5 fantasy player during his time in Houston, and returned to that echelon in 2024-25 thanks to 79 regular-season appearances, most since 2016-17. Not only was he healthier, but he also got back to shooting more three-pointers (3.0 makes on 8.5 attempts per game, highest marks since 2019-20), which boosted his scoring totals. Even when Harden wasn't flirting with the top tier, he was still a quality fantasy option, finishing inside the top-30 players in eight-category leagues in four straight seasons before his bounce-back campaign. Harden's resurgence can be partly attributed to his pick-and-roll connection with Ivica Zubac, who emerged as one of the best centers in basketball. There is even more room for Harden's offensive creativity to grow in this offense after the Clippers added floor-spacing big man Brook Lopez and high-flying John Collins to the frontcourt. They also swapped Norman Powell for Bradley Beal while signing veteran Chris Paul to add depth in the backcourt. Not to mention, returning rotation players like Kris Dunn, Derrick Jones, Nicolas Batum and Bogdan Bogdanovic will also command sizable roles. Head coach Tyronn Lue will have his hands full trying to get the most out of this deep roster, but the health of Harden and Kawhi Leonard will be paramount. If the star duo is available and firing on all cylinders, this could be one of the best teams in the league. Either way, Harden is in a position to submit another stellar statistical campaign as long as he can stay on the court.
Harden was a perennial top-5 fantasy player during his time in Houston, and returned to that echelon in 2024-25 thanks to 79 regular-season appearances, most since 2016-17. Not only was he healthier, but he also got back to shooting more three-pointers (3.0 makes on 8.5 attempts per game, highest marks since 2019-20), which boosted his scoring totals. Even when Harden wasn't flirting with the top tier, he was still a quality fantasy option, finishing inside the top-30 players in eight-category leagues in four straight seasons before his bounce-back campaign. Harden's resurgence can be partly attributed to his pick-and-roll connection with Ivica Zubac, who emerged as one of the best centers in basketball. There is even more room for Harden's offensive creativity to grow in this offense after the Clippers added floor-spacing big man Brook Lopez and high-flying John Collins to the frontcourt. They also swapped Norman Powell for Bradley Beal while signing veteran Chris Paul to add depth in the backcourt. Not to mention, returning rotation players like Kris Dunn, Derrick Jones, Nicolas Batum and Bogdan Bogdanovic will also command sizable roles. Head coach Tyronn Lue will have his hands full trying to get the most out of this deep roster, but the health of Harden and Kawhi Leonard will be paramount. If the star duo is available and firing on all cylinders, this could be one of the best teams in the league. Either way, Harden is in a position to submit another stellar statistical campaign as long as he can stay on the court.
After exercising his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26, rumors started to swirl that James' time with the Lakers may be coming to an end soon. The veteran superstar has yet to put those notions to rest, notably declining an interview while watching Summer League action in Las Vegas. However, reports indicate that James and the Lakers have not discussed a potential trade or buyout, and it'd be a short list of teams that could acquire him in either instance without massive tax implications. For now, it appears James will run it back in Los Angeles after earning All-NBA Second-Team honors last season. The mid-season blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic has completely altered the Lakers' outlook, and they made two more impactful moves this offseason to fit their new timeline, signing Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. The latest arrivals, along with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, are under contract through the 2026-27 campaign, which could make it difficult to re-sign James. On the court, James is still putting up strong numbers, though his 24.4 points per game last season was a career low. He's played in at least 70 regular-season matchups in back-to-back seasons, marking the first time he's cracked that plateau since appearing in all 82 during his final season in Cleveland (2017-18). There are plenty of warranted concerns when taking a player heading into their age-40 season, but James has defied Father Time before, finishing outside the top 20 in eight-category leagues only three times during his 21-year career.
After exercising his $52.6 million player option for 2025-26, rumors started to swirl that James' time with the Lakers may be coming to an end soon. The veteran superstar has yet to put those notions to rest, notably declining an interview while watching Summer League action in Las Vegas. However, reports indicate that James and the Lakers have not discussed a potential trade or buyout, and it'd be a short list of teams that could acquire him in either instance without massive tax implications. For now, it appears James will run it back in Los Angeles after earning All-NBA Second-Team honors last season. The mid-season blockbuster trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic has completely altered the Lakers' outlook, and they made two more impactful moves this offseason to fit their new timeline, signing Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart. The latest arrivals, along with Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves, are under contract through the 2026-27 campaign, which could make it difficult to re-sign James. On the court, James is still putting up strong numbers, though his 24.4 points per game last season was a career low. He's played in at least 70 regular-season matchups in back-to-back seasons, marking the first time he's cracked that plateau since appearing in all 82 during his final season in Cleveland (2017-18). There are plenty of warranted concerns when taking a player heading into their age-40 season, but James has defied Father Time before, finishing outside the top 20 in eight-category leagues only three times during his 21-year career.
Late-season injuries limited Maxey to 52 games, though he likely would have played if the 76ers were competitive. Philadelphia won just 24 games as Joel Embiid and Paul George combined for 60 appearances. That left a lot on Maxey's shoulders. His efficiency from the field took a hit (43.7 FG%), but the point guard averaged a career-high 26.3 points in addition to 6.1 assists and 1.8 steals with just 2.4 turnovers. He also played over 37 minutes per game (37.7) for the second straight season. Healthier seasons from George and Embiid could mean an efficiency bounceback and more assists for Maxey. If they continue to struggle with injuries, we know Maxey can pick up the scoring slack. All of that is to say that he's become the team's most reliable player - one who is producing All-Star numbers at 24 years old. There aren't many guards in the NBA better than Maxey in real life or fantasy. He should be considered for fantasy managers in the middle of the second round.
Late-season injuries limited Maxey to 52 games, though he likely would have played if the 76ers were competitive. Philadelphia won just 24 games as Joel Embiid and Paul George combined for 60 appearances. That left a lot on Maxey's shoulders. His efficiency from the field took a hit (43.7 FG%), but the point guard averaged a career-high 26.3 points in addition to 6.1 assists and 1.8 steals with just 2.4 turnovers. He also played over 37 minutes per game (37.7) for the second straight season. Healthier seasons from George and Embiid could mean an efficiency bounceback and more assists for Maxey. If they continue to struggle with injuries, we know Maxey can pick up the scoring slack. All of that is to say that he's become the team's most reliable player - one who is producing All-Star numbers at 24 years old. There aren't many guards in the NBA better than Maxey in real life or fantasy. He should be considered for fantasy managers in the middle of the second round.
Since being the No. 3 overall pick in 2020, Ball is averaging only 46.2 games played per season. He was an All-Star during his sophomore campaign, where he appeared in a career-high 75 games. The talent and ability to put up numbers are undeniable. The point guard is coming off his third straight season averaging at least 23.3 points, 3.2 made threes, 7.4 assists and 1.1 steals. Still, confidence in Ball has waned in the fantasy space, with managers often drafting him in the 20-30 range last season despite his age and upside. The fall could be farther this season, given that the NBA has no shortage of All-Star caliber guards with fewer health concerns. There's also the potential for Ball's usage to decrease as Brandon Miller's increases. The front office also wasn't shy about adding backcourt depth in the offseason, nabbing Collin Sexton, Spencer Dinwiddie and Kon Kneuppel while re-signing Tre Mann. There's still plenty of fantasy upside to be had in drafting Ball, but the risk/reward equation hasn't been tilting positively.
Since being the No. 3 overall pick in 2020, Ball is averaging only 46.2 games played per season. He was an All-Star during his sophomore campaign, where he appeared in a career-high 75 games. The talent and ability to put up numbers are undeniable. The point guard is coming off his third straight season averaging at least 23.3 points, 3.2 made threes, 7.4 assists and 1.1 steals. Still, confidence in Ball has waned in the fantasy space, with managers often drafting him in the 20-30 range last season despite his age and upside. The fall could be farther this season, given that the NBA has no shortage of All-Star caliber guards with fewer health concerns. There's also the potential for Ball's usage to decrease as Brandon Miller's increases. The front office also wasn't shy about adding backcourt depth in the offseason, nabbing Collin Sexton, Spencer Dinwiddie and Kon Kneuppel while re-signing Tre Mann. There's still plenty of fantasy upside to be had in drafting Ball, but the risk/reward equation hasn't been tilting positively.
Not only did Williams win his first title in 2024-25, but he was also selected to his first All-Star Game while receiving All-NBA Third-Team and All-Defensive Second-Team honors. He also got a handful of votes for the Most Improved Player award. The accolades were well deserved, as Williams has steadily improved across the board in each season. His efficiency regressed in Year 3, but he made up for it with volume. Johnson also appeared in a career-low 69 regular-season games after missing only 18 such contests through his first two seasons. He underwent offseason wrist surgery to address an injury that bothered him throughout the playoffs. He's expected to be healthy for training camp. The issue didn't stop the Thunder from signing Williams to a long-term extension this offseason, along with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, as they locked down their core for years to come. Coming off a championship and surgery, there are fair concerns about what Williams' workload will look like in Year 4. However, the 24-year-old wing has been a top-50 player in eight-category leagues in each of his first three seasons and has second-round upside when operating at 100 percent.
Not only did Williams win his first title in 2024-25, but he was also selected to his first All-Star Game while receiving All-NBA Third-Team and All-Defensive Second-Team honors. He also got a handful of votes for the Most Improved Player award. The accolades were well deserved, as Williams has steadily improved across the board in each season. His efficiency regressed in Year 3, but he made up for it with volume. Johnson also appeared in a career-low 69 regular-season games after missing only 18 such contests through his first two seasons. He underwent offseason wrist surgery to address an injury that bothered him throughout the playoffs. He's expected to be healthy for training camp. The issue didn't stop the Thunder from signing Williams to a long-term extension this offseason, along with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, as they locked down their core for years to come. Coming off a championship and surgery, there are fair concerns about what Williams' workload will look like in Year 4. However, the 24-year-old wing has been a top-50 player in eight-category leagues in each of his first three seasons and has second-round upside when operating at 100 percent.
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