The NBA season is well underway, and as always, there have been plenty of surprises for fantasy basketball managers. Some players are taking their games to new heights and emerging as must-own assets, while others are struggling to live up to expectations. As you look to gain an edge in your league, don’t overlook these key developments that could reshape the fantasy landscape.
The Rise of De’Aaron Fox
Sacramento Kings point guard De’Aaron Fox has been on a scoring tear, and he’s making a strong case to finish the season as a top-10 fantasy option. With the Kings’ offense flowing through him and his usage rate soaring, Fox is posting career-best numbers across the board.
In recent weeks, Fox has been particularly dominant, including a stunning 60-point outburst against the Timberwolves and a 49-point encore against the Jazz. He became the first player since Kobe Bryant to score that many points in consecutive games, putting him in truly elite company.
While the eventual return of injured teammates like Domantas Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan could cut into Fox’s gaudy scoring numbers somewhat, his ability to stuff the stat sheet across multiple categories makes him a valuable asset in any format. Don’t be surprised if Fox maintains his spot among the NBA’s scoring leaders and ends the year as a true fantasy superstar.
Payton Pritchard: The Sharpshooter
The Boston Celtics have been the league’s most prolific 3-point shooting team, and reserve guard Payton Pritchard is playing a key role in their long-range assault. Despite coming off the bench, Pritchard ranks 9th in the NBA in total 3-pointers made.
Pritchard is averaging 3.7 triples per game while shooting at a blistering clip, making him a difference-maker in category leagues. Even in points formats, his uptick in scoring (career-high 15.3 PPG) and minutes (28.1 MPG) make him a valuable contributor. While he may not provide much in the way of assists or rebounds, Pritchard’s elite shooting stroke is worth investing in.
Jrue Holiday’s Decline
On the flip side, Celtics point guard Jrue Holiday has been a major fantasy disappointment. The veteran’s scoring, assists, and overall production have fallen off a cliff as his role in Boston’s offense diminishes. Holiday is averaging a meager 25.9 fantasy points per game, well below his previous standards.
While Holiday remains an excellent real-life contributor thanks to his defensive prowess, his fantasy value has cratered. He’s now being outperformed by a slew of less-heralded point guards, making him a potential drop candidate in shallower leagues. Unless Holiday’s role or production improves dramatically, he’s no longer a must-hold player.
Jakob Poeltl’s Breakout
Toronto Raptors center Jakob Poeltl is enjoying a career year and emerging as one of the most productive big men in fantasy. Poeltl is stuffing the stat sheet on a nightly basis, ranking among the league leaders in rebounds while chipping in solid scoring, blocks, and steals.
With averages of 17.1 points, 11.9 boards, and 40.5 fantasy points per game, Poeltl has been a revelation. He’s outperforming multiple centers who were drafted ahead of him, showcasing his ability to contribute across multiple categories. As the centerpiece of Toronto’s rebuilding efforts, Poeltl’s hefty workload should continue, making him a strong bet to maintain his place among the position’s elite.
According to a league source, Poeltl’s breakout has caught the attention of rival executives, with multiple teams expressing interest in the veteran big man. However, the Raptors appear committed to building around Poeltl and are unlikely to move him unless blown away by an offer.
Navigating the Fantasy Landscape
As the NBA season rolls on, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for fantasy success. By identifying breakout performers like Fox, Pritchard, and Poeltl early, you can gain a significant edge over your competitors. Similarly, knowing when to cut ties with fading stars like Holiday can help you maximize your roster’s potential.
Of course, these are just a few of the many surprises that have emerged so far. By staying active on the waiver wire, monitoring injury updates, and being willing to make bold trades, you can position yourself for a championship run. With so much basketball left to be played, there are sure to be plenty more twists and turns ahead.
