Nikola Jokić, Luka Dončić, and Victor Wembanyama are projected as the leading players for High Score leagues in the 2026-27 NBA season. Cade Cunningham is considered a strong candidate for a top five pick due to his assist potential without penalty for turnovers.
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With the preseason approaching, fantasy managers are getting ready for Yahoo High Score leagues, which emphasize assists and count only the highest weekly score from starters while ignoring turnovers. This unique structure favors high-usage players with potential for missed games due to age or previous injuries.
In the first round, Jokić tops the list with his significant assist output, while Wembanyama is noted for his elite performance with some minor concerns regarding passing volume. Dončić is expected to take on more ball-handling duties with LeBron James now absent. Cunningham stands out for his assist-heavy game and zero punishments for turnovers. Giannis Antetokounmpo remains a dominant player providing solid scoring and rebounding without penalties for his typical turnovers. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jayson Tatum follow, both benefiting from their offensive roles. Jalen Johnson and Anthony Edwards are also seen as high-potential players with different strengths.
For the second round, Alperen Sengun offers good value with his assist numbers while minimizing turnovers. Karl-Anthony Towns maintains a stable role with the Knicks, making him a reliable option. Donovan Mitchell and Kevin Durant are solid picks due to their scoring abilities, while Jalen Brunson is recognized for his consistency in a high-usage offense. Tyrese Haliburton and Trae Young also feature high on the list for their ability to contribute assists without turnover penalties.
In round three, Kawhi Leonard remains a top player when healthy, and Anthony Davis exhibits strong potential despite last season’s injuries. Paolo Banchero is noted for his scoring without the penalty of turnovers affecting his value. Josh Giddey is characterized as a triple-double threat, while James Harden is recognized for his assist efficiency. Domantas Sabonis and Jaylen Brown follow as reliable contributors in their respective roles. Chet Holmgren and Deni Avdija also present solid fantasy prospects.
Round four sees Stephen Curry ranked lower due to the format's disregard for 3-point shooting. Julius Randle continues to provide value with his all-around game, while LeBron James remains relevant as a core playmaker for the 76ers. Other players like Kristaps Porziņģis and Joel Embiid are seen as high-upside options despite their injury histories.
As we look further down the ranks into rounds five through thirteen, various emerging talents like Brandon Ingram, Jalen Green, and Cason Wallace are highlighted for their potential under the format's unique rules. Several players with histories of injuries, such as Zion Williamson and Paul George, are expected to offer value where availability concerns are less penalized.
The mix of established stars and rising talents presents a diverse landscape for fantasy managers as they prepare for the upcoming season.