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The 2024-25 season has concluded. As anticipated, the Thunder will enter the next season as the frontrunners after clinching their inaugural NBA championship. As we begin to gear up for another captivating season of fantasy basketball, let’s reflect on the standout performers from each team in points leagues.
**Trae Young, Atlanta Hawks (44.7 FP/G)**
While the team did not achieve the desired outcomes this season, Young delivered a commendable individual performance, leading the league in assists. With Atlanta seemingly gearing up for a strong playoff push following the rumored addition of Kristaps Porziņģis, Young might face stiff competition to be the top fantasy player for the 2025-26 season.
**Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics (48.0 FP/G)**
A season-ending Achilles injury overshadowed another impressive season for Tatum, who has established himself as a reliable first-round fantasy pick. He concluded the season with a career-high 6.0 assists per game, enhancing his fantasy appeal. However, with his potential absence for the season, Tatum may not be a priority for fantasy managers.
**Cam Thomas, Brooklyn Nets (33.1 FP/G)**
Thomas’ season was curtailed to just 25 games due to various hamstring injuries. Yet, when healthy, he showcased his potential with a career-high average of 24.0 points per game. With the Nets likely once again struggling in the standings and lacking notable fantasy contributors, Thomas could be a valuable mid-round selection.
**LaMelo Ball, Charlotte Hornets (42.9 FP/G)**
Although Ball achieved a career-best scoring average of 25.2 points per game, he faced another season plagued by injuries. Over the past three years, he has played only 105 games, revealing significant potential despite the small sample size. Like the Nets, the Hornets might not create much buzz this season, but fantasy managers will simply hope to see Ball in at least 65 games.
**Nikola Vučević, Chicago Bulls (38.8 FP/G)**
While Vučević technically led the Bulls in fantasy performance on a per-game basis, it feels like his status could be waning. Coby White and Josh Giddey could potentially surpass him in fantasy relevance, with Giddey being the more likely candidate due to his multifaceted contributions.
**Evan Mobley, Cleveland Cavaliers (39.8 FP/G)**
Mobley is just beginning to scratch the surface of his capabilities in the NBA. Despite a disappointing finish for Cleveland, he was recognized as the Kia NBA Defensive Player of the Year, a well-deserved honor. The Cavaliers will be aiming for the top seed in the Eastern Conference, and Mobley will look to further enhance his performance.
**Anthony Davis, Dallas Mavericks (51.7 FP/G)**
Davis was traded from Los Angeles to Dallas during the 2024-25 season, a move that raised eyebrows. He encountered a soft-tissue injury that hindered his season, but still managed to produce solid numbers. As with previous seasons, his projected contributions for the next year hinge on his ability to remain healthy.
**Nikola Jokić, Denver Nuggets (64.3 FP/G)**
Jokić’s prowess on the basketball court is well-established and does not necessitate extensive commentary. He has been the top player across all formats for nearly five years now, and it’s difficult to envision him relinquishing that title in the upcoming season.
**Cade Cunningham, Detroit Pistons (48.0 FP/G)**
The Pistons are on an upward trajectory, largely due to Cunningham’s emergence as a star. After what was undoubtedly his most successful season to date, Cunningham is projected to be a first-round pick for years to come. At just 23, he still has significant room for growth, positioning him alongside exciting prospects like Victor Wembanyama and Cooper Flagg.
**Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors (40.8 FP/G)**
As a veteran, Curry continues to excel for the Warriors, albeit in a slightly diminished capacity. His fantasy value is heavily tied to his scoring, and the signing of Jimmy Butler III complicates his projected impact for the upcoming season. He remains likely to be their most valuable player, but the team will need others to elevate their performance to maximize his remaining time in the league.
**Alperen Sengun, Houston Rockets (42.0 FP/G)**
The Rockets are another ascending team, with Sengun emerging as a promising player, even if his season ended poorly. He has developed into a center offering solid assists and decent defensive numbers. However, the anticipated acquisition of Kevin Durant might push Sengun down in the fantasy hierarchy.
**Tyrese Haliburton, Indiana Pacers (41.4 FP/G)**
After suffering a serious Achilles injury during Game 7 of the NBA Finals, Haliburton is at risk of missing most, if not all, of the 2025-26 season. Similar to Tatum, he may not be a priority for fantasy managers early in drafts. Unless the Pacers make significant movements in the offseason, look for Pascal Siakam to emerge as the leading fantasy player.
**James Harden, Los Angeles Clippers (45.0 FP/G)**
Harden experienced a resurgence this past season, arguably enjoying his best campaign in years. While his per-game stats may not mirror his peak, he has played at least 72 games in consecutive seasons. He should continue to anchor the Clippers, making him a solid top-15 fantasy option moving forward.
**Luka Dončić, Los Angeles Lakers (52.5 FP/G)**
Despite sharing responsibilities with LeBron James, Dončić once again established himself among the elite in fantasy basketball. Although his overall stats dipped compared to previous years, his defensive contributions improved, as he recorded a career-high 1.8 steals per game. He is likely to be a sought-after top-5 pick again this season.
**Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies (39.7 FP/G)**
Morant’s playing style isn’t particularly conducive to category leagues, but might be more favorable in points formats. Nevertheless, despite leading Memphis in fantasy output, Morant’s production and health were somewhat disappointing last season. He ended up being a fourth-round asset, a notable decline after ranking among the top 15 in previous seasons. Given ongoing health concerns, fantasy players may prefer Jaren Jackson Jr. as the primary target in Memphis.
**Bam Adebayo, Miami Heat (39.8 FP/G)**
Adebayo has maintained a steady presence in fantasy leagues, making him a trusted pick across all formats. With Jimmy Butler III now in Golden State, Adebayo has an opportunity to elevate his performance. Fantasy managers could consider him in the early third round, given the surrounding talent gaps.
**Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks (57.4 FP/G)**
Giannis needs little introduction; he is expected to remain a dominant force in fantasy, particularly in points formats. Concluding the 2024-25 season as the second-ranked player, he averaged over 30 points per game for the third consecutive year while equaling his career-high with 6.5 assists. He will continue to be a highly coveted pick, especially with Myles Turner’s rumored arrival raising speculation about his future in Milwaukee.
**Anthony Edwards, Minnesota Timberwolves (43.5 FP/G)**
Fresh off his most impressive season to date, Edwards is determined to take his game higher in pursuit of an elusive NBA Championship. Last season, he ranked 16th while averaging a personal-best 27.6 points per game. He has firmly established himself as the leader in Minnesota and should be a dependable pick in the early second round of drafts.
**Zion Williamson, New Orleans Pelicans (44.6 FP/G)**
Williamson’s projected value hinges solely on his health. Throughout his career, he has struggled to play more than 30 games in three of his five seasons, including this past season, where he also appeared in just 30 contests. Although he ranked 14th in per-game value, fantasy managers will likely approach him with caution in their drafts. Based on historical trends, he could see interest in the third or even fourth round.
**Karl-Anthony Towns, New York Knicks (46.8 FP/G)**
Towns made headlines when he was traded to the Knicks ahead of the 2024-25 season, giving him a chance to step in as the starting center. He responded with his best season in four years, finishing as the 10th-ranked fantasy player and averaging a career-high 12.8 rebounds. Even with a potential coaching change that could slightly reduce his floor time, Towns remains a candidate for first-round consideration.
**Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Oklahoma City Thunder (54.1 FP/G)**
Gilgeous-Alexander propelled the Thunder to its first championship, earning several individual accolades along the way. Similar to Jokić and Antetokounmpo, he is a clear choice for a top-five pick.
**Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic (43.3 FP/G)**
With the Magic on the rise, Banchero is set to become the future face of the franchise. Despite missing significant time due to an adductor injury, he still finished as the 17th-ranked player. The addition of Desmond Bane could affect his scoring opportunities, as the team previously had only two primary scoring threats. Nevertheless, Banchero should be a solid choice past the 20th pick.
**Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers (43.6 FP/G)**
While Joel Embiid remains a significant presence, Maxey could be seen as the player leading the 76ers into the future. After a breakout season, he is trending towards being a top-20 pick. A healthy Embiid could influence Maxey’s stats, but given Embiid’s track record of injuries, Maxey appears to be a relatively safe option yet again.
**Kevin Durant, Phoenix Suns (43.3 FP/G)**
After a somewhat disappointing tenure in Phoenix from a results standpoint, Durant is reportedly set to join the Rockets this season. Houston is clearly aiming for a championship, securing several key players and reportedly adding Dorian Finney-Smith and Clint Capela. Despite his age bringing some risk, Durant should still be considered a viable first-round selection.
**Deni Avdija, Portland Trail Blazers (33.2 FP/G)**
Avdija surprised many fantasy managers last season, emerging as a significant contributor for the Trail Blazers. While he had a career-best year, designating him as their top fantasy player moving forward seems precarious. With a focus on defense in their team makeup, it’s uncertain who might rise as the leading fantasy prospect. Any of Avdija, Scoot Henderson, Shaedon Sharpe, Donovan Clingan, or Toumani Camara could warrant mid-round consideration.
**Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings (45.1 FP/G)**
Sabonis is a dependable player who requires relatively little discussion. The Kings remain in a state of mediocrity, but Sabonis should once again find a place in the conversation for first-round picks.
**Victor Wembanyama, San Antonio Spurs (54.6 FP/G)**
Wembanyama experienced a setback due to a blood clot issue, yet he managed to affirm his status as a significant player in fantasy basketball. Among top draft prospects, he has the most potential still to be unlocked. He will likely be a top pick in many drafts, where the balance between risk and reward will be keenly considered.
**Scottie Barnes, Toronto Raptors (41.6 FP/G)**
Barnes closely mirrored his performance from the 2023-24 season. The addition of Brandon Ingram will offer the Raptors another reliable scoring option, likely impacting Barnes’ offensive output. While he is expected to remain the top fantasy player for the team, there is a chance he could be overvalued in some draft situations.
**Walker Kessler, Utah Jazz (35.7 FP/G)**
The Jazz currently seem to lack a clear path forward, highlighted by their defensive-focused center becoming the standout fantasy player last season. This scenario opens up the field for various potential fantasy assets. Other than Kessler, managers might consider Lauri Markkanen, Keyonte George, John Collins, and even Ace Bailey.
**Jordan Poole, Washington Wizards (32.7 FP/G)**
Finally, the Wizards are another franchise sitting at the lower end of the standings. After a career performance last season, Poole is reportedly set to join the fray in New Orleans, where he will have to compete with players like Zion Williamson, Trey Murphy III, and eventually, Dejounte Murray. His role remains unclear, but he appears to be a moderately safe mid-round choice.
