NBA Players to Watch as 2025 Approaches
As 2025 comes to a close, it’s time to evaluate which NBA players are finishing strong and which ones may need a fresh start in the new year. NBA action continues with a doubleheader tonight on NBC and Peacock, featuring the 76ers facing off against the Grizzlies at 8 p.m. ET, followed by the Pistons taking on the Lakers at 11 p.m. ET. Be sure to check local listings for the NBC broadcast in your area.
Standout Performers
Noteworthy players making headlines include Anthony Black from the Orlando Magic, who has been on fire lately. After a stellar performance on Saturday, where he showcased his skills, Black has averaged an impressive 27.8 points and 4.3 three-pointers over four games, along with contributing 4.5 assists and multiple steals in nearly every contest during this span. His offensive output is particularly crucial with teammate Franz Wagner still sidelined and without a timeline for return.
Rookie Maxime Raynaud of the Sacramento Kings is also gaining traction, offering a solid presence as a starting center in the absence of Domantas Sabonis. Over his last six games, Raynaud has recorded four double-doubles, including a personal best of 29 points against the Trail Blazers in a recent overtime match. Although his perimeter shooting and block counts are manageable, his growing role can’t be ignored as he continues to provide consistent contributions in his debut season. Questions remain about what his performance will look like once Sabonis is back in the lineup.
Meanwhile, in Portland, Donovan Clingan has become a pivotal player for the Trail Blazers amid a turbulent season filled with fluctuating victories. Clingan has been a standout, producing a double-double average this season, and notably achieving five double-doubles in the last six outings. His ability to stretch the floor, combined with impressive rebounding and shot-blocking, has made him an essential part of the team’s dynamics as he adapts to his role as a primary center.
Players Struggling as the Year Ends
On the contrary, several players are struggling as the year ends. Anfernee Simons of the Boston Celtics has been unable to break out of his slump, managing only 11.4 points per game in December with disappointing shooting percentages. His playing time is dwindling, leading to speculation about his future with the Celtics if he cannot rediscover his rhythm while backing up the starting guards.
Zaccharie Risacher, who was the top pick in the 2024 draft, has failed to show significant improvement in his second year. With the Hawks experiencing a seven-game losing streak, Risacher’s contributions have been minimal, raising concerns about his impact on the court and resulting in chatter about a possible trade.
Lastly, Deandre Ayton of the Los Angeles Lakers has seen a decline in his performance metrics recently due to minor injuries and a lack of scoring opportunities following a decent November stretch. Without a significant number of shots, three-pointer attempts, or free-throw activity, Ayton’s value has taken a hit, making him less appealing in fantasy basketball leagues currently.
Looking Ahead
With each player’s trajectory heading into the new year uncertain, fans and fantasy managers alike will be keenly watching their performances as the calendar changes.
