Midseason Fantasy Basketball Analysis
As we approach the halfway point of the 2025-26 NBA season, it’s an excellent opportunity to recognize players who have significantly impacted fantasy basketball leagues. From players who defied their draft positions to become stars, to those who slipped through the cracks to deliver unexpected value, these individuals are transforming rosters into championship teams.
Top Fantasy Player: Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers
Tyrese Maxey has emerged as an undeniable star this season, boasting performance reminiscent of an MVP. Drafted with an average position of 17.6 before the season started, Maxey is currently delivering astounding value, sitting among the top fantasy players with averages of 30.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game while achieving incredible shooting stats of 48% from the field, 40% from beyond the arc, and 88% from the free-throw line. What many may overlook is his impressive defensive capabilities; he leads the league with a total of stocks, accumulating 2.1 steals and 1.0 blocks per game. For fantasy managers who secured him in the earlier rounds, the rewards are evident as the 76ers guard is having a standout season at a crucial time.
Fantasy Rookie of the Year: Cooper Flagg, Dallas Mavericks
Cooper Flagg, the first pick from the last draft, is fulfilling the lofty expectations placed upon him. Averaging 18.8 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 4.1 assists, Flagg stands at the top of the rookie rankings across all fantasy formats. Despite the Mavericks struggling as a team, Flagg’s individual performance remains strong, demonstrating his all-around capabilities with more than two stocks per game. He ranks fourth in his rookie class in assists and has quickly assimilated into the NBA after being selected first overall, making him a worthwhile investment for fantasy players fortunate enough to draft him early.
Surprise Star of the Season: Keyonte George, Utah Jazz
Keyonte George, who began the season with a low draft position of 116, is now a standout performer, securing a place among the top 35 players in various fantasy leagues. Last season, George barely cracked the top 150 but has since experienced dramatic improvements in all major statistics, averaging 23.8 points, 6.8 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.5 three-pointers per game. His significant leap in efficiency makes him one of Utah’s key offensive threats this year, and he’s at the forefront of All-Star discussions, bringing immense value to those who picked him up in the later rounds of the draft.
Best Defensive Player in Fantasy: Tyrese Maxey, Philadelphia 76ers
In a surprising twist, Tyrese Maxey also takes the title of Fantasy Defensive Player of the Year, standing out for his remarkable defensive contributions as well as his offensive prowess. While other contenders like Victor Wembanyama have made strong cases for the award, Maxey’s dual averages of at least two steals and one block per game set him apart. Currently, he’s on pace to join a select group of players who have maintained such averages, a feat last achieved by Robert Covington during the 2018-19 season. Maxey’s defensive talent adds significant value in fantasy formats, making him not just a complete player, but a critical asset this season.
Most Notable Waiver Wire Pick: Kon Knueppel, Charlotte Hornets
Kon Knueppel entered the league unnoticed, going undrafted in a majority of leagues, but he has proven to be a diamond in the rough. Now leading all rookies with 19.1 points per game and exhibiting an exceptional shooting efficiency of 49% from the field, 44% from three, and 89% from the free-throw line, he’s making a name for himself. Notably, his success from beyond the arc is shaping up to be historic; with 143 three-pointers already, he’s set to smash the rookie record for three-pointers made in a season. While fellow rookie Ryan Rollins is also performing well, Knueppel’s consistent output positions him as one of the standout free-agent finds this season, bolstering fantasy rosters with well-rounded contributions.
This midseason analysis reinforces the importance of strategic drafting and keen player evaluations in fantasy basketball, highlighting players who have not only met expectations but have surpassed them, providing valuable lessons for managers moving forward in the season.
