Can you believe it? Preseason action is less than a month away, which means it’s officially fantasy basketball prep time! If you’re anything like me, you’re already itching to dive into those draft boards. Well, good news! RotoWire has got us covered with their top 150 category league rankings for the 2025-26 season. They’ve done all the heavy lifting, breaking down each player so we can get that crucial edge. Let’s dig in and see who’s worth grabbing, who’s a gamble, and who might just win you your league!
First off, let’s talk about the big names. Anthony Edwards actually led the whole NBA in 3-pointers last season with a whopping 320! Pretty impressive, right? If you haven’t started playing fantasy on Yahoo! yet, now’s definitely the time.
Okay, let’s dive into the rankings:
Nikola Jokić, DEN:
Sure, someone like Victor Wembanyama might have more upside, but seriously, Jokić is still the absolute safest pick in fantasy basketball, no matter your format. You can’t go wrong here.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, OKC:
He might not be the triple-double machine Luka Dončić is, but SGA is a better two-way player and a much more efficient shooter. Don’t underestimate that!
Victor Wembanyama, SAS:
This guy has the potential to be the best two-way player in the NBA this season. His offensive game is still a work in progress, but the sky’s the limit.
Luka Dončić, LAL:
After that trade from Dallas, Luka took over the Lakers’ offense. It looks like he’s coming into 2025-26 with a whole new body and mindset. Watch out!
Cade Cunningham, DET:
Cade absolutely exploded into first-round fantasy value last season, practically dragging the Pistons to the postseason. He might have maxed out his usage, but I’m betting on better efficiency this year.
Giannis Antetokounmpo, MIL:
Free-throw percentage is still a thing, but with Damian Lillard gone, Giannis could be poised for his best season ever. Imagine the possibilities!
Anthony Edwards, MIN:
Ant-Man has been one of the most durable stars in the league, and his 3-point shooting hit another level last year. To be truly elite in fantasy, he’ll need to step up his usage, efficiency, or defense even more.
Anthony Davis, DAL:
Being a top-3 fantasy player is totally in AD’s wheelhouse. But those injury issues keep cropping up, and he’s another year older. It’s always a tough gamble.
James Harden, LAC:
Just like AD, Harden can be a top-3 fantasy asset, but he’s on the wrong side of 35 now. Tread carefully.
Trae Young, ATL:
One of the best sources of 20-and-10 performances in the NBA. His shooting efficiency can be a rollercoaster, but he’s young enough to still make serious strides.
Devin Booker, PHO:
The Suns don’t have their own draft picks, so they’re super motivated to make the playoffs. That might just push Booker to have the best year of his career.
Stephen Curry, GSW:
Age and injury risk push Steph down this list, but don’t forget his upside! He can still put together an elite fantasy campaign that rivals almost anyone.
Tyrese Maxey, PHI:
There’s some uncertainty in Philly, and Maxey had his struggles last season. But he’s proven to be one of the most efficient guards, and with Joel Embiid’s health woes, he might officially be the driver of that offense now.
Jalen Williams, OKC:
J-Dub emerged as an All-Star last season and is one of the league’s most efficient two-way wings. Best-case scenario? SGA takes a tiny step back, letting Williams develop even more after their 2025 title. A bit of a reach, but I like it.
Karl-Anthony Towns, NYK:
Who knows what new coach Mike Brown’s game plan will be? It’s possible KAT plays more power forward this year, which might be good for the team but could actually hurt his fantasy value. Either way, he’s a first or second-rounder.
LeBron James, LAL:
LeBron just doesn’t seem to slow down. He’ll handle the ball less with Luka Dončić around, but that could mean better efficiency and less wear and tear for the King.
Evan Mobley, CLE:
He won Defensive Player of the Year and took real steps forward on offense, especially as a 3-point shooter and passer. If he makes another leap, Mobley could hit first-round value!
Donovan Mitchell, CLE:
Mitchell didn’t quite hit the heights he reached two years ago, but he’s still one of the best shooting guards in the NBA. Don’t forget that.
Kevin Durant, HOU:
KD clearly has first-round fantasy potential, but with his age and all that surrounding talent, the Rockets might ask him to play fewer minutes. Something to consider.
Domantas Sabonis, SAC:
Besides Jokić, Sabonis is our best triple-double threat at center. There are questions about Sacramento’s future, but Sabonis himself feels stable.
LaMelo Ball, CHA:
He continues to flash first-round fantasy upside, but also, you guessed it, he continues to get injured. He’s got more help than in past seasons, which theoretically caps his usage.
Scottie Barnes, TOR:
Toronto’s 2024-25 season didn’t go as planned, but they’ve reloaded with postseason aspirations. Barnes should still be the focal point, even with other playmakers in the starting five.
Jalen Brunson, NYK:
The main man on the Knicks, Brunson, is one of the most productive point guards out there. A small minutes reduction might be coming with new coach Mike Brown and added depth, but he’ll still produce.
Jalen Johnson, ATL:
Put up All-Star numbers last season before a season-ending injury. Atlanta has a lot of mouths to feed, but Johnson is theoretically the No. 2 option.
Josh Giddey, CHI:
He put up the best numbers of his career post-All-Star break last season and still projects as the Bulls’ lead playmaker in 2025-26. I like that.
Chet Holmgren, OKC:
Injuries have been an issue early in his career, but this season feels like a major step for Chet’s offensive development. Fingers crossed!
Amen Thompson, HOU:
One of the league’s best athletes, Thompson also proved to be one of the best and most versatile two-way players. His main fantasy barriers are the lack of a 3-pointer and subpar free-throw shooting.
Jaren Jackson Jr., MEM:
A 3-and-D center with increased offensive potential now that Desmond Bane has been traded to Orlando. That’s a nice bump.
De’Aaron Fox, SAS:
About to begin his first full season with the Spurs, Fox could form one of the best one-two punches in the NBA with Victor Wembanyama. Spicy!
Derrick White, BOS:
With the Celtics in a gap year, White has plenty of upside with an increased offensive role. But if the team struggles, he might see rest days down the stretch, which is a bummer.
Bam Adebayo, MIA:
One of the safest centers you can draft in fantasy basketball. Bam is a focal point for the Heat on both ends of the floor. Solid as a rock.
Paolo Banchero, ORL:
The leader of the Magic, looking like a star in the making. A healthier and improved supporting cast should only help him become more efficient. Exciting times for Orlando!
Pascal Siakam, IND:
With Tyrese Haliburton out and Myles Turner in Milwaukee, Siakam projects as Indiana’s lead option. Huge usage coming his way.
Dyson Daniels, ATL:
He had one of the best steals seasons in NBA history. But on a team that made significant offseason additions, his downside risk might be more than his upside. Watch out.
Tyler Herro, MIA:
Miami’s No. 1 option took an efficiency leap last season by trimming the fat from his offensive game. The team has more options this season, but Herro still projects to put up All-Star numbers.
Jaylen Brown, BOS:
Could have a monster season with the Celtics in a gap year, but there’s downside risk of Brown being rested down the stretch if the team struggles. Similar to White.
Alperen Sengun, HOU:
Continues to expand his offensive game. A consistent 3-point shot would take his fantasy value to the next level. Let’s hope he finds it.
Ja Morant, MEM:
Absences have diminished Morant’s fantasy value, but with Desmond Bane in Orlando, he’s in a great position this year to have high usage. When he’s on the court, he’s electric.
Trey Murphy III, NOP:
A shoulder injury ended Murphy III’s fantastic season early. He’s set to be New Orleans’ No. 2 option behind Zion Williamson. That’s a sweet spot.
Cooper Flagg, DAL:
He’ll have to compete for usage early with Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell—and later Kyrie Irving. But Flagg projects as someone who can stuff the stat sheet regardless of role. A rookie who could pop.
Austin Reaves, LAL:
The No. 3 option behind Luka Dončić and LeBron James. Despite that, Reaves can put up great fantasy value through efficient shooting and solid playmaking.
Myles Turner, MIL:
Replacing Brook Lopez, Turner should get plenty of open catch-and-shoot 3s generated by Giannis Antetokounmpo. He also has excellent shot-blocking upside if the Bucks keep playing drop coverage.
Desmond Bane, ORL:
Steps into a new situation, moving from the Grizzlies to the Magic. It’s unclear how much of a backseat he’ll take to Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner. A bit of an unknown.
Jamal Murray, DEN:
Injuries have been a slight issue for Murray, but he’s still Denver’s No. 2 option and has a locked-in two-man game with Nikola Jokić. Can’t argue with that chemistry.
Franz Wagner, ORL:
Inconsistent 3-point shooting has been strange for Wagner, but if he can find his shot, there’s definitely room for him to increase his fantasy value. I’m rooting for him.
Joel Embiid, PHI:
Health is a HUGE concern, and he wasn’t himself when on the court last season. Finding an appropriate draft slot for him is difficult. High risk, high reward.
Kawhi Leonard, LAC:
He had a strong end to last season when healthy, but health remains the concern for Leonard – as does age. It’s a recurring theme with these vets.
Deni Avdija, POR:
Put up fantastic numbers to end 2024-25, but is it replicable? At the very least, there’s more usage available after Deandre Ayton was bought out and Anfernee Simons was traded. I’m cautiously optimistic.
Darius Garland, CLE:
It doesn’t look like he’ll begin the season healthy, but Garland has 20-and-10 upside every time he takes the court. When he’s on, he’s on.
Brandon Miller, CHA:
Was having a breakout sophomore season before a season-ending injury. Miller still projects as the Hornets’ No. 2 option behind LaMelo Ball and a potential two-way force.
Zion Williamson, NOP:
Another season lost for Zion, who just can’t stay healthy. There’s still plenty of upside, but fantasy managers absolutely need contingency plans if you draft him.
Zach LaVine, SAC:
Production fell after being traded to Sacramento, but LaVine could find more chemistry this season and be hyper-efficient again. A bounce-back candidate.
Jimmy Butler III, GSW:
He fit in extremely well with the Warriors after being dealt there mid-season – and 2025-26 should be no exception. Age and injury history drop him down the draft board, but his impact is undeniable.
Coby White, CHI:
Projects as Chicago’s leading scorer this season and secondary playmaker behind Josh Giddey. He could feast.
Immanuel Quickley, TOR:
Injuries and the Raptors’ struggles derailed Quickley’s 2024-25. But he should be the team’s starting point guard and in contention for leading scorer every night. I like his potential for a big year.
OG Anunoby, NYK:
Had a great season with the Knicks, but he stayed exceptionally healthy for his injury history. He could also see fewer minutes with new head coach Mike Brown in place. A bit of a question mark.
Jordan Poole, NOP:
He goes from being the No. 1 option in Washington to the No. 3 option in New Orleans, but Poole showed he could be productive and efficient in a sixth-man role with Golden State. He’s got value.
Walker Kessler, UTA:
One of the better shot-blockers and rebounders in the NBA, Kessler fits the mold of a prototypical big man. He’ll get you those blocks.
Nikola Vučević, CHI:
Impressed last year with efficient shooting. It’s possible the Bulls will look to deal him around the trade deadline, which adds downside risk. Keep an eye on that situation.
Kristaps Porziņģis, ATL:
Health is also a concern here, but Porziņģis can put up All-Star numbers when he’s available. Frustrating, but true.
Josh Hart, NYK:
Coming off a career year fueled by playing an absurd amount of minutes, Hart could see his production drop if coach Mike Brown reins things in or decides to play bigger. Don’t expect a repeat performance.
Alex Sarr, WAS:
Poor shooting efficiency held Sarr back as a rookie, but he was a strong shot-blocker and showed some passing vision. Marginal increases across the board would go a long way in making Sarr a good fantasy center. He’s got potential.
Lauri Markkanen, UTA:
Struggled last season and missed time due to injury and rest. This could be a redemption year, but drafting him still comes with risk, given the Jazz project to be near the bottom again. Buyer beware.
Ivica Zubac, LAC:
Coming off the best season of his career, but will the Clippers pull back his minutes with the offseason additions of Brook Lopez and John Collins? That’s a real concern.
Jalen Green, PHO:
Efficiency has been an issue for Green, but he’s still a quality source of points and 3s, and young enough to make developmental strides. The talent is there.
Paul George, PHI:
Injuries keep piling up for the veteran, who didn’t look like himself last season. A bounce-back is possible, but draft with caution. He’s a big gamble.
Miles Bridges, CHA:
A source of well-rounded production at forward, though he could see a step back in role if LaMelo Ball stays healthy and Brandon Miller establishes himself as a true No. 2 option. More competition now.
Jalen Duren, DET:
This guy has 15-and-15 upside every time he takes the court. More minutes and better defense would take his fantasy value to the next level. I like Duren’s outlook.
Julius Randle, MIN:
Firmly the No. 2 option in Minnesota, Randle’s ceiling isn’t as high as it once was, but his floor is solid. A consistent producer.
DeMar DeRozan, SAC:
Put together solid numbers on his new team and should be in a similar position this year, though his age is starting to become a factor. He can still get it done.
Fred VanVleet, HOU:
Coming off a down season, it’s possible VanVleet is entering a new phase of his career where he takes a backseat to the other high-usage players on Houston. His role might shrink.
Mikal Bridges, NYK:
Arguably the most durable player in the NBA, though he didn’t assert himself in New York’s gameplan last season. I want to see more aggression from him.
Payton Pritchard, BOS:
Last season’s Sixth Man of the Year, who should have an opportunity to see starter-level minutes and usage in 2025-26. Sleeper pick? Maybe.
Michael Porter Jr., BKN:
Traded from the Nuggets to the Nets, how well will Porter Jr. fare away from the easy shots Nikola Jokić generates for his teammates? That’s the big question.
Brandon Ingram, TOR:
How big of a role will Ingram have on his new team? Either way, he struggles to stay healthy. Another injury concern.
Onyeka Okongwu, ATL:
Played well in an expanded role to end last season, but how much will Kristaps Porziņģis cut into Okongwu’s workload? That’s a definite hit to his value.
Anfernee Simons, BOS:
It’s possible the team doesn’t prioritize his minutes in Boston. That’s a tough break for him.
Cam Thomas, BKN:
Signed the qualifying offer to become an unrestricted free agent next season. If Brooklyn doesn’t feel they can keep him, they have little incentive to play him big minutes. It could be a bust this year.
Jakob Poeltl, TOR:
Coming off a great season, though, he saw extra touches with teammates often sidelined. He remains Toronto’s clear starting center, but likely with less upside. Still solid.
Andrew Nembhard, IND:
Projects as Indiana’s primary playmaker with Tyrese Haliburton out, though it remains to be seen how much Nembhard can actually scale up his game. Could be interesting.
Jalen Suggs, ORL:
Saw increased usage last year with Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner missing time, but with Desmond Bane in the fold for 2025-26, there are a lot fewer touches for Suggs. That hurts.
Shaedon Sharpe, POR:
With Anfernee Simons and DeAndre Ayton out of town, Sharpe has the potential to establish himself as Portland’s go-to scorer. He could break out.
Donovan Clingan, POR:
Expected to start at center as a sophomore and had excellent rebounding and block rates as a rookie. He’s a big body who can produce.
Ausar Thompson, DET:
Improved as last season went along, following a blood clot issue. There’s massive upside if Thompson can see 30 minutes per game consistently. A huge potential leap.
Mark Williams, PHO:
Puts up monster numbers per minute, but staying healthy has been an issue. Classic fantasy frustration.
Cameron Johnson, DEN:
Moving from Brooklyn to Denver means Johnson is the team’s No. 3 option at best, but he’s competing with Christian Braun and Aaron Gordon for secondary touches. Limited ceiling.
Rudy Gobert, MIN:
Not as impactful as he once was, Gobert’s days as an elite fantasy center are behind him. He’s still good, just not elite-elite.
Devin Vassell, SAS:
Last season was derailed by injury, but Vassell also continues to drop down the offensive pecking order. Not ideal for fantasy.
Matas Buzelis, CHI:
Finished last season strong and has intriguing fantasy value due to his athleticism and blocks upside from the forward position, not to mention better-than-expected 3-point shooting. A sneaky pick.
Isaiah Hartenstein, OKC:
Played well while sharing the court with Chet Holmgren, but has a capped upside for that reason. Still valuable for boards and blocks.
Jarrett Allen, CLE:
Allen’s shot-blocking has been decreasing, and it seems like the Cavaliers may start prioritizing playing Evan Mobley more at center. His role could shrink.
Kel’el Ware, MIA:
Earned coach Erik Spoelstra’s trust midway through last season and was a strong per-minute producer as a rookie. Could break into the next tier of fantasy centers if he sees 30 minutes per game. Keep an eye on him!
Naz Reid, MIN:
One of the best sixth men in the NBA, Reid always has the potential to put up big numbers if Rudy Gobert or Julius Randle miss time. Great handcuff or stream option.
Scoot Henderson, POR:
Development has been slower than expected, but there’s more usage available this season. This could be his year to shine.
RJ Barrett, TOR:
Has the potential to slip to Toronto’s No. 4 offensive option this year behind Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, and Immanuel Quickley. That’s a tough crowd.
Christian Braun, DEN:
Coming off a breakout season where he was one of the best transition players, but can Braun scale up his game any further within Denver’s offense? He might have hit his peak for now.
CJ McCollum, WAS:
Has always had a high fantasy floor, but McCollum doesn’t fit the Wizards’ rebuilding plans, which gives him downside risk. Could be traded, could be rested.
Draymond Green, GSW:
Remains a triple-double threat with defensive upside, but age gives him more risk than in years past. You know what you’re getting, but for how long?
Keegan Murray, SAC:
Hasn’t made sizable strides offensively and may be stuck as a fourth option. Needs to show more.
Nic Claxton, BKN:
Coming off a down year, Claxton needs to get back to doing traditional big man things to bring his fantasy value back up. I want blocks and rebounds, Nic!
Brandin Podziemski, GSW:
Started off last season slowly but improved as the campaign progressed, and is in line to see more usage if/when the Warriors’ three main vets miss time. He’s got upside.
Stephon Castle, SAS:
Took his game to the next level when Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox were out last season. Needs to improve 3-point shooting, but there’s the potential for Castle to be San Antonio’s No. 3 offensive option. Big potential.
Deandre Ayton, LAL:
Theoretically sees less usage with the Lakers than with the Trail Blazers, but should have a higher FG%. More efficient, but less volume.
D’Angelo Russell, DAL:
Expected to be Dallas’ starting point guard while Kyrie Irving rehabs from a torn ACL. He’ll have a clear runway to start the season.
Tari Eason, HOU:
An excellent per-minute fantasy player, but there are numerous barriers to him seeing starter’s minutes. So frustrating for fantasy owners.
Andrew Wiggins, MIA:
Played well after being dealt to Miami in the Jimmy Butler III deal, but Wiggins projects as the team’s No. 4 offensive option. Not a primary source of stats.
Toumani Camara, POR:
An underrated 3-and-D player, but it’s not clear how much he can scale up his game relative to his teammates. Limited upside, but a solid role player.
Jaden McDaniels, MIN:
A fantastic defender who is gaining more confidence on offense. If his shot comes along, he could be really valuable.
John Collins, LAC:
Puts up great numbers when given starter’s minutes, but that won’t necessarily be available on the Clippers – a deep and versatile roster. He’ll be fighting for minutes.
Zach Edey, MEM:
Won’t be ready to start the season but gained steam toward the end of his rookie year and projects as a nightly double-double threat. A monster on the boards.
Jaden Ivey, DET:
Improved his 3-point shooting before suffering an early-season-ending injury. Still, in theory, Detroit’s No. 2 offensive option. He could take a big step.
Malik Monk, SAC:
Trade rumors make Monk’s fantasy value murky for 2025-26, but we know he can produce when given a significant role. If he stays, he’s solid.
Santi Aldama, MEM:
Made strides last year as a playmaker and efficient shooter. An increased role could be in store with Desmond Bane in Orlando. Another potential beneficiary of a trade.
Bilal Coulibaly, WAS:
A quality defender who is still far too inconsistent on offense, though his development track was always expected to be long. High ceiling, low floor for now.
Bradley Beal, LAC:
Health reasons have caused a fall into a reduced role across the past handful of years – something that may not change with the Clippers. I’m wary.
Keyonte George, UTA:
If George can clean up his offensive efficiency, he could have a small breakout. However, Isaiah Collier and rookie Walter Clayton Jr. are nipping at his heels. Competition is fierce.
Herbert Jones, NOP:
One of the better defensive players in the NBA and has shown offensive flexibility in a limited usage role. Always a great source of steals.
Bobby Portis, MIL:
A solid frontcourt sixth man who could see an increased role if Milwaukee’s other role players can’t step up. Reliable for what he does.
Kevin Porter Jr., MIL:
Projects as Milwaukee’s starting point guard and potential No. 2 option, though he has some competition from Ryan Rollins and Cole Anthony. Could be a good value pick.
Norman Powell, MIA:
Had a late-career boom with the Clippers last year but seems unlikely to reach those heights again with the Heat. I’d temper expectations.
Bennedict Mathurin, IND:
An aggressive scorer who could see an expanded role with the Pacers down Tyrese Haliburton and Myles Turner. He’ll get his shots.
Tobias Harris, DET:
Had a solid year with the Pistons, but may fall down the pecking order if Jaden Ivey and Ausar Thompson make strides. His usage might drop.
Dereck Lively II, DAL:
Continues to expand his game, but injuries and a timeshare with Daniel Gafford have cut into Lively II’s value. The split minutes are frustrating.
Donte DiVincenzo, MIN:
Didn’t live up to expectations during his first year in Minnesota but could take on an expanded role with Mike Conley aging and Nickeil Alexander-Walker on the Hawks. A potential sleeper.
T.J. McConnell, IND:
Should see an increased role with Tyrese Haliburton out but is unlikely to reach 30 minutes per game. Solid, but capped.
Cason Wallace, OKC:
An excellent backcourt defender who can rack up steals, but there’s only so much room for him to operate on offense behind OKC’s Big 3. Defensive specialist.
Kyle Filipowski, UTA:
Showed off a dynamic skillset last year but remains part of a cluttered frontcourt. He’s got potential, but where will the minutes come from?
Quentin Grimes, PHI:
Demonstrated untapped upside at the end of last season when Philly’s key players were out, but there won’t be that kind of role available this season. Don’t fall for the late-season hype.
Isaiah Collier, UTA:
Has good passing vision and can bully his way to the free-throw line, but Collier needs to improve the rest of his offensive game. Rookie to watch.
Aaron Gordon, DEN:
Missed much of last season due to recurring injuries, but had an improved 3-point shot that could carry into 2025-26. If healthy, he’s a decent role player.
Collin Sexton, CHA:
A great producer when given the minutes, but how many minutes will actually be available in Charlotte? That’s the problem.
Kyrie Irving, DAL:
Worth a late-round pick to stash on injured reserve while he recovers from a torn ACL. He’ll come back strong, but it’ll be a wait.
Aaron Nesmith, IND:
Mostly a 3-and-D player, but could expand his role during Indiana’s gap year minus Tyrese Haliburton. More opportunities for him.
Jrue Holiday, POR:
Had been seeing a reduced role with the Celtics and is now in an unclear role with the rebuilding Trail Blazers. His value is tough to project.
Bub Carrington, WAS:
Shooting efficiency and defense need work, but Carrington looked ready as a rookie to be a quality playmaker sooner than later. However, CJ McCollum’s presence creates a role concern. He needs consistent minutes.
Jabari Smith Jr., HOU:
Does most of his offensive work as a spot-up shooter and in transition while being a mobile big defender, though he may be stuck as a role player in Houston’s roster. His ceiling might be limited.
P.J. Washington, DAL:
Has settled into a nice role with Dallas but is competing for frontcourt minutes and touches with the likes of Anthony Davis and Cooper Flagg. Too many mouths to feed.
Dejounte Murray, NOP:
Recovering from a torn Achilles, Murray may be back in action sometime around the New Year. Another big injury stash.
Keon Ellis, SAC:
Emerging as a great 3-and-D guard, but his role is a bit uncertain given the other guards Sacramento employs. Depth chart concerns.
Kyle Kuzma, MIL:
Could be Milwaukee’s No. 2 option, though that spot is relatively up for grabs after Giannis Antetokounmpo. I could see him having a big year if he seizes it.
Yves Missi, NOP:
Serviceable as a rim-protector on defense and rim-runner on offense last season, but he may not be able to scale up his usage. Role player, not a star.
Daniel Gafford, DAL:
Has tons of per-minute upside but is splitting time with Dereck Lively II. The timeshare caps his value.
Scotty Pippen Jr., MEM:
Ja Morant’s missed time has pushed Pippen Jr. into a bigger role at times, where he’s played well. Keep an eye on Memphis’s guard rotation.
Kyshawn George, WAS:
Displayed intriguing defensive potential last season and is capable of racking up both steals and blocks. A more consistent 3-pointer could vault him up the rankings. I’m intrigued by his defense.
Jay Huff, IND:
Seems likely to begin the season as Indiana’s starting center while Isaiah Jackson and James Wiseman recover from torn Achilles tendons. Huff has a 3-and-D skillset. Unexpected opportunity!
Zaccharie Risacher, ATL:
Slowly but surely became more productive as a rookie, but how much usage is available in Atlanta? That’s the real issue for him.
Cam Whitmore, WAS:
Couldn’t blossom in Houston, but could have more opportunities on a rebuilding team like Washington. A fresh start might do him good.
Dylan Harper, SAS:
May have to come off the bench as a rookie, but could still easily find his way into sixth-man minutes. High-energy player.
Ayo Dosunmu, CHI:
Should see secondary touches for the Bulls and can stuff the stat sheet on occasion. A reliable bench guy.
Dennis Schröder, SAC:
Sacramento’s guard rotation is unclear, but Schröder can be fantasy-relevant when seeing starter’s minutes. A veteran who can still produce when called upon.
That’s a lot to digest, isn’t it? But getting a handle on these rankings before your draft will give you a serious leg up. Good luck this season, and let’s go win some championships!
My Take
Okay, so looking at this list, I’m absolutely stoked for guys like Victor Wembanyama and Evan Mobley. Their defensive stats alone make them fantasy gold, and if their offense clicks, they’re first-rounders, no doubt. Jokić is still boringly brilliant, so you can’t hate him, but I’m always looking for that next-level guy. I’m a little nervous about the older vets like James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and Paul George; their injury histories are just too much for me to commit early-round picks. You’re constantly playing a guessing game there. Luka Dončić in L.A. with LeBron? That could be absolutely electric and I’m leaning towards him having a monster year, especially with his new mindset. On the flip side, players like Zion Williamson, while tempting, feel like a landmine waiting to explode, so I’d make sure to have solid contingency plans if I drafted him. I’m also really intrigued by the increased opportunities for players like Shaedon Sharpe and Kevin Porter Jr. – they could be huge value picks if their roles truly expand. And definitely keep an eye on players like Jay Huff and Kel’el Ware; unexpected minutes can lead to surprising fantasy production in deeper leagues. Ultimately, it’s all about balancing upside with injury risk, and I think this season, the young guns with big opportunities are where you’ll find your league-winners. Don’t be afraid to take a chance on a breakout candidate!
