NBA Fantasy Basketball Insights Ahead of the 2026-27 Season

The start of the 2026-27 NBA season is just around the corner, following substantial changes in the league over the summer. Early evaluations from preseason games suggest several fantasy players are on the rise.

**Eastern Conference**

- **Atlanta Hawks**: Jalen Johnson’s status as a potential first-round pick is uncertain. Despite impressive stats last season (22.5 points, 10.3 rebounds, 7.9 assists), his performance with and without CJ McCollum reveals a significant drop in ranking, suggesting a second-round pick might be more fitting.

- **Boston Celtics**: The competition between Neemias Queta and Mitchell Robinson for minutes is crucial, as both have similar roles in terms of rebounds and blocks. Queta may secure the starting job, which could impact his draft position.

- **Brooklyn Nets**: Egor Dёmin has been impressive in preseason, demonstrating offensive skills and contributing 5 assists in both games. His performance prompts interest in how rookie Mikel Brown Jr. will impact the team.

- **Charlotte Hornets**: With Coby White and Kon Knueppel sidelined due to injuries, Dennis Schröder and Grayson Allen are expected to fill their roles. Additionally, Moussa Diabaté is being considered for late-round selections based on his board presence.

- **Chicago Bulls**: Jalen Smith’s performance, including 13 points and 8 rebounds in a recent game, positions him as a key injury fill-in with potential upside.

- **Cleveland Cavaliers**: Peyton Watson made a strong impression in his debut, showcasing versatility and should be considered for picks after the 100th selection.

- **Detroit Pistons**: Jalen Duren recently signed a significant contract, but Ausar Thompson is attracting attention for his improving offensive game and growing draft appeal.

- **Indiana Pacers**: Jarace Walker excelled with 10 assists and only 1 turnover in a recent game, suggesting strong playmaking capability and fantasy potential.

- **Miami Heat**: Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to rank among the elite in fantasy contributions and is expected to perform exceptionally well this season.

- **Milwaukee Bucks**: Kel’el Ware’s consistent performance makes him a valuable asset regardless of his starting status, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. is also gaining attention.

- **New York Knicks**: Current contract negotiations with Karl-Anthony Towns are not progressing, but he remains a solid player despite any uncertainties.

- **Orlando Magic**: Watching Franz Wagner’s increased role will be key this season, alongside the potential of Anthony Black as an impactful bench player.

- **Philadelphia 76ers**: Suggestions include starting Dean Wade with a strong bench option in VJ Edgecombe, while LeBron James continues to demonstrate effectiveness without needing high volume.

- **Toronto Raptors**: Collin Murray-Boyles is expected to make significant strides in his sophomore season, with Jamal Shead also showing potential as a valuable backup.

- **Washington Wizards**: Trae Young and AJ Dybantsa delivered solid numbers recently, while Deandre Ayton could become a favorable pickup as a potential rebound and scoring asset.

**Western Conference**

- **Dallas Mavericks**: Daniel Gafford is noted as a sleeper pick, especially following his increased role. Kyrie Irving’s return to the court after a long absence is also a positive sign.

- **Denver Nuggets**: The prominence of Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray makes them critical to the team’s success; interest remains in others potentially breaking into the top 150.

- **Golden State Warriors**: Brandin Podziemski’s high usage rate is promising, and his recent contract extension signals confidence in his potential impact.

- **Houston Rockets**: Fred VanVleet displayed his familiar form, hinting that his draft position may be lower than warranted if this performance continues.

- **LA Clippers**: Isaiah Jackson and Rui Hachimura are rising talents worth monitoring, particularly with Hachimura's potential scoring upside.

- **Los Angeles Lakers**: Quentin Grimes appears to be solidified in the starting role, while Jake LaRavia may lead in the power forward position.

- **Memphis Grizzlies**: Cameron Boozer is establishing himself as a key player with high offensive potential, accompanied by positive buzz surrounding Ty Jerome.

- **Minnesota Timberwolves**: Joan Beringer is gaining recognition as a backup big man, while Ayo Dosunmu is also expected to be a valuable addition to rosters in deeper formats.

- **New Orleans Pelicans**: The starting role of Bennedict Mathurin is notable, as he brings scoring interest, contrasting with Herbert Jones' defensive capabilities.

- **Oklahoma City Thunder**: Aday Mara has had a perfect shooting preseason, raising questions about his potential role moving forward.

- **Phoenix Suns**: The center position sees competition, with Oso Ighodaro and Khaman Maluach vying for minutes as their usage continues to develop.

- **Portland Trail Blazers**: The dynamic between Damian Lillard and Ja Morant is noteworthy as the season approaches, with Lillard's draft position seeming undervalued.

- **Sacramento Kings**: The excitement around Darius Acuff Jr. is on the rise as he is expected to provide significant contributions this season.

- **San Antonio Spurs**: Dylan Harper’s consistent performance positions him as a valuable asset, potentially playing significant minutes throughout the season.

- **Utah Jazz**: With Jusuf Nurkić sidelined, Jaxson Hayes is expected to step into a larger role while also watching for Kyle Filipowski’s increase in opportunities.