Securing a top-tier fantasy basketball team typically begins with excelling in the early draft rounds or acquiring highly coveted players in salary cap formats. Yet, this is merely the foundational step.
To genuinely elevate your roster and construct a championship contender, identifying and drafting high-potential prospects and crucial complementary assets in the middle rounds is essential. Which players, then, perfectly fit this profile for your draft this season?
Below, we highlight the prospective impact players poised to significantly enhance your team.
Kevin Porter Jr., SG, Milwaukee Bucks (87.2 ADP)
Returning to the Milwaukee Bucks on a two-year contract, Kevin Porter Jr. is poised to contend for the starting point guard position following Damian Lillard`s exit. Last season, he posted averages of 11.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in just 19.9 minutes per game, with impressive shooting splits of 49.4% from the field and 40.8% from beyond the arc. His adaptability allows him to thrive either as a starter or a key bench contributor, demonstrating his capability during periods of increased offensive responsibility. Porter`s blend of scoring, playmaking, and three-point proficiency makes him an excellent fantasy value for the upcoming season.
Onyeka Okongwu, C, Atlanta Hawks (92.9 ADP)
Onyeka Okongwu solidified his role as the Atlanta Hawks` starting center last season, delivering a career-best performance. In under 28 minutes per game, he averaged 13.4 points on 56.2% shooting, 8.9 rebounds, 0.9 steals, and 0.9 blocks. He also hinted at burgeoning three-point capabilities and enhanced playmaking. With Clint Capela no longer on the roster, Okongwu is expected to command more minutes and a larger offensive role this season. His diverse skillset, efficient scoring, and defensive prowess make him a highly attractive fantasy option.
Payton Pritchard, PG, Boston Celtics (97.2 ADP)
With Jayson Tatum sidelined and Jrue Holiday traded, Payton Pritchard, the reigning Sixth Man of the Year, is slated to start and receive substantial playing time alongside Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. Last season, Pritchard averaged 14.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists while shooting an efficient 40.7% from three-point range. While his off-ball scoring remains elite, this year could see him take on a more prominent playmaking role, positioning him as a strong fantasy target with significant upside in points, threes, and assists.
Brandon Miller, SF/SG, Charlotte Hornets (103.0 ADP)
Brandon Miller emerges as a versatile scorer and a burgeoning talent capable of contributing points, three-pointers, assists, and steals. Before a wrist injury last season, he averaged 21.0 points, 4.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. Now fully recovered and cleared for training camp, Miller is anticipated to be a pivotal component of the Hornets` perimeter-focused offense. If he maintains his health, Miller possesses breakout potential, making him a compelling target for fantasy managers prioritizing scoring and three-point production.
Ausar Thompson, SF/PF, Detroit Pistons (108.4 ADP)
Ausar Thompson is expected to make significant strides for the Pistons this season. Fully recovered from last season`s medical setbacks, he showcased flashes of a dynamic playmaker, averaging 10.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.7 steals across 59 games. Coach JB Bickerstaff intends to grant Thompson more touches and offensive responsibilities this year, encouraging him to attack the rim and initiate pick-and-rolls—precisely what fantasy managers hope to hear. His elite defensive contributions coupled with expanded scoring opportunities make him a solid draft choice across all fantasy formats.
Andrew Nembhard, PG/SG, Indiana Pacers (111.6 ADP)
Andrew Nembhard is primed for a significant breakout season. With Tyrese Haliburton sidelined for the entire season, Nembhard steps into the role of the Pacers` primary floor general. Last season, in eight games without Haliburton, Nembhard averaged 11.3 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 6.6 assists, and his minutes this year could extend into the mid-30s. His proficiency in accumulating assists, coupled with his defensive contributions and efficient scoring, renders him a valuable asset with considerable upside in both points and playmaking categories.
Kel`el Ware, C, Miami Heat (128.8 ADP)
Kel`el Ware concluded his rookie season with strong performances, averaging 11.0 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per game over his final 49 contests, frequently starting alongside Bam Adebayo. In his 36 starts, he consistently achieved a double-double, highlighting his defensive prowess and rim protection. The Heat views him as a crucial piece in their frontcourt. With anticipated starter-level minutes, Ware`s combination of rebounding and shot-blocking makes him a high-floor fantasy target that should not be overlooked.
Matas Buzelis, SF/PF, Chicago Bulls (132.1 ADP)
Matas Buzelis is currently the leading candidate to secure the starting power forward position over Patrick Williams for the Chicago Bulls, making him a prime draft target. The 2024 first-round pick averaged 13.0 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.9 assists, and 1.1 blocks in 31 starts last season, finishing strongly with 14.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, 1.3 blocks, and 2.3 three-pointers per game in his final 16 appearances. Combining scoring, three-point shooting, and elite rim protection, Buzelis offers substantial upside across all fantasy formats.
