NBA Preseason Fantasy Rookie Power Rankings for 2026-27 Season

10. Aday Mara – Oklahoma City Thunder

Mara, the 12th overall pick, caught attention during preseason by shooting 78.8% from the field across four games, averaging 7.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 2.4 blocks. Standing 7-foot-3, he is poised to serve as a capable backup center, potentially enhancing the offensive play for the Thunder.

9. Brayden Burries – Milwaukee Bucks

Entering a rebuilding phase after the trade of Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Miami Heat, Burries is set to share backcourt minutes with Tyler Herro, Ryan Rollins, Kevin Porter Jr., and Gary Trent Jr. The 10th overall pick is expected to gain some ball-handling opportunities throughout the season.

8. Keaton Wagler – Los Angeles Clippers

With Brandon Ingram sidelined due to injury, Wagler is likely to have significant offensive freedom in the Clippers’ lineup. The fifth overall pick has shot 30.3% from the field and 25% from three-point range during preseason, but his potential as a 6-foot-6 scorer remains high.

7. Yaxel Lendeborg – Golden State Warriors

Lendeborg enters the season with the task of contributing to the Warriors amid a playoff push, especially with Jimmy Butler III out due to injury. He is expected to receive ample playing time alongside stars Stephen Curry and Brandin Podziemski.

6. Mikel Brown Jr. – Brooklyn Nets

As the starting point guard for the Nets, Brown is expected to find success alongside high-scoring teammates like Michael Porter Jr. and Julius Randle. He was an elite scorer during his time at Louisville, averaging 18.2 points per game, and showed promise in his lone preseason appearance with 15 points.

5. Darius Acuff Jr. – Sacramento Kings

With limited competition for minutes following the retirements of Russell Westbrook and the injury to Ben Simmons, Acuff Jr. could rise in heroics this season. Last year, he showcased his scoring skills at Arkansas, averaging 23.5 points and 6.4 assists per game.

4. AJ Dybantsa – Washington Wizards

Dybantsa, the No. 1 overall pick, will not be pressured to be the primary scorer with established players like Anthony Davis and Trae Young on the roster. His dual capabilities on offense and defense will be key for the Wizards as they aim for postseason improvement.

3. Darryn Peterson – Utah Jazz

Although Peterson possesses strong fantasy potential, his scoring opportunities may be limited due to the presence of veteran players like Keyonte George and Lauri Markkanen. He demonstrated dominant performances in college, indicating his potential in the NBA.

2. Caleb Wilson – Chicago Bulls

Wilson is set to take on a central role with the Bulls, having averaged impressive stats in the Summer League and preseason. He finished with 15.8 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, highlighting his ability to make an impact as an athletic forward.

1. Cameron Boozer – Memphis Grizzlies

Boozer, favored to win Rookie of the Year, enters the NBA after a standout season at Duke. Following the trade of Ja Morant, he is expected to enjoy substantial playing time and is seen as the top rookie pick for fantasy drafts this season.