Fantasy Basketball Update: Record-Breaking Performances
As we gear up for 2026, fantasy basketball players are likely seeking a reset, particularly if 2025 didn’t go as planned. The Yahoo Fantasy High Score segment has been active for about two months, and this week marked a record-breaking high point. Unsurprisingly, Nikola Jokić, a name that commands respect in the league, shattered expectations by achieving the highest score of the season.
During the thrilling overtime matchup on Christmas Day, Jokić amassed a staggering 108 fantasy points, leading the Denver Nuggets to a 142-138 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
His exceptional performance included a 56-point triple-double, alongside 16 rebounds, 15 assists, and 2 blocks. Previously, the leading score was held by Cade Cunningham, who secured 101 fantasy points back in November.
Highlight Performances from the Last Week of 2025
While it may be a tall order to surpass Jokić’s Christmas performance, the fantasy season is just beginning. Let’s delve into the highlight performances from the last week of 2025, which comprise the top six players by position.
Top Players
Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons, despite losing his top score status, continues to be a mainstay in these rankings. He entered the latest game trailing only Jokić and Luka Dončić in fantasy points per game at 59.2. Although the Pistons have a deep roster, which can affect Cunningham’s scoring opportunities, he tends to excel when facing weaker defenses or in closely contested games.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been less prominently featured, yet he holds stable fantasy value. His steady contributions are notable, but they don’t lead to high ceiling games in terms of High Score due to limited assists. In a recent matchup against the Grizzlies, he almost achieved his first triple-double this season with a line of 31 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists, alongside 5 stats.
We have already detailed Jokić, whose dominance in fantasy basketball is evident. Averaging over 70 fantasy points per game, he significantly outpaces the 12th place player, Donovan Mitchell, who averages 50.6. Expect to see Jokić prominently featured in many roster lineups come playoff time in April.
Kawhi Leonard showed signs of resurgence before the year-end; December has been particularly fruitful for him, averaging 29.5 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.2 steals per game. His recent games include scoring over 40 points twice, culminating in a season-high 55 points against the Pistons. Following a tough November, Leonard seems to be back in form, which is a promising sign for fantasy basketball team owners.
Scottie Barnes displayed remarkable prowess during a recent game, recording a triple-double with 23 points, 10 assists, and an impressive career-high of 25 rebounds. His ability to contribute across multiple categories makes him a player to watch, although 20+ rebounds may not be the norm for him.
Finally, Jamal Murray, who was also part of the High Score lineup, put up 60 points on Christmas and achieved his week’s highest total in a game against Cooper Flagg and the Mavericks, scoring 31 points, grabbing 7 rebounds, and distributing 14 assists—just shy of his career-best. The Nuggets possess the NBA’s most powerful offense, averaging 125.8 points per game, a testament to Murray’s impactful role within the team.
