Just two months removed from the Finals, the 2020-21 NBA season is set to tip off on Dec. 22, and you know what that means. The fantasy basketball season is upon us! In anticipation of the new season, the FantasyPros staff got together to share their thoughts on the top-100 players in 9-category fantasy basketball leagues.
Below, you’ll find our staff consensus rankings as well as detailed notes on over 50 of the top options from Brad Camara, Adam Koffler, Alex Burns, Dan Titus, Aaron Larson, and Zak Hanshew.
View consensus odds for the 2020/21 NBA Championship at BettingPros 
1. James Harden (HOU – PG,SG)
It’s hard not to get excited about Harden year-in and year-out, as the Bearded one keeps racking up huge numbers for fantasy managers. He’s led the league in scoring in each of the past three seasons, but Harden is far from a one-trick pony. Not by a long shot. In that three-season span, he’s averaged 33.6 points, 7.9 dimes, 6.2 boards, 4.3 triples, and 1.9 swipes – talk about stuffing the stat sheet. Harden is a solid shooter in all facets of the game as well, and he’s a muti-category dream in fantasy leagues. Don’t overthink taking him with a top-2 pick in drafts this season. -Hanshew
2. Luka Doncic (DAL – PG)
Most fantasy experts have a combination of Giannis Antetokounmpo or James Harden as the consensus number one overall pick in fantasy this year. Still, I am going with the Slovenian superstar-to-be, Luka Doncic. Luka was arguably at his best in the 2020 NBA playoffs, where he averaged 31.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 8.7 assists per game. If there is any room for improvement, it will be from the charity stripe, where he shot 76% in the regular season and 65% in the playoffs. With C Kristaps Porzinigis expected to miss the first month (and potentially more) of the season, Doncic will be one of only a handful of players capable of averaging a triple-double. Sprinkle that in with his 35.5 usage rate that ranked top-3 in the league last season along with scoring nearly 30 points a night, and you’re looking at a top-3 player this season. He’s already one of the best passers and scorers in the NBA, so don’t be surprised when he catapults himself into the MVP conversation at only 21-years old. -Titus
3. Anthony Davis (LAL – PF,C)
Any doubts about Davis skipping town have promptly been put to rest as the Brow signed a max extension to remain with the Lakers for the next four seasons. In his first season in the purple and gold, he averaged 26.1 points and 9.3 boards. Though the rebounding was his lowest mark since his rookie campaign, Davis didn’t fall off completely. He made magic on both ends of the court, posting 3.8 combined blocks/steals per game, and he even added a three-point shot to his repertoire, draining a career-best 1.2 per contest. Davis is able to fill up the box score like few others in the NBA, and he should be a clear top-5 selection in fantasy drafts this season. -Hanshew
4. Karl-Anthony Towns (MIN – C)
Towns was on pace for a massive fantasy season last year before nagging injuries sidelined him for the majority of the winter and spring. He averaged career-highs in points per game (26.5), assists per game (4.4), and most impressively, three-pointers per game (3.3). He also adds enough blocks (1.2) and steals (.9) to be considered one of the best all-around contributors in the NBA, something that isn’t easy to find at the center position. -Larson
5. Giannis Antetokounmpo (MIL – SF,PF)
The back-to-back reigning MVP will remain an elite fantasy force this season. Antetokounmpo has impressively raised both his average points and rebounds per game over every season of his seven-year career, even though he’s seen his minutes on the court actually decline over the past three seasons. That might not be the case this year if the Bucks aren’t able to coast as easily through their regular season schedule. He led the NBA with a hearty 37.5% usage rate and is a triple-double threat every time he steps on the court. His free-throw and three-point percentage still leave something to be desired, which keeps him outside of the consensus top-three. -Larson
6. Nikola Jokic (DEN – PF,C)
Jokic is arguably the most versatile center in the NBA. He delivered for fantasy managers last season putting up 19.9 points, 9.7 rebounds, 7.0 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.1 three’s, and 0.6 blocks per contest, while shooting 53% from the field and 82% from the free-throw line. The Denver Nuggets are fully embracing their youth movement and Jokic is at the center of it all. He’ll be a safe top-10 selection and a case can certainly be made for him being top-3 for his ability to fill up the box score at such a thin position. He’s motivated and poised to be one of the best fantasy players this year so you may have to reach for the Joker if you’re looking for a triple-double threat every night. -Titus
7. Trae Young (ATL – PG)
The Atlanta Hawks spared no expense this offseason in putting an extremely formidable team around second-year All-Star PG Trae Young. By adding guys like Bogdan Bogdanovic and Danilo Gallinari, the Hawks are signaling to their young core that they are going all-in to surround them with the talent they need to succeed as early as this season. Last season, Young budded into a superstar right in front of our eyes, finishing fourth in scoring (29.6 ppg) and second in assists (9.3 apg), trailing only LeBron James in that category. While the scoring numbers could come down with a plethora of options to put the ball in the basket, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that Young averages over 10 assists per game this season. He’s also only missed a total of eight games in two seasons. In a world of “DNP-rest,” Young is as safe as they come in the middle to later part of the first round in 2020-21. -Koffler
8. Damian Lillard (POR – PG)
Who has a better rhythm and flow to their game than Dame Dolla? Not many, as the reigning- Bubble MVP enters the 2020-2021 season as a top-3 guard in H2H formats. That is high esteem, but year-over-year, we continue to undervalue Lillard in fantasy. He’s one of the most reliable and consistent players in the NBA today and with a top-15 usage rate of last season, he’ll continue to be a fantasy beast . After averaging career-highs in points (30.0), assists (8.0), three-pointers made (4.1), and minutes played (37.5) per game, all while shooting 46.3 % from the field, I expect Lillard to be in the MVP conversation. At 30-years old, he’s firmly in his prime as a perennial All-Star. Fantasy wise, he can light up the box score on any given night but it’s his three-point and free-throw shooting that really differentiate him from most guards in H2H formats. He’ll be shouldering the load for a revamped Trail Blazers team that added more depth on the perimeter to make a run in the West but Lillard will continue to be one of the most efficient, high-volume scorers in the league. He’s a top-10 pick, no questions asked. -Titus
9. Stephen Curry (GSW – PG,SG)
Curry’s 2019-2020 season ended after only five games due to a hand injury – much to Warriors fans and fantasy managers’ dismay. However, Chef Curry is back with a retooled starting lineup that will only increase his opportunity to be a fantasy dynamo this year. With the unfortunate news of G/F Klay Thompson being out for the season due to a torn Achillies, the remaining Splash Brother will be the focal point of the offense predicated on floor spacing and ball movement. Curry has struggled with injuries over the past three seasons, but I expect the former two-time MVP to come out firing and average closer to his 2018-2019 seasonal averages of 27.3 points, 5.3 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game. We know Curry can light it up on offense but don’t sleep on his swiping ability, as he’s averaged 1.7 steals per game for his career. Curry is a no-brainer first-round pick this season with upside to finish in the top-5. -Titus
10. LeBron James (LAL – PG,SG,SF,PF)
He’s arguably the greatest player of all time, but should you want the King on your fantasy team this season? He’s heading into his 18th NBA season, fresh off winning a title just two months ago. While he averaged double-digit assists per game for the first time in his career, his scoring numbers were down with Anthony Davis in town and he continues to shoot under 70 percent from the charity stripe. While he’s a relatively safe bet to average somewhere between 23-25 points, 7-8 rebounds, and 8-10 assists per game, James is bound to sit out a handful of contests this season with the Lakers’ sights on back-to-back championships. While he’s a solid back-end first round pick, I’d rather have young rising stars such as Trae Young, Nikola Jokic, and Jayson Tatum this season ahead of LeBron James. -Koffler
11. Jayson Tatum (BOS – SF,PF)
Jayson Tatum signed a signed a five-year contract extension worth up to $195 million with the Celtics this offseason. He had a breakout campaign in his third year in the league, averagring 23.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.4 steals, 0.9 blocks and 2.9 triples across 34.3 minutes over 66 games. Gordon Hayward signed with the Hornets, and the former third overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft could have an expanded role. The 22-year-old made his first All-Star appearance last season and is expected to once again carry the Celtics’ offense. Tatum is projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick in upcoming fantasy drafts, and fantasy managers can expect more of the same elite production in 2020-21. -Camara
12. Kawhi Leonard (LAC – SG,SF)
The “fun guy” balled out in his first season with the Clippers, but it didn’t come without drama and disappointment. Clippers Insider Jovan Buha reported that Leonard’s preferential treatment “affected both players and staffers,” which resulted in chemistry issues on and off the court. Fantasy managers have a gripe to pick with Leonard as well, after missing 11 games due to load management or “DNP-Rest” last season out of a possible 72 games, according to Fansure.com. Still, there is no denying he is one of the best and most complete players in the NBA. Leonard’s per-game stats over the past two seasons are ideal for category leagues – averaging 26.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.8 steals, 0.5 blocks, 2.1 three-pointers, with 48% shooting from the field and 87% from the free-throw line. Despite those gaudy numbers, I am downgrading Leonard to a second-round pick because I expect he’ll miss at least 20% of his games due to load management or injury this season. -Titus
13. Devin Booker (PHO – PG,SG)
Booker enters the 2020-2021 season as one of the most exciting young guards in the NBA, and after putting on a show in the NBA Bubble (30.5 points, 6.0 assists, and 4.9 rebounds in eight games), Booker should be on everyone’s radar as a late first, early second-round pick. The Suns are doing their best to build around him and Deandre Ayton, pulling off a crazy trade to acquire future Hall-of-Famer, Chris Paul. Some might expect Booker’s assist numbers to regress with Paul in town, but Booker thrived alongside Ricky Rubio, averaging 6.5 assists per contest last year. Inserting Chris Paul into the lineup improves the Suns shooting efficiency and allows Booker to flourish off the ball with a more capable scoring threat beside him in the backcourt. Booker averaged at least 26 points, six assists, and four rebounds in his past two seasons, and fantasy managers should see even more growth in his game, entering his sixth season at only 24 years old. -Titus
14. Kevin Durant (BKN – SF,PF)
Durant is one of the most challenging players to project this season. We haven’t seen the 13-year veteran in an NBA game since he ruptured his Achilles tendon in Game 5 of the 2019 NBA Finals. When he’s on the floor he’s been a model of consistency as one of the best pure scorers of his era, averaging 27 points per game for his career. It remains to be seen how he’ll look returning from the serious injury and leading the new-look Nets alongside Kyrie Irving. -Larson
15. Joel Embiid (PHI – PF,C)
Embiid fell off a bit in 2019-20, taking a step backward in most statistical categories while missing significant time once again. One of the most dominant big men when healthy, he’s averaged at least 22.0 points, 11.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.3 blocks, and 1.0 triples in three straight seasons while shooting respectably along the way. Embiid’s biggest issue is health, as he’s topped out at 64 games played in a season through four years in the Association. His stat lines can be monstrous, and he deserves to be selected as a top-15 player in fantasy drafts this season. Just be mindful of the multiple games you’re likely to be without him. -Hanshew
16. Bam Adebayo (MIA – PF,C)
Adebayo broke out in the 2019-2020 season and after a ridiculous playoff-run that led to the NBA Finals, he enters this season as one of the top bigs in the league. He’s already entrenched himself as a nightly double-double candidate after averaging 15.9 points and 10.2 rebounds but his passing ability separates him from typical NBA centers. He is one of only three centers to average at least five assists per game last year but he also brings a tenacity on defense where he swiped 1.1 steals and blocked 1.3 blocks per game last season. There is room for improvement in his free-throw shooting (69%) and attempting three-pointers, but otherwise, Adebayo is the perfect center to target as a top-20 player this season. He’ll stuff the stat sheet for a contending team that will be one of the best in the Eastern conference. -Titus
17. Bradley Beal (WAS – SG)
Beal has been a solid fantasy option for most of his eight-year professional career, but he erupted last season. He did the best he could to put a broken down Washington team on his back, scoring over 1,000 points more than any of his Wizard teammates. He trailed only James Harden in scoring average, racking 30.5 points per game. His role will likely diminish with the recent addition of usage hog Russell Westbrook, but Beal still figures to be a top fantasy option at guard. -Larson
18. Deandre Ayton (PHO – C)
Chris Paul‘s arrival in Phoenix should do wonders for Ayton’s fantasy value this season. The former 2018 first overall pick played just 38 games a season ago, but averaged 18.2 points (54.6 FG%), 11.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in 32.5 minutes per game. With CP3 running the offense, a healthy Ayton should have no problem averaging 20 and 10 this season, and could even improve his FG% with more high-percentage looks. Don’t overlook Ayton in the 2nd round of drafts. -Koffler
19. Jimmy Butler (MIA – SG,SF)
Fresh off an impressive run to the NBA Finals, Butler has cemented himself as a top-15 player in the league. When it comes to fantasy, however, Butler’s value takes a few hits due to his low three-point volume as he only shot 24 percent behind the arc in 2020. Still, the five-time All-Star boasts a very well-rounded game and has an knack for getting to the free-throw line as he attempted just over 9.0 free throws per game in 2020, good enough for fifth most in the league. On top of that, Butler’s elite defensive prowess is what set’s him apart and his 1.8 steals per game a season ago tied James Harden and Kawhi Leonard for fifth-most. Combine all of that together and the 31-year-old forward should easily return top-25 value entering his 10th season in the NBA. -Burns
20. Donovan Mitchell (UTH – PG,SG)
Donovan Mitchell signed a signed a five-year contract extension worth up to $195 million with the Jazz this offseason. He has become Utah’s primary option on offense since being selected by the Jazz 13th overall in 2017 NBA Draft. The 24-year-old posted career high in points (24.0), rebounds (4.4), assists (4.3) and threes (2.5) in 2019-20. Mitchell is one of the most consistent (career 22.8 PPG) and durable players in the NBA, missing only 11 games in his career. The Jazz will rely on Mitchell heavily once again in 2020-21 so expect Utah’s star SG to be selected within top-25 in upcoming fantasy basketball drafts. -Camara
21. Russell Westbrook (WAS – PG)
Westbrook’s streak of consecutive triple-double seasons ended at three, as he failed to hit that average in 2019-20. Still, that was a lofty perch to fall from, and Russ finished with another big season statistically. He averaged 27.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, 7.0 assists, and 1.6 steals in his lone season with Houston, and he’ll find himself in an even better situation in 2020-21 as the starting point guard of the Wizards. Westbrook should command a healthy usage rate, and there’s no reason to expect a dropoff in production. In points leagues, he’s a top-10 to top-15 play, but in cat leagues, Russ isn’t quite as valuable due to his sub-optimal shooting (47.2/76.3/25.8 splits in 2019-20) and turnovers (at least 4.5 in each of the last three seasons). -Hanshew
22. Ben Simmons (PHI – PG)
The 2019-20 season was a disappointment for the entire Sixers’ organization as their underwhelming play ultimately resulted in a new head coach. With Doc Rivers now at the helm, it will be interesting to see if Simmons’ can take his game to the next level, as he has been hovering around 16-8-8 throughout his three-year career. While that is a respectable line, it’s not quite good enough to warrant top-25 status in fantasy, especially considering Simmons’ has only attempted 24 total three-pointers throughout his career. Still only 24-years-old, Simmons did lead the league in steals per game (2.1) last season, which helps him rank as a top-30 asset heading into the 2020-21 season. -Burns
23. John Collins (ATL – PF,C)
John Collins started the 2019-20 season on the wrong foot. After five contests into the campaign, he was suspended 25 games due to a violation of the league’s anti-drug policy. The 23-year-old forward still managed to play 41 games and posted career-highs in points (21.6), rebounds (10.1), blocks (1.6) and triples (1.4). The Hawks did add Clint Capela and Danilo Gallinari, meaning less rebounds, blocks and field goal attempts could be in store for Collins. He will be the Hawks’ secondary option on offense behind Atlanta’s star PG Trae Young. Even with the Hawks’ latest additions, expect Collins to produce elite production and be selected within the top-25 in upcoming fantasy drafts. -Camara
24. Kyrie Irving (BKN – PG,SG)
Last season was a lost one for Irving, as he appeared in just 20 games due to a shoulder injury. In his limited time on the court, he averaged career highs in points (27.4) and rebounds (5.2), while dishing 6.4 assists and swiping 1.4 steals per contest. Irving is a masterful fantasy contributor, as he’s able to stuff the stat sheet, and his shooting is perpetually excellent. In each of his last four seasons, he’s approached the elusive 50/40/90 club, so the concerns that surround Russell Westbrook in that department don’t apply here. Health is the biggest concern for Irving heading into the new season, but as long as he’s on the court, he should be an easy top-25 play with top-10 upside. -Hanshew
25. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (OKC – SG,SF,PG)
I’m going to be targeting SGA in every league I play in this season. I think he could realistically finish as a top-25 fantasy asset in 2020-21. As a member of the Thunder in his second season, Gilgeous-Alexander exponentially improved upon his rookie season output with the Clippers. He averaged 19.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.1 steals, and just 1.9 turnovers in almost 35 minutes per game last season, doubling his points scored and rebounds from 2018-19 with the Clippers. Now with Chris Paul, Danilo Gallinari, and Dennis Schroder all on different teams, SGA becomes the focal point on offense for the Thunder. General Manager Sam Presti recently told ESPN’s Royce Young, “we’re really kind of clearing the way for him [Gilgeous-Alexander] to expand his game, to be on the ball full time.” Of note, SGA’s production last season was on a usage rate of 23.7%. That number went up to 31.1% with Paul, Gallinari, and Schroder off the floor. Sky’s the limit for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander this season. -Koffler
26. Paul George (LAC – SF,PF)
A couple of horiffic playoff performances have caused many to forget that ‘Pandemic P’ is only one season removed from finishing third in MVP voting. George struggled to get healthy for most of last season and it was obvious he had a hard time finding his rhythm during his first year with the Clippers’. Now seemingly fully healthy and with a brand new coaching staff, George should be asked to shoulder a large portion of the offensive load in the wake of Montrezl Harrell (18.6ppg) signing with the Lakers’. Ranked just inside the top-25 in FantasyPros ECR, George is a good bet to finish inside the top-15 when all is said and done. -Burns
27. Ja Morant (MEM – PG)
Ja Morant was terrific in his first-year campaign with the Grizzlies by winning the 2019 Rookie of the Year Award. He averaged 17.8 points, 3.9 rebounds, 7.3 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.9 triples while shooting 47.7 percent from the floor across 31.0 minutes in 2019-20. The Grizzlies will rely on Morant to shoulder the offensive load and once again carry them to the playoffs. Morant will look to build on his strong rookie campaign and is expected to go in the top-25 in upcoming fantasy drafts. -Camara
28. Nikola Vucevic (ORL – PF,C)
Nikola Vucevic is one of the most reliable big men in fantasy and was in the top-40 on a per-game basis last season. He averaged 19.6 points, 10.9 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 0.9 steals and 0.8 blocks over 62 games in 2019-20. The 30-year-old center also recorded 43 double-doubles and shot 78 percent from the charity stripe. Vucevic is the Magic’s primary offensive option once again, and his role remains unchanged. Fantasy managers should look to draft Vucevic within the top-35 overall. The double-double machine is the one of the safest picks in upcoming fantasy drafts. -Camara
29. Jusuf Nurkic (POR – C)
After suffering a horrific leg injury in March of 2019, Nurkic didn’t get back on the court until the summer of 2020 in the NBA bubble. When he did finally return he was better than ever, averaging 17.6 points and 10.3 rebounds per game in eight regular-season games. It wasn’t much different in the playoffs, where he averaged a double-double in five games against the Lakers. He could be primed for a breakout season with the Blazers in the upcoming season. -Larson
30. Zion Williamson (NOR – PF)
The first-overall pick in the 2019 draft did not live up to the hype in his rookie campaign but he’ll be a force to be reckoned with in year two. In 24 games played last season, Zion put up 22.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists on 58% shooting, with a usage rate of 29.1 (which ranked in the top-20 amongst qualifying players last season). While those numbers may not jump off the page for a second or third round selection, remember he put up those numbers while under a minute restriction for most of his rookie season. He carries some injury risk after battling knee and conditioning issues last season, but according to sources, Williamson “feels great mentally and physically,” and won’t have any restrictions to start the year. Defensively, I expect him to improve upon his averages of 0.7 steals, 0.4 blocks from a year ago, which will only add to his appeal. I fully expect Williamson to take a leap into superstardom in his second season and as the likely second scoring option behind Brandon Ingram, fire him up as a top-30 pick this season in H2H formats. -Titus
31. Pascal Siakam (TOR – PF)
After earning Most Improved Player of the Year honors in 2018-19, Siakam took his game to another level in 2020 and found himself in the running to win the award for a second-consecutive season. A couple underwhelming performances in the playoffs this past Summer have seemingly caused many to forget that Siakam is fresh off a season in which he posted 22.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3,5 assists and 1.0 steals while shooting 35 percent from deep. He was named to his first All-Star game as a result and enters the 2021 season poised to lead the Raptors’ back to the playoffs despite losing a couple core pieces in Marc Gasol and Serge Ibaka. The 26-year-old forward is a fine selection in the third-rounds of fantasy drafts heading into the season. -Burns
32. Jamal Murray (DEN – PG,SG)
If you only look at Muray’s regular season stats from 2019-20, one might conclude he may have plateaued as an above average point guard who averages 18.5 points and almost five assists per game. But we must not forget what he was able to do in the Orlando Bubble postseason, when Murray showcased his true superstar ability night-in-and-night-out. In 19 playoff games, he averaged 26.5 points (50.5 FG%), 4.8 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 3.3 3PM per game. Those averages resemble guys like Kyrie Irving and Devin Booker, who are bound to be top-15 fantasy assets in 2020-21. Murray may not be able to sustain such production for an entire season, but he certainly showed he’s got the capability to put up some monster performances (two 50-point games in the 2019-20 playoffs). He could be a steal in the middle rounds of your fantasy draft. -Koffler
33. Rudy Gobert (UTH – C)
The perennial DPOY candidate continues to do his thing, as he’s averaged a double-double with at least 2.0 blocks while shooting better than 60% from the floor in each of the last four seasons. He’s not a three-point shooter or a capable shot from the charity stripe, but the rest of his numbers are as solid as they come, and Gobert should provide steady and consistent production for fantasy managers in 2020-21. -Hanshew
34. De’Aaron Fox (SAC – PG)
Fox’s usage sky-rocketed in 2019-20, and oddly enough, his field goal percentage also jumped up to 48.0 percent from 45.8 percent in 2018-19. Fresh off a new five-year, $163M max extension and with Bogdan Bogdanovic now in Atlanta, this backcourt is all his and he could take an even bigger leap in 2020-21. If he can keep his field goal percentage up and his turnovers down (3.1 last season), we could be looking at one of the top fantasy point guards in the NBA this season. 23 points, eight assists, and two steals per game doesn’t feel too far-fetched of a proposition for the franchise point guard. Don’t let Fox slip through your hands in the third round. -Koffler
36. Brandon Ingram (NOR – SF,PF)
Brandon Ingram agreed to a five-year, $158 million extension with the Pelicans this offseason. He was traded to New Orleans last year and posted career-high numbers all across the board. The 23-year-old forward broke out by averaging 23.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.0 steals and 2.4 triples across 33.9 minutes in 2019-20. He also made his first NBA All-Star appearance should form quite the dynamic duo with budding superstar Zion Williamson. Ingram was one of the biggest steals in fantasy drafts last season. Last year was no fluke and he is expected to be selected within the top-50 overall in upcoming drafts. -Camara
37. Andre Drummond (CLE – PF,C)
38. Chris Paul (PHO – PG)
Paul has found continued success everywhere he’s played, evidenced by the Thunder’s improbable playoff run last season. Now off to Phoenix, Paul will look to guide another young team to the postseason with his veteran leadership, tenacity, and all-around abilities as a floor general. Paul was one of the most surprising fantasy plays of 2019-20. He averaged 17.6 points, 6.7 assists, 5.0 boards, 1.6 steals, and 1.6 dimes while shooting well from the floor, the free-throw line, and long range. Playing alongside talented scorer Devin Booker and ascending big man Deandre Ayton, Paul will look to facilitate an up-and-coming offense and find renewed success in the Western Conference. -Hanshew
39. Jrue Holiday (MIL – PG,SG)
Holiday has been playing the best basketball of his career over the past three seasons, averaging 19.7 points, 6.8 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game. He’s also been strong on the defensive end, totaling 1.6 steals and 0.8 blocks per game over that span. He now joins a Bucks team that has led the NBA in scoring each of the past two seasons. He may be the third offensive weapon in Milwaukee behind Giannis Antetokounmpo and Khris Middleton, but he’ll still rack up plenty of fantasy production. -Larson
40. Fred VanVleet (TOR – PG,SG)
After averaging 17.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, 6.6 assists, and 1.9 steals in 36 minutes per game, VanVleet was in the running for Most Improved Player of the Year in 2019-20. With Kawhi Leonard in Los Angeles, FVV was called upon to take on a much larger role on the offense and didn’t disappoint. He’s quickly become one of the cornerstones of a very well-coached Raptors team, so much so that Toronto decided to reward him with a four-year, $85M contract this offseason. With Kyle Lowry turning 35 mid-way through the upcoming season, there’s a whole lot of room for VanVleet to continue to grow. The only knock on his game could be his relatively low field goal percentage (41.3 percent), but that’s bound to happen when you’re attempting almost seven 3-pointers per game. There’s no reason FVV can’t be a top-30 fantasy asset in 2020-21. -Koffler
41. D’Angelo Russell (MIN – PG,SG)
Despite playing for two teams during the 2019-20 season, Russell managed to post a career-high in points per game (23.1) while finishing top-10 in usage rate. While the additions of Anthony Edwards, Ricky Rubio and a healthy Karl-Anthony Towns should cut into that usage a bit, Russell is a good bet to average north of 20ppg while racking up his share of assists. He may not be as potent as he was due to the many mouths to feed in Minnesota but should have no trouble finishing as a top-30 asset in 2021. -Burns
42. Domantas Sabonis (IND – PF,C)
Sabonis made huge strides in his fourth NBA season and saw big gains in nearly every statistical category. He averaged a solid double-double with 18.5 points and 12.4 rebounds per game. His 50 double-doubles on the season trailed only Giannis Antetokounmpo (56) and Hassaan Whiteside (51). That kind of consistency can help carry a fantasy roster through the long grind that is the NBA season. -Larson
43. Khris Middleton (MIL – SG,SF)
Khris Middleton posted another strong season for the Bucks in 2019-20. He averaged 20.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 4.3 assists, 0.9 steals and 2.4 triples across 29.9 minutes over 62 games. The Bucks traded for PG Jrue Holiday and are continuing to add pieces to compliment superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Even with recent additions, expect the 29-year-old guard to be the No.2 option behind the reigning MVP. Middleton is as steady of a player as they come and should once again stuff the stat sheet on a daily basis. Middleton is projected to be selected within the top-50 overall for upcoming 2020-21 fantasy drafts. -Camara
44. Mitchell Robinson (NYK – C)
Say what you want about the Knicks and their highly questionable decisions over the years, but one thing is true, they’ve found a real one with Mitchell Robinson. Maybe it’s the off-season ‘sizzle reels’ of him draining three’s in the offseason that gave me the feels, but I’m bullish on his prospects heading into the 2020-2021 season. I think he’ll comfortably average a double-double this year after putting up 9.7 points and 7.0 rebounds last season. He’s also established himself as one of the NBA’s top shot blockers, finishing seventh overall with 2.0 blocks per game. The Knicks should be a better team this season, and if anything is going to skyrocket this season, it will be Robinsons’ playing time under new head coach Tom Thibodeau. Robinson only played 23 minutes per game last year, and his per-game averages from 2019-2020 extrapolated across 36 minutes rise to 15.0 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per contest. If the top-tier centers are off the board, fantasy managers should target Robinson as a high-upside pick by the fifth round. -Titus
45. Christian Wood (HOU – PF,C)
Christian Wood recently agreed to a three-year deal worth $40M with Houston. He is expected to be Rockets’ starting PF and one of the primary options on offense along with James Harden. The 25-year-old forward averaged 21.9 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 0.8 steals, 0.8 blocks and 1.7 triples during 12 starts for the Pistons last season. He will provide solid fantasy production and look to build upon his breakout of the 2019-20 season. Wood is projected to be selected in the fourth-to-fifth rounds of upcoming fantasy drafts and worth targeting in the top-50 overall. -Camara
46. Jaylen Brown (BOS – SG,SF)
The stars are aligning for the official Jaylen Brown breakout. Gordon Hayward packed his bags and is on his way to a new life in Charlotte. Kemba Walker will reportedly be out until early January after receiving a stem cell injection on troublesome left knee. Enter Brown, who inked a fresh new 4-yr/107M deal last season, and it’s time to cash in. He’ll enter the season as the second option for Boston in an offense that ranked in the top-5 in offensive efficiency last year, and he’ll be in a great position to build off his averages of 20.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists in 57 games in the 2019-2020 regular season. He’s increased his production in points, rebounds, assists, three-pointers made, steals, FG%, and FT% every season since his rookie year, and at only 24 years old, he’s on the verge of blossoming into one of the premier two-way players in the Eastern Conference. He’ll be a steal for fantasy managers who are aggressive enough to snag him within the first three rounds of fantasy drafts. -Titus
48. LaMarcus Aldridge (SAS – PF,C)
49. Tobias Harris (PHI – SF,PF)
50. Kristaps Porzingis (DAL – PF,C)
Porzingis had a strong showing in his first season with Dallas, averaging 20.4 points and a career-high 9.5 rebounds per game with his new team. He and MVP candidate Luka Doncic combine for one of the most productive fantasy duos in the NBA. Unfortunately, Porzingis has missed significant time with injuries every season of his career and will be out until at least January this season as he recovers from offseason surgery to repair a knee injury he suffered during the Mav’s first playoff game in the bubble. -Larson
52. Jonas Valanciunas (MEM – C)
The Grizzlies surprised a lot of people last season and Valancuinas played a major hand in that. The 28-year-old big man put up a nightly double-double with averages of 14.9 points and 11.3 rebounds per game. Now with Jaren Jackson Jr. slated to miss the beginning of the 2020-21 season after undergoing surgery on his knee, Valancuinas will likely be asked to shoulder more of the offensive load alongside Ja Morant. While he does lack the upside that some younger players possess, Valancuinas is a fantastic option in the middle rounds of drafts if you decide to wait at the center position. -Burns
54. Gordon Hayward (CHA – SG,SF)
55. DeMar DeRozan (SAS – SG,SF)
The 2019-20 season was par for the course for DeRozan as he finished with averages of 22.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 1.0 steals per game while boasting a career-best 53 percent shooting from the field. His lack of three-point ability tends to hurt his fantasy value, however, as he’s shot just a shade over 20 percent from behind the arc over his first two seasons in San Antonio. Now 31-years-old, DeRozan should have no trouble producing top-50 numbers entering his 12th professional season. -Burns
56. Draymond Green (GSW – PF,C)
57. Kemba Walker (BOS – PG)
Despite dealing with recurring knee issues, Walker finished his first season in Boston by being named to his fourth All-Star appearance. His 20.4 points per game were his lowest in four seasons and his 4.8 assists per game were the lowest since his rookie season as Jayson Tatum‘s emergence to stardom capped Walker’s upside. It should be more of the same for Walker heading into the 2020-21 season, though the early reports of his recurring knee injury are certainly discouraging as he’s slated to miss the beginning of the season after recieving a stem cell injection during the offseason. Now 30-years-old, Walker should have no problem putting up top-50 numbers if healthy, though his knee issues make him a risky selection in fantasy drafts. -Burns
59. Lonzo Ball (NOR – PG)
The eldest of the Ball brothers is one of the more intriguing fantasy point guards. Most of his contributions to fantasy rosters will come via rebounds, assists, and steals. He’ll never be a great shooter, but he has improved his effective field goal percentage in each of his three seasons so far, finishing at a respectable 51.1% last season. He’ll look to facilitate an offense that will feature last season’s number one draft pick Zion Williamson and most improved player Brandon Ingram. -Larson
60. Hassan Whiteside (SAC – PF,C)
61. Jaren Jackson Jr (MEM – PF,C)
JJJ is going to be out “a minute” according to Grizzlies executive vice president of basketball operations Zach Kleiman, but that shouldn’t stop you from giving the rising star big man a look in your upcoming fantasy drafts. So long as your league has an IR roster spot, you can stash Jackson Jr. and have a valuable asset come the middle of the 2020-21 season. In 57 games a season ago, JJJ averaged 17.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, 1.4 assists, 1.6 blocks, and 2.5 3PM in just under 29 minutes per game. The 3-pointers are an added bonus for a guy that is eligible at the center position, but the lack of rebounds is a bit of a concern. Additionally, Jackson Jr. has had trouble with staying on the court due to foul trouble in his first two NBA seasons. If he can stay out of foul trouble and play over 30 minutes per game, we could see JJJ increase his averages even more in his third-year in the league. Consider him a top-75 player this season, but realize he may not contribute for your squad right away as he recovers from offseason knee surgery. -Koffler
62. Julius Randle (NYK – PF,C)
63. Malcolm Brogdon (IND – PG,SG)
65. TJ Warren (IND – SF,PF)
In his first season with the Pacers, Warren averaged a career-high 19.8 points per game on a career-best 53.6 percent shooting from the field. With Victor Oladipo missing a majority of the 2019-20 season, it was Warren who led the team in scoring. He really turned it on in the Bubble too, scoring over 30 points in four of his first six games. Warren also rarely turns the ball over, averaging just 1.3 turnovers per game last season. His efficiency makes him an attractive target this season, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see Warren end up as a top-40 asset in 2020-21. -Koffler
66. Michael Porter Jr (DEN – SF,PF)
67. Dejounte Murray (SAS – PG,SG)
70. Aaron Gordon (ORL – SF,PF)
72. Devonte’ Graham (CHA – PG,SG)
De’Vonte Graham avoided a sophomore slump and was a top candidate for Most Improved Player in 2019-20. His stats improved all across the board from his rookie campaign. The 25-year-old averaged 18.2 points, 3.4 rebounds, 7.5 assists, 1.0 steals and 3.5 triples across 35.1 minutes. The Hornets signed top free agent Gordon Hayward and drafted LaMelo Ball No.3 in the 2020 NBA Draft. Graham, who was the main scoring option last year, will compete with Hayward, Ball and Terry Rozier for touches. Even with Charlotte’s recent additions, he should provide solid fantasy production and can be selected within the 75-to-100 range in upcoming fantasy drafts. -Camara
73. Robert Covington (POR – PF,C,SF)
74. Andrew Wiggins (GSW – SG,SF)
75. Lauri Markkanen (CHI – PF)
In a frustrating 2019-20 season, Markkanen failed to make the third-year leap many were hoping for and his numbers actually ended up regressing considerably across the board. Now entering his fourth-year with brand new leadership at the helm, Chicago has made it clear that expectations will be high for Markkanen with new Bulls’ Vice President of Basketball Operations Artūras Karnišovas stating their goal is ‘to get the best version of Lauri in 2021′. Still only 23-years-old, the Finnish stretch-four is a good bet to see all the minutes he can handle this season for the Bulls’ and he will be considered a steal if he can get anywhere near his 2018-19 totals of 18.7 points and 9.0 rebounds a game. -Burns
78. Brandon Clarke (MEM – PF,C)
80. Blake Griffin (DET – PF,C)
81. Danilo Gallinari (ATL – SF,PF)
82. Victor Oladipo (IND – PG,SG)
83. Thomas Bryant (WAS – C)
Bryant posted career-high numbers during the 2019-20 season but really came alive during his time in the Orlando Bubble. The 23-year-old center produced 18.6 points, 8.8 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game across Washington’s eight seeding games while shooting the lights out with a 42 percent mark from three. His value does take a slight hit with Russell Westbrook replacing John Wall in Washington, though Bryant should be given every opportunity to build upon his bubble performance, making him a high-upside pick in the middle rounds of fantasy drafts. -Burns
84. Collin Sexton (CLE – PG,SG)
Collin Sexton finished the 2019-20 campaign on a high note, scoring at least 25 points in eight of his last 11 games before the NBA shut down in early March. He was the primary scoring option for the Cavaliers, averaging 20.8 points, 3.1 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.5 triples across 33 minutes over 65 games in 2019-20. The 21-year-old guard has been durable as he yet to miss a contest in his career. With the lack of assists, Sexton is a better option in points leagues, but he should help fantasy managers in categories such as points, steals and threes. He continues to emerge as one of the top scoring threats in the NBA, and the Cavaliers will rely on Sexton along with Andre Drummond and 2020 No. 5 NBA Draft pick Isaac Okoro to shoulder the offense in 2020-21. Sexton is someone fantasy managers should be targeting within the top-75 overall, especially in points league formats. -Camara
86. Marcus Smart (BOS – PG,SG)
87. Caris LeVert (BKN – SG,SF)
89. Eric Bledsoe (NOR – PG,SG)
90. Montrezl Harrell (LAL – PF,C)
91. Richaun Holmes (SAC – PF,C)
93. Bogdan Bogdanovic (ATL – SG,SF,PF)
94. Jarrett Allen (BKN – PF,C)
95. Mikal Bridges (PHO – SG,SF)
97. Marvin Bagley III (SAC – PF,C)
The number two overall pick from the 2018 NBA Draft hasn’t lived up to his draft capital yet, but he has shown flashes over his first two seasons. He averaged a respectable 14.9 points and 7.6 rebounds, and 1.0 block as a rookie but was unable to gain any momentum as thumb and foot injuries derailed his sophomore campaign. He’s been given a clean bill of health and considering his potential upside, the 21-year-old big man is worth a shot in the middle rounds. -Larson
98. Markelle Fultz (ORL – PG,SG)
99. Dennis Schroder (LAL – PG)
100. Davis Bertans (WAS – PF,C)
