Fantasy basketball is more than just a game; it’s a thrilling way to experience basketball like never before. The adrenaline rush of drafting players, analyzing stats, and strategizing your lineup for basketball games makes it incredibly engaging. Whether you’re an online player looking to dominate your league or just someone who loves to stay connected with basketball live, knowing the best players to target in each draft round can give you a competitive edge. Here’s a round-by-round guide to help you draft like a pro.
Round 1: Fantasy Basketball: Go Big or Go Home
The first round is all about securing a superstar. This is where you set the tone for your entire team, so choosing the right player is crucial.
- Nikola Jokić (C, Denver Nuggets)
Jokić is a fantasy basketball gem. He provides elite stats across almost all categories—points, rebounds, assists, and even steals. As the reigning MVP, he has shown he can be the centerpiece of any fantasy lineup. He offers consistent performances that can carry your team, especially in daily fantasy basketball games. - Giannis Antetokounmpo (F, Milwaukee Bucks)
If Jokić is off the board, Giannis is a great alternative. His ability to contribute in every statistical category makes him a top-tier pick. His dominance in real basketball translates well into fantasy basketball, making him a solid first-round choice.
Round 2: Focus on Multi-Category Contributors
The second round is about finding players who can contribute across multiple categories. Ideally, you’re looking for players who can fill the stat sheet.
- Jayson Tatum (F, Boston Celtics)
Tatum is one of the most versatile players in the league. He provides excellent scoring, good rebounding, and can even chip in with some assists and steals. Tatum is also a reliable performer during basketball live streams, consistently putting up big numbers against tough defenses. - Anthony Davis (F/C, Los Angeles Lakers)
Despite some past injuries, Davis remains a high-upside fantasy option. When healthy, he is an elite defender and a great scorer, making him an all-around contributor. His shot-blocking ability gives him an extra edge in categories leagues.
Round 3: Add Depth with High-Upside Players
In the third round, focus on players who offer high upside without too much risk. This round is where you start building your team’s depth.
- LaMelo Ball (G, Charlotte Hornets)
LaMelo is not just a basketball sensation; he’s a fantasy basketball star in the making. His unique playing style brings points, assists, and even rebounds from the guard position. The fact that he’s a triple-double threat adds a lot of value to your lineup. Plus, if you’re tuning in to basketball live, he’s always making highlight-reel plays. - Donovan Mitchell (G, Cleveland Cavaliers)
Mitchell is another guard who can provide value across multiple categories. He’s a high-volume scorer and can also contribute in assists and steals, giving him significant value in points leagues.
Round 4: Secure a Reliable Shooter
By the fourth round, you should be looking for players who can help with shooting percentages and scoring.
- Khris Middleton (F, Milwaukee Bucks)
Middleton is a consistent performer and a sharpshooter who rarely disappoints. His three-point shooting and solid free-throw percentage can be a real asset for your fantasy team. He’s also a clutch player during basketball games, making him a valuable pick at this stage. - CJ McCollum (G, New Orleans Pelicans)
McCollum offers a lot of upside in terms of points and three-pointers. He’s a steady scorer who can also provide assists, which is great if you’re looking to fill multiple categories. With his ability to light up basketball games, he’s a player who can make a significant impact.
Round 5: Target Emerging Stars and Sleepers
This round is where you can start taking some calculated risks. Look for players who have shown potential but are not yet at superstar level.
- Tyrese Haliburton (G, Indiana Pacers)
Haliburton is an emerging young star who has already made a name for himself with his all-around game. His ability to contribute in assists, steals, and three-pointers makes him an attractive pick. He’s the kind of player who can give you a boost in categories where you might be lacking. - Deandre Ayton (C, Phoenix Suns)
Ayton is a solid option if you need a center at this stage. He offers strong rebounding, field goal percentage, and can even chip in with some blocks. He’s consistent enough to be relied upon and young enough to still have room for improvement.
Round 6-10: Rounding Out Your Roster
As you move into the later rounds, focus on filling any gaps in your lineup. This is where you can take more risks on players with high potential but low cost.
- Round 6: Desmond Bane (G, Memphis Grizzlies)
Bane is a solid three-point shooter who can also provide scoring and steals. He’s not a flashy pick, but he’s reliable, and those points from beyond the arc will add up during basketball games. - Round 7: Jalen Brunson (G, New York Knicks)
Brunson had a breakout season last year, and he’s set up to play an even bigger role this year. His scoring and assist potential make him a great late-round target, especially in points leagues. - Round 8: Paolo Banchero (F, Orlando Magic)
The rookie Banchero is expected to be an instant impact player. His versatility and opportunity for a high usage rate make him a valuable gamble in the later rounds. - Round 9: Mitchell Robinson (C, New York Knicks)
If you’re looking for rebounds and blocks, Robinson is your guy. He’s a specialist who can shore up your defense stats without needing to score a lot of points. - Round 10: Bogdan Bogdanović (F/G, Atlanta Hawks)
Bogdanović offers three-point shooting and some scoring off the bench. He’s a solid late-round flier who could provide extra value if given more minutes.
Conclusion
Drafting a winning fantasy basketball team requires more than just picking big names; it demands strategy, foresight, and understanding player roles. By targeting the right players in each round, you can build a well-rounded roster capable of competing at the highest level. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to fantasy basketball, this guide can help you stay ahead of the curve and keep your league rivals on their toes.
Remember, the thrill of fantasy basketball is not just in winning but in experiencing the ups and downs of each basketball live event, and how your chosen players shape up throughout the season.
