As fantasy basketball managers gear up for the 2024-25 season, having a trusty cheat sheet can make all the difference between hoisting the virtual hardware or wallowing in the league’s basement. We’ve scoured the preseason tea leaves to unearth the hidden gems, the overhyped busts, and the no-brainer studs you need to target. Buckle up and get ready to dominate your draft.
Sleepers to Stash on Your Cheat Sheet
While your opponents chase the shiny objects, you can steal the draft by snagging these undervalued sleepers:
- Jaden Ivey, PG, Pistons – The sophomore speedster is primed for a leap with Cade Cunningham drawing defensive attention.
- Tari Eason, SF/PF, Rockets – With a clear path to minutes, the defensive menace should stuff box scores in H-Town.
- Walker Kessler, C, Jazz – As the undisputed man in the middle, Kessler’s blocks upside is tantalizing.
Big Names, Bigger Bust Potential
Don’t let name recognition blind you. These players carry bust risk at their likely draft slot:
- Kyrie Irving, PG/SG, Mavericks – Will Uncle Drew’s availability and effort woes follow him to Dallas?
- Kristaps Porzingis, PF/C, Celtics – The Unicorn’s health is perennially worrisome and now there are depth chart concerns.
- Cade Cunningham, PG/SG, Pistons – The former top pick has yet to match his ADP and is returning from shin surgery.
According to an industry source, savvy fantasy managers are circling Jaden Ivey as this year’s mega breakout pick, especially with the Pistons offense running through a (hopefully) healthy Cade Cunningham. His explosive play style should result in gaudy popcorn stats.
Must-Draft Players to Hammer Home
Cheat sheets are ultimately about priorities and these ballers need to be at the top of yours:
- Luka Doncic, PG/SG, Mavericks – Luka is the total package and worthy of the 1.1 pick in all formats.
- Domantas Sabonis, PF/C, Kings – Domas is a walking double-double with some sneaky passing prowess.
- Tyrese Haliburton, PG/SG, Pacers – Haliburton’s silky stroke and dime-dropping have him on the verge of fantasy stardom.
Building a dominant fantasy roster takes more than just highlighting a few names on a cheat sheet. But by uncovering sleepers, dodging busts, and locking in the stalwarts, your squad will be sitting pretty when the dust settles. Use this intel as your guide, but don’t forget to trust your gut when you’re on the clock. Happy drafting and may the fantasy gods smile upon your season!
