Browsing: Fantasy

Allow me to reintroduce myself.

The Blueprint for the 2025-26 fantasy basketball season has arrived. (Photo by Henry Russell/Yahoo Sports)

Welcome to the 2025-26 Fantasy Basketball Blueprint — your draft prep and in-season management playbook. Inside, you’ll find the strategies, rankings, tiers and insider tips needed to build a roster with unreasonable doubt.

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[High Score is a new way to play Fantasy Basketball on Yahoo with simple rosters and scoring. Create or join a league]

But before we stack chips, you’ve got to know the block you’re building on.

High Score Rankings

9-Category

Points

MAGNA CARTA: How to get ready for drafts

• Understand your league’s scoring system: It sounds simple, but if you’re new to this, ensure you understand the format and league settings. Each league can have its own unique scoring settings. Familiarize yourself with these rules to draft players best suited to your league’s format.

• Whether it’s High Score, standard points, categories or rotisserie, tailoring a strategy to these rules can give you a crucial edge. The default scoring for private and public free leagues on Yahoo is now High Score (points-based scoring like fantasy football) and the default scoring for public prize leagues is head-to-head categories.

👉🾠Here’s aquick overview to decide which format is right for you.

• Formulate a plan:Create a draft plan that includes multiple scenarios and backup options for each round. This flexibility enables you to adapt to unexpected player runs or surprises, ensuring you maximize the value of every pick.

• Mock Draft! You can’t come in raw and unprepared — practice makes perfect! Participate in Yahoo mock drafts to get a feel for trends and a sense of player values. It’s a battle-tested way to try strategies and see where the likeliest places are to snag your must-have players.

• Monitor preseason performance: Although preseason stats can be misleading, they often indicate players who may have increased opportunities in the upcoming season. For example, Ja Morant suffered an ankle injury in practice and is considered week-to-week, elevating Ty Jerome and Scotty Pippen Jr. into deep league consideration in the later rounds of drafts.

• Use player projections:Yahoo’s 2025-26 projections are available once you’ve signed up for a league. If you’re looking for additional resources, Hashtag Basketball and FantasyPros also offer free projection models.

HOLY GRAIL: Draft strategy — High Score, Points and 9-Cat

Points Leagues: Run the numbers up

In Points leagues, target high-usage, high-minute players who fill the box score across points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks while limiting turnovers.

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High Score leagues differ in scoring weight — turnovers donâ€t count, and assists (2 points) are worth double that of rebounds (1 point), making guards more valuable. Bigs with guard-like versatility (e.g., Jokić, Giannis, Wembanyama) are exceptions, but traditional bigs lack the consistent upside to hit 30+ FPTS per game.

9-Cat Leagues: Building for balance

In 9-cat leagues, focus on balance and efficiency, prioritizing players who contribute without tanking percentages or turnovers. Punting categories (e.g., FT% or turnovers) can be a smart strategy, allowing you to dominate six or seven categories instead of all nine. Itâ€s a calculated approach to maximize value and simplify draft decisions.

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The availability factor

Durability is key in Points and 9-cat leagues, as missed games mean lost production. In High Score, however, only a playerâ€s best game of the week counts, making stars with injury risks (e.g., Joel Embiid, LaMelo Ball, Zion Williamson) top-15 picks due to their massive single-game ceilings.

👉🾠Here are sometips on how to manage your team in-season.

• Selecting injured players: Players who are hurt or have injury-prone labels will undoubtedly slide in drafts. Availability matters, and you’ll have a higher floor if you avoid them, leaving your draft with a player who’ll get fantasy points off the rip.

• Not setting your draft queue: Stack at least 3-5 players in your queue to save yourself from a panic or auto-pick. If you’re in shark-infested waters, make it 10 players, to account for sniping.

• Punting:Don’t overcomplicate your draft if you’re not experienced or practice the science of punting.

Dan Titus reveals his top avoids, breakouts, sleepers for 2025-26. (Photo by Henry Russell/Yahoo Sports)

Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis Grizzlies: JJJ’s fantasy value is inflated by blocks, but his low rebounding, assists and inconsistent scoring limit his upside. Entering the season injured, he’s not worth the draft cost in points leagues — hard pass.

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Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers: Leonard’s injury history and the Clippers’ focus on postseason health make it unlikely he plays more than 50 games. While valuable in roto or High Score leagues, he’s a risky fifth-round pick in 9-cat.

Josh Hart, New York Knicks: With Mitchell Robinson starting at center and Towns at PF, Hart is likely out of the starting lineup. His production peaked last year. In a reduced role, he won’t justify his 51.7 ADP in any format.

Paul George, Philadelphia 76ers: George had arthroscopic knee surgery in July with no firm timeline to return. I’d stay away. He just can’t seem to get it right, and even with his injury profile factored into his 7th-8th round ADP, the numbers are declining.

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Ausar Thompson— G/F, Detroit Pistons:Ausar enters the season healthy and ready to dominate after averaging 1.12 fantasy points per minute last year. With elite defense and potential growth in scoring and rebounding, he’s poised to outperform his ADP of 90.

Andrew Nembhard – G, Indiana Pacers:Nembhard will take on a key playmaking role for the Pacers, averaging 11 points, 6 assists and 3 rebounds in 26 minutes without Haliburton last year. With over 30 minutes expected this season, he’s a solid mid-round fantasy target.

Shaedon Sharpe — G/F, Portland Trail Blazers:Sharpe steps into a bigger role with Anfernee Simons gone, averaging 27.6 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 10 games without him last year. Year 4 looks promising for Sharpe and the Blazers.

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Nikola Jović — F, Miami Heat:With a new contract and two preseason starts, Jović seems to have the edge over Kel’el Ware, offering more playmaking, floor spacing and shotmaking. He’s currently going 141st in Yahoo drafts. I still like Ware’s upside, but Jović is right there with him.

Matas Buzelis – F, Chicago Bulls:The Bulls’ commitment to Buzelis signals his importance, and he’ll start in Year 2 after averaging 13 points, 4 rebounds and 1 block in under 27 minutes as a rookie. With increased minutes, he’ll easily justify his 96th overall ADP.

Here are theguardsandfrontcourt players whom I like in High Score, and below are a few other players in deep leagues I’m targeting across formats.

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Kyshawn George – G/F, Washington Wizards:George is earning high praise for his offseason development, as evident in his play at the AmeriCup and Summer League. His growing playmaking and defensive versatility will have him emerge as a starter by midseason. In the meantime, he’s a guy I’m targeting in the later rounds of 9-cat leagues.

Jaylen Wells – G/F, Memphis Grizzlies: The Grizzlies’ injuries are piling up. Even before that, Desmond Bane’s trade opened up more minutes and opportunities for the second-year pro. His defense and 3-point shooting are already solid; now, we’re about to see him level up in fantasy as well.

Jay Huff – C, Indiana Pacers: Huff’s efficiency stands out — he posted 1.15 High Score FPPM in just 750 minutes last season. He’ll be in a timeshare with Isaiah Jackson, but with Jackson coming off an Achilles injury, Huff will still prove valuable in 20-25 minutes. He can be more than just a late-round block specialist.

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Teams to buy:

Oklahoma City Thunder

Some championship hangover is expected, but OKC remains a fantasy powerhouse. The Thunder’s pace, explosive offense, strong defense and high-efficiency system provide value in every format.

Denver Nuggets

Having Nikola Jokić on your team elevates everyone around him. Players like Cam Johnson, Jamal Murray and Aaron Gordon thrive alongside the best player and passer in the game.

Houston Rockets

The Rockets may lack efficiency, but their youth, tempo and tenacity make them a fantasy goldmine. Expect plenty of counting stats on both ends of the floor despite losing Fred VanVleet.

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Orlando Magic

Adding Desmond Bane elevates the Magicâ€s offense from bottom-tier to mid-pack, improving their fantasy floor. His shooting creates space for Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner to thrive in a more fluid system.

Indiana Pacers

The Pacers†system of ball movement, spacing and pace has become a league model. Even without Tyrese Haliburton, their depth and physicality keep them a fantasy-friendly team.

Other teams I like:

Teams to sell:

Philadelphia 76ers

Injuries are piling up with Jared McCain (thumb) out and no timeline for Paul George or Joel Embiid. Tyrese Maxey benefits, but the rest of the team is risky, especially after ranking bottom 10 in offensive efficiency last year.

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New York Knicks

The Knicks revamped their bench to reduce starter dependency, which was a fantasy goldmine under former head coach Tom Thibodeau. With Mike Brown now coaching, expect minute adjustments that could lower starter production.

Brooklyn Nets

Michael Porter Jr. and Cam Thomas are the only fantasy targets here. With tanking, deep rotations and bottom-three offensive efficiency last year, the Nets are a risky fantasy investment.

Other teams I don’t like:

• Phoenix Suns (Devin Booker and Jalen Green only)

• Milwaukee Bucks (Giannis is cool)

• Toronto Raptors (too many wings)

YOUNG FOREVER: Rookies who could make an impact

Hoping for the best — but expecting the worst — from this rookie class.

How will Cooper Flagg do in his first year at fantasy basketball? (Photo by Henry Russell/Yahoo Sports)

Cooper Flagg – F, Dallas Mavericks

Flagg enters the league as the top-ranked rookie, backed by an impressive collegiate career, USA Select team performances and a strong Summer League showing. While his third- or fourth-round ADP feels steep, his scoring, defense and underrated playmaking make him a valuable fantasy asset. His preseason debut? A solid 10 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 1 block in just 14 minutes.

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Ace Bailey – F, Utah Jazz

Bailey has a chance to start immediately, making him a great late-round flier in points leagues, especially High Score formats. As a volume shooter with the ability to contribute rebounds and blocks, he offers intriguing upside right out of the gate.

Tre Johnson – G, Washington Wizards

Johnsonâ€s shot-creation and scoring ability make him a solid late-round bench option in points leagues. Heâ€s especially appealing in High Score formats, though his rookie season will likely feature some boom-or-bust performances.

Ryan Kalkbrenner – C, Charlotte Hornets

Kalkbrenner faces competition from Moussa Diabate and Mason Plumlee, but has the size and skill to become a reliable rim protector and rebounder. While it may take time to climb the depth chart, heâ€s a long-term solution for the Hornets with Mark Williams now in Phoenix.

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Yang Hansen – C, Portland Trail Blazers

With Robert Williams IIIâ€s health in question, Hansen could step into backup minutes behind Donovan Clingan. Though more of a waiver option for now, his strong Summer League play shows he can generate fantasy points quickly on a per-minute basis.

Players on my fantasy basketball rosters after Draft Day.

Guards

Amen Thompson – G/F, Houston Rockets:Amen flashed elite rebounding and defensive instincts last season, averaging roughly 1.15 fantasy points per minute. Playing alongside Kevin Durant should open up lanes for drives and assist opportunities. The lack of 3s and forgettable FT percentage are the only two knocks on an otherwise elite fantasy profile. No Fred VanVleet means Amen and Reed Sheppard will be running the show.

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Tyrese Maxey – G, Philadelphia 76ers:The undisputed No. 1 option in Philadelphia, Maxeyâ€s efficiency and scoring volume make him a safe bet in all formats. His usage spike ensures multiple 40-plus-point fantasy nights, even with the health concerns surrounding the Sixers’ roster.

Jalen Green – G, Phoenix Suns:Greenâ€s move to Phoenix gives him the green light to score at will. With Booker drawing defensive gravity, he’s always available and has a clean slate to fire away — the exact kind of highly explosive player you’ll want for High Score.

Kyshawn George – G/F, Washington Wizards:One of the more intriguing deep sleepers, Georgeâ€s size and floor spacing give him multi-position upside. If he cracks the starting lineup, his length and shooting could push him into must-roster territory.

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Forwards

Paolo Banchero – F, Orlando Magic:The Magic finally have spacing, and that means more playmaking for Banchero. I’m in the minority, but I think we’ll see the best version of Paolo yet. With Desmond Bane in town, expect upticks in assists and field-goal efficiency and fewer turnovers. I still prefer him in points over 9-cat leagues, but I’d still get him in 9-cat.

Trey Murphy III, F, New Orleans Pelicans:Murphy is one of the leagueâ€s best breakout bets for 2025–26. When healthy last season, he averaged 0.98 fantasy points per minute. His combination of athleticism, 3-point volume, and efficiency gives him a real shot at making an All-Star-like leap — both in real life and fantasy.

Deni Avdija – F, Portland Trail Blazers:Avdijaâ€s game has always hinted at versatility, and in Portland, heâ€ll finally be unleashed. After the All-Star break last year, Avdija averaged 23-10-5. Handling the ball more and attacking mismatches, heâ€s a glue guy with the stat diversity to post strong all-around lines.

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Bennedict Mathurin – G/F, Indiana Pacers:Mathurinâ€s aggressiveness is finally being matched with opportunity. He can get hot quickly, and as long as he locks in on defense, he’ll be one of those boom players who’s ideal for High Score. He’ll also be solid for 9-cat leagues.

Santi Aldama – C, Memphis Grizzlies:Aldama remains under the radar but continues to produce whenever given minutes. His shooting and rebounding profile make him a sneaky floor-spacer who can hit double-digit points and boards in under 25 minutes. Aldama will play heavy minutes to start the year and is still being picked outside of the top 100 on Yahoo.

Tari Eason – F, Houston Rockets:Eason ranked in the 91st percentile in fantasy points per minute among frontcourt players. His energy translates directly into rebounds, steals and buckets. If his minutes climb, heâ€s one of the most efficient stat-stuffers available after Round 10.

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Centers

Jalen Duren – C, Detroit Pistons:Durenâ€s double-double consistency anchors Detroitâ€s frontcourt. He’s in a contract year and has shown growth as a short-roll playmaker. He averaged an impressive 1.23 fantasy points per minute last season, and as his rim protection improves, that number should only climb in his fourth season.

Isaiah Hartenstein – C, Oklahoma City Thunder:Always a per-minute beast (~1.10 fantasy points per minute), Hartenstein is being undervalued in the market across formats. He does everything but shoot 3s and make free throws at a high clip. However, I love him as a sixth- or seventh-round pick if I don’t nab bigs earlier in the draft.

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Kelâ€el Ware – C, Miami Heat:Jović’s hype is building, but I’m still targeting more shares of Ware. He averaged over 1.0 fantasy points per minute last season and has so much potential as a rim runner. His ADP is falling because he came off the bench in the Heat’s past two preseason games; I would buy the dip.

Thanks for vibing with The Fantasy Basketball Blueprint. You have my tips, strategies and my favorite targets; now it’s time to take the throne. Good luck this season!

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  André SnellingsOct 7, 2025, 10:52 AM ET

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  Dr. André Snellings is a senior writer for men’s and women’s fantasy basketball and sports betting at ESPN. André has a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering from Michigan. He joined ESPN in 2017 after a 16-year career as a neural engineer, during which time he was also a writer and analyst for Rotowire.

What does your perfect fantasy basketball draft look like?

This is a question you should consider before your draft begins, when you’re still in the planning stages.

Even now, after all these years of playing fantasy sports, I still do this before most big drafts — I look at where I’m picking in the draft and decide who, among those likely to be there, I’ll take first. And then I look at where my next picks are and compare that to the player rankings, to see who I want most among players in the right range for me to take.

Most of the people in your leagues aren’t going to go into the draft with much of a plan, and just hope for the best. So, if you step into the draft with an idea about what the talent looks like at different parts of the draft, it will give you a leg up on the competition right from the opening tip.

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The best way to gauge what your team might look like, in my experience, is to do mock draft(s) before my real drafts to get a feel for what players should be available. Will my sleeper picks be there, or does everyone know about them so they go earlier than expected?

Often, there are really good players ranked lower than you expect that might be available later than you think. Having an idea of how this tends to shake out before you enter your draft can be very valuable for maximizing your squad.

In this article, I highlight players I would like to draft at different locations within the draft. In the early rounds, draft slot makes a huge difference in what players might be available, so I point out players of interest in different parts of the round. In the middle and later rounds, I highlight groups of players that I like that should be available in that range.

To determine likelihood of availability, I utilize average draft pick (ADP) data to offer insight on the type of value that might be available throughout your own drafts.

The foundation

Round 1: The best at the top

Cade Cunningham blossomed in his fourth NBA season, but still has room to grow. Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

• If I have the first pick in a points league, I’m taking Nikola Jokic (1.4 ADP) immediately. If I have the first pick in a category league, I’m taking Victor Wembanyama (3.5 ADP) just as quickly. And if I have the second pick, in either format, I’m taking whichever of the two isn’t taken first. Jokic has been the top fantasy points producer for the past five seasons, and Wembanyama is the only player that has a legitimate chance to overtake him.

• If I’m picking in the middle of the round, in a points league I’m aiming at either Giannis Antetokounmpo (4.6 ADP) or Anthony Edwards (6.1 ADP). Antetokounmpo will be a nightly triple-double threat on this Bucks team, as he takes on an even larger creation role in the post-Damian Lillard era for a squad full of finishers. His only weakness, free throw shooting, would cause Antetokounmpo to slide toward the end of the first round in category leagues. Edwards, on the other hand, is equally valuable in both formats. His volume makes him the top-ranked wing in points leagues, but his increase to the top of the league in 3-point volume solidifies his value in category leagues as well.

• At the end of the first round, my preference would be either Cade Cunningham (8.9 ADP) or Anthony Davis(8.8 ADP). Cunningham blossomed last season, his fourth in the NBA, in the first time he was healthy enough to play 70 games. He joined the league leaders in both points and assists and was a nightly triple-double threat, and having just turned 24 years old in September he still has clearly achievable upside to get even better.

  Davis finished sixth in the league in total fantasy points last season but only played 51 games, the fourth time in the past five seasons he has played 56 or fewer games. This is, of course, what makes Davis a risky pick in the first round. But on the positive side, Davis has higher per-game production potential this season, as the primary option on the Mavericks, than he had with the Lakers prior to the trade. In his first game with the Mavericks after the trade, Davis was well on his way to a dominant triple-double before injury felled him.

  With Kyrie Irving sidelined for at least half the season, Davis will be the focal point at both ends of the court on an otherwise balanced Mavericks squad that will rely on his production. Davis played a career-best 76 games in 2023-24, and if he can approach that number this season he has top-5 overall fantasy production potential in both points and categories formats.

Round 2

Editor’s Picks

2 Related

• Based on ADP, the best two value picks I’d target early in the second round would be Trae Young (12.2 ADP) or Karl-Anthony Towns (12.5 ADP). Young projects to more fantasy points as well as the higher rank in category leagues, likely to lead the league in assists again on a Hawks team that has added more finishers this offseason. But I also really like Towns here, as a high-volume/high-efficiency big-man scorer with dual-position eligibility in a league where there aren’t many ultra-elite power forward options.

• Still, the best value in Round 2, regardless of where you’re picking, could be James Harden (19.4 ADP). Harden returned the fourth-most fantasy points in the league last season, trailing only Jokic, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Antetokounmpo. He projects to first-round value in category leagues and borderline first-round value in points leagues, making him a strong second-round pick in either format. Harden also has dual-position eligibility, adding to his value in a league otherwise chock-full of quality point guard-eligible players.

Late Round 2/Early Round 3: Brunson and Mitchell

• Jalen Brunson (20.3 ADP) has been a high-volume producer for the Knicks for the past few years under Tom Thibodeaux, but this season he’ll be playing for Mike Brown. Brown has a history of leading strong offenses, including in 2022-23 when Brown’s Kings led the NBA in team offensive rating. Brunson could be even better this season than he has been, providing good value late in the second round or early in the third.

• Another player to look for in this range is Donovan Mitchell(21.2 ADP). Mitchell’s volume dropped last season, in large part because the Cavaliers were so successful (average scoring margin +9.5 PPG) that each of their starters played fewer minutes because they weren’t needed. Mitchell’s 31.4 MPG were a career low. But if the Cavaliers, for any reason, don’t enjoy the same level of success this season as last, and Mitchell’s minutes return closer to his career 33.8 MPG, his production would likewise increase and he could return value higher than his draft position.

Round 3: Brown and Giddey

• Jaylen Brown (26.3 ADP) enters this season as the unquestioned No. 1 option for the Celtics this season. Over the past two seasons, Brown’s scoring average increased from 22.2 PPG next to Tatum to 26.8 PPG in the games Tatum missed. If he’s physically up to carrying the load, Brown could be in for a big season.

• Josh Giddey (30.9 ADP) had never been a player one would target this early in fantasy hoops drafts, but he broke out in a major way last season once the Bulls sent Zach LaVine to Sacramento and focused on building around Giddey and Coby White. In the last 19 games he played, starting Feb. 20, Giddey averaged 21.2 PPG, 10.7 RPG and 9.3 APG. He has incredible upside this season.

Round 4: Two young wings

• Cooper Flagg (32.8 ADP) is the first rookie mentioned here, and he has some of the biggest name hype in fantasy hoops drafts based on his exploits in college. But Flagg, to my eye, is ready for the big time. In the NBA summer league in Las Vegas, he showed he had both the physicality and the game to thrive in the NBA from Day 1. With Kyrie Irving sidelined for the first half of the season, Flagg should step into a large offensive role for the Mavericks while playing off Anthony Davis.

• Amen Thompson (36.7 ADP) was one of the highest potential players in the 2023 NBA draft, and after an injury-filled rookie season he exploded onto the scene when he got starting minutes as a sophomore. The Rockets traded away wings Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks for Kevin Durant this offseason, then lost point guard Fred VanVleet to injury. Thompson will be asked to play major minutes and wear a lot of hats on this Rockets team, and at still only 22 years old he could be in for another major leap in Year 3.

Middle rounds (Rounds 5-8)

Josh Hart’s versatile game and impact on both sides of the ball is appealing in the middle rounds. Sarah Stier/Getty Images

• Josh Hart (45.8 ADP) has an extremely fantasy-friendly, across-the-board stat-filling game that tends to outproduce his reputation in both points and categories leagues. Last season, Hart returned the 19th-most fantasy points on the season. He is good value in the middle rounds of a fantasy hoops draft.

• Derrick White (47.7 ADP) returned the 33rd most fantasy points last season and looks poised for a larger role this season with Jayson Tatum sidelined. White is a solid shooter and scorer, but he is another that gives positive contributions across the board, including strong 3-pointers, steals and even solid blocked shots for a guard. For that reason, he is even more valuable in category leagues (preseason rank 19th) than points.

• Jalen Green (56.4 ADP) produced the 44th-most fantasy points last season as the somewhat inconsistent leading scorer for the Rockets. Green was the centerpiece in the trade for Durant this offseason, and should be in a heavy-volume but secondary role behind Devin Booker for the Suns this season. This is a better situation for Green than what he enjoyed with the Rockets, because defenses will be keying on Booker but Green should still get as much or more volume in Phoenix than what he got in Houston. Green is still only 23 years old, and he has played all 82 games in two straight seasons, so he has both upside and a reputation for durability.

• Walker Kessler (72.5 ADP) has nightly double-double potential and should be among the league leaders in blocked shots. That can be solid for a starting center in points leagues, but the shot-blocking is very valuable in category leagues and has him ranked 54th in the preseason category rankings.

• Deni Avdija (74.6 ADP) showed serious signs of breaking out last season, his first with the Trail Blazers, particularly in the second half of the season. After the All-Star break, Avdija averaged 23.3 PPG, 9.7 RPG and 5.2 APG. The Trail Blazers have Avdija as their centerpiece this season, and if he approaches those values he would dramatically outplay his draft slot.

Late rounds (Round 9 and beyond)

Reed Sheppard could be in line for a major bump in minutes in his second NBA season. Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

• Kevin Porter Jr. (86.7 ADP) averaged 19.2 PPG, 5.7 APG and 5.3 RPG as the full-time starter for the Rockets in 2022-23. This season, with Damian Lillard gone, Porter could get that type of run for the Bucks. Porter is still only 25 years old, and could be in for the best season of his career playing off Antetokounmpo.

• Alex Sarr (99.4 ADP) projects as a nightly double-double threat whose scoring as a sophomore could push into the upper-teens for the Wizards. But his value is even higher in category leagues, where he has the upside to average 4+ combined blocks, 3-pointers and steals per game from the center slot.

• Shaedon Sharpe (107.9 ADP) was drafted into the NBA as a player with limitless potential, and he has improved each season. The Trail Blazers dealt leading scorer Anfernee Simons in the offseason, opening up the opportunity for Sharpe to blossom into a 20+ PPG scorer in his fourth season. Still only 22 years old, Sharpe continues to be one of the bigger upside plays in the league.

• Andrew Nembhard (109.3 ADP) and Bennedict Mathurin (120.2 ADP) are two of the leading candidates to step into the increased opportunities left by the absence of Tyrese Haliburton. Mathurin has bounced back and forth between starting and sixth-man roles, but he has already shown 20 PPG potential with upside. Nembhard has produced solid numbers while starting next to Haliburton, but he also had a legendary playoff run with Haliburton injured two seasons ago that suggests he could have dramatically higher upside as the general of the team.

• Kyrie Irving (120.5 ADP) and Dejounte Murray (132.2 ADP) would both be stash candidates. Both are coming off major surgery and are currently expected back sometime in the New Year. It is always risky to pick players in these situations, and even after they return they are likely to have minutes restrictions as they ramp up to speed. But if you have drafted a team strong enough to withstand their absence, the upside is that you could get high-round value joining your team in time for the stretch run and fantasy playoffs.

• Reed Sheppard(139.3 ADP) had the game to be one of the bigger rookie impacts of the 2024 draft class, but the depth of the Rockets on the perimeter relegated him to few minutes and stints in the G League. The Rockets traded two wings for Durant, who is likely to play more of a 3-4 hybrid, and their starting point guard Fred VanVleet is out for the season. Sheppard could be in-line for starting minutes this season, and if so he has major upside. In that scenario, I’d rank him conservatively as a top-75 producer in both points and categories formats.

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Weâ€re less than a month away from the start of the 2025-26 NBA season, which makes this a great time to go through our positional rankings at Rotoworld.

You can find our Top 50 guards here and our Top 50 centers here, but we’re discussing forwards in this article. From a fantasy standpoint, this position has been dominated in recent years by Giannis Antetokounmpo, with Anthony Davis and Kevin Durant among the others who have offered elite value. But there are some young talents who stand to be the future of the position, led by Oklahoma City’s Jalen Williams.

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Here’s how we value the top 50 forwards in fantasy basketball for the 2025-26 season, starting with Giannis.

Check it out: Follow the new Rotoworld Hoops account on X!

NBA: Houston Rockets-Media Day

2025-26 Fantasy Basketball Draft Prep Guide: Rankings, strategy, sleepers, mock draft results, and more

Your one-stop-shop for Rotoworldâ€s fantasy basketball draft coverage.

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.2 blocks

Antetokounmpo was his usual dominant self for the Bucks in 2024-25, averaging at least 30 points, 11 rebounds and six assists per game for the second consecutive season. He focused even more on dominating inside the arc, with the 63 three-point attempts being the fewest in a season for the Bucks star since 2014-15. Antetokounmpo, a first-team All-NBA selection who finished third in MVP voting, shot 62 percent from two. However, he only made 61.7 percent of his free throw attempts, and selecting him in the first round likely kicks off a team build in which free throw percentage is punted. As for his team situation, the Bucks underwent a significant overhaul this past offseason. Damian Lillard (Portland) and Brook Lopez (LA Clippers) are out, but the team signed Myles Turner to a four-year deal in free agency.

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2. Anthony Davis, Dallas Mavericks

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 24.7 points, 11.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.2 steals, 2.2 blocks, 0.7 three-pointers

Davis was a major part of one of the most stunning transactions in recent NBA history, as he was traded to the Mavericks in early February as part of a package that netted the Lakers one Luka DonÄić. Unfortunately for Davis and the Mavericks, his debut was cut short by a groin injury that would sideline him until late March. There was also an eye injury suffered during the season that led to Davis undergoing surgery to repair a detached retina during the offseason. As of mid-September, there were still questions regarding his availability for the start of training camp and the beginning of the regular season. When healthy, Davis is among the elite players in fantasy basketball, regardless of position. However, he’s surpassed the 60 games played mark twice since the 2017-18 season.

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3. Kevin Durant, Houston Rockets

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 26.6 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 0.8 steals, 1.2 blocks, 2.6 three-pointers

While Durant’s second full season in Phoenix was successful regarding his individual numbers, it was highly disappointing from a team standpoint. The Suns failed to reach the postseason, with KD’s campaign ending in late March due to an ankle injury. And with Phoenix unsuccessful in its attempt to move Durant at the February trade deadline, it was expected that he’d be on the move this summer. Sure enough, KD was traded to the Rockets in July as part of a seven-team trade, with the hope in Houston being that he’ll be the missing piece that makes them a title contender. Unfortunately, Houston’s chances took a hit recently with Fred VanVleet suffering a torn ACL, leaving the Rockets even lighter at the point guard position. However, this should have a minimal impact on Durant’s fantasy value, especially if he has more opportunities to initiate offense. While he may not be a player who has to be selected in the first round of standard league drafts, the argument can still be made.

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4. Jalen Williams, Oklahoma City Thunder

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.6 steals, 0.7 blocks, 1.8 three-pointers

J-Dub is coming off the best season of his NBA career. In addition to helping lead Oklahoma City to its first NBA title, Williams recorded career-high averages in points, rebounds, assists, steals, blocks and three-pointers while shooting 48.4 percent from the field and 78.9 percent from the foul line. He earned his first All-Star Game appearance and was also named third team All-NBA and second team All-Defense. This summer, he agreed to a five-year rookie max extension worth nearly $240 million, so his future is secure financially. Provided he remains healthy and Oklahoma City continues on its current path, Williams is capable of providing first-round production playing alongside reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

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5. Jalen Johnson, Atlanta Hawks

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 18.9 points, 10.0 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 1.6 steals, 1.0 blocks, 1.2 three-pointers

After enjoying a breakout season in 2023-24, Johnson was even better last season. He recorded career-high averages in points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocked shots while shooting 50 percent from the field and 74.6 percent from the foul line. Unfortunately, Johnson’s season would end in January as he was diagnosed with a torn labrum in his left shoulder. Availability may be the biggest concern for Johnson in fantasy basketball, as he’s surpassed 60 games just once in his four NBA seasons. Also of note was Atlanta acquiring Kristaps Porziņģis from the Celtics. Does Johnson start at the three next to Porziņģis and Onyeka Okongwu? Or, does he remain at the four with one of those two coming off the bench? The latter option would likely be better for Johnson’s fantasy value in 2025-26.

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6. Pascal Siakam, Indiana Pacers

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 20.2 points, 6.9 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.5 blocks, 1.6 three-pointers

Siakam’s first full season with the Pacers went well, as he earned his third All-Star Game appearance and helped lead the team to the NBA Finals. Indiana would lose to Oklahoma City in seven games, and the series finale included an injury that stands to significantly alter Siakam’s role in 2025-26. With Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles) done for the season, Siakam stands to have the ball in his hands more, even with the capable Andrew Nembhard serving as the starting point guard. Siakam, whose usage decreased slightly in 2024-25, should hit the high-20s in that category. Efficiency has rarely been an issue for the forward, who also has center eligibility in Yahoo leagues, and he’s capable of producing a top-25 fantasy season with Haliburton unable to play.

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7. Scottie Barnes, Toronto Raptors

Positions: SG/SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 19.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.4 steals, 1.0 blocks, 1.2 three-pointers

After earning an All-Star Game invitation the season prior, Barnes was unable to duplicate that feat in 2024-25. While his averages did not slip much, the Raptors’ forward once again struggled from deep after making a career-best 34.1 percent of his attempts in 2023-24. Barnes made 27.1 percent of his 4.3 attempts per game, slightly worse than his career percentage (30.0). Expected by many fantasy managers to approach top-20 value, Barnes failed to crack the top-50 in 9-cat formats. Toronto adds Brandon Ingram to the fold; his shooting ability may help open things up for Barnes, provided he stays relatively healthy.

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8. Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis Grizzlies

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.5 blocks, 2.0 three-pointers

An All-Star for the second time in his NBA career last season, Jackson underwent turf toe surgery in early July and is not guaranteed to be available when the regular season begins in October. However, that should impact a player like Santi Aldama more than Jackson regarding draft value. JJJ provided third-round value last season in 74 games played, and the combination of three-point shooting and defensive stats makes him a valuable asset to have on your roster. Jackson has averaged at least 22 points per game each of the last two seasons, but fantasy managers undoubtedly hope he can get the rebounding up to his 2022-23 levels (career-best 6.8 boards per game).

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9. LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 24.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 8.2 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.6 blocks, 2.1 three-pointers

The oldest active player in the NBA, James will turn 41 on December 30, and the age does impact his draft position. However, the four-time NBA champion continues to fend off “Father Time” in search of another NBA title. James has appeared in at least 70 games each of the last two seasons, a positive trend for a player who failed to crack that threshold each of the five seasons prior. Even with Luka DonÄić now being the focal point in Los Angeles, LeBron will continue to be highly productive. The age factor makes him difficult to commit to with a top-25 pick in standard leagues, but he should not be on draft boards much longer than that.

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10. Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 25.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.6 blocks, 1.9 three-pointers

Banchero was outstanding when on the court last season, posting career-best averages in points, rebounds and three-pointers. However, the first significant injury of his NBA career, a torn oblique muscle, limited the Magic forward to 48 games. Banchero returned in mid-January and only missed two more games, Orlando’s final two contests of the regular season, and he’s expected by many to be a breakout player in 2025-26. The hope is that this will translate into fantasy value, as Banchero was ranked outside the top-100 in 9-cat formats while ranking just inside that threshold in 8-cat. The turnovers will be key, as Paolo averaged 3.0 per game in 2024-25.

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11. Franz Wagner, Orlando Magic

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 24.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.7 three-pointers

For fantasy managers in category leagues, Wagner has been a better fit than his teammate Banchero. While he also missed time last season with a torn oblique muscle, Wagner still appeared in 60 games and was a top-40 player in 8- and 9-cat formats. Franz produced career-best averages in points, rebounds, assists, steals and three-pointers while shooting 46.3 percent from the field and 87.1 percent from the foul line. If Wagner can improve his three-point shooting (29.5 percent in 2024-25), that would raise his fantasy ceiling even higher. Banchero may be the headliner in Orlando for many, but don’t sleep on Wagner.

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12. Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 Stats: 22.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.8 three-pointers

Jayson Tatum suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon during Boston’s second-round series against the Knicks prompted significant changes to the roster. Kristaps Porziņģis (Atlanta) and Jrue Holiday (Portland) were traded, while Luke Kornet (San Antonio) and Al Horford (free agent; expected to sign with the Warriors) left via free agency. While the Celtics still have talent on the roster, Brown will be expected to serve as the team’s primary scoring option while they await Tatum’s return. While efficiency and the foul line can be problematic for Brown, the circumstances make him worth the risk in fantasy drafts.

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13. Kawhi Leonard, LA Clippers

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 21.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 1.6 steals, 0.5 blocks, 2.1 three-pointers

While Leonard has been the focus of headlines this offseason regarding his contract, the good news for the Clippers and fantasy managers is that he’s healthy. That means the offseason has been used to sharpen skills instead of rehab from another injury. Does this mean the injury management days are over? That can’t be guaranteed. Leonard only played in 37 regular-season games in 2024-25, and he’s surpassed 60 once since appearing in 74 games for the Spurs during the 2016-17 campaign. The Clippers made some significant changes to the roster, adding Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, John Collins and Brook Lopez, which should help take some of the pressure off Leonard offensively. However, the usage should not be a concern; he’ll still lead the way offensively when available. The concern is Leonard’s availability.

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14. Trey Murphy, New Orleans Pelicans

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 21.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.7 blocks, 3.0 three-pointers

Numbers-wise, the 2024-25 season was the best of Murphy’s career, as he logged career-best averages in points, rebounds, assists and blocked shots while matching his previous highs in steals and three-pointers. A torn labrum and a partially torn rotator cuff in his right shoulder ended Murphy’s season in mid-March, but he’s been given a clean bill of health and was even scrimmaging in the weeks leading up to training camp. New Orleans did acquire Jordan Poole this summer, and they’ll have a healthy Zion Williamson to start. But, they remain without Dejounte Murray (Achilles) and CJ McCollum was sent to Washington in the Poole trade. Murphy has the game to be a highly impactful fantasy option regardless of who the Pelicans have on the floor, as evidenced by his nearly top-25 2024-25.

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15. Deni Avdija, Portland Trail Blazers

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 16.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.5 blocks, 1.7 three-pointers

After four seasons in Washington, Avdija was traded to Portland, and the change of scenery did wonders for him. While the versatile forward was moved to the bench in November after beginning the season as a starter, he regained the starting job for good after Christmas. From December 28 on, Avdija averaged 19.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.9 three-pointers while shooting 49.2 percent from the field. Avdija showed last season that he should be a key building block in Portland, which only increases his value to fantasy managers. Could a top-50 season be in the cards? It would be unsurprising if that were the case.

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16. Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks

Position: SF

2024-25 Stats (at Duke): 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, 1.4 blocks, 1.4 three-pointers

Flagg entered his lone season of college basketball as the projected first overall pick, and his production may have exceeded the hype. The 6-foot-9 forward was a menace on both ends of the floor at Duke and should begin his rookie season in Dallas as a starter. While there wasn’t a large sample size of what Flagg can do as a primary playmaker, as he only appeared in two Summer League games, there should be opportunities as the Mavericks await Kyrie Irving’s return from a torn ACL. He’s the lone rookie in this class worth selecting with a top 50 pick, and it’s fair to argue Flagg is the only one who should be a top-100 pick in standard leagues.

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17. Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25: 19.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.7 steals, 2.9 three-pointers

After two excellent seasons in Utah, Markkanen’s numbers took a significant hit in year three. His averages decreased across the board, and the 6-foot-10 forward was limited to 47 games by injuries and the Jazz looking to increase their draft lottery odds (it didn’t work). Markkanen was outstanding in leading Finland to a fourth-place finish at EuroBasket this summer, and under normal circumstances, that could be taken as a sign that he’s ready for the upcoming season. However, even with the Jazz saying they won’t actively tank again this season, they’re competing in a Western Conference that will be extremely deep. That’s the concern when it comes to using an early-round pick on Markkanen.

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18. Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 1.2 steals, 0.9 blocks

Once again, injuries limited Williamson’s availability, as he appeared in just 30 games in 2024-25. He’s surpassed 60 games twice in six NBA seasons, which includes missing the entire 2021-22 campaign. Williamson is healthy and received praise for his physique during the Pelicans’ media day, but fantasy managers have been here before. He’ll be most valuable to teams in which three-pointers and/or free-throw percentage are being punted, but none of that matters if Zion can’t stay on the court. There’s no doubt that, when healthy, Williamson can be a top-50 fantasy player despite the lack of three-point production and subpar foul shooting.

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19. OG Anunony, New York Knicks

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 18.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.9 blocks, 2.3 three-pointers

Anunoby’s first full season with the Knicks was excellent, with his scoring average increasing by more than three points per game. Compared to his 2023-24 numbers, the 6-foot-8 forward also recorded superior averages in rebounds, assists, steals and blocked shots. The question for Anunoby and the other Knicks is what the offensive system will look like with Mike Brown taking over as head coach. If Brown can get New York to play with increased pace and spacing, an athletic wing like Anunoby can certainly benefit. Expecting another top-50 season from OG would be reasonable.

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20. Jimmy Butler III, Golden State Warriors

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 17.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, 5.4 assists, 1.4 steals, 0.6 three-pointers

Butler began last season in Miami, and the deterioration of that relationship could be predicted as soon as the Heat decided not to give him an extension last summer. Traded to the Warriors at the February deadline, Butler appeared in 30 regular-season games for Golden State, averaging 17.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 1.7 steals and 0.6 three-pointers in 32.7 minutes. While capable of offering elite fantasy value when available, Butler’s availability has been the issue. He’s surpassed 60 games once since the 2019-20 season and has not been an All-Star since 2021-22. The move west also gave Butler the financial security he desired, as the Warriors signed him to a two-year extension to make the trade happen, and that should help keep him locked in this season.

21. Michael Porter Jr., Brooklyn Nets

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 18.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 0.6 steals, 0.5 blocks, 2.5 three-pointers

After seven seasons in Denver, Porter was traded to the Nets this summer in a deal that sent Cameron Johnson in the opposite direction. While MPJ loses out on the opportunity to contend for a title, the move to Brooklyn could result in more scoring from the 6-foot-10 forward. In the six seasons he saw action (Porter did not play in 2018-19), MPJ had a usage percentage over 22 percent twice. That won’t be an issue on a Nets roster that includes five 2025 first-round picks. If Porter can score efficiently despite being on a rebuilding team, his fantasy value may improve after providing middle-round value while in Denver.

22. Julius Randle, Minnesota Timberwolves

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 18.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 0.7 steals, 1.6 three-pointers

Randle’s first season in Minnesota was one that required significant adjustments on his part, sharing the court with Anthony Edwards and Rudy Gobert, among others. Compared to his final season in New York, Randle’s scoring and rebounding decreased, but he did help Minnesota reach the Western Conference Finals for a second consecutive season. The area of concern for Randle in category leagues is turnovers; averaging 2.8 per game in 2024-25, he ranked outside the top-100 in 9-cat formats. If Randle can get the turnover average closer to two per game, he should not have much trouble finishing the season as a top-100 player, at a minimum.

23. DeMar DeRozan, Sacramento Kings

Position: SF

2024-25 Stats: 22.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 4.4 assists, 0.8 steals, 1.1 three-pointers

After spending the three seasons prior in Chicago, DeRozan moved to Sacramento last summer via sign-and-trade. While his averages decreased slightly, the dip was not enough to have a significant impact on the veteran forward’s fantasy value. After Sacramento fired Mike Brown, DeRozan averaged 23.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, 4.7 assists, 0.5 steals and 1.3 three-pointers per game while shooting 47.6 percent from the field. With Doug Christie’s interim tag being removed, fantasy managers should expect similar production from DeRozan. What may help him this season is Sacramento addressing the point guard position in free agency, signing Dennis Schröder.

24. Mikal Bridges, New York Knicks

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 17.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.5 blocks, 2.0 three-pointers

After spending the 2023-24 season as Brooklyn’s top offensive option, Bridges took on a supplementary role in his first season with the Knicks. However, while the decrease in scoring was unsurprising, he was also less productive in other categories such as rebounding, defensive stats and three-pointers. While there are questions as to how the Knicks will play offensively with Mike Brown replacing Tom Thibodeau as head coach, one thing not up for debate is Bridges’ availability. He’s yet to miss a game as an NBA player, and the reliability enhances his fantasy value.

25. Brandon Miller, Charlotte Hornets

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 21.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.1 steals, 0.7 blocks, 3.9 three-pointers

After finishing third in Rookie of the Year voting in 2024, Miller improved his averages across the board in his second season. However, a torn ligament in his right wrist ended the forward’s season in mid-January, limiting him to 27 games. Miller can be highly productive when on the court, but his prospects in 2025-26 depend not only on his health but also on that of LaMelo Ball. Miller is capable of approaching top-50 value, but the injury-shortened 2024-25 season may push him a bit further down draft boards.

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26. Ausar Thompson, Detroit Pistons

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 10.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.7 steals, 0.7 blocks

27. Josh Hart, New York Knicks

Positons: SG/SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 13.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 1.5 steals, 1.1 three-pointers

28. Cameron Johnson, Denver Nuggets

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 18.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 0.9 steals, 2.8 three-pointers

29. Brandon Ingram, Toronto Raptors

Positons: SG/SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 0.9 steals, 0.6 blocks, 2.4 three-pointers

30. Miles Bridges, Charlotte Hornets

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 20.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.7 blocks, 2.2 three-pointers

31. Norman Powell, Miami Heat

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 Stats: 21.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.2 steals, 3.0 three-pointers

32. Devin Vassell, San Antonio Spurs

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 Stats: 16.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.5 blocks, 2.5 three-pointers

33. Tari Eason, Houston Rockets

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 12.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.7 steals, 0.9 blocks, 1.1 three-pointers

34. Paul George, Philadelphia 76ers

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 1.8 steals, 0.5 blocks, 2.3 three-pointers

35. Jaden McDaniels, Minnesota Timberwolves

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 12.2 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.9 blocks, 1.2 three-pointers

36. John Collins, LA Clippers

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 19.0 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.0 steals, 1.0 blocks, 1.5 three-pointers

37. Draymond Green, Golden State Warriors

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 9.0 points, 6.1 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.5 steals, 1.0 blocks, 1.2 three-pointers

38. Andrew Wiggins, Miami Heat

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 18.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.8 blocks, 2.2 three-pointers

39. Naz Reid, Minnesota Timberwolves

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 14.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.9 blocks, 2.2 three-pointers

40. Herbert Jones, New Orleans Pelicans

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 10.3 points, 3.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.9 steals, 0.5 blocks, 1.1 three-pointers

41. Santi Aldama, Memphis Grizzlies

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 12.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 0.8 steals, 1.8 three-pointers

42. Tobias Harris, Detroit Pistons

Position: PF

2024-25 Stats: 13.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.8 blocks, 1.2 three-pointers

43. Bilal Coulibaly, Washington Wizards

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 Stats: 12.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.7 blocks, 1.1 three-pointers

44. Toumani Camara, Portland Trail Blazers

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 11.3 points, 5.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.6 blocks, 1.7 three-pointers

45. Matas Buzelis, Chicago Bulls

Positions: SF/PF

2024-25 Stats: 8.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.0 assists, 0.9 blocks, 1.2 three-pointers

46. Klay Thompson, Dallas Mavericks

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 Stats: 14.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 0.7 steals, 3.0 three-pointers

47. Jabari Smith Jr., Houston Rockets

Positions: PF/C

2024-25 Stats: 12.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.1 assists, 0.7 blocks, 1.7 three-pointers

48. Kyshawn George, Washington Wizards

Positions: SG/SF

2024-25 Stats: 8.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.0 steals, 0.7 blocks, 1.7 three-pointers

49. Aaron Nesmith, Indiana Pacers

Position: SF

2024-25 Stats: 12.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.8 steals, 1.9 three-pointers

50. Nikola Jović, Miami Heat

Position: PF

2024-25 Stats: 10.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 0.8 steals, 1.7 three-pointers

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What is a sleeper? There can be multiple interpretations of who the word can apply to, and there are so many factors that can impact that. Depending on league size, scoring format or even fandoms within leagues, players are valued uniquely in every single league.

In my mind, a player is a “sleeper†if consensus isnâ€t high enough. Some of these players are sleepers in the more traditional sense that you can find them on the waiver wire or trade for them pretty easily. A few may already hold decent value, but I think there is still a ton of untapped potential there.

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So basically, this is a list of dynasty sleepers, but that doesnâ€t mean every player on this list will be a sleeper in your league. I would say that dynasty leagues should roster 250-300 players at minimum, but some people play in leagues that roster 150 players, and I have a league that can roster over 600 players, depending on how many IR spots are being used.

Some of these players may be such deep cuts that you shouldnâ€t consider rostering them in your dynasty league that rosters 200 players. Others may not qualify as a sleeper in a league that rosters 400+ players. And of course, if youâ€re playing with friends that are all fans of the same team, theyâ€re probably all well aware of a player that most may consider as a sleeper.

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Here are 11 players Iâ€d consider sleepers in dynasty leagues:

1. SG/SF Kyshawn George, Washington Wizards

I was lower on George entering last yearâ€s draft, but his rookie season really impressed me. He averaged 8.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 1.0 steal and 1.7 three-pointers per game. His shooting ability was arguably his strongest attribute entering the league, but he shot really poorly during his first year at 37.2 percent from the floor and 32.2 percent from deep. Iâ€m confident his shot will come around, and his defense and playmaking were both really strong for a rookie. The Wizards have a lot of young talent on this roster, and George sticks out as one of the more well-rounded.

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2. PG/SG Keon Ellis, Sacramento Kings

Eventually, someone is going to give Ellis a consistent starting job, and heâ€ll quickly become an elite player in fantasy. This may or may not be the year. The Dennis Schroder signing doesnâ€t give me much hope, but Ellis is talented enough to be worth hanging onto, and he can still be productive in a reserve role. He averaged 8.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.5 steals, 0.8 blocks and 1.7 three-pointers in 24.4 minutes per game last season. All he needs is a chance, and he can be a dominant source of threes and defensive stats.

3. PF Nikola Jovic, Miami Heat

I think Jovic has the chance to be an excellent late-round value pick in redraft leagues, which means that his dynasty value could skyrocket quickly. That just means you need to acquire him before the hype train leaves the station. Last season, Jovic averaged 10.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.7 three-pointers in 25.1 minutes per game. I already had Jovic pinned as a dynasty sleeper, but Erik Spoelstra starting him over Kelâ€el Ware only makes this more true. Miami is going to need help on offense with Tyler Herro (ankle) sidelined, and Jovicâ€s presence in the opening group will help with that. He could break out sooner rather than later.

4. C Ryan Kalkbrenner, Charlotte Hornets

Sometimes, dynasty sleepers arenâ€t long-term options. They can also be players that are being undervalued that are set up to have a run of success, but they can quickly become overrated and should be traded after that. Kalkbrenner fits that mold. The center rotation in Charlotte is wide open, with Kalkbrenner competing with Moussa Diabate and Mason Plumlee. He averaged 19.2 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 2.7 blocks per game for Creighton last season as one of the best players in college basketball. Thereâ€s also, of course, the chance that Kalkbrenner could end up having a successful NBA career after dominating college basketball. Many dynasty managers may be scared off by him being 23 years old, but thereâ€s a path for quick and sustained success.

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5. SF/PF Jake LaRavia, Los Angeles Lakers

The 2022 first round pick spent the first two years of his career in Memphis before being traded to the Kings at the deadline last season. He hasnâ€t seen a consistent role with either of his two previous teams, but he has a chance with Los Angeles this season. LaRavia should play a significant reserve role for the Lakers, which will give him an opportunity to finally live up to his potential, though in a limited capacity. However, it wonâ€t be long before LeBron James retires. LaRavia could get the first opportunity to be the small forward of the future in Los Angeles. He averaged 6.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.9 three-pointers per game between his time with the Grizzlies and Kings last season.

6. PF/C Jonathan Mogbo, Toronto Raptors

When Mogbo got the chance last season, he was able to turn in some excellent performances. In 18 starts during his rookie year, Mogbo averaged 7.7 points, 6.5 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.7 blocks per game. Heâ€s not much of a shooter, but the well-rounded production makes him an enticing fantasy option. The short-term downside is that Toronto has multiple players that fit this mold as well in Scottie Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles. Playing all three together could create headaches for opposing teams when Toronto is on defense, but those same headaches will be replicated when the Raptors are on offense. Whether it is with Toronto or elsewhere, Mogbo has intriguing potential.

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7. C Goga Bitadze, Orlando Magic

Though the Magic may prioritize Wendell Carter Jr. in the lineup, Bitadze was a fantastic fantasy option last season when he was given the opportunity. It may not be with Orlando, but Bitadze could end up being a valuable player with a new team. In 42 starts last year, Bitadze averaged 9.1 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.9 steals and 1.8 blocks in just 24.9 minutes per game. WCJ fits better alongside Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner due to his spacing ability, so this could be another scenario where Bitadze ends up breaking out on a different team. The encouraging thing is that weâ€ve already seen it happen. Now, we just need him to get an opportunity to play a large role somewhere else.

8. SF Jaylon Tyson, Cleveland Cavaliers

The 2024 first round pick is going to get a chance to shine early on with Darius Garland (toe) sidelined to start next season and Max Strus (foot) set to miss a few months. Tyson wonâ€t start unless there is another injury, but he had success when he played a large role last season, which includes a 16/11/7/2 line in a start in November and a 31/7/4/3/1 line with four triples as a starter in April. He also averaged 19.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, 6.7 assists, 1.3 steals, 1.3 blocks and 2.7 threes per game during summer league.

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Donovan Clingan is among the second-year players with top-100 potential heading into the 2025-26 NBA season.

9. C Oso Ighodaro, Phoenix Suns

Phoenix added Ighodaro in the second round of the 2024 draft, and he showcased some enticing upside during summer league. They put the ball in his hands, and he was able to average 12.3 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.8 steals and 0.8 blocks per game in Las Vegas. If theyâ€re able to develop him into a seven-foot ball handler, the sky is the limit.

10. C Adem Bona, Philadelphia 76ers

When Joel Embiid has been sidelined, Bona has turned in some impressive performances, and it appears that heâ€ll get the opportunity to play a large role often this year. Over the final two months of last season, Bona averaged 10.8 points, 6.7 rebounds and 2.0 blocks in 23.4 minutes per game while shooting 70.7 percent from the floor. With Embiidâ€s health always in question, Bona could get a chance to play a significant role this season.

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11. PF/C Mouhamed Gueye, Atlanta Hawks

Gueye was the starter in place of Jalen Johnson down the stretch of last season, and while he didnâ€t play big minutes, he was effective when he was given the opportunity. He played at least 20 minutes nine times last year, and he averaged 9.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, 1.7 steals, 1.3 blocks and 1.1 threes per game while only exceeding 25 minutes once. In that game, he played 33 minutes and grabbed 18 rebounds. Gueye may not get as much of an opportunity for what should be a better Hawks team this season, but heâ€s worth stashing.

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  Eric MoodyOct 6, 2025, 12:00 PM ET

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  Eric Moody is a writer for fantasy football, men’s and women’s basketball, and sports betting at ESPN. Eric joined ESPN in 2021 after working as a senior fantasy analyst at Pro Football Network. Prior to that, he spent much of his career as a manager at a Fortune 100 financial services company.

As the NBA gears up for an exciting training camp and preseason, fantasy basketball managers should keep a close eye on key position battles across the league.

Who wins and loses these competitions for starting spots and more minutes will go a long way toward shaping players’ fantasy value. Unlike the NFL, where position battles often revolve around executing specific plays or packages, basketball’s fight for playing time is far more nuanced. Success on the hardwood depends not just on individual skill but also on chemistry and fit with teammates.

After a busy offseason of roster changes and player movement, these looming position battles add an extra layer of intrigue as fantasy basketball draft season begins.

Boston Celtics guards: Payton Pritchard, Derrick White, Anfernee Simons

The Celtics’ backcourt is shaping up as one of the most intriguing fantasy puzzles this preseason. Pritchard enters the year as the reigning Sixth Man of the Year and should have an expanded role with Jayson Tatum sidelined. His elite catch-and-shoot ability and solid ball-handling make him a reliable contributor in points, 3-pointers and assists, even off the bench. If he earns starter-level minutes, his fantasy ceiling rises significantly.

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White is the floor-general and consistent scorer, capable of filling multiple stat categories. Without Tatum, White could see a bump in usage, making him a steady, versatile option for fantasy managers. His ability to create for himself and others keeps him in play across points, assists and 3-pointers.

Simons is the wild card. A proven scorer and elite 3-point shooter, he can erupt for huge fantasy performances, particularly in catch-and-shoot situations. The challenge: adjusting to a system where he isn’t the primary option. Simons also has trade rumors swirling, adding intrigue. How Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla deploys him alongside White and Pritchard during the preseason will be crucial for evaluating upside. Watching rotations, minutes and combinations in early games will give fantasy managers a preview of which guard or combination offers the best value this season.

Indiana Pacers center: Isaiah Jackson, Jay Huff

This preseason battle comes down to who will replace longtime big man Myles Turner as Indiana’s starting center. Jackson, a former first-round pick, has been developing steadily since arriving in Indiana and has the inside track after working with the first unit in pickup games. He’s a high-energy rim-runner and shot-blocker, but his offensive range remains limited. He’s also coming off an Achilles injury, leaving questions about his durability and readiness for a full-time role.

Huff, meanwhile, offers a skill set more similar to Turner’s. The 28-year-old big man can stretch the floor, protect the rim and run in transition, which is exactly the mix Indiana lost when Turner departed. While he’s less proven than Jackson at the NBA level, his perimeter shooting gives him a clear edge in spacing the floor.

Jackson enters camp as the presumed favorite, but Huff’s versatility makes him a legitimate threat to steal the starting job. This could become one of the Pacers’ most important position battles as they search for a new anchor in the middle.

New Orleans Pelicans center: Kevon Looney, Yves Missi

The battle for the Pelicans’ starting center spot is heating up this preseason, and it’s shaping up to be an intriguing matchup between experience and potential. Looney, a three-time champion, brings veteran stability, solid rebounding and a proven ability to anchor a frontcourt. His presence gives the Pelicans a safe, reliable option as they aim to compete in the Western Conference.

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Missi, coming off a strong rookie season, showed promise as a versatile big man, averaging 9.1 PPG, 8.2 RPG and 1.3 BPG last year. However, his Summer League performance raised questions. Missi struggled with efficiency and finishing against lesser competition, reminding everyone that he’s still developing.

This preseason will be crucial for Missi to prove he can push Looney for the starting role. Looney’s experience and consistent production make him the early favorite, but Missi has the potential to force the front office to consider him long-term if he shows growth and consistency.

Managers will want to watch this competition closely because the outcome will shape not only New Orleans’ frontcourt rotation but also the team’s offensive and defensive identity for the upcoming season.

Milwaukee Bucks guards: Kevin Porter Jr., Cole Anthony, Ryan Rollins

Milwaukee enters the season with a young, versatile backcourt rotation following Damian Lillard’s departure. Porter is the frontrunner to start at point guard, expected to drive the offense alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo. Porter offers scoring, playmaking and off-ball efficiency, making him a key fantasy contributor. Last season, he averaged 11.7 PPG, 3.9 RPG and 3.7 APG in 19.9 MPG while shooting 49.4% from the field and 40.8% from 3-point range.

Anthony brings scoring punch and creativity off the ball. While he may be a backup, his ability to attack the basket, make plays and contribute defensively gives him upside as a high-leverage option in deeper leagues. Anthony will need to adjust to Antetokounmpo’s point-forward role but could carve out opportunities as a secondary playmaker.

Rollins is the most flexible of the trio. Though least experienced, his defensive acumen and ability to play multiple guard spots make him a situational asset. Doc Rivers’ open-minded rotation could see Rollins on the floor alongside either Porter or Anthony, allowing him to develop as a facilitator while also contributing as a 3-and-D option.

Porter is the anchor of Milwaukee’s backcourt and a safe, high-volume fantasy option. Anthony offers upside in scoring and playmaking for managers willing to monitor his role in the rotation. Rollins’ versatility provides streaming potential in favorable matchups or if injuries strike. The dynamic, multi-guard system means rotation changes could create value swings throughout the season.

Orlando Magic center: Wendell Carter Jr., Goga Bitadze

The center spot in Orlando remains a competition, but Carter enters the season with momentum after a fully healthy summer. Carter spent this offseason dedicated purely to skill work and confidence-building. He brings defensive versatility, rebounding and floor-spacing ability, while also benefiting from the team’s new sharpshooters in Desmond Bane and Tyus Jones, who can create open opportunities for him. Carter’s role is clear: He is expected to anchor the paint, protect the rim and adapt to whatever the team needs night to night.

Bitadze will once again challenge for minutes and could provide occasional scoring bursts or defensive relief, though Carter’s consistency and experience give him the edge in the rotation. Orlando’s frontcourt versatility allows head coach Jamahl Mosley to mix and match, keeping both bigs on the floor situationally.

Managers should watch this battle closely. While Bitadze may earn some run, Carter has positioned himself as the safer, higher-upside option for a team looking to compete in the Eastern Conference this season.

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Carolina Panthers veteran running back Rico Dowdle had a breakout performance in Sunday’s win over the Miami Dolphins.

Dowdle, who got the start in place of Chuba Hubbard while he sat out with a calf injury, totaled 234 yards from scrimmage to help lead the Panthers to a 27-24 victory. He racked up 206 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries while adding three catches for 28 yards.

According to Fantasy Pros, Dowdle is rostered in just 53 percent of ESPN fantasy football leagues. It can be expected that he will be a popular waiver-wire target this week, but managers should proceed with some caution.

ESPN’s David Newton noted that Panthers head coach Dave Canales classified Hubbard as day-to-day with the expectation that this isn’t a long-term injury. Hubbard led Carolina with 217 yards on 53 carries through four games, while Dowdle had only 83 yards on 28 carries in a backup role.

Once Hubbard is back in the lineup, it can be expected that Dowdle’s volume could see a significant drop-off. Calf injuries are tricky to gauge, so there’s a chance that he sits out a bit longer to ensure that he’s fully healed.

If you were smart enough to have Dowdle on your roster already, perhaps now would be the time to sell high in hopes of acquiring a top-tier player with a better outlook for the rest of the 2025 season.

Making the right move with Dowdle could go a long way toward helping your team compete for a playoff spot later this year.

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Injury Report and Waiver Wire Targets

Several notable receivers have already been ruled out for Week 5, including CeeDee Lamb, Mike Evans, Terry McLaurin, Noah Brown, KaVontae Turpin, Cedrick Wilson Jr., Alec Pierce, and Trey Palmer.

Titans wideout Calvin Ridley is questionable, as is Arizona Cardinals receiver Greg Dortch.

With Nabers out for the Giants, Wan’Dale Robinson and Darius Slayton are both worth consideration. Robinson probably has the higher ceiling but is also rostered in more than 60 percent of Yahoo and ESPN leagues.

Slayton, who has averaged three receptions over the last three games, carries more modest expectations but is still available in over half of Yahoo and ESPN leagues.

Tennessee Titans wideout Elic Ayomanor is also worth scooping up this week. The rookie is rapidly emerging as Cam Ward’s favorite target. While his overall numbers (12 catches, 151 yards, 2 TDs) aren’t great, Ayomanor is highly unlikely to draw a blank in any given week.

Ayomanor is still available in over 60 percent of Yahoo and ESPN leagues.

Troy Franklin, Marvin Mims Jr. and Marquise Brown are other receivers who may be available and who should have reasonable sleeper value in Week 5.

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Fantasy basketball draft season is here! We’ve gathered all of our top-notch analysis and advice in one place to help you build those eventual championship-winning teams.

The 2025-26 Yahoo Fantasy Basketball Draft Kit is being updated daily and weâ€ll continue to add new content here all the way up until the NBA season tips off. So, whether youâ€re playing fantasy basketball for the first time or a seasoned pro looking to add another title to your trophy case, our draft kit will provide all the advice you need to win.

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[Join or create a fantasy basketball league for the 2025-26 NBA season]

Ultimately, the only way youâ€ll miss out is if you donâ€t play. Be sure to join or create a league if you haven’t already and let the fun begin.

Now, let’s get you ready to draft!

Nikola Jokić should likely be the No. 1 pick whether we’re talking about category leagues, points leagues or High Score — our new and streamlined way to play, which we’ll explain in more detail below.

But how should things shake out behind the superstar big man? Dan’s rankings can help you maneuver each format.

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9-Category

• Hardest players to rank (coming 10/6)

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Introducing High Score, the brand-new way to play Yahoo Fantasy Basketball. Itâ€s designed to be easier and more fun.

Welcome to the dawn of a new age of fantasy basketball with Yahoo’s High Score format! During the 2025-26 NBA season, High Score will give you a fresh take on the traditional fantasy hoops format. It streamlines the way you play, so you’ll have more time to enjoy the game rather than having to make countless lineup decisions throughout the week.

You simply draft your 10 favorite NBA stars and pick your best six to start each week. Hereâ€s the twist: You only get credit for each playerâ€s single highest-scoring game of the week. That means every big performance counts, without the stress of guessing when itâ€ll happen. For more info on how to play, check out the links below:

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[High Score is a new way to play Fantasy Basketball on Yahoo with simple rosters and scoring. Create or join a league]

Mock Drafts

Want a quick way to prep before making your picks? Try a mock draft — practice makes perfect! We’ll also share big-picture takeaways you can take into your drafts.

• High Score mock draft (coming 10/13)

🧠Draft Strategy

Whether you decide to punt certain stats in a category league or want to learn the ins and outs of High Score, we have content to help you come to an educated decision.

🤩 Sleeper and Breakout Picks

There are few better feelings in fantasy than when that non-star draft pick erupts — when the sleeper awakens, when the breakout breaks out. Here’s the release schedule for our favorite sleeper and breakout picks.

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Sleepers

• Top 9-cat hidden gems (coming 10/9)

• Late-round lottery tickets (coming 10/16)

Don’t sleep on these guards in your High Score fantasy basketball drafts.

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🛑 Fades at ADP

Knowing which players to avoid during your draft can be just as important as landing your favorite sleeper picks. Here’s the release schedule for the players we’re fading at ADP this season.

More player and team analysis

• Players with the safest floor (coming 10/7)

• Risky players worth picking (coming 10/15)

• Bold season predictions (coming 10/21)

Keep it locked here as we continue to bolster our fantasy draft kit with more analysis. Your one-stop shop for all things fantasy basketball drafts is just opening its doors — you won’t want to miss it!

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Yahooâ€s High Score format changes how we view fantasy basketball sleepers. Since only your best game of the week counts, consistency matters less, and upside matters more. You’re required to start at least three frontcourt players in your lineup. Rebounds (1 point) aren’t as valuable in High Score, but there’s no shortage of versatile forwards and centers who will run your numbers up.

[High Score is a new way to play Fantasy Basketball on Yahoo with simple rosters and scoring. Create or join a league]

Below are five sleeper frontcourt players outside the top 100 in ADP who could become difference-makers in High Score.

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Dereck Lively, Dallas Mavericks

Current ADP: 119.0

High Score Impact

Lively quietly ranked in the top 25 among frontcourt players in fantasy points per minute (FPPM) last season, posting an impressive 1.19 fantasy points per minute (FPPM) in High Score. He also receives a short-term boost with Daniel Gafford missing 2-3 weeks due to an ankle sprain. Lively has a double-double with multiple-stock upside, and at 119, that’s well worth the price.

Standard Points Outlook

At 1.15 FPPM in standard points leagues, he provides solid frontcourt depth as you’re nearing the back end of drafts. The minutes will be there initially, so he’ll get plenty of rebounds and blocks to be fantasy relevant in this format.

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Category League Fit

Lively helps anchor FG percentage while generating blocks and boards. Apparently, he’s been working on his 3-ball, too, so pencil in another category that’ll boost his value. Even if he doesn’t take a step forward as a scorer, he’s healthy with his role well-defined as a rim protector who holds down the paint.

Tari Eason, Houston Rockets

Current ADP: 123.0

High Score Impact

Eason finished in the 91st percentile (1.17) in fantasy points per minute among players who played a minimum of 500 minutes last season. Even in a bench role, he provides starter-level production. Like Lively, Eason’s value went up due to injury. Dorian Finney-Smith is still recovering from ankle surgery and will likely miss opening night. Eason’s disruptive defense (97 steals, 50 blocks in 57 games) translates perfectly to this format.

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Standard Points Outlook

Finney-Smith’s injury gives me more confidence in targeting Eason in all formats. He’ll have moments of playing 28-30 minutes where he’ll go off in points, rebounds and especially in stocks. He averaged 28 fantasy points per game in standard leagues last year, so 30 per game is very attainable.

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Category League Fit

His value is best suited for 9-cat because his stocks and versatility shine through. Whether starting or coming off the bench, he’s a top-100 player in both fantasy and real life.

Santi Aldama, Memphis Grizzlies

Current ADP: 115.0

High Score Impact

Aldama produced a respectable 1.11 High Score FPPM last season, showing his ability to chip in across the board. While not a flashy player, he can shoot, is a decent rebounder and is a low-key good at passing. Aldama had 15 games with five or more assists last year. The injuries to Jaren Jackson Jr. and Brandon Clarke opened up a huge chance for Aldama to produce right away and fantasy managers should draft him.

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Standard Points Outlook

At 1.06 FPPM, heâ€s more than serviceable with an increased role to start the season. Aldama has a 40-50 point boom potential (he fell within that range 10 times last year).

Category League Fit

Aldama posted career highs in six of nine categories last year, was rewarded with a new contract and will get a ton of minutes due to injuries in the Grizzlies frontcourt. I’d draft him well ahead of his ADP.

Ace Bailey, Utah Jazz

Current ADP: 135.0

High Score Impact

I’m probably early on Bailey. However, his style of play screams boom-or-bust, which aligns with High Score’s brand. He gets buckets and can step into being the second option offensively. He rebounds decently well and his athleticism should net some stocks. He’s a guy I’ll draft to fill out my depth with upside.

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Standard Points Outlook

Most young, high volatility scorers perform better in points leagues. Bailey’s no different. Not having to worry about efficiency is a nice bonus when drafting rookies.

Category League Fit

I’m not as high on Bailey in 9-cat because he profiles as a player who will be too inconsistent to rely on if building a balanced squad.

Other frontcourt sleeper options:

• Jaylen Wells, Memphis Grizzlies (ADP 140.6)

• Jay Huff, Indiana Pacers (ADP 139.0)

• Jonathan Kuminga, Golden State Warriors (ADP: 130.0)

• Neemias Queta, Boston Celtics (ADP:140.8)

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Part of the process of crafting a fantasy basketball team, whether it’s in a snake draft or a salary draft, is finding positive value. Can you unearth a potential “diamond in the rough,” or pay a lower cost for an elite talent than expected? Doing so can make all the difference between winning a league and finishing out of the money.

However, in addition to seeking those players, fantasy managers need to identify players who should probably be left alone based on their average draft positions. Below is a list of ten players who should not be drafted at their current ADPs, beginning with a player who’s led the NBA in rebounding three straight years.

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ADP data credit: Hashtag Basketball

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Fantasy Basketball Draft Prep Guide: 2025-26 rankings, strategy, sleepers, mock draft results, and more

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1. C Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings

Yahoo! ADP (as of October 2): 10.9

Sabonis’ production isn’t up for debate. However, his ADP as of October 2 was a bit too high. Last season, he appeared in 70 games, averaging 19.1 points, 13.9 rebounds, 6.0 assists, 0.7 steals and 0.9 three-pointers. While Sabonis’ rebounding and scoring output held steady compared to his 2023-24 production, the assists decreased by more than two per game. The Kings added DeMar DeRozan last offseason, but that wasn’t the most problematic roster change.

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Sacramento traded point guard De’Aaron Fox to San Antonio just before the February deadline, adding Zach LaVine as part of the multi-team deal. From February 6 onward, Sabonis averaged 16.0 points, 13.1 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.5 three-pointers per game. It’s possible that the Kings addressing the point guard position by adding Dennis Schröder helps, but he’s another playmaker who needs to have the ball in his hands. That may negatively impact Sabonis’ assist value and scoring opportunities.

2. PF/C Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic

Yahoo! ADP: 16.9

Many expect Banchero to be a breakout player this season after recording career-highs in points, rebounds and three-pointers in 46 games played in 2024-25. However, expecting second-round value from the Magic forward may be a bit ambitious, given Banchero’s fantasy history. He’s yet to produce a top-100 season in either per-game value or totals, and the same can be said of his per-36 fantasy numbers according to Basketball Monster. Can Banchero produce a top-100 season? Given his talent and the changes made to the Magic roster, absolutely. However, expecting a top-20 season, which is what his current ADP implies, is a bit much.

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3. SF/PF LeBron James, Los Angeles Lakers

Yahoo! ADP: 18.3

There’s no denying James’ greatness, and for him to be as effective as he was last season was nothing short of remarkable. That said, he’ll turn 41 in December, which may result in more injury management measures being taken despite the Western Conference being loaded. James has played at least 70 games each of the last two seasons, the first time he’s done this since his final three seasons in Cleveland. In 2018-19, James was limited to 55 games played. LeBron did finish last season as a top-20 player, exceeding his Yahoo! ADP of 24.5. Expecting similar production, especially with the Lakers entering their “Luka DonÄić era,” may prove to be unrealistic.

4. PG/SG Deâ€Aaron Fox, San Antonio Spurs

Yahoo! ADP: 26.8

Fox’s first full season in San Antonio has already gotten off to an inauspicious start, as he’ll likely miss the beginning of the regular season with a hamstring injury. Also of concern is the potential production, especially with a healthy Victor Wembanyama set to command touches after missing the post-All-Star break portion of last season due to injury. In 17 games for the Spurs last season, Fox averaged 19.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, 6.8 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.5 three-pointers. While the rebounds took a slight hit and the assists increased compared to his pre-trade numbers in Sacramento, Fox’s scoring decreased by more than five points per game. To approach top-25 value as some expect him to, Fox will need to boost those numbers as part of a lineup that will be more talented (and healthier) than it was last season.

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5. SG/SF Jaylen Brown, Boston Celtics

Yahoo! ADP: 30.5

Brown’s preseason fantasy value has been boosted by Jayson Tatum being sidelined by a ruptured Achilles tendon and the Celtics losing multiple rotation players by trade or free agency. The roster changes set Brown up to be a more productive player, but this also means opposing defenses will pay even more attention to him defensively. Brown, who underwent knee surgery during the offseason, has just two top-50 fantasy seasons to his credit. And the early ADP does not take into account the possibility of the occasional rest day, especially if the Celtics aren’t a factor in the East.

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Fantasy Basketball Forwards 2025-26: Top 50 rankings, season outlooks, key stats

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Giannis Antetokounmpo and Anthony Davis lead the way in our forward rankings while phenom rookie Cooper Flagg joins the fold.

6. C Ivica Zubac, LA Clippers

Yahoo! ADP: 36.2

Zubac enjoyed the best season of his NBA career in 2024-25, posting career-best averages in points, rebounds, assists and steals. However, expecting the 7-footer to approach top-30 value for a second straight season is a bit much, especially with the additions the Clippers made during the offseason. The two most impactful moves concerning Zubac were the signings of John Collins, who will likely start at the four, and Brook Lopez to fill the backup center role. Zubac played 32.8 minutes per game, the first time his average as surpassed 30 minutes. It would be unsurprising if his playing time dipped under 30 in 2025-26, thus lowering Zubac’s fantasy ceiling.

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7. SG/SF Josh Hart, New York Knicks

Yahoo! ADP: 49.8

Hart was likely a league-winning player for many managers who selected him in drafts ahead of the 2024-25 season, as he was nearly a top-25 player in per-game value and nearly top-10 in totals. However, that was under Tom Thibodeau, who was more than willing to have his best players log heavy minutes. Hart moving to the bench during the Eastern Conference Finals may have been a harbinger of what’s to come, especially with Mitchell Robinson being healthy. Add in a new head coach in Mike Brown, and Hart’s fantasy ceiling may be lower than many managers believe it to be. Also, he underwent surgery on his right index finger in July and aggravated the injury during an offseason workout. Hopefully, that won’t be a serious issue during the regular season, but the finger injury is something else for fantasy managers to consider when evaluating Hart.

8. SG/SF RJ Barrett, Toronto Raptors

Yahoo! ADP: 77.4

Based on his early ADP numbers, there’s no shortage of managers who believe Barrett may have a top-75 season in him. Based on Toronto’s roster and Barrett’s fantasy history, those expectations are unrealistic. Barrett has yet to finish a season ranked inside the top-150 in per-game value, and he has one such season in roto (2020-21). As for the roster, the Raptors also have Immanuel Quickley and Scottie Barnes healthy, not to mention Brandon Ingram, who’s fully recovered from the ankle injury that limited him to 18 games last season (all with the Pelicans). Given the number of players who will command touches within the Raptors system, Barrett’s ADP is too high at this point in the preseason.

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9. C Kelâ€el Ware, Miami Heat

Yahoo! ADP: 83.7

Ware had a productive rookie campaign, finishing sixth in Rookie of the Year voting and averaging 9.3 points, 7.4 rebounds, 0.9 assists, 0.6 steals and 1.1 blocked shots per game. After moving into the starting lineup in January, he averaged 10.7 points, 9.7 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.7 steals and 1.2 blocks in 27.8 minutes while shooting 54.4 percent from the field. However, Ware will have to earn the right to remain in the starting lineup, and Miami’s lack of proven bigs behind Bam Adebayo could result in the Heat staggering Ware and Adebayo’s minutes more than they did down the stretch last season. Is a top-100 season possible? Absolutely. But betting on Ware to finish safely within that threshold is a serious roll of the dice.

10. PG/SG Keyonte George, Utah Jazz

Yahoo! ADP: 113.0

George recorded improved averages in points, rebounds, assists, steals and three-pointers last season, which was his second in the NBA. However, he was moved to the bench in favor of then-rookie Isaiah Collier, who offered more as a distributor and defender, in late January. Collier may not have done enough to claim the starting point guard job as his own, as evidenced by Utah’s decision to use one of its first-round picks on former Florida guard Walter Clayton Jr. Unless he’s somehow out of the rotation completely, which should not happen, Expecting George to approach top-100 value with Utah’s current logjam at the point guard position is overly optimistic.

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