The highly anticipated NBA Rank returns, prepared to unveil the league`s top players for the upcoming 2025-26 season. This initial segment highlights who earned a place in the top 100 and who didn`t quite make the cut.
From potential Sixth Man of the Year candidates like Naz Reid and Alex Caruso to impressive sophomores, players across the league have convinced our voters of their merit for a spot among the best entering the next season.
To compile the definitive NBA Rank predictions, our panel of over 150 reporters, editors, producers, and analysts evaluated more than 20,000 potential player-versus-player matchups. Their choices were based on which player is expected to perform better in the 2025-26 season.
This countdown begins with players ranked 100 to 51, featuring some surprising ascents and descents from last year’s list, alongside a few reigning champions. The full rankings will continue with spots 50-11 released on Wednesday, and the season`s top 10 players on Thursday.
Note: The NBA Rank panel assessed players based on their predicted contributions—both in quality and quantity—for the 2025-26 regular season only. Due to long-term injuries, Jayson Tatum, Tyrese Haliburton, Damian Lillard, Kyrie Irving, Dejounte Murray, and Fred VanVleet were not considered for this season`s rankings. All signature statistics are provided by ESPN Research.
100. RJ Barrett, G, Toronto Raptors
2024 NBA Rank: 53
Last season, RJ Barrett recorded a career-high 21.1 points per game in his first full year with the Toronto Raptors, following his acquisition midway through the 2023-24 campaign. While his exact role for the upcoming season remains somewhat fluid, the team aims to integrate his skills with those of newly acquired Brandon Ingram and rising star Scottie Barnes.
Signature Stat: Last season, Barrett joined Pascal Siakam as the only players in Raptors history to average at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists.
Fantasy Projection: 20.9 PTS, 6.1 REB, 4.9 AST
99. Stephon Castle, G, San Antonio Spurs
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
As the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft, Stephon Castle unexpectedly made a strong impact, becoming San Antonio’s second consecutive player to win NBA Rookie of the Year and the fourth Spur to receive the honor, following Victor Wembanyama, Tim Duncan, and David Robinson. In his rookie season, Castle started 47 games, leading his draft class in total points (1,190), made field goals (423), and steals (74). He also emerged as San Antonio`s premier perimeter defender and was the runner-up in last season`s Slam Dunk Contest.
Signature Stat: En route to winning Rookie of the Year, Castle recorded 26 games with 20 points or more, the most among rookies and the fifth-highest tally for a Spurs rookie in franchise history.
Fantasy Projection: 15.8 PTS, 3.9 REB, 4.4 AST
98. Walker Kessler, C, Utah Jazz
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
The Utah Jazz have consistently rejected trade offers for Walker Kessler, signaling their commitment to the fourth-year center as part of their long-term plans. Since entering the league, Kessler has proven to be an elite shot-blocker and a strong defensive presence. However, evaluating his development has been challenging as Utah remains a lottery-bound team, and his games played have decreased each season as the Jazz position themselves for draft picks. Last season, Kessler started all 58 games he played, achieving career highs in points (11.1), rebounds (12.2), and assists (1.7).
Signature Stat: Kessler is the first player to average over 2 blocks in each of his first three seasons since Tim Duncan (1997-2000).
Fantasy Projection: 10.6 PTS, 11.2 REB, 2.5 BLK
97. Payton Pritchard, G, Boston Celtics
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
Payton Pritchard, the reigning Sixth Man of the Year, is coming off a career-best season where he averaged 14.3 points per game. However, the Celtics face a challenging year with superstar Jayson Tatum (Achilles) sidelined, potentially creating a greater opportunity for Pritchard, especially with veteran guard Jrue Holiday now with Portland. Pritchard might even secure a starting spot alongside Derrick White and Jaylen Brown, forming a potentially dynamic trio for Boston. Known for his tireless work ethic, this season could be Pritchard`s chance to truly shine.
Signature Stat: Pritchard set an NBA record last season by making 246 three-pointers off the bench, the most in a single season.
Fantasy Projection: 13.7 PTS, 3.8 REB, 3.6 AST
96. Nickeil Alexander-Walker, G, Atlanta Hawks
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
The Hawks bolstered their second unit by adding Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who last season averaged 9.4 points and shot 38% for the Wolves. Alexander-Walker is expected to provide an offensive boost and contribute as a capable defender, possibly even filling in as a backup point guard. With Dyson Daniels also on the roster, the Hawks` perimeter defense could pose a significant challenge for opposing wings. His reliability is a major asset, as Alexander-Walker has played all 82 games for two consecutive seasons.
Signature Stat: Alexander-Walker is one of only five players to have played 82 games in each of the past two seasons (joining Barnes, Bridges, Green, and Hield).
Fantasy Projection: 9.3 PTS, 3.1 REB, 2.8 AST
95. P.J. Washington, F, Dallas Mavericks
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
While his role as a starter or bench player for the upcoming season is still to be determined, P.J. Washington has solidified his position as a vital component of the Mavericks` core, evidenced by his recent four-year, $89 million contract extension. Dallas values his athleticism and versatility, relying on the 6-foot-7 forward as a primary defender against players ranging from point guards to power forwards. He achieved a career-best 7.8 rebounds per game last season and was one of only eight players in the league to average at least one steal and one block (minimum 50 games played).
Signature Stat: Washington is one of only two players (alongside Giannis Antetokounmpo) with 50-plus steals and 50-plus blocks in each of the past five seasons.
Fantasy Projection: 12.9 PTS, 6.2 REB, 2.0 AST
94. Devin Vassell, G, San Antonio Spurs
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
Devin Vassell`s 2024-25 season didn`t meet expectations, largely due to recovery from offseason foot surgery and numerous lineup adjustments. Despite a slight dip in offensive output, Vassell showcased his potential with a season-high 37 points in a March victory over Brooklyn and had four games with four steals. However, inconsistency has been a persistent trait. Vassell possesses the potential to be a strong two-way player and a valuable third or fourth option for a playoff-caliber team.
Signature Stat: Vassell is the third Spurs player to achieve 150-plus 3-pointers made in consecutive seasons (joining Patty Mills and Chuck Person).
Fantasy Projection: 17.0 PTS, 4.0 REB, 3.1 AST
93. Jakob Poeltl, C, Toronto Raptors
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
In his ninth NBA season, Jakob Poeltl achieved career highs in points, rebounds, and assists, while also playing a career-best 29.6 minutes per game. The Raptors rewarded Poeltl with a three-year extension, securing his contract through the 2029-30 season. Two factors have hindered Poeltl from ranking higher: his rim protection, once elite with the Spurs, has been merely average in Toronto; and he has missed a combined 57 games over the past two seasons, though eight of those last year were for rest.
Signature Stat: Last season, Poeltl averaged a career-high 14.5 points per game and ranked among the top 10 in field goal percentage on floaters (minimum 100 FGA) and layups/dunks (minimum 300 FGA).
Fantasy Projection: 13.8 PTS, 9.4 REB, 1.3 BLK
92. Mitchell Robinson, C, New York Knicks
2024 NBA Rank: 82
Despite missing a significant portion of the season due to injuries, Mitchell Robinson made a timely return just before the postseason, instantly reaffirming his dominance on the boards. Robinson became a crucial contributor to New York`s run to the Eastern Conference Finals, eventually replacing Hart in the starting lineup. The Knicks hope Robinson, who has only played over 70 games once in his career, can remain healthy throughout the season.
Signature Stat: Robinson participated in all 18 playoff games and grabbed 67 offensive rebounds, the most by a Knick in the playoffs since 1994.
Fantasy Projection: 5.7 PTS, 7.1 REB, 1.2 BLK
91. Jrue Holiday, G, Portland Trail Blazers
2024 NBA Rank: 36
Entering his 17th season, Jrue Holiday is back in Portland—the team he was briefly traded to in 2023 before moving to Boston—where he will serve as a veteran leader for a young core. The two-time NBA champion is also expected to bolster the Trail Blazers’ improving defense, which climbed from 23rd in 2023-2024 to 16th last season. At 35, it`s unrealistic to expect Holiday, clearly in the twilight of a likely Hall of Fame career, to be the dominant force he once was. Nevertheless, for a team that hasn`t made the playoffs in four years, Holiday should provide a welcome boost.
Signature Stat: Holiday is one of only three players (alongside Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Alex Caruso) to have won multiple championships since 2020.
Fantasy Projection: 12.2 PTS, 4.4 AST, 1.0 STL
90. Naz Reid, C, Minnesota Timberwolves
2024 NBA Rank: 87
Naz Reid followed up his 2023-24 Sixth Man of the Year campaign with an even more impressive performance, increasing his scoring (from 13.5 to 14.2 PPG), rebounding (5.2 to 6.0 RPG), and assisting (1.3 to 2.3 APG). He also provided consistent floor spacing at center, shooting 37.9% from three-point range, which opened up paint opportunities for Anthony Edwards. Despite a dip in his postseason production (10.4 PPG and 4.7 RPG) as Minnesota exited in the conference finals for the second consecutive year, the Wolves reaffirmed their commitment to the 26-year-old big man, signing Reid to a five-year, $125 million extension in June.
Signature Stat: Reid made 175 three-pointers last season, a career-high and the most among centers in 2024-25.
Fantasy Projection: 14.1 PTS, 5.9 REB, 2.0 AST
89. Andrew Wiggins, F, Miami Heat
2024 NBA Rank: 90
After being traded to Miami in a high-profile swap for Jimmy Butler, Andrew Wiggins averaged 19 points in 17 starts for the Heat, who were subsequently swept in the first round by Cleveland. The 2014 No. 1 overall pick is now 30, with 11 years in the league, and expectations for him to become a superstar have diminished. Wiggins appears to be a crucial supporting piece rather than a centerpiece, though trade rumors continue to circulate regarding a potential move during the season.
Signature Stat: Wiggins` scoring average increased by nearly 5 PPG last season. He also took a career-low 11.9% of his shots from midrange.
Fantasy Projection: 18.9 PTS, 5.1 REB, 2.7 AST
88. Zach Edey, C, Memphis Grizzlies
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
The 7-foot-4, 305-pound big man`s availability for the start of the season is uncertain as he recovers from June ankle surgery, but Zach Edey proved his impact potential even in a limited rookie role. Last season, Edey averaged 9.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks, despite playing only 21.5 minutes per game. Only one other rookie has ever matched or surpassed that production across the board with a higher effective field goal percentage than Edey`s .600.
Signature Stat: Edey set 32.9 on-ball screens per game under head coach Thomas Iisalo, compared to 13.2 when he was under Taylor Jenkins.
Fantasy Projection: 10.9 PTS, 9.7 REB, 1.5 BLK
87. Jonas Valanciunas, C, Denver Nuggets
2024 NBA Rank: 91
Initially, it was unclear whether Jonas Valanciunas would remain in the NBA this summer after being acquired by the Nuggets from the Kings. Now, the veteran big man is tasked with easing the workload on Nikola Jokic, who has been heavily relied upon during the regular season. If Valanciunas can successfully achieve this, the Nuggets will be delighted.
Signature Stat: Valanciunas came off the bench for 60 games last season, a significant increase from a total of 29 in his first 12 seasons combined.
Fantasy Projection: 10.2 PTS, 7.5 REB, 1.8 AST
86. Bradley Beal, G, LA Clippers
2024 NBA Rank: 70
Last season, Bradley Beal played under a cloud, burdened by a $50 million-per-year contract with a no-trade clause on an underperforming team. Despite this, his numbers were still respectable—he shot 50% for the third consecutive year—but he received little credit due to the surrounding circumstances. If he maintains the same level of play this year, now in a different role and on a more team-friendly contract with the Clippers, the narrative could completely shift, a pattern often seen in the NBA.
Signature Stat: Last season, Beal averaged his fewest points per game since 2014-15 but achieved his best layup/dunk percentage (65%) since 2013-14.
Fantasy Projection: 15.4 PTS, 3.1 REB, 3.4 AST
85. Jaden Ivey, G, Detroit Pistons
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
Three years into his NBA career, Jaden Ivey`s long-term fit with the Detroit Pistons remains a subject of speculation. Last season, he played only 30 games before a season-ending injury forced him to observe the team`s playoff run from the sidelines. Prior to the injury, he showed signs of a breakout, recording 17.6 points per game on 46% shooting (41% from beyond the arc), both career highs. However, he was unable to fully realize his potential. Now eligible for an extension on his rookie contract, Ivey enters this season with something to prove: can he be a central figure in Detroit`s next playoff push?
Signature Stat: Last season, Ivey shot 41% from three-point range and 46% on catch-and-shoot threes before his injury on January 1st.
Fantasy Projection: 17.6 PTS, 4.1 REB, 4.4 AST
84. Tobias Harris, F, Detroit Pistons
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
Tobias Harris carved out a vital role in revitalizing the Pistons, contributing significantly to their playoff berth. At 33 years old, he stands as one of the team`s veteran leaders, and his averages of 13.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 47% shooting don`t fully capture his overall impact. Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff frequently referred to him as the team`s `safety blanket,` providing a calming and dependable presence both on and off the court for one of the league`s youngest teams as they transitioned from the bottom of the standings to the postseason.
Signature Stat: Harris shot 66% on layups and dunks last season, his best mark since 2013-14. He also made 77% of 31 attempts off passes from Cade Cunningham.
Fantasy Projection: 14.1 PTS, 5.8 REB, 2.3 AST
83. Jonathan Kuminga, F, Golden State Warriors
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
Jonathan Kuminga’s rollercoaster journey with the Warriors was perfectly encapsulated by the final three weeks of his fourth season. Steve Kerr removed him from the rotation before the playoffs, as Kuminga struggled to integrate with the new Jimmy Butler-infused lineup. He largely watched from the sidelines as the Warriors narrowly defeated Houston in the first round. However, following Steph Curry`s hamstring injury, Kuminga was thrust into second-round action and exploded, becoming their leading scorer with 20.8 points on 54.3% shooting. This stark contrast further complicates his unresolved restricted free agency. While Kuminga`s playoff performance bolstered his personal ambitions, the Warriors remain concerned about his fit when the full core is healthy.
Signature Stat: Kuminga led the Warriors in paint scoring in the past two seasons, averaging 8.5 PPG last season and 10.0 PPG in 2023-24.
Fantasy Projection: 14.9 PTS, 4.5 REB, 2.2 AST
82. Norman Powell, G, Miami Heat
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
Norman Powell achieved his best season in his 10th year, at the age of 32—a rare feat. He flourished in the void created by Paul George`s departure from the Clippers. Known for his intense work ethic, he has evolved into a versatile offensive weapon. The Heat acquired him in a trade at a relatively low cost because the Clippers were unwilling to meet his contract demands, a situation that could highly motivate him for a stellar season.
Signature Stat: Last season, Powell led the NBA in points per touch and ranked second in effective field goal percentage on jumpers (minimum 500 attempts).
Fantasy Projection: 22.0 PTS, 3.4 REB, 2.0 AST
81. Andrew Nembhard, G, Indiana Pacers
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
In each of the past two years, Andrew Nembhard`s game has elevated significantly during the postseason, where he consistently averaged more points, rebounds, and assists, alongside improved field goal and three-point shooting percentages (his regular season 33.5% 3PT% soared to 47.3% in the playoffs). Moreover, he was Indiana`s most relentless defender during the postseason, leading full-court presses, navigating screens, and effectively limiting space for opposing ball handlers. With Tyrese Haliburton sidelined for the season, Nembhard is set to take on the primary ball-handling duties, an opportunity that will test if his playoff heroics can translate into a full season of elite performance.
Signature Stat: Last season, Nembhard increased his three-point percentage by 17.4 points from the regular season to the playoffs, the largest jump ever recorded (minimum 50 3PA).
Fantasy Projection: 11.8 PTS, 5.8 AST, 1.4 STL
80. DeMar DeRozan, F, Sacramento Kings
2024 NBA Rank: 45
Last March, with a signature mid-range move, DeMar DeRozan became only the 27th player in NBA history to surpass 25,000 career points. He is entering his 17th season, and in his 16th, he averaged 22.2 points, marking his 12th consecutive season averaging over 20 points per game. DeRozan appeared in 77 games, the 12th time in his career he has played at least 74 games. At 36, DeRozan remains highly productive and durable, but defensive concerns and flawed supporting casts have kept him from the league`s biggest stages since his Toronto days. DeRozan has participated in only five playoff games since 2019.
Signature Stat: Last season, DeRozan made 293 mid-range shots, 119 more than any other player. He has led the NBA in mid-range field goals in three of the past four seasons.
Fantasy Projection: 22.8 PTS, 4.0 REB, 4.7 AST
79. Onyeka Okongwu, C, Atlanta Hawks
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
Onyeka Okongwu transitioned into a starter on January 20th, and from February onwards, the center consistently scored in double figures in 27 of his final 33 games of the season. He also recorded 18 double-doubles during that period. With Okongwu and new addition Kristaps Porzingis, the Hawks could potentially form one of the NBA`s best center tandems, provided Porzingis can stay healthy. Given increased opportunities and enhanced roster talent, Okongwu appears poised to average a double-double in the upcoming season.
Signature Stat: Okongwu was one of only six players last season to average 15 points, 10 rebounds, and 55% field goal shooting (minimum 30 games from January 14th to the end of the season).
Fantasy Projection: 13.3 PTS, 8.9 REB, 1.0 BLK
78. Toumani Camara, F, Portland Trail Blazers
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
In his second season, Toumani Camara transformed from a second-round gem into a legitimate foundational piece for the Blazers. Not only did Camara earn All-Defensive Second Team honors for his ability to guard all five positions, but he also significantly improved his offense. Camara shot 37.5% from beyond the arc and averaged 11.3 points per game, compelling opponents to respect his shooting. After the All-Star break, Camara posted an impressive 59% effective field goal percentage, accounting for the added value of three-pointers. Perhaps Camara`s most unique skill is drawing charges, leading the league with 31, according to NBA Advanced Stats.
Signature Stat: Camara defended the second most All-Stars in 1,080 half-court matchups last season. He also drew 91 offensive fouls, the most since 2013-14.
Fantasy Projection: 11.0 PTS, 5.8 REB, 1.4 STL
77. Brandon Ingram, F, Toronto Raptors
2024 NBA Rank: 40
Remarkably, this will mark Brandon Ingram`s 10th NBA season. The former No. 2 overall pick played just 18 games last season due to a severe ankle sprain, after which he was traded to Toronto, where he signed a three-year, $120 million contract extension. He hasn`t played a game since December 7, 2024, and his only All-Star appearance was in 2019-20. It will be fascinating to observe how he integrates with Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, and RJ Barrett in the foreseeable future.
Signature Stat: The Raptors ranked last in off-the-dribble jumpers last season. Conversely, Ingram ranked seventh in such makes over the past five seasons.
Fantasy Projection: 21.8 PTS, 5.3 REB, 5.4 AST
76. Brandon Miller, F, Charlotte Hornets
2024 NBA Rank: 68
Brandon Miller`s promising sophomore season was cut short after just 27 games due to a torn ligament in his right wrist. Before the injury, he was averaging 21 points and appeared to be a dynamic playmaker alongside LaMelo Ball. Having been sidelined since January, he will rejoin a significantly different roster, featuring rookies Kon Knueppel and Liam McNeeley, along with veterans Colin Sexton and Mason Plumlee among several offseason additions. While his integration remains to be seen, the flashes he showed before his injury were highly encouraging. Alongside Ball, Miller is expected to continue his ascent.
Signature Stat: Miller concluded last season with 20 consecutive games making multiple three-pointers, tying the longest streak in Charlotte Hornets franchise history.
Fantasy Projection: 19.5 PTS, 4.6 REB, 3.1 AST
75. Jaden McDaniels, F, Minnesota Timberwolves
2024 NBA Rank: 77
At 6-foot-9 with a nearly 7-foot wingspan, Jaden McDaniels covers significant court space. His consistent availability and effective use of his long arms for defensive harassment and his speed for scoring in transition made 2024-25 a career year for the small forward. McDaniels played all 82 games for the first time in his five years in the league and had his best postseason yet, averaging career playoff highs in points (14.7), rebounds (5.6), and steals (1.3) per game. His 25 points on 11-for-13 shooting in Game 1 of the first round helped the No. 6-seeded Wolves upset the No. 3 Los Angeles Lakers and advance all the way to the conference finals.
Signature Stat: Last season, McDaniels was one of only five players to record 1,000 points, 100 steals, and 50 blocks (joining Gilgeous-Alexander, Anunoby, Daniels, and Harden).
Fantasy Projection: 12.2 PTS, 5.2 REB, 1.3 STL
74. Jabari Smith Jr., F, Houston Rockets
2024 NBA Rank: 92
A true example of homegrown talent in Houston, Jabari Smith Jr. was rewarded in the offseason with a $122 million rookie extension. Smith brings defensive versatility and crucial floor spacing, providing valuable flexibility for the large lineups the Rockets will deploy throughout the season. Drafted No. 3 overall in 2022, Smith has played a significant role in the team`s culture and growth over the years, contributing both as a starter and as a reserve towards the end of last season and in the playoffs.
Signature Stat: Last season, the Rockets posted a 40-17 record with Smith in the lineup and 12-13 without him. When he came off the bench, Houston went 15-3.
Fantasy Projection: 13.1 PTS, 7.5 REB, 1.3 AST
73. Dereck Lively II, C, Dallas Mavericks
2024 NBA Rank: 56
The Mavericks believe Dereck Lively II, a nimble 7-footer with the ability to protect the rim and defend on the perimeter, has the potential to develop into a Defensive Player of the Year candidate. He is a spectacular finisher, having dunked 207 of his 355 career buckets. However, Lively may receive fewer lobs after Luka Doncic`s departure. While he has proven his capability to be a force when on the court, he has been limited to a total of 91 games across his two NBA seasons and underwent offseason foot surgery.
Signature Stat: Lively has shot 73% on field goals since entering the NBA in 2023, the best among players with 400-plus shots over the last two seasons.
Fantasy Projection: 9.8 PTS, 8.3 REB, 1.7 BLK
72. Zach LaVine, G, Sacramento Kings
2024 NBA Rank: 74
After missing 58 games two seasons ago due to persistent foot issues, Zach LaVine revitalized his value with three scorching, healthy months to start last season. The Bulls capitalized on this, leveraging LaVine`s substantial contract into a three-team trade involving De`Aaron Fox, sending LaVine to Sacramento. He still has two years and $96.4 million remaining on his deal. While he has defensive vulnerabilities and lingering health questions, when he plays to his full potential, he is explosive. In 72 games last season split between two teams, he averaged 23.3 points on 51% shooting, making 44.6% of his high volume of three-pointers. His 239 made threes were the eighth most in the NBA.
Signature Stat: He was one of only four players (alongside Nikola Jokic, Kevin Durant, and Karl-Anthony Towns) to average 20 points while shooting 50% on field goals and 40% from three-point range last season.
Fantasy Projection: 23.3 PTS, 4.3 REB, 4.2 AST
71. Coby White, G, Chicago Bulls
2024 NBA Rank: 58
Coby White has emerged as the Bulls` most consistent offensive player during his breakout stretch over the past two seasons. Two years ago, the former No. 7 overall pick primarily came off the bench, with only a few spot starts for Chicago. Fast forward to last season, he averaged 20.4 points and 4.5 assists on 45% shooting (37% from three-point range) in 74 games, effectively filling the scoring void after Zach LaVine was traded. White is entering the final season of his current contract, which he has thoroughly outplayed, making an extension unlikely and raising questions about his future in Chicago.
Signature Stat: Last season, he achieved a career-high 20.4 points per game and made 216 three-pointers, the most in Bulls` history for a single season.
Fantasy Projection: 20.9 PTS, 4.2 REB, 4.9 AST
70. Michael Porter Jr., F, Brooklyn Nets
2024 NBA Rank: 89
The upcoming season will reveal just how crucial playing alongside Nikola Jokic was for Michael Porter Jr.`s career. The 6-foot-10 forward played a key role for the Nuggets as a floor spacer next to Jokic and demonstrated remarkable durability, playing through injuries, including a separated shoulder in the playoffs. However, Porter always believed he was capable of more playmaking and shot creation given the opportunity. It appears he will get that chance with the rebuilding Nets after being traded in the offseason.
Signature Stat: He recorded the second-best catch-and-shoot three-point percentage among players with over 1,000 attempts over the past three seasons, trailing only Stephen Curry.
Fantasy Projection: 19.1 PTS, 7.4 REB, 2.1 AST
69. Josh Hart, F, New York Knicks
2024 NBA Rank: 61
One of the major questions surrounding Mike Brown`s arrival in New York, assuming the roster is healthy, is the choice between Josh Hart and Mitchell Robinson as the fifth starter. Regardless, Hart`s industrious work ethic and knack for impactful plays have already made him a fan favorite, earning him the affection of the Madison Square Garden crowd in a way reminiscent of franchise legends like John Starks.
Signature Stat: Last season, he tallied nine triple-doubles, the most in a single season in Knicks history (surpassing Walt Frazier, 1968-69).
Fantasy Projection: 13.0 PTS, 9.4 REB, 5.6 AST
68. Tyler Herro, G, Miami Heat
2024 NBA Rank: 76
Last season, Tyler Herro rebounded from injury to deliver his most efficient and effective playmaking performance, serving as a bright spot for a Heat team that navigated Jimmy Butler’s daily challenges and Bam Adebayo’s generally down season. He will face similar obstacles in 2025-26 after undergoing offseason surgery that will sideline him at the start. At times, his offense-first, shot-heavy approach can feel like empty calories, particularly during the Heat`s worst season in a decade.
Signature Stat: He is the fourth Heat player to average 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists in a season, joining Butler, LeBron James, and Dwyane Wade.
Fantasy Projection: 23.6 PTS, 5.2 REB, 5.4 AST
67. Cameron Johnson, F, Denver Nuggets
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
Playing for a rebuilding Brooklyn Nets team, Cameron Johnson unexpectedly became a primary offensive option, posting a career-high 23% usage rate while simultaneously improving his efficiency. Johnson made 58% of his two-point attempts and a career-high 2.8 three-pointers per game, resulting in the best true shooting percentage of his career (.632). Traded to Denver for Michael Porter Jr., Johnson will likely have a smaller role but should capitalize on the open looks created by three-time MVP Nikola Jokic. The Nuggets would be thrilled if Johnson, who has never played more than 66 games in a season, could exceed that mark.
Signature Stat: Last season, Johnson achieved career highs in points, field goal percentage, and assists. He also averaged 50.4 touches, up from 39.5 in 2022-23.
Fantasy Projection: 17.1 PTS, 4.3 REB, 2.9 AST
66. Deni Avdija, F, Portland Trail Blazers
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
Following a draft-night trade to Portland, Deni Avdija continued his remarkable ascent into a go-to offensive option. His full-season statistics somewhat mask his development, as he had a slow adjustment to a new system. Starting with his first 20-point game as a Blazer, Avdija averaged 19.1 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.2 assists from November 29th onward. This impressive run included two triple-doubles, matching the most any Portland player has recorded in a season since Clyde Drexler. Among all of the Blazers` recent lottery picks, Avdija appears to be a cornerstone of their rebuilding efforts.
Signature Stat: Avdija recorded career highs in points, rebounds, assists, and steals last season. He also averaged 24.9 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 5.5 assists on 51-43-82 shooting splits in the final 16 games of the season.
Fantasy Projection: 17.6 PTS, 8.2 REB, 4.2 AST
65. Aaron Nesmith, G, Indiana Pacers
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
Aaron Nesmith was one of the postseason`s breakout stars, emerging as a two-way force on the perimeter during the Pacers` unexpected run to the Finals. He was frequently assigned to guard the opposing team`s best perimeter players while also showcasing lights-out three-point shooting on offense. Not only did he shoot 43% from deep during the regular season, but he caught fire in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals, sinking eight three-pointers to lead Indiana`s comeback victory at Madison Square Garden, which ultimately propelled the Pacers to a series win.
Signature Stat: Nesmith shot an incredible 49.2% from three-point range in the 2025 playoffs, the best mark in a single postseason (minimum 100 attempts).
Fantasy Projection: 14.0 PTS, 4.6 REB, 1.5 AST
64. Luguentz Dort, G, Oklahoma City Thunder
2024 NBA Rank: 85
For the fourth consecutive season, Luguentz Dort`s scoring average decreased, a statistic that reflects the Thunder`s evolution into champions rather than any decline in his personal performance. Oklahoma City prefers Dort to concentrate on shutting down opposing wing scorers, a role that earned him All-Defensive First Team honors for the first time and a fourth-place finish in Defensive Player of the Year voting. However, Dort has also developed into a dangerous three-point shooter, making a career-high 2.4 per game at a 41% clip last season. This combination makes him an ideal 3-and-D role player to complement the Thunder`s star players.
Signature Stat: He drew 55 offensive fouls, tied for the second most in the NBA behind Toumani Camara.
Fantasy Projection: 10.3 PTS, 4.1 REB, 1.1 STL
63. LaMelo Ball, G, Charlotte Hornets
2024 NBA Rank: 50
Last season, LaMelo Ball averaged a career-high 25.2 points but was denied an All-Star selection due to his team`s dismal performance, as the Hornets ultimately won only 19 games. Nevertheless, he forms the centerpiece of a young core that recently added Duke swingman Kon Knueppel, one of the top shooters from the 2025 draft. A critical concern remains Ball`s availability; he played only 22 games in 2023-24 and 47 last season, both curtailed by injuries (particularly recurring ankle issues). However, when healthy, he has proven to be one of the game`s most dynamic point guards, excelling in scoring, rebounding, and passing. As he goes, so goes the Hornets.
Signature Stat: He is the first Hornet to average 25 points and 7 assists in a season. Last season, the team posted a 3-32 record in the 35 games he missed.
Fantasy Projection: 26.7 PTS, 5.3 REB, 7.9 AST
62. Christian Braun, G, Denver Nuggets
2024 NBA Rank: Unranked
The Nuggets` gamble on Christian Braun paid off last season when he elevated into the starting lineup after Kentavious Caldwell-Pope`s departure in free agency. Braun averaged career highs of 15.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.1 steals. He shot 58% from the field while making 89 three-pointers, joining teammate and three-time MVP Nikola Jokic as the only players to achieve that feat in a single season. The next step for Braun, who shot 39.7% from beyond the arc, is to increase his volume of long-range attempts.
Signature Stat: He recorded 196 transition field goals made, the most since LeBron James (2013-14), according to GeniusIQ.
Fantasy Projection: 15.1 PTS, 5.2 REB, 1.1 STL
61. Zion Williamson, F, New Orleans Pelicans
2024 NBA Rank: 27
In six seasons with New Orleans, the face of the Pelicans` franchise has played…
