5 Players to Target and 5 Players to Avoid: NBA Fantasy Look Ahead

2025-2026 Fantasy Basketball Look Ahead

When evaluating players to target for the upcoming fantasy basketball season, I focus on those who exhibit ascending potential, a solid floor, and a high ceiling. These players are likely to be integral parts of next season's fantasy championship rosters. Conversely, the players to avoid certainly have the ability to post big numbers but tend to be overvalued in drafts when considering age, injury concerns, and the increased risk of rest days. While they may be worth considering if they fall in the draft, for the sake of your mental well-being, it's prudent to seek out alternatives.

Players to Target:

Shaedon Sharpe

At just 21 years old, Sharpe is only beginning to tap into his vast potential. He played in 72 games this past season and demonstrated his ability to fill the stat sheet. Sharpe saved his best performances for the stretch run, significantly increasing his production when given the reins of the offense. In five April games, he averaged an impressive 28.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. While it’s important to temper expectations given the small sample size, particularly with Anfernee Simons out, there are whispers around the league about Sharpe's breakout potential. Shaedon has the skill set and the mentality to be a star in this league.

Dyson Daniels

The "Great Barrier Thief" put on a defensive clinic during the 2024-2025 season, leading the NBA with 229 steals—an eye-popping 98 steals more than the runner-up, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Daniels was the first to surpass 200 steals in a season since Chris Paul in the 2008-2009 season, and his 229 thefts were the most in a season since Gary Payton recorded 231 in the 1995-1996 season. He’s truly in a league of his own in this department. Additionally, Daniels displayed consistency on the offensive end, especially in the latter half of the season, where he averaged 15.1 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5.3 assists over his last 33 games. His youth—just 22 years old—suggests he can elevate his game even further. The only blemish on his resume is his free-throw shooting, which sits below 60%. Nonetheless, Dyson has the potential to be an elite two-way player, and his defensive prowess sets the tone.

👉FILL OUT THIS SHORT SURVEY TO WIN FREE SPORTS CARDS

Ivica Zubac

Zubac, affectionately dubbed "Zu Alcindor," was a nightmare to defend against. He started 80 games this season, showed no signs of slowing down, and led the NBA with a staggering 1,010 total rebounds. He ranked fourth in rebounds per game at 12.6 and averaged more blocks per game (1.1) than the three elite big men, Domantas Sabonis, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Nikola Jokić, ahead of him. His shooting efficiency was remarkable, posting a field goal percentage of 62.8% and a respectable 66.1% from the free-throw line. Given his consistent performance, I expect Zubac to continue his upward trajectory in the coming season. Zubac is a foundation in the Clippers frontcourt; he does the dirty work and delivers every night.

OG Anunoby

Anunoby came on strong late in the season, particularly following Jalen Brunson's injury, which sidelined him for nearly the entire month of March. Over a 21-game stretch to finish the season, he averaged 22.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.8 steals, and one block per game. While he benefited from Brunson’s absence, Anunoby proved he can be a fantasy star. When watching him play, I can’t help but draw comparisons to Giannis Antetokounmpo. He plays hard on both ends and consistently threatens to produce across all categories. When OG locks in, he’s one of the best two-way players in the league.

Deni Avdija

Avdija's inaugural season in Portland was a resounding success, as he posted or matched career-high averages in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. He significantly elevated his play over the last 16 games, averaging 24.9 points, 10.6 rebounds, 5.5 assists, and one steal. During this stretch, he recorded two 30-point triple-doubles and had 15+ rebounds on five occasions, shooting 51% from the field, 81.5% from the charity stripe, and an impressive 43.1% from three-point range. Simply put, Avdija can flat-out ball and should be a lock for 30 minutes per game. Deni has the skill set of a star; his ceiling is limitless.

Players to Avoid:

Chet Holmgren

This one is a tough call, and I might regret including Holmgren on this list because he possesses undeniable talent. He's an elite shot-blocker, an efficient scorer, and has the potential to contribute across the board. However, can anyone confidently assert that he’ll play a full season, given his injury history? Holmgren's past injuries have led the organization to prioritize his long-term health. They’ve demonstrated a cautious approach with his minutes, especially with their success without him. OKC should be in “championship or bust” mode for the foreseeable future, and a healthy Chet in the playoffs, makes them significantly more dangerous. Even if he remains injury-free, Holmgren struggled with consistency while navigating a loaded Thunder lineup. I’d look for stronger upside elsewhere rather than prioritizing him in the first two rounds.

LeBron James

Including one of the all-time greats like LeBron James could be considered a bold move, particularly given that he played an integral role in my championship-winning lineup last season. Yet, the reality is that he will turn 41 midway through next season, and as we all know, Father Time is undefeated. The season he had at 40 years old was remarkable, and we must appreciate his contributions while acknowledging that it cannot last forever. For the first time since his rookie season (2003-2004), he averaged under 25 points per game. Although he’s still a fantasy stud, investing a high draft pick in an aging player is a significant gamble. As NBA analyst Stephen A. Smith stated, “LeBron is not human, but even he has his limits.” It may be wiser to lean towards younger talent with more predictable longevity.

De’Aaron Fox

On paper, the pairing of De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama should be one of the most electrifying duos in the NBA, and it still very well may be. Fox can explode for 60 points on any given night, but his situation in San Antonio might actually lead to a dip in fantasy production. The Spurs are committed to developing players like Stephon Castle and Devin Vassell, who thrive with the ball in their hands. If you draft Fox in the second round, prepare for disappointing nights. If Fox falls later into round 3, I’d feel more confident, but even then, he might not be a cornerstone of your championship fantasy roster.

Kevin Durant

Kevin Durant is undoubtedly one of the greatest scorers the game has ever seen. However, at 37 years old, before the next season tips off, and with the Suns struggling to find their rhythm, investing in Durant could be risky. Although he has enjoyed back-to-back mostly healthy seasons, expecting him to maintain his current level of play as he enters his late 30s is unrealistic, especially if you’re expecting a LeBron-esque longevity and performance. Prioritizing the upside of emerging stars like Amen Thompson or Evan Mobley could be the smarter approach in the first two rounds. As basketball analyst Kendrick Perkins has noted, “Durant is still a walking bucket, but age is a real factor.” Come December, drafting him may leave you wondering, “What was I thinking?”

Josh Hart

This one stings. Hart’s career-best season was instrumental in my championship run. However, after picking him 95th overall, I’m hesitant to wager on his continued improvement as he turns 30 years old. With career highs of 9.6 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.5 steals, it’s tough to imagine him improving upon those numbers. Additionally, he’s coming off a season where he averaged 37.6 minutes per game, which increases the potential for fatigue and regression. If you’re considering Hart with a top 75 pick, it’s crucial to enter with the mindset that he may begin to decline. Opting for his younger teammate OG Anunoby, who has shown consistent improvement, might be the safer bet next season.

John Fritz - Bleav in Fantasy

Follow on👉Substack