Mid-Season Fantasy All-Star Roster
As the NBA All-Star festivities commence, it’s a prime moment to evaluate which players have been most beneficial to fantasy basketball teams this season. This analysis focuses not on the usual high-profile names but rather on those who have defied expectations and enhanced their value effectively.
In crafting my Mid-Season Fantasy All-Star roster, I selected a starting lineup based on performance metrics and added significant contributors from the later rounds of drafts as reserves. Here’s an overview of the key players shaping fantasy leagues as of February 11.
Starting Lineup
Guard: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
SGA has consistently demonstrated his worth, exceeding the high expectations set in pre-season rankings. He appears on about 29% of the top 500 fantasy teams, showcasing his exceptional output — he’s routinely scoring 30 points per game alongside nearly 6.4 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and shooting an impressive 55% from the field.
Guard: Tyrese Maxey (Philadelphia 76ers)
Maxey has been a driving force for the 76ers this season, setting new personal bests across multiple categories, including points and assists. His performance has positioned him as a top-tier player in High Score leagues, ranking in the top six overall. Additionally, he appears on 26.6% of the most successful fantasy squads.
Forward: Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs)
While Wembanyama may not be producing video-game-like stats as frequently as in his rookie season, he still leads the league by averaging over 24 points, 11 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game at just 22 years old. His multi-dimensional skills make him a top fantasy asset not easily matched by others.
Forward: Jalen Johnson (Atlanta Hawks)
Johnson has emerged as one of the most valuable picks from the earlier drafts. Initially valued around pick 25, he has catapulted to a top-15 performer in 9-category formats due to his combination of skills — aided by the recent trade of Trae Young, which has elevated his playmaking capabilities. With 10 triple-doubles to his name so far, he shows potential for even more as the season progresses.
Center: Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets)
Despite missing 16 games, Jokić’s performance continues to set him apart as the cream of the fantasy crop. Averaging an astonishing 69 points in High Score formats, he’s on track for yet another triple-double season. His efficiency, combined with his ability to generate steals, keeps him firmly in the conversation for the number one overall fantasy pick.
Honorable Mentions:
- Jamal Murray
- Jaylen Brown
- Scottie Barnes
Reserves
Guard: Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Atlanta Hawks)
After being overlooked in many drafts, Alexander-Walker has risen to prominence, showcasing significant improvements in his gameplay. He lands within the top 75 of both High Score and points leagues after starting with an ADP beyond 120. Benefiting similarly from the trade involving Trae Young, his contributions have been impressive.
Guard: Keyonte George (Utah Jazz)
Initially drafted at around pick 113, George has increased his scoring to nearly 24 points per game along with his assists and rebounds. However, he is currently managing an ankle injury amidst his team’s rebuilding phase, leaving his future performance potential uncertain.
Forward: Kon Knueppel (Charlotte Hornets)
The fourth overall pick in the NBA draft, Knueppel was surprisingly undrafted in numerous fantasy leagues, but he has become a vital pickup. With averages nearing 19 points and impressive shooting stats, he’s making headlines and could be a frontrunner for Rookie of the Year if he keeps up this momentum.
Forward: Kawhi Leonard (Los Angeles Clippers)
As skepticism around his knee health led to lower draft positioning, Leonard has silenced critics by maintaining significant production, averaging just under 28 points along with solid rebounds and steals in his games played this season. With the Clippers’ recent roster changes, it may be strategic for fantasy managers to capitalize on his value now.
Center: Alperen Şengün (Houston Rockets)
Şengün’s numbers reflect a more favorable option compared to other centers like Jalen Duren. His contributions in fantasy leagues show solid returns, especially alongside improved defensive efforts, making him a reliable pick despite some limitations in the 9-category format.
Honorable Mentions:
- Deni Avdija
- Trey Murphy
- Michael Porter Jr.
As the season progresses, who else should be considered for a spot on this Fantasy All-Star roster?