The 2025-26 fantasy basketball season is shaping up to be one of transition. Veterans are shifting into complementary roles, while a new wave of young talent is poised to take the leap from intriguing prospects to legitimate fantasy starters. We’ve pinpointed five players whose combination of skill growth, role expansion, and team context sets them up for a breakout campaign.
Check out our 2025-2026 Fantasy Basketball Draft Rankings
5 Fantasy Basketball Breakout Candidates
1. Jalen Duren (C – DET)
Duren took a noticeable step forward last season, averaging a double-double despite limited spacing around him. Improved conditioning and a more defined offensive role could push him toward 15 points and 11 rebounds per game. He already averages 1.2 fantasy points per minute and offers an elite shot-blocking talent. With increased usage in pick-and-roll sets and more defensive accountability, Duren has top-60 upside in fantasy formats.
2. Keyonte George (PG/SG – UTA)
George showed flashes of elite shot creation as a rookie, but inefficiency kept his fantasy ceiling in check. He’s likely to lead Utah’s backcourt in minutes and usage, with improved playmaking and range boosting both his points and assists. While he is more of a liability than an asset in category leagues, George offers plenty of upside in points leagues, especially with Jordan Clarkson and Collin Sexton no longer in town. Fantasy managers looking for a mid-round guard with real breakout appeal should circle George as a post-hype target.
3. Brandin Podziemski (SG/SF – GSW)
Podziemski’s basketball IQ and versatility kept him on the floor as a rookie, and he followed that up with a boost in points, threes, and steals in his second year. With an aging core surrounding him at Golden State, Podziemski could see across-the-board growth. Expect noticeable upticks in scoring and assists, plus strong rebounding for a guard. His multi-category contributions make him one of the most fantasy-friendly breakout bets of the year.
4. Ausar Thompson (SF – DET)
Thompson’s defensive impact was never in question — but his offense is catching up quickly. His jumper showed encouraging improvement last season, and he’ll likely log heavy minutes in multiple roles for Detroit. Thompson’s athleticism fuels elite steals, rebounds, and transition scoring, and if the shooting continues to trend upward, he could emerge as a legitimate top-75 fantasy option. Managers who value versatility and category juice should invest early.
5. Dereck Lively II (C – DAL)
Lively quietly became a critical piece for Dallas last season, anchoring the defense and finishing efficiently around the rim. The Mavericks will continue to lean on his rim protection and rebounding, but expect incremental growth in scoring and minutes. Lively’s blend of blocks, field-goal percentage, and double-double potential makes him a solid breakout candidate.
Fantasy managers chasing upside should prioritize players with clear developmental momentum and expanding opportunity — and all five of these names check those boxes. Duren and Thompson headline Detroit’s rebuild, Podziemski is carving out a long-term role in Golden State, and George and Lively are ready to reward patient dynasty investors. Expect all five to outperform their draft-day prices and push toward must-start fantasy relevance.
Subscribe: YouTube | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | iHeart | Castbox | Amazon Music | Podcast Addict | TuneIn
