Fantasy Basketball Risers and Fallers: Who’s Hot and Who’s Not a Quarter Into the Season
We’re about a quarter of the way through the NBA season, and it’s the perfect time to check in on the players making waves and those struggling to find their footing. This special edition of “Risers and Fallers” dives into the fantasy basketball landscape, spotlighting the stars who are shining brighter than ever and those whose lights are dimming. Let’s break it all down!
Risers
Nikola Jokic, C, Denver Nuggets
Nikola Jokic is reminding everyone why he’s a fantasy basketball juggernaut. With all the preseason hype surrounding Victor Wembanyama, many thought the rookie would redefine fantasy greatness. But Jokic isn’t ready to hand over the crown just yet. Through 19 games, he’s averaging career highs in scoring, assists, steals, and 3-pointers. Oh, and he’s shooting over 50% from downtown. The only minor blemish? His 0.7 blocks per game. But don’t be shocked if that number creeps up to 1.0 before the season ends. Jokic is on a mission, and fantasy managers are reaping the rewards.
Karl-Anthony Towns, PF/C, New York Knicks
Welcome back, KAT! After a few seasons of injuries and struggles alongside Rudy Gobert, Karl-Anthony Towns has found his groove in New York. Many doubted how he’d handle the bright lights of the Big Apple, but Towns has silenced the critics. He’s averaging a career-best 13.2 rebounds per game and has reestablished himself as a top-five fantasy player. While he’s not racking up steals and blocks, his shooting efficiency and rebounding dominance make him a must-have player this season.
Jalen Williams, SF/PF/C, Oklahoma City Thunder
Jalen Williams is having a breakout season, and it’s time to take notice. While most knew he was talented, few expected him to be this good. Williams is putting together a top-10 fantasy season, delivering across-the-board production without any glaring weaknesses. He’s shooting over 50% from the field, over 80% from the free-throw line, and averaging just 2.1 turnovers per game. At only 23 years old, Williams is a rising star and a likely first-round fantasy pick next year.
Nikola Vucevic, C, Chicago Bulls
At 34 years old and in his 15th season, Nikola Vucevic continues to defy Father Time. He’s upped his scoring by three points per game and is hitting one more 3-pointer per game compared to last season. While the Chicago Bulls may not be playoff contenders, Vucevic is delivering first-round fantasy value. The only concern? A potential late-season shutdown. But for now, he’s a reliable option for fantasy managers.
Josh Hart, SG/SF, New York Knicks
Josh Hart is thriving in New York, even with the arrival of stars like Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby. Hart is logging a career-high 37.3 minutes per game and shooting a blistering 59.8% from the field. His scoring is up nearly five points per game, and his all-around contributions make him a fantasy gem. With the Knicks’ shallow bench, expect Hart to keep logging heavy minutes.
Fallers
Jrue Holiday, PG/SG, Boston Celtics
Jrue Holiday’s move to Boston has been great for the Celtics but not so much for fantasy managers. His scoring, assists, and steals are all down, and he’s averaging just 12.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. While he remains a defensive anchor for Boston, his fantasy value has taken a significant hit. The days of Holiday being a 20-point, seven-assist, two-steal player seem to be behind him.
Clint Capela, C, Atlanta Hawks
Clint Capela’s fantasy stock is plummeting. Once a double-double machine, Capela is now averaging just one block per game and has seen his minutes drop to around 22 per game. With Onyeka Okongwu emerging, Capela’s role is shrinking, and his fantasy relevance is fading fast.
Klay Thompson, SG/SF, Dallas Mavericks
Klay Thompson’s struggles continue in Dallas. While he’s stayed relatively healthy, his shooting percentages have plummeted to career lows. At 38.9% from the field and 36.6% from 3-point range, Thompson is no longer a reliable fantasy option. It’s a tough pill to swallow for managers who hoped for a resurgence alongside Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving.
As the season progresses, these risers and fallers will continue to shape the fantasy basketball landscape. Stay tuned for more updates as we inch closer to the halfway point of the season!
Originally Written by: Eric Karabell
