UPDATE: Fantasy basketball enthusiasts, the clock is ticking! As drafts approach, key players are emerging as must-have targets for your roster. With the season just around the corner, here’s a breakdown of players you need to prioritize to build a championship-caliber team.
Kevin Porter Jr., SG for the Milwaukee Bucks, is back on a two-year deal and is in prime position to compete for the starting point guard role following Damian Lillard’s departure. Last season, he averaged 11.7 PPG, 3.9 RPG, and 3.7 APG in just under 20 minutes per game. His shooting accuracy, hitting 49.4% from the field and 40.8% from beyond the arc, makes him an appealing fantasy option this season.
Meanwhile, Onyeka Okongwu, C for the Atlanta Hawks, is set to see increased usage this year. After a breakout season where he averaged 13.4 PPG and 8.9 RPG with a shooting percentage of 56.2%, he is poised to become a dominant force in the paint with Clint Capela no longer in the picture.
In Boston, Payton Pritchard, PG for the Boston Celtics, is ready to step up. With Jayson Tatum sidelined and Jrue Holiday traded, Pritchard is projected to start, bringing his average of 14.3 PPG and 40.7% shooting from three-point range into a more significant role alongside Jaylen Brown.
Brandon Miller, SF/SG for the Charlotte Hornets, is another player to watch. Now fully recovered from last season’s wrist injury, Miller averaged 21.0 PPG before his setback. With a clear path to play a central role in the Hornets’ offense, he is expected to be a top contributor this season.
In Detroit, Ausar Thompson, SF/PF for the Detroit Pistons, is projected for a major leap forward. After averaging 10.1 PPG last season and showing dynamic playmaking potential, his role is set to expand under Coach JB Bickerstaff this year, making him a valuable fantasy target.
One of the biggest surprises could be Andrew Nembhard, PG/SG for the Indiana Pacers. With Tyrese Haliburton out for the season, Nembhard is primed for a breakout, averaging 11.3 PPG and 6.6 APG during stretches without Haliburton last year. His potential to increase minutes to the mid-30s makes him a key addition for managers looking to boost their assists and scoring.
Don’t overlook Kel’el Ware, C for the Miami Heat. He finished strong in his rookie season, averaging a double-double in 36 starts. With projected starter minutes, Ware’s combination of rebounds and blocks positions him as a high-floor fantasy target.
Finally, Matas Buzelis, SF/PF for the Chicago Bulls, is emerging as a frontrunner to start at power forward. Averaging 13.0 PPG and showcasing elite rim protection, he offers significant potential for scoring and 3-point shooting.
As the fantasy draft season heats up, these players could be the game-changers you need to elevate your roster. Make your picks wisely—your championship run starts now!
